NBA 2016 Mock Draft: Final lottery picks, Clippers’ top target
By Tom West
The 2016 NBA Draft is almost upon us, so here is our final mock draft, featuring updated lottery selections and the top target for the Los Angeles Clippers.
Well, now that the Cleveland Cavaliers have stunned everyone by coming back from 3-1 down to win the 2016 NBA Finals, it’s time to look ahead to this year’s NBA Draft and the next wave of talent entering the league. The salary cap rising already makes this summer exciting enough, but with everyone from Ben Simmons to Buddy Hield in this draft class, there’s more promising talent to look out for as teams in tank mode or simply those facing hard times try to turn things around.
There’s also serious opportunities for major trades as well. The Boston Celtics are unsurprisingly shopping the No. 3 pick hard in order to pursue a star, while the Los Angeles Lakers may even decide to do the same in an attempt to return to relevance. Acquiring someone like Jimmy Butler won’t be easy, but such teams (including the Minnesota Timberwolves) may give it a try.
As for the Los Angeles Clippers, this draft is also an important one. We’ve heard they may be planning to trade up, which already indicates that Doc Rivers may be embracing the need to finally make the most of some rookie talent and build a roster with a little more emphasis on youth.
Of course, that mindset can’t take over as they hope to win a title next season, but using the 25th and 33rd overall picks to add a pair of rookies (or trading up into the teens) who can contribute with a few minutes here and there is vital, especially when considering the team’s minimal cap space.
Let’s get straight to it and begin with who the Philadelphia 76ers are going to look to with the No. 1 pick to start turning their woes around. Also, credit to my fellow editor Pete Camarillo for helping out with picks 18-21.
Next: Philadelphia 76ers, 1st pick