6. Sacramento Kings select Noah Vonleh, F, Indiana
Dec 3, 2013; Syracuse, NY, USA; Syracuse Orange forward Rakeem Christmas (25) dribbles the ball as Indiana Hoosiers forward Noah Vonleh (1) defends during the first half of a game at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports
Vonleh has flown up draft boards in recent weeks with his play early on in the season. While I don’t suspect the Kings to be in this position following the Rudy Gay trade, if they are, they will look for more front court depth. With Isaiah Thomas and Ben McLemore both playing well this year, the back court isn’t an issue to be addressed. Instead, adding a power forward to pair next to Boogie Cousins could be the route they choose.
7. Philadelphia 76ers select James Young, G/F, Kentucky
While the Kings will like get better and move OUT of the lottery, I suspect the 76ers, intentionally or not, will do the opposite and move up in the draft. For now, they’re looking at adding another perimeter player to help the impressive Michael Carter-Williams. MCW has been en fuego to start the year, but has been doing it alone far too often. With Evan Turner likely to be traded or allowed to walk away this off-season, the Sixers will be in the market for a new small forward, a role Young will fit perfectly.
8. Cleveland Cavaliers select Gary Harris, G, Michigan State
I don’t suspect Dion Waiters makes it with Cleveland through the season, and if he does, he’ll be dealt in the off-season. Either way, the Cavs are going to be in the market for a new shooting guard to pair beside Kyrie Irving. In Harris, you get a versatile offensive player with solid defensive skills. While he isn’t all too great of a ball-handler, he’d be playing beside one of the best in the league, negating that issue.