2018 NBA Draft Lottery predictions: Los Angeles Clippers picks and more

Los Angeles Clippers: 2018 NBA Mock Draft Lottery Predictions

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 15: Jerry West of the LA Clippers represents the LA Clippers during the NBA Draft Lottery on May 15, 2018 at The Palmer House Hilton in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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CHICAGO, IL – MAY 15: NBA Draft Prospect, Jaren Jackson Jr. poses for a portrait during the 2018 NBA Combine circuit on May 15, 2018 at the Intercontinental Hotel Magnificent Mile in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /

5. Dallas Mavericks: Jaren Jackson Jr, C/PF, Michigan State

Jaren Jackson Jr is massive. He is a freakishly athletic big at 6’10 with a 7’4 wingspan. In his one year at Michigan State, he was a defensive beast and led MSU to becoming one of the best defensive schools in the country. He might be the best player in the draft, but right now, he is very raw and needs some development. At the age of 18, Jackson’s overall potential is incredibly valuable. This season, Nerlens Noel under-performed, which led to him being underplayed and Dallas opted to start Maxi Kleber and Dwight Powell instead. If they do not plan to re-sign Noel this summer in free agency, Jackson would be a great rebuilding piece. Jackson paired with point guard Dennis Smith Jr, would be a young and promising duo for Mavericks fans in the post-Dirk Nowitzki era.