Who Will Be the Top Picks in the NBA Draft 2023?

NBA mock draft 2023: Latest projection with perfect picks for every selection

With the NBA draft looming, basketball fans are buzzing with excitement and speculation about the future of the league. The draft is a pivotal moment for teams as they look to acquire young talent that can help shape their success for years to come. In this latest NBA mock draft for 2023, we take a look at the perfect picks for every selection.

1. San Antonio Spurs – Victor Wembanyama, C, Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92

Victor Wembanyama is widely regarded as one of the best NBA draft prospects ever. Standing at an impressive 7’5″, Wembanyama brings an incredible combination of size, skill, and athleticism to the table. The San Antonio Spurs, known for their player development, would be an ideal landing spot for Wembanyama to maximize his potential. With a team already loaded with complementary pieces, Wembanyama will have the opportunity to shine and make an immediate impact.

2. Charlotte Hornets – Scoot Henderson, PG, G League Ignite

Despite already having LaMelo Ball as their point guard, the Charlotte Hornets cannot pass up on Scoot Henderson at the second overall pick. Henderson, a young and talented player from the G League Ignite, brings a unique skill set to the table. While there may be questions about fit, the Hornets need to prioritize adding the best player available to their roster. The potential pairing of Zion Williamson and LaMelo Ball is too enticing to pass up on.

3. Portland Trail Blazers – Amen Thompson, G, Overtime Elite City Reapers

The Portland Trail Blazers find themselves in a tough spot with trade speculation surrounding their star player, Damian Lillard. However, if they decide to make the pick at number three, Amen Thompson would be a great choice. Thompson possesses an impressive athletic package and has the potential to be a lead creator. While his jump shot and defensive technique need work, his size, playmaking abilities, and athletic tools make him a risk worth taking for the Trail Blazers.

4. Houston Rockets – Brandon Miller, F, Alabama

The Houston Rockets miss out on their preferred choices at the four and five spots, but Brandon Miller is still a solid pick for them at number four. Miller brings size and shooting ability to the wing position, and with Jalen Green by his side, he will have less pressure to develop into a primary scoring option. The Rockets should also take the opportunity to explore signing a veteran point guard in free agency to complement their young core.

5. Detroit Pistons – Cam Whitmore, F, Villanova

Cam Whitmore is an excellent fit for the Detroit Pistons at number five. With Jalen Duren and Jaden Ivey already on the roster, Whitmore’s athleticism and three-point shooting ability would be a valuable addition to the team. He would benefit from attacking defenses tilted by Cade Cunningham’s creation and help space the floor for his teammates. As the Pistons continue to build a young and talented core, Whitmore is a smart choice.

6. Orlando Magic – Ausar Thompson, G/F, Overtime Elite Reapers

Although shooting is a major need for the Orlando Magic, Ausar Thompson’s athleticism and versatility make him an appealing choice. Thompson would add athleticism to complement Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner and play a havoc role on both ends of the floor. While shooting is not his strong suit, the Magic can address that need with their other lottery pick. Thompson’s potential as an athletic wing is too intriguing to pass up on.

7. Indiana Pacers – Jarace Walker, F, Houston

Jarace Walker would be a perfect fit for the Indiana Pacers at number seven. Walker brings defensive prowess to the four position and would thrive alongside knockdown shooters like Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner. His ability to tap into his creation skills and provide rim protection would be a significant boost for the Pacers, who struggled defensively last season.

8. Washington Wizards – Taylor Hendricks, F, UCF

With a new front office and the recent trade of Bradley Beal, the Washington Wizards need to focus on selecting the best player available. Taylor Hendricks fits that bill with his excellent rim protection skills on defense and three-point shooting ability on offense. Hendricks’ size and athleticism make him an intriguing prospect with high potential. For a roster in need of a massive rebuild, Hendricks provides versatility and a solid foundation to build upon.

9. Utah Jazz – Cason Wallace, G, Kentucky

The Utah Jazz miss out on their preferred choices with Amen Thompson and Taylor Hendricks off the board. However, Cason Wallace is still a strong pick at number nine. Wallace brings a defensive edge and complementary offensive skills to the table. His ability to play on- or off-ball will provide the Jazz with versatility and depth as they continue to reload their roster.

10. Dallas Mavericks – Anthony Black, G, Arkansas

Anthony Black is an ideal fit for the Dallas Mavericks at number 10. The Mavericks need connective pieces around their star players, Luka Doncic and potentially Kyrie Irving. Black’s size, strength, and playmaking abilities make him a great fit on the perimeter. While he may lack dynamism as an on-ball creator, his ability to improve his spot-up shooting would be invaluable for the Mavericks.

… (continued)