Fantasy NBA FanDuel DFS Values (Jan. 28)

Earlier today, I posted some value plays that I like on DraftKings and now I turn my attention to FanDuel.

Wednesdays always have a large slate of games and there are four $11,000-plus players on tonight's 11-game slate: Anthony Davis ($11,400), James Harden ($11,400), DeMarcus Cousins ($11,100) and LeBron James ($11,000).

In order to afford one of those high-priced studs, finding lower-priced bargains is essential. With that said, here are some FanDuel values (salaries of $7,000 or less) for Wednesday's NBA games:

View image | gettyimages.com

PG - D.J. Augustin, Detroit Pistons (at PHI), $6,000: In his second start following the season-ending Achilles injury to Brandon Jennings, Augustin followed up his 49.8-point performance with 36.3 fantasy points. Augustin had 19 points, nine assists, four rebounds and two steals against the Cavs in 36 minutes last night. While he may not score 36 fantasy points again tonight, Augustin has a favorable matchup against the Sixers.

PG - Isaiah Thomas, Phoenix Suns (vs. WAS), $5,800: Over his past four games, Thomas has knocked down 15-of-30 three-pointers and scored at least 22 (real) points in every game. During that four-game span, Thomas has averaged 32.38 fantasy points (5.58 times tonight's salary). Even though the Wizards have one of the league's best defenses, they have been a little friendlier to opposing point guards recently by allowing the fourth-most fantasy points to the position over their past five games and Vegas projects the Suns to score the most points tonight. IT2 will be on a few of my FanDuel tournament lineups.

PG - Langston Galloway, New York Knicks (vs. OKC), $4,800: Signed for the rest of the season after a pair 10-day contracts, Galloway has been one of the bright spots for the Knicks. In his past four games, he has averaged 32 minutes and 28 fantasy points per game.

PG - Zach LaVine, Minnesota Timberwolves (vs. BOS), $3,700: LaVine gets a huge boost tonight with both Mo Williams (personal reasons) and Ricky Rubio out and should see 30-plus minutes at a near minimum salary.  In 11 games in which he has played at least 30 minutes, LaVine has averaged 24.34 fantasy points per game.

PG - Dante Exum, Utah Jazz (vs. LAC), $3,500: The good news is that Exum should score more than he did in his last game. Of course, it'd be difficult to score less than 2.2 fantasy points. The matchup against Chris Paul and the Clippers tonight is difficult, but Exum is priced at the position-minimum salary, his ownership levels should be very low after his previous dud and he had scored at least 19.5 fantasy points in his previous two games.

* FanDuel's $400K NBA Super Slam: $400,000 in prizes including $40,000 to 1st in tonight's NBA Super Slam tourney ($25 entry).

SG - Wes Matthews, Portland Trail Blazers (at CLE), $6,000: Matthews has been really productive over his past five games. During that stretch, he has scored at least 26.6 fantasy points and averaged 29.66 per game. Matthews has a little more upside on DraftKings due to the half-point bonus for three-pointers as he's averaging four three-pointers over that stretch, but he's a solid bet to reach value tonight.

SG - Eric Gordon, New Orleans Pelicans (vs. DEN), $5,600: Over his past 11 games, Gordon has scored a minimum of 19.1 fantasy points in each game with an average of 25.83 per contest. During that stretch, he has averaged 15.36 points and 2.18 three's per game. Over their past 10 games, the Nuggets have allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing shooting guards.

SF - Wilson Chandler, Denver Nuggets (at NO), $5,900: Chandler has now scored 34-plus fantasy points in back-to-back games and at least 32 fantasy points in three consecutive games. And Chandler had 30.5 fantasy points the first time this season against the Pelicans, who have allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing small forwards.

SF - K.J. McDaniels, Philadelphia 76ers (vs. DET), $4,600: I considered listing McDaniels in the DraftKings values post, but I like his value even more on FanDuel where he is priced $100 less. And with a higher average salary on FanDuel, that puts McDaniels' salary at 69.0 percent of the average starter salary versus 75.2 percent on DraftKings. That said, McDaniels has scored at least 28.5 fantasy points in two of his past three games and should be able to reach value tonight.

PF - Thaddeus Young, Minnesota Timberwolves (vs. BOS), $6,800: Over his past seven games, Young has scored at least 32 fantasy points five times and has averaged 34.59 fantasy points per game. During that span, he's averaging 18.57 points, 6.14 rebounds, 4.71 assists and 1.43 steals per game. In addition, he has played over 40 minutes in back-to-back games.

PF - Jason Smith, New York Knicks (vs. OKC), $4,100: Playing at least 32 minutes in four consecutive games, Smith has scored more than 24 fantasy points in three of those four games. With Amar'e Stoudemire dealing with some injuries (ankle and wrist) and expected to miss some time, Smith should continue to see big minutes.

C - Marcin Gortat, Washington Wizards (at PHO), $5,500: Gortat's production has underwhelmed recently and he's been a bit inconsistent as well -- less than 20 fantasy points in six of his past 16 games. That said, he has averaged 24.1 fantasy points per game over his past 12 games and I think he has an excellent shot to reach 5x his value tonight. Moreover, I'm not crazy about many of the other low-priced center options tonight.

More of our content:

• ROS Fantasy Basketball Rankings
• 2015 NBA Mock Draft
• 2015 NFL Mock Draft

Keep track of our updates Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook and/or add us to your Google+ circle.

Fantasy NBA DraftKings DFS Values (Jan. 26th)

As we brace for a blizzard (Juno) here in the northeast, a couple of games that were scheduled to be played in New York City have been postponed.

Therefore, a seven-game slate is now down to five games, four of which have point spreads of 12.5 points or more leading to plenty of blowout potential.

With the Kings and Blazers no longer in action tonight, some studs like DeMarcus Cousins, LaMarcus Aldridge and Damian Lillard are obvioiusly unavailable. And neither are some bargain-priced players like Langston Galloway and Jason Smith.

View image | gettyimages.com

With that said, here are some DraftKings values ($6,500 salary or less) for Monday's NBA games:

PG - Elfrid Payton, Orlando Magic (at MEM), $5,500: The matchup is difficult against Mike Conley and the Grizzlies, but Payton does a lot of things to generate fantasy points. Over his past seven games, Payton is averaging 34.07 fantasy points per game with a minimum of 27.25 during that span. In addition, he has averaged 13.29 points, 8.29 assists, 4.0 rebounds and 2.14 steals per game during that stretch.

PG - Dante Exum, Utah Jazz (vs. BOS), $3,500: Exum has played at least 29 minutes and scored at least 23.5 fantasy points in back-to-back games. Meanwhile, the Celtics have allowed the 10th-most fantasy points to opposing point guards this season. While he likely won't continue to knock down three's at his current rate (eight of 15 over past two games), he should once again exceed value at his bargain price.

PG - Larry Drew II, Philadelphia 76ers (at NO), $3,400: With Michael Carter-Williams (illness) out, Drew II will get his first career NBA start tonight. In his six games,he has averaged just 0.58 fantasy points per minute, but with the boost in minutes tonight, he should easily reach value.

* Fantasy Basketball World Championship (FBWC): Qualify for DraftKings FBWC and spend a five-night VIP experience in Vegas culminating in a one-in-40 shot at the $1 MILLION top prize.

SG - Eric Gordon, New Orleans Pelicans (vs. PHI), $5,700: Gordon has scored more than 20 fantasy points in 10 consecutive games and he should continue to be productive as long as Jrue Holiday is out of the lineup. Over that 10-game span, Gordon is averaging 15.6 points, 4.8 assists, 3.2 rebounds and 2.2 three-pointers per game. Meanwhile, the Sixers allow the third-most fantasy points to opposing shooting guards. In addition, teammate Quincy Poindexter ($3,000) is an intriguing SG punt option as he's averaging more than 27 minutes since joining the Pelicans.

SG - Evan Turner, Boston Celtics (at UTA), $5,300: Turner had one of his best games of the season last night with a 19/7/7 line while adding a steal and a block. In his past five games, Turner has averaged 32.35 fantasy points per game with a minimum of 27 in each. In order for Turner to reach 6x his salary, he'll need to score 31.8 points (less than his five-game average).

SF - Wilson Chandler, Denver Nuggets (at LAC), $5,600: Chandler has scored 33-plus fantasy points in back-to-back games and the Clippers have allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing small forwards this season. Chandler has averaged more than 37 minutes per game over his past three games.

PF - Thaddeus Young, Minnesota Timberwolves (at OKC), $6,000: Young was on this list yesterday and he delivered with 45.5 fantasy points, but Young has been very productive lately. Over his last six games, he is averaging 35.29 fantasy points per game and he has at least 30 fantasy points in five of those six games. During that stretch, he has averaged 18.0 points, 5.83 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 1.33 steals per game.

PF - Nerlens Noel, Philadelphia 76ers (at NO), $5,000: Noel scored just 18.5 fantasy points against the Grizzlies on Saturday, but he had scored more than 30 fantasy points in four of his previous five games. The obvious concern is foul trouble facing Anthony Davis, but Noel scored a fraction shy of 50 fantasy points against the Pelicans on Jan. 16th with a 17/11 double-double and five blocked shots although The 'Brow was out that game.

PF - Brandon Bass, Boston Celtics (at UTA), $4,400: Bass had a relatively modest performance last night (22.75 fantasy points, eight points and nine rebounds) compared to his previous two games (38.0 and 43.75 fantasy points, respectively). That said, he has played 30-plus minutes in three consecutive games and 22.75 fantasy points is still a very solid 5.17 times his salary.

C - Enes Kanter, Utah Jazz (vs. BOS), $6,500: Both Rudy Gobert and Kanter get a favorable matchup against the Celtics, who allow the seventh-most fantasy points to opposing centers. After a pair of 50-point games from Kanter, he came crashing down to earth with 16 fantasy points against the Nets on Saturday. That said, he should bounce back (although not to the 50-point level) with tonight's favorable matchup.

C - Omer Asik, New Orleans Pelicans (vs. PHI), $4,400: Asik may not have a ton of upside especially considering the blowout potential here, but Asik has 21-plus fantasy points in seven of his past eight games and gets an incredible matchup tonight. No team allows more fantasy points to opposing centers than the Sixers.

Special offer from DraftKings: Get a 100-percent deposit bonus (up to $600) when you sign up for a new account.

More of our content:

• ROS Fantasy Basketball Rankings
• 2015 NBA Mock Draft
• 2015 NFL Mock Draft

Keep track of our updates -- Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook and/or add us to your Google+ circle.

Fantasy NBA DraftKings DFS Values (Jan. 24th)

More so than in most nights, there is not much offensive firepower in tonight's five-game NBA slate.

No game has an over-under greater than 196.0 and only the Memphis Grizzlies (103.5) and Washington Wizards (100.5) are projected to score at least 100 points based on Vegas odds.

In addition, the Grizzlies are 17-point favorites over the Sixers so we could see their starters on the bench for most or all of the fourth quarter.

Moreover, there are no $10,000 players tonight and Portland's Damian Lillard ($9,400) is the highest-priced player. With all of the team's injuries, his usage rate should be off the charts even if the matchup against the Wizards is difficult. Washington's John Wall ($9,200) and Charlotte's Kemba Walker ($9,000) are the only other options priced at $9,000-plus.

[Update: LaMarcus Aldridge will postpone surgery and play tonight vs. Wizards.]

With an average salary of $6,250 per player on DraftKings, you'll still need to identify some values in order to play guys like Lillard or Wall. As usual, we will highlight some players we like that are priced at $6,500 or less in order to help you uncover some value.


With that said, here are some DraftKings values for Saturday's NBA games:

PG - Jarrett Jack, Brooklyn Nets (at UTA), $6,000: With Deron Williams (rib) ruled out at least until Monday, Jack will get as many minutes as he can handle. In a tough matchup against Chris Paul and the Clippers, Jack had just 17.25 fantasy points on Thursday. Prior to that, however, he had averaged 32.56 fantasy points in his previous nine games.

PG - Langston Galloway, New York Knicks (at CHA), $4,100: Another start with at least 30 minutes for Galloway and another 30-point fantasy performance. With starts in the team's past three games, Galloway has scored a very consistent and productive 32.25, 32.25 and 32.5 fantasy points, respectively. For as long as he's starting and priced under $5,000, Galloway has become close to a must-start. And with Jose Calderon (knee) out tonight, that only further assists Galloway's fantasy production.

PG - Dante Exum, Utah Jazz (vs. BKN), $3,200: With Exum getting the start over Trey Burke on Thursday, he played a season-high 35 minutes and finished with 23.5 fantasy points. Exum knocked down five of 10 three-pointers for 15 points and added five assists. Exum is averaging an extremely low 0.56 fantasy points per minute on the season, but he should reach and exceed value assuming he gets more than 30 minutes again.

* Get a 100-percent deposit bonus (up to $600) from DraftKings when you sign up for a new account.

SG - Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks (vs. DET), $5,300: As difficult as it is to trust Jason Kidd, The Alphabet is productive when given minutes and he has averaged 31 minutes and 28 fantasy points over his past three games. Contributing in a variety of ways, he has averaged 11.7 points, 4.7 boards, 2.7 assists and 3.3 steals per game during that span. In addition, the Pistons have allowed the third-most fantasy points to opposing shooting guards this season.

SG - Courtney Lee, Memphis Grizzlies (vs. PHI), $3,800: After taking double-digit shot attempts in five consecutive games, Lee was 0-for-3 on Wednesday against the Raptors. Even so, he still finished with 16.75 fantasy points. In his previous five games, he scored a minimum of 21.5 fantasy points with an average of 24.2 fantasy points per game. While he has a low ceiling, Lee should easily reach 5x salary (19.0) against the Sixers, who have allowed the second-most fantasy points to opposing shooting guards.

SF - Jeff Green, Memphis Grizzlies (vs. PHI), $5,100: Green had a disappointing performance (11.5 fantasy points) on Wednesday, but a matchup against the Sixers is the perfect recipe for a bounce-back performance. In his previous three games, Green averaged exactly 30 fantasy points per game.

SF - Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, Philadelphia 76ers (at MEM), $3,800: After missing a game, Mbah a Moute returned to the starting lineup and scored 10 points with five rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block on Friday night. Mbah a Moute has now reached 20 fantasy points in his past three games and despite the difficult matchup, he has a solid shot at reaching 5x (19.0) his salary if you're looking for some salary-cap relief.

PF - Nerlens Noel, Philadephia 76ers (at MEM), $5,100: After missing Wednesday's game with flu-like symptoms, Noel returned to drop 35.5 fantasy points last night. In order for Noel to reach 6x salary, he'll need to score 30.6 fantasy points tonight. Noel has scored more than that in four of his past five games and the Grizzlies have allowed the third-most fantasy points to opposing power forwards this season.

PF - Jason Smith, New York Knicks (at CHA), $3,900: Smith has played at least 32 minutes in each of the team's past three games and has scored a minimum of 25.5 fantasy points in those games including 33.75 last night. Although Amar'e Stoudemire, who missed last night's game, is available for tonight, Smith has a great chance to reach value at his salary.

C - Marcin Gortat, Washington Wizards (at POR), $5,500: The Polish Hammer has averaged less than 29 minutes over his past seven games with a couple of outings during that span of less than 20 fantasy points. That said, he has scored more than 33 fantasy points in two of his past three games and the Blazers front court has been decimated by injuries.

C - Zaza Pachulia, Milwaukee Bucks (vs. DET), $5,300: Pachulia gets a favorable matchup against the Pistons, who have allowed the most fantasy points to opposing centers this season. Pachulia has scored at least 25 fantasy points in three consecutive games and in five of his past six games. In addition, he has posted five double-doubles in his past nine games, with 36-plus fantasy points in four of those nine games.

Special offer from DraftKings: Get a 100-percent deposit bonus (up to $600) when you sign up for a new account.

More of our content:

• ROS Fantasy Basketball Rankings
• 2015 NBA Mock Draft
• 2015 NFL Mock Draft

Keep track of our updates Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook and/or add us to your Google+ circle.

Updated 2014 NBA Mock Draft (Baillargeon)

#480065657 / gettyimages.com

With the 2014 NBA Draft only a couple of days away, our contributors will be updating their 2014 NBA mock drafts and here's Kyle Baillargeon's latest version:

1. Cleveland Cavaliers - Jabari Parker, SF, Duke

Owner Dan Gilbert was adamant last year that the Cavaliers wouldn't enter the lottery again, and would make the playoffs. But here they are, once more, thanks to an incompetent front office with no ability to evaluate talent. Virtually everyone agrees that Parker is the most NBA-ready talent in the draft, and the Cavs will be too afraid to be patient with the high-upside Wiggins and Embiid.

2. Milwaukee Bucks - Andrew Wiggins, SG, Kansas

Embiid would make some sense, but his injuries will prove very scary, and the Bucks have the virtually untradeable Larry Sanders at center. Wiggins may technically be the same position as the "Greek Freak" Giannis Antetokounmpo, but specific positions aren't as important in today's NBA. Wiggins has tremendous upside, and will be the centerpiece of the "Fear the Deer" renaissance.

3. Philadelphia 76ers - Dante Exum, PG, Australia

The Sixers seem to be desperate for Wiggins, but since he's gone, Exum is the pick here. The most likely scenario would then be for the Sixers to try and move Michael Carter-Williams for another pick. It's kind of nuts to think that the team would consider trading the rookie of the year, but reports indicate they would have had Exum rated higher than MCW if they were in the same draft.

4. Orlando Magic - Joel Embiid, C, Kansas

I don't expect to see Embiid drop too far because of his injuries. History has not been kind to big men with navicular bone fractures, but the talent is too tantalizing to pass up for some. The constant advancement in modern medicine and injury treatment also plays in Embiid's favor. With a second lottery pick, the Magic can afford to swing for the fences here.

5. Utah Jazz - Gary Harris, SG, Michigan State

This would be an upset on draft day, but Harris is a great scorer and defender. He would contribute in a meaningful way from day one, and the Jazz don't really need another power forward, which is the top position at this stage of the draft. Any team that wants to jump up and grab a power forward that they really like would be smart to get on the phone with Utah and try to make a deal. The Jazz would definitely listen.

6. Boston Celtics - Aaron Gordon, SF, Arizona

Boston fans hope this pick (along with others) goes to Minnesota for Kevin Love, but if the Celtics make the pick for themselves, it now looks like Aaron Gordon is a near-lock. Danny Ainge has reportedly had his eye on Gordon for a long time. Plenty of players have been brought in for workouts of late, including my initial pick here, Noah Vonleh. But all signs point to Gordon.

7. Los Angeles Lakers - Julius Randle, PF, Kentucky

The Lakers may think that the smart move would be to move this pick for veteran help, but that would be a bad idea. Kobe Bryant won't be playing forever, and the future needs to be taken into consideration. Randle reminds some of Zach Randolph, and while he can be great in the future, he would still be able to help now.

8. Sacramento Kings - Marcus Smart, PG, Oklahoma State

Smart is an immediate upgrade over Isaiah Thomas, and would be a leader from day one. Smart would have been one of the top three picks of the draft last year, so getting him here would be a steal for Sacramento.

9. Charlotte Hornets - Nik Stauskas, SG, Michigan

The Hornets are another team that could use an upgrade in the shooting department, and Stauskas is widely considered the best shooter in the draft. Charlotte finally has a good thing going, and this pick is more of a luxury than anything. Stauskas would add to this up-and-coming team, whom we might not see in this high of a draft position again for a while.

10. Philadelphia 76ers - Noah Vonleh, PF, Indiana

The jury is still out on if Vonleh will be very good in the NBA. Casual observers saw Vonleh at Indiana this past year and don't understand why he would be picked so high. But supporters agree Vonleh was never featured in Indiana's offense and still managed to average nearly a double-double last year. At 18 years of age, Vonleh already has an NBA body and could still grow. He could be Derrick Favors, or he could be LaMarcus Aldridge. Either way, the Sixers would probably be thrilled to walk out of the draft with Exum and Vonleh on their squad.

[Editor's note: As a Sixers fan, I'd be "thrilled" indeed.]

11. Denver Nuggets - Jusuf Nurkic, C, Bosnia

Nurkic is a big, physical player who can take over in the middle for Denver. The Nuggets could also use some help at the shooting guard position, but it's debatable on whether anyone remaining at that position has as much upside as Nurkic.

12. Orlando Magic - Elfrid Payton, PG, Louisiana-Lafayette

Payton has been impressing everyone in the lead up to the draft, and the Magic could use his leadership and skills. Payton would be one half of a potentially dynamic backcourt with Victor Oladipo, and the possibility of trading Arron Afflalo for yet another pick is strong. Last time, we had Payton at 20, and now it looks like even 12 seems a little low. But if he's still here, he's the pick.

13. Minnesota Timberwolves - Doug McDermott, SF, Creighton

If the Wolves do in fact trade Kevin Love, then they will likely have already picked somewhere in this draft and taken a power forward. In either case, though, McDermott brings great shooting to a team that could use it. McDermott would probably start for Minnesota, and could be a good scorer from the start.

14. Phoenix Suns - James Young, SG/SF, Kentucky

Gerald Green had a decent enough season last year but he's not part of the Suns' future. James Young could use a little more seasoning, but with time he should take over the small forward position in Phoenix. Still only 18 years old, there is a lot of upside with Young.

15. Atlanta Hawks - Zach LaVine, G, UCLA

LaVine may not have been the best player in the Pac 12 last year, but he may very well have been the best prospect. He's still getting bigger and has even drawn comparisons to Russell Westbrook for his style of play and athleticism. He won't be a star out of the gate, but in a few years, we may look back on this as one of the steals of the draft.

-> Continue to picks 16-30

More Mocks:
-> 2014 NBA Mock Draft from Kevin Hanson
-> 2014 NBA Mock Draft from Brendan Donahue
-> our NBA Mock Draft Database

To keep track of our basketball updates, (1) Follow us on Twitter, (2) Like us on Facebook and/or (3) Add us to your Google+ circle.

2014 NBA Mock Draft - May 29th Update

The 2013 NBA Draft class was one of the weakest draft classes in recent memory. After all, the No. 1 overall pick was none other than UNLV's Anthony Bennett.

What a difference a year makes as this year's draft class has the potential to be one of the best ever.

With the NBA Draft less than one month away, I will update my mock draft on a weekly basis until the actual draft on June 26th. In addition, other contributors will soon post their NBA mock drafts as well.

[Follow @HitTheBoards to keep track of our site's updates.]

#470200877 / gettyimages.com

Here is the latest version of my 2014 NBA Mock Draft:

1. Cleveland Cavaliers: Andrew Wiggins, SG, Kansas

Once again, the Cavs are in possession of the first overall pick — their third in the past four drafts! If the Cavs hang on to this pick, any one of three prospects could be in play here: Wiggins, his KU teammate Joel Embiid and Duke's Jabari Parker.

Of that group, Parker enters the league as the most NBA-ready prospect, but both Wiggins and Embiid have higher ceilings (and lower floors, to be fair). The son of ex-NBA player Mitchell Wiggins, Andrew has freakish athleticism and great length. While he is too passive at times, Wiggins can score from anywhere on the court and is a great defender.

2. Milwaukee Bucks: Joel Embiid, C, Kansas

Certainly unfair from a comparison standpoint, the name you most often hear is Hakeem Olajuwon when it comes to Embiid, who has only played basketball for about four years. A very athletic seven-footer, Embiid runs the floor well, can shoot well for his size and has a nice low-post game in addition to being a great rebounder and shot blocker.

3. Philadelphia 76ers: Jabari Parker, SF, Duke

Although the Sixers miss out on Wiggins or Embiid, Parker is an outstanding consolation prize. There was initially some uncertainty about whether he would declare or return to Duke, but Parker is the most NBA-ready prospect in this year's draft class, as noted earlier.

While Parker lacks the elite athleticism that Wiggins possesses and his defense is a weakness, Parker can take over a game offensively and score in a variety of ways. Parker will be the odds-on favorite to lead all rookies in scoring next season and could give the Sixers back-to-back ROYs.

4. Orlando Magic: Dante Exum, PG, Australia

The Magic have a pair of lottery picks, this and the 12th overall pick, and they will likely add a point guard with one of those two picks to pair with Victor Oladipo. While he played some point guard, Oladipo is better suited to play off guard.

The Australian point guard has outstanding size and length for a point guard with excellent quickness and the ability to get to the rim. While he needs to improve his outside shot, Exum will be the first guard prospect off the board.

5. Utah Jazz: Noah Vonleh, PF, Indiana

Although he doesn't turn 19 until August, Vonleh averaged 11.3 points, 9.0 rebounds, 1.4 blocks and 0.9 steals per game for the Hoosiers as a freshman. Vonleh has excellent size, athleticism and can shoot the ball well.

6. Boston Celtics: Aaron Gordon, F, Arizona

What Gordon lacks in his offensive game, especially his outside shot, he more than makes up for that deficiency with his athleticism, elite defensive play and oustanding motor.

7. Los Angeles Lakers: Julius Randle, PF, Kentucky

Based on their current contract situation, only Kobe Bryant and Robert Sacre are scheduled to be Lakers beyond the 2014-15 season. In other words, they essentially have a blank canvas. Always in a win-now mode, however, they could look to deal this pick. Averaging a double-double (15.0 points and 10.4 rebounds per game) this season, Randle is the best player available here.

8. Sacramento Kings: Marcus Smart, G, Oklahoma State

Smart had a not-so-smart moment against Texas Tech this season when he lost his cool and shoved an inappropriate fan. Other than that unfortunate incident, though, Smart has generally been viewed as a high-character guy.

His biggest on-court flaw is his inconsistent outside shooting, but Smart is a strong guard that can get to the basket and finish. Extremely competitive with a non-stop motor, Smart is an excellent defender and rebounder for a guard as well.

9. Charlotte Hornets: Doug McDermott, SF, Creighton

Charlotte ranked 23rd in the league in scoring offense (96.9 points per game) and in three-point shooting percentage (.351).

Playing four years for his father at Creighton, McBuckets is one of college basketball's most prolific scorers with 3,150 career points (fifth all-time). While he's far from an elite athlete, McDermott is an elite shooter and a fierce competitor with a high basketball IQ.

10. Philadelphia 76ers: Gary Harris, SG, Michigan State

While Harris is undersized for a two guard, he is both an excellent defender and good shooter even if his three-point shooting percentage declined to 35.2 percent in 2013-14. Adding Parker and Harris to Michael Carter-Williams, Thaddeus Young and Nerlens Noel gives the Sixers a nice young core.

11. Denver Nuggets: Dario Saric, F, Croatia

In a bit of a surprise, Saric withdrew from last year's lackluster draft class, but he led his league in both scoring and rebounding as the league MVP. A skilled point forward, Saric may stay in Europe for at least another season, though.

12. Orlando Magic: James Young, SG/SF, Kentucky

The Magic ranked in the bottom third in the league three-pointers per game (6.9) and while Young was inconsistent from deep in his only season at Kentucky, he has the potential to develop into one of the league's better shooters.

13. Minnesota Timberwolves: Adreian Payne, PF, Michigan State

Kevin Love has just one more season in Minnesota. Unless he has none, that is. Love will become a free agent after the upcoming season and reports are that he won't re-sign with the T'Wolves so it's possible they move their best player in order to get something in return. The 6-foot-10 Payne shot 42.3 percent from behind the arc last season for the Spartans.

14. Phoenix Suns: Nik Stauskas, G, Michigan

One of the best shooters in this year's draft class, Stauskas has good size (6-foot-7) and knocked down 44.1 percent of his three-pointers in his two seasons in Ann Arbor. The Big Ten Player of the Year, Stauskas averaged 17.5 points per game last season.

15. Atlanta Hawks: Rodney Hood, SG/SF, Duke

Hood does one thing exceptionally well — shoot the basketball. He knocked down 42 percent of his three's for Duke last season.

--> Continue to picks 16-30

For more mock drafts, view our NBA Mock Draft Database here.

Follow our basketball updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+

2014 NBA Mock Draft, 2.0

Last year's NBA draft class was one of the most lackluster classes in recent memory. Based on the group of draft-eligible prospects this year, however, the 2014 draft class has the potential to develop into one of the greatest ever.

While some in the group may never live up to their potential at the next level, this year's class certainly does not lack hype.

From now until the 2014 NBA Draft on Thursday, June 26th, my mock will be updated frequently and we will have other mocks from our other contributors as well.

[Follow our basketball updates on Twitter via @HitTheBoards.]

The NBA Draft lottery will take place on May 20th and that could alter the draft order for the first 14 picks, but the order of the non-lottery picks has already been determined.

If you would like to view other opinions, check out our 2014 NBA mock draft database for more mocks.

Otherwise, here is my updated 2014 NBA Mock Draft:

#470390947 / gettyimages.com

1. Milwaukee Bucks - Andrew Wiggins, SG, Kansas

Entering college with lofty and perhaps unfair expectations, Wiggins received as much hype and buzz as any prep phenom since LeBron James. Before arriving in Lawrence, Wiggins was widely viewed as the consensus top prospect in the draft even if he did not occupy that spot throughout the entire college season.

While Duke's Jabari Parker may be more NBA-ready today, no prospect has as much upside as Wiggins. And while his Jayhawks teammate Joel Embiid was viewed as the top prospect in the draft for much of the college season, there are some concerns about the back injury that sidelined him down the stretch.

Exceptionally quick and explosive, Wiggins has great length (6-foot-8 with a 7-foot wingspan) as a two guard with the versatility to play either forward spot as well. In addition, he's an excellent shooter with good range. If there's a knock on Wiggins, however, it's that he's not as aggressive on the offensive end as he should be at times.

2. Philadelphia 76ers - Jabari Parker, SF, Duke

Although the Sixers miss out on the son of former Sixer Mitchell Wiggins, Parker is an outstanding consolation prize. There was initially some uncertainty about whether he would declare or return to Duke, but Parker is the most NBA-ready prospect in this year's draft class.

While Parker lacks the elite athleticism that Wiggins possesses and his defense is a weakness, Parker can take over a game offensively and score in a variety of ways. Parker will be the odds-on favorite to lead all rookies in scoring next season.

3. Orlando Magic - Joel Embiid, C, Kansas

The most important thing with Embiid will be the medical report(s) about his back. Certainly unfair from a comparison standpoint, the name you most often hear is Hakeem Olajuwon when it comes to Embiid, who has only played basketball for about four years.

A very athletic seven-footer, Embiid runs the floor well, can shoot well for his size and has a nice low-post game in addition to being a great rebounder and shot blocker. With Nikola Vucevic already on the roster, Australia's Dante Exum may better fit the team's needs, but I can't see Embiid slipping past this spot (depending on his back, of course).

With a second lottery pick, the Magic can add a point guard like Syracuse's Tyler Ennis (spoiler alert) like I project.

4. Utah Jazz - Dante Exum, PG, Australia

The Australian point guard has outstanding size and length for a point guard with excellent quickness and the ability to get to the rim. While he needs to improve his outside shot, Exum will be the first guard prospect off the board and could even be a top-three pick.

5. Boston Celtics - Julius Randle, PF, Kentucky

Averaging a double-double (15.0 points and 10.4 rebounds per game) this season, Randle is the best player available here. This coast-to-coast dunk for the 6-foot-9 250-pounder shows his unique skill set for his size:



- View my full 2014 NBA mock draft here

For more mock drafts, view our NBA Mock Draft Database here.

2014 NFL Draft: 2014 NFL mock draft - NFL draft big board - NFL mock draft database

Follow our basketball updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+

2014 NBA Mock Draft, 1.0: Embiid, Wiggins, Parker go 1-2-3

Last year's NBA draft class was one of the most lackluster classes in recent memory. Based on the group of draft-eligible prospects this year, however, the 2014 draft class has the potential to be one of the greatest ever.

While some in the group may never live up to their potential at the next level, this year's class certainly does not lack hype.

Although this is my first mock draft of the year, it will be updated often and all the way until the 2014 NBA Draft on Thursday, June 26th.

[Follow our basketball updates on Twitter via @HitTheBoards.]

Until the actual draft order is known, I will use the inverse order of our consensus NBA power rankings for the draft order.

In addition, more of our contributors will provide their take on how the first round will shake out as we get closer to the draft. For now, if you would like to view other opinions, check out our mock draft database for other 2014 NBA mock drafts.

Otherwise, here is my early 2014 NBA Mock Draft:

1. Milwaukee Bucks - Joel Embiid, C, Kansas

With roughly two months left in the regular season, the Bucks are guaranteed to have a losing record as they have already lost 45 games this season. As bad as the Bucks have been, they can use help across the board.

Part of a talented freshmen class for the Jayhawks, it's Embiid — not Andrew Wiggins — that ends up going first overall. There have been reports that Embiid may return to Lawrence for another season, but the big man from Cameroon has as much of a chance to go first overall as any other prospect in the country.

If Embiid stays in school, the good news for the Bucks is the talent at the top of this draft class is so strong that they would get another franchise-changing player in his place.

2. Philadelphia 76ers - Andrew Wiggins, SG, Kansas

Long rumored to be dealt and otherwise scheduled become a free agent after the season, Evan Turner (and Lavoy Allen) was dealt to the Pacers for Danny Granger and a second-round pick. As you can imagine, Granger wasn't thrilled with going from a top contender to a franchise that has the second worst record in the league and has lost 11 games in a row.

To fill the void at shooting guard, the Sixers have the opportunity to add one of the most highly-touted prospects in years. With elite athleticism and an ability to score from anywhere on the court, Wiggins, whose father played for the Sixers in the early 90's, is the type of player that can lift the Sixers out of mediocrity (or worse).

3. Orlando Magic - Jabari Parker, SF, Duke

While he may not have as much upside as the Kansas tandem at the top of this mock, Parker has an excellent all-around (especially offensive) game. In addition, no prospect is as ready to make an immediate impact in his rookie season than Parker at this point.

4. Boston Celtics - Dante Exum, PG, Australia

Regardless of how Rajon Rondo fits into the long-term plans of the Celtics, Exum can play alongside Rondo, who will be in a walk year next season, or eventually replace him. The Australian point guard has outstanding size and length for a point guard with excellent quickness and the ability to get to the rim.

5. Los Angeles Lakers - Julius Randle, PF, Kentucky

The Lakers could go in a number of different directions with this pick. After all, only five of the team's current players have contracts for the 2014-15 seasons. In fact, it's just Kobe Bryant and Robert Sacre that are under contract by the Lakers to start the 2015 season.

Averaging a double-double (15.7 points and 10.3 rebounds per game), Randle is the best player available and can fill the void of free agent-to-be Pau Gasol. This coast-to-coast dunk for the 6-foot-9 250-pounder shows his unique skill set for his size:



6. Sacramento Kings - Noah Vonleh, PF, Indiana

With a backcourt of Isaiah Thomas and Ben McLemore, the No. 3 overall pick last year, I think the Kings would pass on Marcus Smart and go with Vonleh here. Since Jan. 18th, Vonleh has averaged a double-double (10.78 points and 10.22 rebounds) in addition to 1.33 blocked shots per game.

7. Denver Nuggets (via Knicks) - Aaron Gordon, SF/PF, Arizona

While his offensive game, specifically his jumpshot, leaves a lot to be desired, Gordon has elite athleticism, is an excellent defender and has a high motor.

8. Utah Jazz - Marcus Smart, G, Oklahoma State

Since returning from his three-game suspension, Smart has averaged 16.5 points, 8.5 assists, 5.5 rebounds and 5.5 steals in his two games played. (Next up is a huge matchup against Kansas on March 1st.)

Obviously, Smart received a ton of negative attention from his incident involving a Texas Tech fan. By all accounts, however, that was an out-of-character reaction from Smart, who is otherwise viewed as a high-character guy.

9. Charlotte Bobcats (via Pistons) - Tyler Ennis, PG, Syracuse

Granted, Kemba Walker has point guard size and he starts at the point, but he is much more of a scorer than a pass-first type in the traditional mold of a point guard. Poised beyond his years, Ennis has a stellar 3.39-to-1 ratio of assists to turnovers and actually has more steals (59) than turnovers (46) this season.

10. Cleveland Cavaliers - Gary Harris, SG, Michigan State

While the NBA trade deadline has come and gone, shooting guard Dion Waiters is still on the roster but there have been plenty of rumors about the team wanting to move him partly due to his relationship with Kyrie Irving. Drafting a two guard like Harris will only intensify those rumors from draft day through the trade deadline next season.

- See my full first-round projection here

[Note: All updates will be made to the link above all the way up to June 26th.]

For more mock drafts, view our NBA Mock Draft Database here.

2014 NFL Draft: My 2014 NFL mock draft - our NFL draft big board - our NFL mock draft database

Follow our basketball updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+