Recapping every pick from the 2020 NBA Draft

The 2020 NBA Draft will take place on Wednesday night at the ESPN headquarters in Bristol, Connecticut. The draft will begin at 8:00 p.m. ET on ESPN with the first and second rounds taking place all night. The Minnesota Timberwolves will have the No. 1 overall pick and will have a tough decision to make as to who to select. Among those decisions are G LaMelo Ball, G Anthony Edwards and C James Wiseman, who are the three top odds to go first overall.

Here we’ll be tracking every pick in the draft throughout the night. Uncertainty at the top of the draft board could mean a host of trades, but it could also turn into a fairly quiet night. Along with each pick, we’ll include a rundown of each trade as they happen.

1. Minnesota — Anthony Edwards, Shooting Guard, Georgia

Despite a poor pro day showing, Edwards was still viewed as one of the most NBA-ready prospects in the draft class. He has the frame and tools to develop into a premier combo guard at the next level. The only thing that could hold Edwards back is his defense, which needs to improve ... Edwards may not have a clear path to starting right away. He could come off the bench behind Malik Beasley and Josh Okogie.

2. Golden State — James Wiseman, Center, Memphis

Wiseman is a rangy 7-footer who should develop into a plus-defender on the interior if nothing else. He’s got a decent mid-range shot that can use some fine-tuning as well. If Wiseman reaches his peak, he’ll need to add on some mass to help him deal with bigger 5s at the NBA level ... Karl-Anthony Towns has the ability to play more of a PF role while Wiseman has the size and defensive acumen to cover up for Towns down low. The All-Star center has never been viewed as a great defender and Wiseman solves Minnesota’s interior defensive issues a bit.

3. Charlotte — LaMelo Ball, Point Guard, Illawarra Hawks (Australian NBL)

The NBL Rookie of the Year is joining a Hornets team that is looking for a franchise player and he could be that guy. He is also joining an explosive backcourt with Terry Rozier and Devonte Graham. Ball will have the opportunity to create plays and develop with the young core of Graham, Miles Bridges, and P.J. Washington (last year’s first round selection).

4. Chicago — Patrick Williams, Small Forward, Florida State

Williams doesn’t have an inside track to start in Year 1 as of now. Williams will likely slot in behind Otto Porter Jr. as the backup SF and should see some playing time off the bench. Williams isn’t an overwhelming offensive player and his 3-point shot appears to need work. He is more of a slasher, so in that respect he’ll have some value on the break. White has a ton of upside but Williams seems like — at best — a potential 3-and-D prospect.

5. Cleveland — Isaac Okoro, Small Forward, Auburn

Okoro’s greatest strength is his defense but he didn’t have great counting stats in his lone season with the Tigers. The 6’5” swingman averaged less than one steal and one block per game and also only shot 29 percent from deep. His 51.5 percent field goal percentage is encouraging, but it’s safe to say that he won’t be a quality fantasy option in year one. He’ll have to compete with Kevin Porter Jr. and Cedi Osman for minutes so it could be difficult for him to be an impact player.

6. Atlanta — Onyeka Okongwu, Center, USC

The 19-year-old spent only one season at USC and performed well. He averaged 16.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks in 30.6 minutes per game. The 6-foot-9 big man also brings a strong defensive presence with a defensive rebounding percentage of 18.4 and a block percentage of 9.8. He also had a defensive rating (DRtg) of 90.5. Okongwu joins a crowded frontcourt in Atlanta that already features John Collins and Clint Capela.

7. Detroit — Killian Hayes, Point Guard, Ulm (Basketball Bundesliga)

The left-hander is a versatile guard in the mold of James Harden. Hayes has a great outside shot and is known to use Harden’s trademark step-back 3-pointer — just go watch the highlights ... The Pistons desperately needed some talent in the backcourt, especially after trading Bruce Brown to the Nets earlier in the week. Hayes has the inside track to start right away alongside Derrick Rose.

8. New York — Obi Toppin, Power Forward, Dayton

Toppin was the National College Player of the Year last season and averaged 20 points and 7.5 rebounds per game in his final season at Dayton. His athleticism gives him tremendous scoring ability around the rim, but his offense could be limited by the talent in front of him. Julius Randle led the Knicks in points (19.7), rebounds (9.7), and assists (3.1) per game last season at power forward so it’s unclear how Toppin will fit in with New York. Don’t expect to see huge numbers from the rookie, as Barrett and Randle could dominant the ball on offense.

9. Washington — Deni Avdija, Small Forward, Maccabi Tel Aviv

Avdija stands at 6-foot-9, 215-pounds and can defends multiple positions on the floor. The 19-year-old averaged 8.9 points and 4.7 rebounds in 21.4 minutes per game. He also shot 33 percent from the field and 64 percent on two-point field goals. Avdija is joining a Wizards’ team that already has Rui Hachimura, who they drafted last year in the first round and Troy Brown Jr., who they drafted in the previous year in the first round.

10. Phoenix — Jalen Smith, Power Forward, Maryland

Smith is a big 6’10” center who can stretch the floor, which is perfect for the Suns and what should be a fast-paced offense. If they can work Smith in, possibly as a power forward at the next level, he would give the Suns another 3-point threat and somebody who can defend down low. Smith was viewed more as a player who would go in the 20-25 range.

11. San Antonio — Devin Vassell, Shooting Guard, Florida State

Vassell is projected to be a stud 3-and-D player and averaged 12.7 points and 5.1 rebounds per game while shooting 41.9 percent from deep. The 6’6” wing will join a Spurs team that was one of the most efficient three-point shooting teams in the NBA last season. San Antonio shot 37.6 percent from beyond the arc as a team. You might not get a ton from Vassell offensively with DeRozan starting at power forward, but Vassell could flourish as a do-it-all forward if the starter is moved via trade.

12. Sacramento — Tyrese Haliburton, Point Guard, Iowa State

The former Iowa State standout had a sophomore season in Ames, where he averaged 15.2 points, 6.5 assists, and 5.9 rebounds in 36.7 minutes per game. The 6-foot-5 guard also shot 50.4 percent from the field and 41.9 percent from three-point range on 5.6 attempts per game. Haliburton is joining a Kings team that already has its starting point guard spot locked up in De’Aaron Fox. However, with his playmaking ability, shooting, and size, Haliburton could easily be playing beside Fox in the backcourt this upcoming season.

13. New Orleans — Kira Lewis, Alabama, Point Guard

Lewis is a great PG prospect who can score the ball in the halfcourt and on the break. He’s got good size for a guard at 6’3” and played in a tough conference in the SEC. Lewis took a big step as a sophomore at Bama. He averaged 18.5 points per game and 5.2 assists while shooting over 50 percent on 2PT field goals. So he can shoot the 3 a bit, but will usually look to get to the basket.

14. Boston (from MEM) — Aaron Nesmith, Small Forward, Vanderbilt

Nesmith is considered to be the best three-point shooter in this class in many circles. He rattled home an impressive 52.2 percent from three in his second season at Vanderbilt on 8.2 attempts per game. He can also chip on the boards and as a defender but could have a hard time getting in with Tatum and Brown in front of him. He averaged 23 points per game at Vanderbilt last season but won’t come close to that in the NBA unless the Celtics move some pieces.

15. Orlando — Cole Anthony, Point Guard, North Carolina

In his only season at North Carolina, the 6-foot-3 guard averaged 18.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.3 steals in 34.9 points per game. Anthony also shot 38 percent from the field and 34.8 percent from three-point range on 6.4 attempts per game. However, those numbers were possibly hindered by a knee injury. He will give Orlando a scoring punch that they desperately need.

16. Detroit (via HOU from POR) — Isaiah Stewart, Center, Washington

Stewart is a bit undersized at 6’9” for the center position in the NBA, but he makes up for it with his size and frame. He also has a 7’4” wingspan, which is always good in the NBA if you’re trying to compete as somebody who is undersized. Stewart is a decent defender down low because of his size and the Pistons may be preparing for life after Blake Griffin.

17. Oklahoma City (from BKN via ATL via MIN) — Aleksej Pokusevski, Power Forward, Olympiacos

Pokusevki is an excellent team defender capable of switching to guard multiple positions and protecting the rim. His block and steal numbers are promising and he’s also versatile on offense. The Serbian has a solid shooting stroke, playmaking chops, and can create for himself off the dribble. He might be a project in Oklahoma City though, as his lack of strength could prevent him from being much of a contributor as a rookie.

18. Dallas — Josh Green, Shooting Guard, Arizona

The 6-foot-6 guard can defend multiple spots on the floor and knock down shots from the perimeter. As a freshman at the University of Arizona last season, Green averaged 12 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.5 steals in 30.9 minutes per game. He also shot 42.4 percent from the field and 36.1 percent from three-point range on 2.8 attempts per game. His defensive ability will be helpful for a Mavericks’ team that gave up 112.1 points per game last season.

19. Detroit (from PHI via LAC and BKN) — Saddiq Bey, Power Forward, Villanova

Saddiq is a Villanova guy coming from Jay Wright’s program. Because of that you know he’s basically going to be the perfect 3-and-D prospect, similar to Mikal Bridges from last season.

20. Miami — Precious Achiuwa, Power Forward, Memphis

Achiuwa was a double-double monster in his lone season at Memphis and racked up 18 last season. There’s plenty of room for him to step in and become an impact player in Year 1 given Miami’s power forward situation. His tenacious rebounding and ability to score without needing plays drawn up for him could make him a viable second option behind Jae Crowder, if the Heat retain the PF via free agency.

21. Philadelphia (from OKC via ORL and PHI) — Tyrese Maxey, Shooting Guard, Kentucky

The 6-foot-3 Maxey played off the ball at Kentucky, but will continue to develop as a playmaker. In his only season at the University of Kentucky, Maxey averaged 14 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. He also shot 42.7 percent from the field, but 29.2 percent from three-point range. In addition to his offense, the versatile combo guard is a willing defender, which will help the Sixers, who already have solid defenders in Ben Simmons, Matisse Thybulle, and Joel Embiid.

22. Denver (from HOU) — Zeke Nnaji, Center, Arizona

Nnaji is a “motor” guy who can run the floor, so at this size there’s a lot to like. Nnaji has that long body, so he can also develop into a plus-defender down low. Nnaji is a bit one-dimensional since he doesn’t operate outside of the paint too often. He’ll need to develop a mid-range jumper in order for him to become a potential starter/rotation player for Denver.

23. Minnesota (from UTA via NYK) — Leandro Bolmaro, Shooting Guard, Barcelona

Bolmaro showcased an impressive skillset while playing with FC Barcelona and could be a serviceable backup for the the Knicks. Bolmaro can also spend some time at the 2, 3, or 4. His 6’8” frame and athleticism give him plenty of defensive versatility. He’s a respectable shooter as well with secondary playmaking ability.

24. Denver (from MIL via IND and NO) — RJ Hampton, Point Guard, New Zealand

The 19-year-old guard averaged 8.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 20.6 minutes per game. Hampton also shot 40.7 percent from the field and 29.5 percent from three-point range, which he can improve on in the NBA. He is joining a Nuggets’ squad that has a starting backcourt comprised of Jamal Murray and Gary Harris. However, there will be room for him to get minutes with Monte Morris and Will Barton, when Denver has to go to their bench.

25. New York (from DEN via OKC and MIN) — Immanuel Quickley, Point Guard, Kentucky

Quickley can shoot the lights out, plain and simple. He might not do much else. Scouts say that he wasn’t expected to be a first-round pick and that he can’t really create his own shot off the dribble all that well.

26. Boston — Payton Pritchard, Point Guard, Oregon

Pritchard has his work cut out for him, as Boston is loaded with talent at point guard. Kemba Walker is an All-Star and Brad Wanamaker proved to be a viable backup during last year’s playoffs. Marcus Smart might not handle the ball a ton but will get a healthy helping of backcourt minutes because of his defense. Pritchard will also have to compete with Carsen Edwards, Tremont Waters, and Javonte Smart, so he’ll likely be an afterthought when it comes to the guard rotation.

27. Utah (from NYK via LAC) — Udoka Azubuike, Center, Kansas

Azubuike will be giving the Jazz a center, who can play on both ends of the floor. Last season at Kansas, he averaged a career-high 13.7 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks in 27.7 minutes per game. The 7-foot, 270 lb. big man also shot well from field at 74.8 percent and the free-throw line at 74.8 percent. Lastly, in regards to his defense, Azubuike had a 26.9 defensive rebounding percentage and 10.9 block percentage. He also posted a career-high 82.9 defensive rating (DRtg) to help anchor the Jayhawks’ defense.

28. Minnesota (from LAL via OKC) — Jaden McDaniels, Power Forward, Washington

McDaniels was a McDonald’s All-American coming out of high school and a 5-star prospect who landed in Washington. He had a somewhat shaky freshman season with the Huskies, averaging just 13 points and 5.8 rebounds per game in 31 games (21 starts). McDaniels has all the tools to be a great player in the NBA. He just needs to put it all together. He’s very long and athletic but is still extremely raw at a young age. McDaniels is more of a project, but has a ton of potential.

29. Toronto — Malachi Flynn, Point Guard, San Diego State

Flynn is one of the better pick-and-roll ball handlers in this draft and has an opportunity to become a contributor right away. VanVleet could be headed out the door in free agency and that means Lowry could use a backcourt partner. Terence Davis made an NBA All-Rookie team as an underrated free agent last season but Flynn is much more skilled on offense. He averaged 17.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game in his final season at San Diego State. He could become a valuable rotation player, but that’ll only happen if VanVleet leaves.

30. Memphis (from MIL via PHX and BOS) — Desmond Bane, Shooting Guard, TCU

In his senior season, the 6-foot-6 guard shot a ridiculous 44.2 percent from three-point range on 6.5 attempts per game. He also averaged a career-high 16.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists in 36 minutes per game. Over his four-year career, Bane shot 44.3 percent from distance on a hefty 574 attempts. In addition to his three-point shooting, Bane can put the ball on the floor and is a solid defender both on and off the ball.

Second Round

31. Dallas (from GSW) — Tyrell Terry, Point Guard, Stanford

32. Charlotte (from CLE via LAC and ORL) — Vernon Carey Jr., Center, Duke

33. New York (from MIN) — Daniel Oturu, Center, Minnesota

34. Oklahoma City (from PHI via ATL) — Theo Maledon, Point Guard, France

35. Memphi (from DET via PHX and SAC) — Xavier Tillman, Center, Michigan State

36. Philadelphia (from DAL via PHI via NYK) — Tyler Bey, Power Forward, Colorado

37. Oklahoma City (from CHI via WAS) — Vit Krejci

38. Detroi (from NYK via CHA and UTAH) — Saber Lee, Guard, Vanderbilt

39. New Orleans (from WAS via MIL) — Elijah Hughes, Guard, Syracuse

40. Sacramento (from PHX via MEM) — Robert Woodard, Forward, Miss. State

41. San Antonio — Tre Jones, Guard, Duke

42. New Orleans — Nick Richards, Center, Kentucky

43. Sacramento — Jahmi’us Ramsey, Guard, Texas Tech

44. Chicago (from MEM) — Marko Simonovic, Center, Montenegro

45. Milwaukee (via ORL) — Jordan Nwora, Power Forward, Louisville

46. Portland — CJ Elleby, Shooting Guard, Washington State

47. Boston (from BKN via CHA, ORL and PHI) — Yam Madar, Guard, Israel

48. Golden State (from DAL via PHI) — Nico Mannion, Guard, Arizona

49. Philadelphia — Isaiah Joe, Guard, Arkansas

50. Atlanta (from MIA via SAC, CLE and BOS) — Skylar Mays, Guard, LSU

51. Golden State (from UTA via DAL, DET and CLE) — Justinian Jessup, Guard, Boise State

52. Sacramento (from HOU) — Kenyon Martin Jr., Forward, USA

53. Oklahoma City — Cassius Winston, Point Guard, Michigan State

54. Indiana — Cassius Stanley, Guard, Duke

55. Brooklyn (from DEN) — Jay Scrubb, Guard, USA

56. Charlotte (from BOS) — Grant Riller, Point Guard, Charleston

57. LA Clippers — Reggie Perry, Center, Miss. State

58. Philadelphia (from LAL via ORL) — Paul Reed, Power Forward, DePaul

59. Toronto — Jalen Harris, Guard, Nevada

60. New Orleans (from MIL) — Sam Merrill, Guard, Utah State