It’s still early, but the 2020 NBA Draft cycle is starting to take some shape due to both the performance of some players, and the NBA Trade Deadline having come and gone.



However, one thing remains abundantly clear: few teams are excited about having picks at the top of the draft. In fact, I’ve talked to multiple scouting director-level or higher executives who would actually prefer their team not get a top-two pick. They don’t think that pick is certain to bring a star, and that they think most other teams feel that way about those picks, and thus might not have as much trade value as a normal year. Indeed, this is not a great year to end up near the top.



And yet, there are at least some interesting depth options taking shape as longer-term upside plays for teams. I’m not convinced that a ton of players are going to be able to play immediately from this class, but there are some who will be picked later who at least have a chance to be...