Two things seem to be true about how former Minnehaha Academy and Gonzaga star Chet Holmgren is perceived by most high-profile NBA mock drafts: He is the most intriguing prospect in next week's real draft, and there's little chance he'll be the first player selected.
If the consensus is correct, that honor will go to Auburn small forward Jabari Smith.
Orlando, Oklahoma City, Houston and Sacramento currently hold the top four picks in Thursday's draft (6:30 p.m., ESPN).
For the Magic, the idea of teaming the 7-foot Holmgren with former high school teammate Jalen Suggs is tantalizing. But Orlando already has three unique big men on its roster in Jonathan Isaac, Wendell Carter Jr. and Mo Bamba.
With Smith the projected No. 1 pick, where does Holmgren land? There is a consensus:
ESPN: Holmgren selected No. 2 overall by Oklahoma City
- "The franchise's rebuild is viewed with increasing favor, as a strong coaching staff, player-development infrastructure, organizational culture and trove of players assembled should allow OKC to quickly pivot toward respectability. Adding a 7-footer with a 7-6 wingspan to that core, one who projects as a potential Defensive Player of the Year candidate with the mobility, timing and competitiveness Holmgren offers, makes perfect sense."
CBS Sports: Holmgren selected No. 2
- "You couldn't design a player in a lab more suited for the current iteration of the Thunder than Holmgren. Based on skill alone, he'd likely be the consensus top pick in this draft, but concerns about his slight frame aren't without merit. Personally, I'm not too concerned about the lack of size given the offense-friendly officiating in the modern NBA, and Holmgren's rare combination of rim protection, shooting ability, rebounding and basketball IQ could eventually make him a perennial All-Star."
The Ringer: Holmgren selected No. 2
