2014 NBA Mock Draft: Lottery Edition 2.0
By Jacob Rude
7. Sacramento Kings select Noah Vonleh
While not necessarily a natural center, Vonleh is a nice fit along Cousins. Still a raw talent, Vonleh has shown his ability to rebound and grind out tough points, something the Kings haven’t had alongside Cousins too often. The duo of Vonleh and Cousins could be a great one, especially if the team hangs on to Rudy Gay (and Gay continues to play at a great level).
8. Los Angeles Lakers select Marcus Smart
If the Lakers had Smart fall to them in this scenario, I can only imagine the joy they’d have. Smart is a natural-born leader, and would immediately be a great addition to a Lakers team that hasn’t had a good, healthy point guard option beside Kobe Bryant since Derek Fisher. No matter who the player is, the Lakers will be drafting the best available prospect.
Jan 11, 2014; Morgantown, WV, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys guard Marcus Smart (33) takes a three point shots over West Virginia Mountaineers guard Juwan Staten (3) during the first half at WVU Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
9. Denver Nuggets (via Knicks) select Gary Harris
The Nuggets will be gifted a high draft pick this year thanks to ineptitude by James Dolan, which should come as no surprise. This is likely another case of selecting the best player available, and in this case, Harris is likely the best one. In reality, there is a bit of a drop-off after the top 8 picks, but the Nuggets won’t be complaining.