There was no surprise at the top of this year’s NBA Draft, with Victor Wembanyama being the anticipated No. 1 pick for the Spurs. However, the draft quickly unfolded into a night of intrigue and drama.
The Charlotte Hornets opted for Brandon Miller over Scoot Henderson as the No. 2 pick, forming a promising duo with LaMelo Ball. Henderson then went to the Portland Trail Blazers at No. 3, followed by twin brothers Amen and Ausar Thompson being selected consecutively at No. 4 and 5, respectively. The Thompson twins made history as the first brother pairing to be chosen in the top 10 of the NBA Draft.
Despite the expected picks at the top, the draft was filled with surprises and intriguing selections. CBS Sports NBA Draft analyst Adam Finkelstein shared his evaluations of the picks:
1. SAN ANTONIO SPURS: C VICTOR WEMBANYAMA, FRANCE
The Spurs made the most of their position by selecting the highly praised 7-foot-4 prodigy. With remarkable defensive skills and offensive prowess, Wembanyama has the potential for NBA stardom if he stays healthy. Grade: A+
2. CHARLOTTE HORNETS: SF BRANDON MILLER, ALABAMA
Miller’s selection by the Hornets raised some eyebrows due to his unique blend of size and shot-making abilities. Concerns remain about his finishing at the rim and off-the-court issues from college. Grade: A-
3. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS: PG SCOOT HENDERSON, G LEAGUE IGNITE
Henderson was a standout choice for the Blazers, offering dynamic athleticism and playmaking skills that should translate well to the NBA. Grade: A
4. HOUSTON ROCKETS: G/F AMEN THOMPSON, OVERTIME ELITE
Thompson’s exceptional athleticism and playmaking abilities make him a top prospect, despite lacking a consistent jumper. Grade: A
5. DETROIT PISTONS: SF AUSAR THOMPSON, OVERTIME ELITE
Ausar Thompson’s selection may have been a slight reach, but his well-rounded game and defensive prowess make him a valuable addition to the Pistons. Grade: B+
6. ORLANDO MAGIC: PG ANTHONY BLACK, ARKANSAS
Black’s versatility and potential impact on both ends of the court make him a steal for the Magic. Concerns about his shooting ability may limit his ceiling. Grade: A
7. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (VIA PACERS): SF BILAL COULIBALY, FRANCE
Coulbaly’s selection by the Wizards came as a surprise, but his physicality, athleticism, and shooting potential make him a high-risk, high-reward prospect. Grade: B
8. INDIANA PACERS (VIA WIZARDS): PF JARACE WALKER, HOUSTON
Walker adds defensive prowess and versatility to the Pacers’ lineup, though his offensive game may need further development. Grade: A-
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