Predicting the top 5 picks in the 2021 NBA Draft

Evan Mobley of USC could go 1st overall over Cade Cunningham.
Evan Mobley of USC could go 1st overall over Cade Cunningham.

#3 Jalen Green

Jalen Green of the NBA G League Ignite
Jalen Green of the NBA G League Ignite

Guard | Height: 6' 5" | Weight: 165 lbs | Age: 19

Often compared to NBA icon Kobe Bryant, Jalen Green possesses the same mentality as the LA Lakers legend and is a gifted offensive player who stops at nothing when dedicated to get a bucket. He is called a walking highlight reel and can score from anywhere on the floor and get his own shot whenever he wants. Green is an excellent finisher at the rim, which makes him a constant lob threat even at 6' 5".

Jalen Green also has high playmaking potential, as he is a willing passer who can find an open teammate. He needs to polish his defensive skills, but they could improve once he is in the NBA. Green is a sleeper for the 1st overall pick because if the Pistons are looking for a pure scorer, he could upstage Cunningham on draft night.


#2 Evan Mobley

Evan Mobley of the USC Trojans takes a shot
Evan Mobley of the USC Trojans takes a shot

Guard | Height: 7' 0" | Weight: 215 lbs | Age: 19

Cade Cunningham isn't a lock for the 1st pick, and many believe Evan Mobley of USC is the reason why.

The 7-footer from Southern California is one of the most skilled prospects entering the league, as he does big man-type things with the fluidity and skill-set of a wing. Mobley can handle the ball and shoot well from beyond the arc while also dominating the paint for boards and blocks.

Mobley has elite defense both on and off the ball and has the potential to make an NBA All-Defensive team. He could be the go-to scorer for a team, as he uses his variety of moves and his versatility to get buckets. Mobley is practically a lock for top 3 in the 2021 NBA Draft and would instantly benefit any team he joins.


#1 Cade Cunningham

Cade Cunningham of the Oklahoma State Cowboys is expected to go 1st overall in the 2021 NBA Draft.
Cade Cunningham of the Oklahoma State Cowboys is expected to go 1st overall in the 2021 NBA Draft.

Guard | Height: 6' 8" | Weight: 220 lbs | Age: 19

Although other prospects are climbing up the ladder, many believe Cade Cunningham would be the 1st overall pick.

He is leading the rankings in most publications, including The Ringer and ESPN, while the DraftKings Sportsbook has him at -10000 for getting selected 1st overall in the 2021 NBA Draft. He is by far the most talented player in this draft class and has a complete game at both ends of the floor.

Cunningham controls the tempo of games and makes his teammates better. He is an excellent three-point shooter at 41.2% (126 3PA) and can also drive to the rim with authority. He is expected to play at an All-NBA level and could potentially be the cornerstone player for an NBA franchise. Cunningham has drawn comparisons with Luka Doncic.

Also Read: Ranking the top 5 shooters in the 2021 NBA Draft.

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Edited by Bhargav