Arizona Wildcats NBA Draft Predictions
As the college basketball season comes to a near end, the NBA Draft will be right around the corner in June. This years draft class will be as strong as ever. With Arizona having at least three players participating in the draft, all three will have a good shot at being picked in those two rounds.
Stanley Johnson has been the Wildcat’s MVP this season. Not only will he be Arizona’s top pick in the draft, he will be chosen early in the lottery round. This season Johnson is averaging 14.6 points a game along with 6.8 rebounds a game. Because of his versatility at 6’7, NBA scouts are intrigued because he can play both small and power forward along with shooting guard.
Johnson’s best fit in my mind would be with the Orlando Magic who have the 5th pick of the draft. The Magic had the 4th pick in the draft last year as they took fellow Arizona Wildcat Aaron Gordon. Johnson could also be picked up by the Philadelphia 76ers. The 76ers are low on small forwards but look to grab a guard in this years draft. The Los Angeles Lakers could also be another landing spot for Johnson, making it a hometown reunion as he is from Fullerton, California.
Jan 30, 2015; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Stanley Johnson (5) smiles during the second half against the Oregon State Beavers at McKale Center. Arizona won 57-34. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson is another one of Arizona’s players expected to be chosen in the first round. On the season, Jefferson is averaging 6.4 rebounds a game along with 11 points a game. Most draft experts expect Jefferson to be drafted by the Chicago Bulls (via Cleveland Cavaliers).
Jefferson would be a great fit to play behind Jimmy Butler or Tony Snell. The Bulls are in need of a well rounded defensive player who can grab boards and points. Another team Jefferson can end up with is the Los Angeles Lakers. As Wesley Johnson’s contract expires after this season, Nick Young and Jefferson will make a great duo at the small forward position.
Dec 13, 2014; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (23) dunks the ball against the Michigan Wolverines during the second half at McKale Center. Arizona won 80-53. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
Kaleb Tarczewski has been one of Arizona’s most consistent players this season. Standing at 7’0, Tarczewski’s size benefits him well. Although he is only averaging 5 rebounds and 8 points a game this season, his play making skills are what NBA scouts admire most. Unlike a lot of 7’0 centers, Tarczewski is a great passer.
Tarczewski is on the verge of falling out of the draft because there are eight seven footers in this years draft. He would fit great with a team like the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors center Andrew Bogut would be a great player to mentor Tarczewski along with Festus Ezeli. The Brooklyn Nets would be another fit for him as they will probably lose Brook Lopez to trading and Kevin Garnett to retirement.