Picks # 4, #8Phoenix SunsGrade: A
#4 Dragan Bender, F7’0, 220
There have been instances when a foreign prospect comes to the league with a name befitting a top model. Andrea Bargnani comes to mind for one. Bender skewers that notion with a name fit for a Rockey nemesis or an international warlord.
As the old adage goes, you can't teach size. And Bender brings a package of size and tantalizing potential. Optimists can hope for a Porzingis and pessimists have a litany of picks to make the glass seem half empty.
The Suns have one of the best medical staff in the league, one which has served as the fountain of youth for many a veteran well past his prime. They ought to be able to aid Bender in optimizing his physicality for a long career. He has the tools to space the floor and should be able to contribute quicker than expected.
Along with Devin Booker, Bender can form a formidable one-two punch for the Suns.
#8 (via trade with the Sacramento Kings)Marquese Chriss, PF6’9”, 225
Chriss was traded to the Suns for the 13th and 28th pick, along with Bogdan Bogdanovic and a 2020 2nd round pick. Chriss has the potential to be a strong prospect down the line.
The Suns took a safe shot by grabbing a player with plenty of upsides, but it seems to be just that at this point.
Pick # 5Minnesota TimberwolvesGrade: A-
#5 Kris Dunn, PG6’4”, 215 lbs
The Timberwolves have had a glut of talent in the backcourt over the years, but Dunn ought to be a good match for a coach like Tom Thibodeau. It does bring up the question of Ricky Rubio, that maestro point guard in search for a jumper. Dunn isn't one to light it up from distance either so now the Wolves have two guards who can't stretch the floor.
That doesn't mean that Dunn won't make his presence felt immediately. He has won a couple of Big East Player and Defensive Player of the year awards and he brings a solid presence in the Wolves backcourt and an able complement to Andrew Wiggins.
Guess the Bulls players in this quiz and it's not going to be easy!
