Is Purdue big man Zach Edey a lottery pick? A first-rounder at all? A second-round big man worth gambling on?
In some mock drafts ahead of the real thing in 2024, he’s in the lottery. In our latest NBA mock draft from Bryan Kalbrosky, he’s not in the first round.
There’s a middle ground when it comes to the latest mock draft from Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman. He’s taken at No. 25 by the Milwaukee Bucks, which would be interesting given their team makeup — maybe he can be a useful backup to spell their frontcourt.
Here’s what Wasserman said about this pick:
He’s been dominant without showing anything. Opponents have had no answer for his drop steps into the lane and jump hooks, and nobody has had the strength or height to regularly keep him from catching and finishing off rolls or positioning himself for putbacks.
Edey has been disruptive in rim protection as well, contesting shots without fouling and altering penetrating guards’ decisions in the lane.
Scouts remain hopeful for a Purdue championship game against Connecticut and Donovan Clingan, who may be the only prospect capable of physically matching up.
Regardless, as rare and powerful as Edey’s impact has been, there will continue to be skeptics questioning his fit and value on an NBA floor. He’s still going to require a specific team, presumably one with shooters, that’s drawn to the idea of adding more physicality, easy baskets and shot-blocking in the middle.
There you have it! Don’t forget to check out our latest NBA Mock Draft from Kalbrosky!