2016 NBA Mock Draft: Brooklyn Nets Trade Into First Round

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15. player. 73. . PF/C. Michigan State. Deyonta Davis

Mar 2, 2016; Piscataway, NJ, USA; Michigan State Spartans forward Deyonta Davis (23) shoots over Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Omari Grier (31) during first half at Louis Brown Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports /

The Nuggets possess three first-round picks, so they can afford a big swing here at Deyonta Davis. The 6-11 forward showed himself as a high-level rebounder during his one season at Michigan State, even though he played in limited minutes. Not to mention he was one of the nation’s best shot-blockers in college basketball during the 2015-16 season.

If the Nuggets ever elect to trade Darrell Arthur (if he re-signs in the summer), Davis could be a replacement with his ability to be a difference-maker on the defensive end at the NBA level. Davis is raw, but the combination size and athleticism together makes him worth a swing.

Davis’ stat line at Michigan State, 7.5 ppg, 5.5 rebounds, 1.8 blocks, 18 mpg, is similar to what Steven Adams did his freshman year at Pittsburgh: 7.2 ppg, 6 rebounds, and 2 blocks in 24 minutes per game. Davis has a ton of potential, but could be a few years away from being a consistent contributor. Davis can learn a lot sitting behind Kenneth Faried.

Davis could be another prospect that ends up being a steal of this draft down the road. Give him a year or two, and Davis could be just that. He could end being one of the best young big guys in the league.

Next: Boston Celtics No. 16