In part two of our mock draft special, we pick up with the sixth pick, which belongs to the Washington Wizards. The Wizards were one of the NBA's worst teams last season, despite a strong season from rookie point guard John Wall. So without further ado...
6. Washington Wizards - Kawhi Leonard, SF, San Diego St.
Although this may seem like a stretch to some, Leonard fits in quite well with where Washington needs to go. Leonard will be able to step in and instantly improve a porous Wizards defense which ranked 26th in blocks per game, and 24th in PPG allowed. The versatile 6'7'' NCAA tournament standout is capable of guarding shooting guards, small forwards and the occasional power forward, which increases his value substantially. Simply put, Leonard has a TON of upside, and if he continues to improve his shooting game he could help form a legit force with John Wall.
Also in consideration: Jan Vesley
7. Sacramento Kings - Brandon Knight, PG, Kentucky
The Kings could use a Knight at the point for a number of reasons. Besides the obvious need for a solid on-court leader, drafting Knight would allow them to move Tyreke Evans to permanent shooting guard, where he is a much better fit. While his name doesn't carry the same weight as, say, Kemba Walker, Knight is a legitimate point guard who can play defense and shoot consistently. Moreover, he is a strong character guy, who, together with Evans and fellow Wildcat DeMarcus Cousins, could make Sacramento significant again.
Also in consideration: Jimmer Fredette
8. Detroit Pistons - Tristan Thompson, PF, Texas
Thompson is a phenomenal rebounder who could step in and improve the Pistons roster immediately. While he will likely never be a star, he is a proven inside presence that will be a step in the right direction for a rebuilding Pistons team. While they might consider international prospect Bismack Biyombo, Thompson is a safer pick that is more NBA ready.
Also in consideration: Bismack Biyombo
9. Charlotte Bobcats - Bismack Biyombo, PF, Congo
Another strong international prospect, Biyombo has tremendous upside due to his superior athleticism. At only 18 (reportedly), he will need time to develop a complete NBA game, but the potential is there. He will bring athleticism and rebounding to a team desperately needing both. Since not a lot is currently known about him, his performance in upcoming team workouts will greatly determine where he goes come draft day.
Also in consideration: Marcus Morris
10. Milwaukee Bucks - Alec Burks, SG, Colorado
A quick 2-guard who can get to the basket, Burks still needs to improve his outside shooting to succeed at the next level. While the Bucks may look to add size inside, they will likely get the most value with Burks, especially since he can play both shooting guard and small forward. Again, Burks isn't likely to be a star, but if he continues to improve, he could become a legitimate NBA starter.
Also in consideration: Marcus Morris
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