NBA Draft Lottery Recap

This year, the Kings rose close to the top of the draft order, fourth overall specifically, and will get chances to select top players in this draft. Their rise to the top came hand in hand with the fall of the Detroit Pistons, who fell back in the draft order and will be selecting fifth.

In terms of this draft class, the draft lottery did not change much. Trades could still be made, and with the depth in this draft class, no one knows who will be the first overall pick.

Jabari Smith, Chet Holmgren, and Paolo Banchero were all attendees at the draft lottery, but the debate for the number one overall pick does not end there. Many analysts suggest that Purdue’s Jaden Ivey could be selected first, and with the potential for a blockbuster trade, no one can predict the future.

Upon receiving the first overall pick, Magic Head Coach Jamahl Mosley told the media: “It’s so exciting […] It’s gonna be special.” In last year’s draft, the Magic made two lottery selections. The team took both Michigan’s Franz Wagner and Gonzaga’s Jalen Suggs. Wagner was selected to the NBA All-Rookie First Team, while Suggs missed both the first and second teams, despite an impressive rookie campaign.

The Kings, who moved up to the fourth pick, are one of the many candidates to trade their pick. Their push for their first playoff appearance in the last 16 years could be improved by trading for an established NBA player.

The seventh pick, which landed with the Portland Trail Blazers, could also potentially be on the move. With all-star point guard Damien Lillard‘s playing days in Portland dwindling, the Blazers may trade the high pick they have to build a better team around him.