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An ace pick-and-roll playmaker who can also score at a high level is a ticket to a fruitful offense in the NBA. Unfortunately, it does not appear that type of player is available in the 2020 NBA draft.

You could be optimistic when looking at this class and predict that Killian Hayes could grow into that. Many do. You could get intoxicated by LaMelo Ball's immense talent, but his audacious offense (shooting, specifically) can be so erratic that it makes you wonder whether he's capable of being more than a complementary option on a good team.

Let’s be careful not to oversimplify the places where playmaking can come from, though.

Without game-changers available, teams will likely target strong decision-makers who can shore up their secondary pick-and-roll sequences and spot-up games. Players who can stretch the defense, disrupt it, and make the right plays.

Tyrese Haliburton is one of the best examples. The league should be praying that he's kept away from the Warriors. I’m praying for the opposite. The Iowa State guard would be an incredible fit within Golden State’s scheme because of the added jolt and intelligence he could bring to their healing offense, whether he's the primary initiator or not. In some ways he seems like Shaun Livingston reincarnated.

It's possible that teams could struggle to find starter-level playmaking talent that can also carry their weight as shooters and defenders. Nico Mannion did a solid job balancing his own offense with distributing for Arizona's young roster this season. He posted one of the better assist-to-usage marks (1.286) among the guards being considered in the first round. While his defense remains a question, his pedigree and personality offer confidence that he’ll find a place to contribute.

Among the wings, there are trade-offs. Isaac Okoro could be an elite defender, and his playmaking would make him an asset if he ever gains consistency as a shooter from deep. Deni Avdija and Leandro Bolmaro both have an ease with the ball and the size to function as secondary playmakers, but again—shooting. Desmond Bane has moments when he looks tailor-made for Daryl Morey, but will his athleticism translate in the NBA?

The sure thing or semi-sure thing isn’t really there this year, but depending on what you’re willing to be unsure about, value can be found.