1. Issac Okoro
Through his first 3 preseason games Isaac Okoro has already flashed immense potential. Okoro has elite level defensive potential and will be the best perimeter defensive player on the Cavs roster right away. His biggest question mark coming into the draft was his poor perimeter shooting. I know its a very small sample size, but so far through his first 3 games he has gone 5-8 from behind the arc. He has a solid handle, can finish through contact, and plays elite defense. A 3 point shot will make him the most complete player from the 2020 draft. Okoro should earn the starting small forward spot right away.
2. Obi Toppin
Obi Toppin is the most NBA ready prospect from the 2020 draft. Obi’s strength and athleticism draw comparisons to a young Amare Stoudamire. Offensively, he is going to become a mismatch nightmare. His quickness and handle will allow him to blow by bigger defenders and he should be able to bully smaller defenders with size and strength. He showed a nice shooting touch at Dayton going almost 40% from three last season. Toppin should be able to thrive in the pick and roll. His freakish athleticism makes him a lob threat when rolling to the rim. He can also knock down perimeter shots when the defense sags off and he has to pop out to the three point line. His biggest weakness projects to be on the defensive end, especially when guarding the perimeter.
3. Deni Avdija
Deni Avdija has the most impressive resume of an international star since Luka Doncic. Deni has already dominated one of the top professional leagues in the world, winning MVP and a championship ring for Maccabi Tel Aviv in 2019. Deni can do everything on the court. He is 6’10 with guard like ball handling, gifted passing abilities, and a pure perimeter shot. He can play any position ,1-4, at a high level. He lacks the elite athletic ability that other top prospects have, but his footwork and high basketball IQ should make up for it. Early on he is going to struggle defensively, lacking the foot speed to stop guards and the strength to stop bigs. His role on the team may hold him back with Westbrook and Beal projecting to dominate the ball.
4. Lamelo Ball
Lamelo Ball is an electrifying playmaker who has better court vision than most NBA veterans. Lamelo is 6’8 and great passer and ball handler. Much like his brother, he is a walking triple double threat. His true potential lies in his ability to become a good shooter. His 3 point shot is inconsistent and his form is awkward, but he has the ability to get hot. Lamelo had poor shooting numbers during the preseason, but he is one of those rare players whose impact on the floor extends far passed shooting numbers. His pass first mentality rubs off on teammates and can help change the culture of Charlotte.
5. Anthony Edwards
Anthony Edwards has displayed poor shooting numbers through his first few preseason games, but he has also flashed the potential that earned him the number 1 overall pick in the 2020 draft. He must improve his shot selection and become more engaged when he's playing off the ball. He is a very strong guard and can overpower guards and has the ability to knock down tough shots. He has the physical tools and quickness to eventually develop into a very solid perimeter defender.
6. Cole Anthony
Although a very small sample size, Cole Anthony has shown why he had one of the highest upsides in the draft. He leads all rookies in points, assists, 3 point shots made in the preseason. A poor supporting cast and nagging injuries led to an erratic freshman season at UNC for Cole, causing his draft stock to drop. The Magic look like they got a steal at 15 with Cole Anthony.
7. James Wiseman
The main issue with James Wiseman is his very small sample size. He only played 3 career collegiate games and did not play in the preseason. Although the sample size is small, Wiseman still projects to play a major a role for the Warriors this season. His physical tools are off the charts, standing at 7’1 with a 7’6 wingspan. His size coupled with elite athleticism should allow him to step in right away as the Warriors defensive anchor and rim runner. Offensively he will get most of his points in transition and off dunks. He has the potential to become an elite rim protector.
8. Tyrese Haliburton
Tyrese Haliburton is a very solid all around player. He is a good distributor, rebounds well for a guard, and can shoot a high percentage from 3. His size and versatility allow him to play either guard position at a high level, which will help him fit in alongside Deaaron Fox. Haliburton stuffed the stat sheet in college averaging 15 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists, and did much of the same throughout the preseason.
Next 5:
9. Immanuel Quickley
10. Patrick Williams
11. Killian Hayes
12. Devin Vassell
13. Tyrese Maxey