Best NBA Draft Fits

Summary

The Athletic NBA Daily — "Best NBA Draft Fits" (June 16, 2026)

Episode Overview

On this episode of The Athletic NBA Daily, host (unnamed, but in dialogue with Bryce Simon) and NBA draft analyst Bryce Simon break down the best “fits” in the 2026 NBA Draft, focusing on first-round prospects. The show explores which players would maximize roster construction and team needs, citing recent moves and playoff themes. The conversation covers detailed positional and tactical analysis, future projections, and specific players who could impact teams from day one.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

[01:23] Opening & Setting the Stage

• Bryce Simon is welcomed as a frequent guest and draft expert.
• The host reflects on his incorrect Finals prediction (New York Knicks as champions) and ties the NBA Draft’s ultimate purpose to building title contenders.
  • “The whole point of the NBA draft, you know, is to eventually get... to win an NBA championship. That’s the whole point.” — Host [03:25]

[04:08] Bryce’s Best Draft Fit #1: Darius Acuff to the Brooklyn Nets

• Rationale:

  • Acuff is ranked #5 on Bryce’s board—outside of the “big four.”
  • The Nets, drafting #6, need dynamic scoring and flexibility in the backcourt.
  • Acuff offers proven scoring ability (at Arkansas), both off-ball and as a shooter.
  • Despite existing point guards, none have seized long-term roles—no obstacle to drafting Acuff.

• Discussion of NBA comparables:

  • Jalen Brunson (as a scorer, but with noted defensive flaws).
  • Damian Lillard (more accurate comparison: “big time three-point shooter off the catch, off the dribble … more of the archetype I see … offensively.”) — Bryce [08:06]

• Caveats:

  • Defensive questions are real; effort and awareness flagged as concerns.

  “I think even people who heard the narratives … went into the film trying to dispel those narratives ended up going, ‘No, these are probably fair.’ Like it was pretty rough.” — Bryce Simon [06:57]

[10:03] Host’s Favorite Fit: AJ Dybantsa to the Utah Jazz

• Rationale:

  • Weathering reports that Darren Peterson is “locked” on Wizards, Jazz have a shot at drafting Dybantsa.
  • Dybantsa would “complete” the Jazz core: Jaren Jackson Jr., Lauri Markkanen, Walker Kessler, and Keonte George already in place.
  • Dybantsa’s isolation scoring and shot creation would add a dimension missing in Utah’s offense.
  • Coach Will Hardy “unlocks” player strengths; reference to simplifying roles for rookies like Ace Bailey carried over as a hopeful model for Dybantsa.
  • Jazz could be enormous and versatile defensively, giving insulation to George in the backcourt.

  “I love what Will Hardy does offensively. … It’s prioritizing what your players are good at.” — Bryce Simon [11:36–12:23]

  "Let’s throw [AJ] the ball on this side of the floor and just let him isolate ... he would give Utah something they don’t necessarily have." — Bryce [12:25]

[14:40] Bryce’s Fit #2: Yaxel Lindeberg to Golden State Warriors

• Explanation:
  • Lindeberg touted as an immediate role and impact player — “NBA ready.”
  • Quick decision-maker, flexible between the 3 and 4, offers defense and rebounding.
  • Warriors pick at #11; positional versatility valued with Draymond at 5 and Yaxel at 4.
  • Lindeberg is valuable for win-now teams; “I would be very surprised if the Warriors didn’t sprint to the podium” — Bryce [17:01]

[17:01] Host’s Next Fit: Yaxel Lindeberg to Oklahoma City Thunder

• Both analysts see Lindeberg as an ideal rotation wing.
  • Could give OKC the size, shooting, and flexibility missing behind Jalen Williams.
  • Could “replicate or be a facsimile of … J Dub” [17:41].
  • Both discuss the possibility of OKC trading up for Lindeberg.
• Bonus Mention: Other “Michigan guys,” specifically Merez Johnson (versatile defender, big man depth) as fits for OKC [19:23].

[25:35] Merez Johnson to the Charlotte Hornets

• Hornets need frontline depth and defenders to support LaMelo Ball and company.

  • Merez can play the 4 or 5 and brings elite defensive versatility.
  • Helps insulate the point-of-attack deficiencies.
  • Other candidates: Jaden Quaintance (medical uncertainty), Dai Mara (if comfortable playing drop coverage instead).

  "Just feel like having a utility knife, this kind of like Swiss army knife of Merez as a defender would open up so much for them." — Host [25:45]

[28:41] Three More Fit Picks from Bryce (Rapid Fire)

• CoaPete to the 76ers: Dunker spot, short roll and rim running next to a floor-spacing big.

• Alan Graves to the Raptors: Provides size/spacing at the 4 if Sandro Mamukelashvili leaves.

• Terrance Reed Jr. to the Knicks:

  • Physical, seasoned college big.
  • Insurance for injury-prone Mitchell Robinson and key for managing big-man depth for a “thread-the-needle” contender.

  "Terrace Reed Jr. would make a ton of sense for them at, what do they have, 24?” — Bryce [31:46]

[33:39] Alan Graves to San Antonio Spurs

• Fits a stated need at the 4, complimenting Wembanyama with shooting and size.

  • Could play some small-ball 5 as well.
  • Open questions on defense but fills an immediate need as the Spurs tweak a young Finals roster.

  "Size was something they were clearly missing at the four. ... I like Alan Graves for the San Antonio Spurs." — Host [33:39]

[35:02] Christian Anderson to Raptors — Host’s Guard Fit

• Elite shooter and shot creator, potentially the best in the draft.

  • “More creation, the better” for a Raptors team needing skill infusion at guard.
  • Debate on which 2nd-tier guard goes first (Sturts, Bennett, Anderson, Phylon).

  "[Christian Anderson is] arguably the best shooter in this draft. I think that's something the Raptors absolutely need at that position." — Host [35:02]

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• "It’s always better to carry your own receipts, right? That’s what I try to do. Before anybody can show me my receipts, I just hold them up myself." — Bryce Simon referencing his Spurs Finals predictions [02:14]
• "You have to be able to hard hedge and recover because people are going to try to bring you into the ball screen and get you switched onto the matchup they want. ... Steph Curry is the greatest example." — Bryce on guard defense in playoffs [07:54]
• "This Jazz lineup — positional size ... even Keonte is essentially playing the one and guarding that position ... AJ at the two, then the front line of Lowry, Jaren, Walker. That would be awesome." — Bryce [11:36]
• Host’s baseball bat anecdote: "I’m someone that needs to, like, finicky with something and play around with something while I’m potting. So now it’s this baseball bat." [13:25]
• On the Knicks' pick importance: "For a Knicks team that is really trying to thread the needle between being expensive and not being expensive, nailing this pick is crucial." — Host [31:46]

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Segment Timestamps

• 01:23 — Show intro and recent Finals wrap (Knicks win).
• 04:08 — Opening best-fit pick: Darius Acuff to Nets.
• 06:26–09:05 — Detailed breakdown: Acuff's defense, comparisons, role fit.
• 10:03 — AJ Dybantsa’s fit to Jazz; depth chart and coaching analysis.
• 14:40 — Bryce: Yaxel Lindeberg’s ideal landing spots, focus on Warriors.
• 17:01 — Host: Lindeberg’s Thunder fit; OKC’s draft flexibility.
• 19:23 — Michigan bigs (Merez Johnson) discussed for OKC; broader big-man fit talk.
• 25:35 — Merez Johnson/Charlotte Hornets segment.
• 28:41 — Lightning round: CoaPete (Sixers); Alan Graves (Raptors); Terrace Reed Jr. (Knicks).
• 33:39 — Alan Graves as the Spurs’ frontcourt solution.
• 35:02 — Christian Anderson as a guard/shooting pick for Raptors.
• 36:45 — Final draft tiers, top-4 uncertainty, and Summer League preview.
• 38:18 — Wrapping up; NBA offseason anticipation.

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Language & Tone

The discussion is conversational, enthusiastic, filled with friendly debate and good-natured ribbing (props, Summer League plans, honest admissions about wrong predictions). The episode is rich in technical basketball discussion but remains accessible and lively for a general NBA audience.

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Summary

This episode delivers a comprehensive breakdown of first-round NBA draft fits for 2026, zeroing in on how top prospects' unique skills could catalyze teams at different stages of contention. The hosts blend deep analysis with tangible examples, touch on team-building philosophies, and offer practical predictions, making this an essential listen for NBA fans looking for insight into how the draft will shape next year’s league landscape.

Transcript

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[Bryce Simon]

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[Podcast Host]

Good morning and welcome to the Athletic NBA Daily for June 16, 2026. We got Bryce Simon on talking about the best fits in the 2026 NBA Draft. What's up everybody? Hello Bryce, how's it going? Long time podcast guest has come on here I think a couple times at this point to talk about the NBA draft. We literally talked like two weeks ago on Raptors Republic about the Raptors pick in general. Bryce, my guy, now that the New York Knicks are the NBA champions, which I was wrong about by the way, I want to clearly state that I was wrong. How do you feel heading into the NBA draft?

[Bryce Simon]

Man, it's always better to carry your own receipts, right? That's what I try to do. Before anybody can show me my receipts, I just hold them up myself. And I was not more wrong about a team in my life. The San Antonio Spurs. I picked the under to start the season, didn't have them high enough in our championship tiers late in the season. And then whenever it came time for the NBA Finals, I finally picked them and they lost. So I was wrong about the spurs all season long. I'm excited to be here to talk NBA draft. I'm excited to be Here and not have Alex Spears make me look like a fool with trivia.

[Podcast Host]

Trivia.

[Bryce Simon]

As much as I love us, I'm a little sad that Andrew isn't here with us for the next 25, 30 minutes, actually, talking through the draft. I know he's here with us behind the scenes, doing what he does because he's amazing and, you know, holds it down in, you know, not just his podcasting, but the producing. So I'm gonna have a lot of fun talking NBA draft with you, but I. I would. I thought maybe we were gonna miss Andrew. Yeah, yeah, yeah. So you miss your guys.

[Podcast Host]

It's okay. It's all right. Listen, I. I'm No Alex Spears and Andrew Schl. Understand this.

[Bryce Simon]

It's just. I just like all of you guys. Well, I'll get to see you at Summer League. Yes, you will.

[Podcast Host]

You will you see me in summer League? Yes, Absolutely. Yeah. I mean, look, the. The reason I bring up the Knicks and Spurs in the NBA Finals is because the whole point of the NBA draft, you know, is to eventually get to that point. It's to win an NBA championship, you know, And I think ultimately that's the whole point of this whole thing, is to get to that thing, get to that level, get to where the New York Knicks just got to. And it's just. Hey, it. It's incredible. Okay, let's talk about the fits. Let's talk about the best fits. We're only doing it for the first round prospects, so all apologies to second round lovers, draft sleepers, et cetera, et cetera. We're not doing that. Let's.

[Discover Advertiser]

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[Podcast Host]

I'll let you go first. Who do you think is like the best fit? The best player, or maybe not the best player, but like your number one fit for the 2026 draft.

[Bryce Simon]

So when you guys sent this to me, my first thought was, I'm not doing any of the four. The top four guys. Like, I'm just not. I'm not going to do those. If you want to, Like, I do

[Podcast Host]

have one, but I will. I'll do it after yours.

[Bryce Simon]

Yeah, yeah. So that's perfect. And then I also have some that are later in the first round. Like, I tried to hit different spots of the first round. We'll see how many we get to or whatever. But with this first one, I did stay early, and it's Darius Acuff to the Brooklyn Nets. I just think this one makes a ton of sense. I have Darius Acuff, number five, on my board. He's the first player I have, after the quote, unquote, big four, whatever we want to call it, I have him in the same tier as Keaton Wagler. And I just think Acuff makes so much sense for Brooklyn because of what they need and what I think his ceiling could be his ability to really score the basketball. I think he can score the basketball from an off the ball spot as well. I think he can really shoot it. I think he understands how to come off screens, all of those things. So if any of the five point guards. I know I'm exaggerating here, but if any of those point guards they drafted last year need to play on the ball, I think Darius Acuff can play off of those guys. And I also want to be clear. I don't think any of those guys showed anything in their rookie year that makes you say, like, why can't we draft somebody like Acuff? So I love the upside of Acuff, the scoring dynamics that he has and what that. That. What that could bring to the Brooklyn Nets.

[Podcast Host]

So, look, the Nets have the sixth pick, so, you know, their destiny is not completely in their control. But Acuff seems to be in and around that range regardless. You know, his, like you said, his ability to score in Arkansas was just incredible. And I think, you know, funny enough, if we're talking about the Nets, a lot of people have made the comp to a guy across the bridge in Jalen Brunson, in terms of like, crazy score, can obviously create his own shot in a major way. Obviously has the defensive flaws, like, not a good defender. And he had that quote on the Draymond Green Show. I don't know if you saw it where he's like, I, I want to guard point guards only. I don't want to guard different matchups.

[Bryce Simon]

I did not hear that. That's interesting, but it's not the greatest

[Podcast Host]

quote to be able to hear, but it's okay. It's all good. At this point, you're already locked in as a top 10 pick in this draft. How do you feel about, I guess, his feasib feasibility as a defender? Because at the same time, while we make comparisons to Brunson, I, I think for the most part, Brunson does a, a decent enough job, like being strong.

[Bryce Simon]

Yeah, yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Does a cuff have that ability or something to hang his hat on defensively?

[Bryce Simon]

I think he could. I mean, I think. Here's the thing. I think sometimes the defensive questions or whatever can be overblown. Right? Like, sometimes the narratives can go too far, far enough or with Auff. I think they're completely fair. Like he was not a good defender at Arkansas. I think even people who heard the narratives and I think went into the film trying to dispel those narratives ended up going no, these are. These narratives are probably fair. Like it. It was pretty rough. But to your point, I think he is going to have the size to do just hold up physically, right? Like be at the cutoff point, get his chest on and hold up. It's just like is he going to be able to do those things? Can he get to a point where like I don't like calling out people's effort or whatever. Like does he just understand how he has to do those things? You know, navigate a ball screen? Here's something with Jalen Brunson. I said this on Game Theory. You brought up the Finals. I think it is important. Jalen Brunson's defense was not a conversation during the NBA Finals. S When did we talk about it? When did we talk about it? We did. The only time I remember talking about it in the NBA playoffs was through the first three games of the Hawks series. Yes. After that it was no longer a thing. And one thing that these archetype of guards have to be able to do. Steph Curry I think is the greatest example. You have to be able to hard hedge and recover because people are going to try to bring you into the ball screen and get you switched onto the matchup they want. So there this can happen. I will give you a slightly different comp. I think his path to success is more Damian Lillard esque than it is Jalen Brunson like just a big time three point shooter off the catch off the dribble. I don't think it's the craft off two feet the way Jalen Brunson has. And then if you're like well Damian Lillard is just then think about like kind of how Keonte George got stuff done this last year with the Utah Jazz. That's more of the archetype I see or the path in the way he get stuff done offensively. And those are two guys that have also had defensive questions around them. Damian Lillard obviously a different level than Keante George, but that's more of what I see a Darius Auff.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. Also Keonte still defensively out there.

[Bryce Simon]

Like it improved but not there. He definitely got better this last year. Over on Game Theory Me and Sam would not we would try to in our most polite way possible question his defense or the first couple years. I would still Say he's a below average defender, but better than what he was through the first couple years of his career.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. And look, I think the Damian Lillard comp, I mean, that's an incredible comp to have. Right. This is a guy who's definitely a future hall of Famer, and if Acuff can get to that level, this is a franchise cornerstone for the Brooklyn Nets. And to your point earlier, like, again, the picks that they made last year, none of them have turned into guys that they can build an entire franchise around. A cuff might be that guy. So I completely understand that. Okay, I'll give you my fit. And because you said you're not going with anybody in the top four, I actually did have somebody.

[Bryce Simon]

I'm excited. I want to hear this. Yes, I'm excited.

[Podcast Host]

So there were reports today that Darren Peterson only is doing interviews and meetings with the Washington Wizards. He's not meeting with anybody else, which opens the door for a fit that I absolutely love. And that is AJ DeBonsa to the Utah Jazz. I think that is. It, like, completes their core in a major way for me. You obviously have their front court sorted out between Jaren Jackson Jr. And Larry Markkanen and Walker Kessler, who they probably need to resign, and then their backcourt with Keonte George. I honestly do like what Collier has brought to them in terms of like a bench guard.

[Bryce Simon]

Yeah.

[Pablo Torre]

And.

[Podcast Host]

And I think ace Bailey and DeBonsa could play together just because of Bailey is like a ridiculous shot maker off of the ball, and DeBonsa just completes that group. Like, that is something that you can build around moving forward. That is a starting lineup. But it's also AJ Gives you that high upside potential of maybe a future all NBA player. His ability to create his own shot, get to the hoop. I also think Will Hardy as a coach will be able to, like, unlock a lot of interesting things from AJ Just to make life for him easier. Because a lot of the same conversations about Ace where it was like, ace Bailey takes too many tough shots. Right. In college, if you remember, and Will Hardy really simplified the game for him. I actually think the same thing could apply to. To AJ where it's like, simplify the game, make things easier for him, make his life easier so that his development is easier. That's my pick. AJ to the Utah Jazz. I think that'd be an awesome pick.

[Bryce Simon]

That'd be awesome. Like, can you think about the positional size of that team? Right. If it. If it stays together, you know, even Keonte, then essentially playing the one and guarding that position is, you know, that's different than if he's playing off the ball. You know what I mean? But AJ is the two, quote unquote in that lineup. And then obviously the front line of Lowry, Jaren and Walker Kessler. I think that that would be awesome. I agree with. This is one of those situations where I love what Will Hardy does offensively. Him, I think Charles Lee, this last year was Charlotte. Our coaches, when I would watch games, I mean, man, I love the way they're using their players. I love the way they're putting him in situations to be successful. I'm not trying to take anything away from Con canipple at all, but I. I just love the way Charles used him.

[Podcast Host]

It's prioritizing what your players are good at. Absolutely correct.

[Bryce Simon]

Correct. I think what AJ would also give Utah that I don't know that they have is, hey, let's throw him the ball on this side of the floor and just let him isolate. And then Jaren can space, Lowry can space, Keonte can space, Walker can play in the dunker spot. Or maybe you play a ball screen with them, but a guy that you can run the offense through and just say, hey, go get a bucket. Because I think one thing I do really buy about AJ debonza and there's other aspects of his game that are going to have to grow is I love his, like, mid range, mid post game. Like, I. He covers so much ground. He has footwork. He obviously has the elevation and the size and athleticism. So I think that that would give Utah something they don't necessarily have. Right. You can play in isolation with some of those guys, but he eventually, especially as he gets into his career, would give them a great counter to all of the fun off ball actions and designs that Will Hardy puts his guys in. I love that also. S. Are you holding a bat? I thought you were about to pull out a prop.

[Podcast Host]

I am holding it back. I usually. I've made this a shtick at this point is where I'm just holding a baseball bat. I don't know, it's like I. I'm someone that needs to, like, finicky with something and play around with something while I'm potting. So now it's this baseball bat.

[Bryce Simon]

So I just. It was the first time I've noticed it and I was like, okay, what is this prop and where is he going with this? And then it never came together. So then I was like, oh, okay. He just. He just has the bag.

[Podcast Host]

Just holding a baseball Bat. That's all.

[Bryce Simon]

I love it, man.

[Podcast Host]

So people will know this. I am. I've joined a softball team, so I'm, you know, getting used to the bad, as they say. But anyways, look, I agree with you on the size front. You know, think about how massive that Utah group would be and if we were to, you know, continue making this comp to the New York Knicks. I think part of the reason they were successful around Jalen Brunson is that they had a lot of size. Their wings were massive. Their bigs, obviously, between Kat and Mitchell Robinson were able to be big, and it insulated Jalen Brunson. But also from a Jazz perspective, it could insulate Keonte George a little bit more from. From being targeted on defense. That's. That's the basis of it. Okay, give me your. Your second fit. Who's the guy? Who's the play? Where's the place?

[Bryce Simon]

So I made this one specifically to see Andrew's reaction, and I can't see his video right now, but I know he's there.

[Podcast Host]

I do have an OKC one, too. So I'm curious. Where'd you go?

[Bryce Simon]

I have an OKC one as well, but this one is Yaxel Lindenborg. Not to the Oklahoma City Thunder. It's to the Golden State Warriors. Oh, yes. And so listen, a little bit of just like having fun with. With. With Andrew on this one, as this is obviously a pick before Oklahoma City's first pick. In all honesty, I do think Jackson would be a great fit for Golden State. And here's the thing. We could. We could put five different teams with the Axel. Linda Borg. Right. Like, I could do Detroit should trade up. We just did an offseason preview for someone the other day where it's like, they should trade up for Yakshel, you know, oh, it was the Spurs. Like, the spurs should trade up for Yaks. So I think it just speaks to what the NBA values, the type of player he is, and what. At least I feel like he can come in and immediately contribute to a team, which is why I do think he makes sense for the Warriors. I think he's a quick decision maker. He can do stuff off the bounce. If you want to see more of that, go watch his UAB film when he played even more as a primary creator than the role that he played with at Michigan. He can rebound. You know, my. I was like, okay. People may think there's too much overlap with Draymond, but Draymond's going to play the five some. So Yaxel can play the four in those lineups or what did we see Yaxel do this last year at Michigan? S he played the three next to Merez Johnson and Adai Mara. So I just think he does a lot of the things that the warriors value and he comes in a little bit older and what I would say is hopefully NBA ready to contribute to a team that is really trying to win over the next few years. So I think while there's all of this conversation around other teams, I don't see him getting past the warriors at 11. That's what I want to say real quick. I also think Keaton Wagler to the Clippers makes a ton of sense at 5 which would then slot Derek yeah and I do think there's a world where Yaxel gets past 10 because I don't think he makes as much sense for what it looks like the direction the Bucks are going to go. And so I think he gets to 11 and I would be very surprised if the warriors didn't sprint to the podium to take him at 11.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah he, he makes sense for a lot of teams in this range. Like again one of my picks here to kind of transition is Yaxol Landenborg to OKC because in a similar vein this is a guy who's ready to compete and contribute now the Thunder are looking for guys rotational players to contribute now and on top of that he's an extra wing, he has the size, he's like standing at 6 foot 10 to be able to play the four sometimes play the three like you mentioned. And also he can shoot, he can take shots, he can create his own shot in a pinch. Like that's the type of guy that they need. You know, we look at what the Thunder were last season without Jalen Williams having another guy who and Jalen Williams is an all NBA player, all defense level player. I'm not saying Yaxel will be that but having a guy who can replicate or be a facsimile of some of the things that J Dub brought would be massive for the Thunder. It will be interesting if they get there with Yax12 because I agree he would make sense for the Warriors. He doesn't even he would keep their average age basically the exact same with him being 24 years old. I also think, you know one of the curious things I with the warriors in general is just this would be a commitment to they are trying to continue to compete around Steph Curry. There's nothing wrong with that. But indicating that you're drafting a Player who's ready to compete now is an indication that you are still trying to win a championship this season or in the next couple seasons with Steph, with Jimmy, with Draymond, et cetera.

[Nanit Advertiser]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

I also. I'd be curious if OKC tries to move up, because that's what I was gonna say.

[Bryce Simon]

If they want Yaxel S, they can go get Yaxel. Right. If they can do whatever they need to do. I'm glad you brought up the defense as well, because I. I Seal elite did not bring up the. The versatility he offers on the defensive end, which is a huge part of whether it's the warriors or the Thunder or whatever we're talking about.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. 12 and what's he 17 for Oklahoma City. And I. I do feel like between maybe the Clippers, maybe the Bucks themselves, maybe the Mavericks, there are teams that they could jump to to try and get there. Another guy had to OKC that. I'm curious to get your thoughts on another Michigan guy.

[Bryce Simon]

I got it. I got this. I got the. Oh, no, we have all the Michigan guys. Because I went Morez.

[Nanit Advertiser]

I was.

[Bryce Simon]

I was gonna come back and, you know, get back in Andrew's good graces here. Okay. With Merez Johnson, because I think Merez offers similar versatility and continue to add to this big man room for the Thunder. And especially if you're someone that thinks Mirez skill level will continue to grow, maybe be able to space the floor a little bit, play on the perimeter. Merez is one of the best overall defenders in the draft. And I think this is where like, the Mirez versus Dai Mara thing gets interesting, where I think if you're a team that's comfortable, like we're just going to play drop with the Di Morrow and we're cool with that. Which the Thunder could s because they have.

[Podcast Host]

Absolutely. They have the perimeter defenders.

[Bryce Simon]

Correct. To navigate ball screens and all of those things. But what I liked about with Mahrez is he gives you the optionality, the versatility, and then just adding him into that role, playing some four with Chet playing the backup five. You know, I assume Hartenstein's going to be back, but this is a team that they're in a great position. I love the Thunder because they're in such a good position, but they have tough decisions to make every offseason because they literally have 15 players under contract. They have to make some sort of decisions here moving forward. Again, not a bad thing, but decisions that have to be made. I actually was going to come back with morez So I think it's awesome that we're giving all of the Michigan guys some love here.

[Pablo Torre]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Well, look, they, they're. I feel like they're all going to be lottery guys. I think all four, all three of those guys.

[Bryce Simon]

I agree with this. I agree with this.

[Podcast Host]

And yeah, to your point about Mraz, I. Funny. Okay, let's take a quick break. We'll talk about Mraz on the other side and some of the other prospects.

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[Podcast Host]

And we're back. Okay, continuing with our NBA draft discussion, Merez Johnson so I had Morez actually going to the Charlotte Hornets.

[Bryce Simon]

Okay.

[Podcast Host]

Because I I think they also need some help on their front line. Like I like Colbrenner, I like Musa Diabate. But they need another big I also think Morrow would be interesting for them but just adding another big man. And to your point about Miraz's versatility defensively, what he can do on the def side of the ball that can insulate a lot of the issues at the point of attack for the Hornets between Lamelo and Khan. Like I just feel like having a utility knife, this kind of like Swiss army knife of Mahrez as a defender would open up so much for them and he would amplify some things that they do offensively with his ability to like just run, jump, dunk and be this incredible athlete in the open floor. So that's that would be my Pick I, I also had like, I listed it here as Mahrez Johnson or Jaden Quaintance to Charlotte, but I, I lean Morez because I just. We don't know about the medicals with jq and I think the Hornets, again, are very similar to some of these other teams in this range that they're trying to enter their competitive window. I think Merez is a guy who can help them almost immediately.

[Bryce Simon]

I, I like that call with Morez and again, I think with him is if you think he can play some time at the 4, I think that would also be enticing to the Hornets. I don't know what they're going at that four spot. You know, long term, it. Maybe it. Miles Bridges ends up staying, I don't know. But if you can get Morez in there, not only does it help with that center rotation, I agree with you. I like those two Hornets bigs, but adding us, you know, some more ceiling or versatility, whatever.

[Podcast Host]

Just another guy.

[Bryce Simon]

Another guy. Correct. Neither of those guys. I do I just say, hey, that's a starting center for 30 minutes a night, and if you don't have that guy, we'll see if you can build out a real playoff contender with that. But if you don't have that guy, then I think it's okay to continue to add stuff to it. I agree with you. I'm not sure Quaintance makes as much sense. Quaintance is a guy for me not to continue to like with the Finals thing. But San Antonio makes sense for acquaintance, and here's why. You get at least one more year out of Luke Cornett. So for San Antonio, you take this massive upside swing on a medical question and listen, Queen's medicals may be perfectly fine. I just don't know. I don't have the intel or the knowledge. But it's obviously something that's been talked about and if there are questions or you need to bring him along slowly, San Antonio is a great spot or somebody similar to that. Right. I don't mean to always just go back to San Antonio, but Merez is a good call for Charlotte. I like that idea of, okay, we're going to add to the center, but we're also maybe some minutes at the four. He could, he could give us some time there as well.

[Podcast Host]

I. I have two more that I want to bring up. How many do you. I mean, yeah, you probably have a million that you could bring up.

[Bryce Simon]

I have three. But, like, I don't think any of them. Like, we don't have to go in depth. I'm cool. Just like kind of dropping them and just getting your initial reaction.

[Podcast Host]

So drop them. Give me, give me what you think.

[Bryce Simon]

So my first one here was co opied to the Philadelphia 76ers because I think co op is a four man that they're looking for in terms of. Listen, they would rather have a four man that can space the floor. I understand it. But they, they can. They're looking for that archetype. And what is the best version? The only version of the Sixers that's making a playoff run is a healthy version. Right. So the healthy version of the Sixers have what at center s a floor spacing, perimeter oriented big. Which means they have space to take somebody like co op, put him in the dunker spot, let him short roll out of ball screens, stuff like that. And so that's where I envision coapeat landing is in a situation like that. So co opied to the Sixers. You want me to go through my other two? Yes.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, yeah, go for it.

[Bryce Simon]

I had to bring a Raptors one. This came out of our conversation, right. I think we talked for an hour. And then you're like, Bryce, you didn't even say this guy's name. And then it was like, this makes Alan Graves to the Raptors makes a ton of sense.

[Podcast Host]

Right.

[Bryce Simon]

If my guy Sandro Mamu Kelly ends up somewhere else. And then my last one we just talked about, we did this offseason preview. I think Terrace Reed Jr. To the Knicks makes a ton of sense.

[Podcast Host]

I had that one.

[Pablo Torre]

Yes.

[Podcast Host]

I had that one.

[Bryce Simon]

Yes, yes.

[Podcast Host]

Like especially with the Mitchell Robinson question, I think he could bring exactly what they need at that position. And honestly, with Mitchell Robinson's health in general, they need another big man. You know what I mean? I like Huckporty. I thought he had a good stint there in game seven or game five. Actually felt like a game seven in game five. And then I like Modioara. Who knows what they'll do with him in free agency, but just getting another big in their rotation would be massive. I Love Terrace Reed Jr. To the Knicks. That's like a perfect fit for me.

[Bryce Simon]

I think we had this conversation in their offseason preview and I think if Mitchell Robinson is going to stay, it's a little less. But to your point, how many games think about being able to save him even more during the regular season.

[Pablo Torre]

Right.

[Bryce Simon]

And to our point earlier about Yaxel Lindeberg, Terrace Reed Jr. Is a four year college player, just has this size and Physicality and rebounding. I think I'm a little bit more in on like, I think he has real touch and footwork and passing and

[Podcast Host]

some things that are interesting.

[Bryce Simon]

Yeah, yeah. I think he has more things than what people just call him, an old school big. But I think you get him in New York, he can play 10 minutes at night, even in a Mitchell Robinson game. And in a non Mitchell Robinson game, he plays 15 or 20 or something. Right. And I think he can come in and do that as a rookie and then we'll see what it looks like in the playoffs. But in the playoffs you're hoping Mitchell Robinson and Cat hold down all of those five. But you know what else we saw in the playoffs? S. Carl Anthony Towns foul trouble. And so Even then, the third big came into play. To your point. Ariel Hook, 40, has an incredible recovery block in game five on a lob pass. So I think Terrace Reed Jr. Would make a ton of sense for them. At, what do they have, 24?

[Podcast Host]

24, I believe. Yeah. And like again, for a Knicks team that is really trying to thread the needle between being expensive and not being expensive, nailing this pick is crucial. It's all, it's. It's very, very important to their off season. Just because, hey, man, like, one of the reasons the Bucks weren't able to sustain winning around Giannis was not nailing their late lottery picks or, sorry, their late first round picks kind of applies to the Nuggets too, although they found some gems in Peyton Watson and Christian Brown. But like, you have to be able to nail these types of picks and the Knicks got to do that with this one.

[Bryce Simon]

Okay, and, and real quick, I know we said we're not doing second round, I'm not going to give names, but they also have 31, which I think at 31, there are still going to be some names. Even in a draft where NIL has, you know, hurt the depth, they have two picks in a range where you could get like, I think that that's going to be a rostered player for The Knicks. A 15 man rostered player at 31.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Bryce Simon]

Like there's some names there that could be interesting for them.

[Podcast Host]

So yeah, who knows? Maybe Terrace, maybe Terrace Reed Jr. Is at 31. Like, that's very possible. They could, they could swing four, maybe a guard at 24 and, and go for a big at 31. Okay, so you named a couple of these guys that I have as fits but for different teams and I'm going to just throw it out. As for, I'M excited. Okay. Alan Graves to the San Antonio Spurs. That's the other pick that I have. I just think size was something that they were clearly missing at the 4. Having a guy who can space the floor, who can play a little bit of small ball 5 for them if they want to. He clearly will play next to Wembanyama. I think that matches well. I have questions about the defense and how that works in the NBA, but relatively, given his size, given what he's done production wise in, in the very short amount of time he was in in college, I don't know. I, I like Alan Graves for the San Antonio Spurs.

[Bryce Simon]

I, I agree with that as well. Again, we just did these off season previews. It was a name we brought up. This four position was something we spent a lot of time on because the spurs are. I know this isn't why you brought me on. The spurs are sneaky interesting this off season for a team that just made the finals playing guys as young as they are. Because what's the starting lineup next year? S where everybody's happy.

[Podcast Host]

Exactly. Yeah.

[Bryce Simon]

I refuse not to start Dylan Harper next year if I'm the San Antonio Spurs. So who's stepping out of the starting lineup? And then the other thing is who in that starting lineup is the four is a four man. Especially if you're saying we're sending Julian Champagne to the bench which again, I don't love the idea. So again, we don't have to get into this. But as we got into that conversation, Harrison Barnes just ended up not being able to give him those minutes. Carter Bryant might be what some people are screaming at us about right now and that's fair. I think adding another name and another player to that mix and I think Alan Graves, I think Karim Lopez would be another name in this, in this range that Joshua Jefferson. But I love the idea here.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. And look, they have the mid level exception too that they can spend and go out and get. Like, like what if Mamu decides to go back to San Antonio? Like he would fit. He would fit really well.

[Bryce Simon]

The amount of teams that I've brought up Sanju Mahmoud for is not going to make Raptors fans happy. I'm sure Raptors fans hate me.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, I hear you. Look, Mamu is turned himself into a fan favorite in Toronto, but it's very clear that he is now in demand. I would say rightfully so. The other guy, since you did mention a Raptors pick, I'm going to go the opposite way and pick a guard and that is Christian Anderson to the Toronto Raptors just shot making, creation, shooting, arguably the best shooter in this draft. I think that's something the Raptors absolutely need at that position. I honestly think the more creation, the better for them. And so I would lean guard instead of big for them. But, but hey, we'll see what the Raptors do. That's, that's my pick. I also, I'm really fascinated which one of like the, the second tier guards goes first, you know, between the Christian Andersons and Corey and Bennett Sturts. Like there's a group there of guys who are really intriguing, but which one of those guys goes first? I think, I think the Raptors will honestly determine that, but we'll see.

[Bryce Simon]

Yeah, I would add Phylon to that list of names as well, but I think you're right. I mean they're all kind of in the same spot on my board. I think I might be a little bit lower on Christian Anderson than a lot of people, but I think I saw that he's invited to the green room, which my guess is means like we're probably looking top 20 for Christian Anderson, which I to your point, may be the best floor spacer shooter in the draft. So I'm not saying that's wrong. It's just his stock has risen a little bit higher quietly I guess than what I realized. You know what I mean? And so I, I think that that's a great call. I'm, I'm so excited. It's a week away. This kind of snuck up on me, to be honest with you, that we are legitimately one week away from the first round of the draft.

[Podcast Host]

Yes.

[Bryce Simon]

Obviously still a two night event with the second round being on Wednesday, but there's a lot of. I, I think the top. I, I don't know that the number one pick is decided yet. Like I, I don't know what 1, 2 and 3 is going to be. My guess is Caleb Wilson is four. And then do we get this run on guards five through nine or does Yaxel get up there? Does the Dai Mara get up there? I am very, very excited for this. And then this also means us that summer league is very close. Yes, I booked my flight, I've booked my hotel summer league. I end up not watching as much basketball as what I planned, but it's okay because I get to interact with you. I met Andrew and his family last year, which was incredible. Obviously great people all around. I got to sit and a game talking to Alex Spears. I won't name drop everybody else, but it truly is. Like for me, who six years ago didn't have a podcast, had never interacted with people in this space whatsoever. It's just a reminder of how surreal and the great relationships you make, you know, like genuinely become friends with people like you. Like Aunt Drew.

[Podcast Host]

Absolutely. Absolutely. Yeah. I'm. I'm also looking forward to summer league. It's always great when there is a group of prospects like there is in this 2026 NBA draft. And you're right, it has snuck up on us. But because the NBA Finals was incredible and we're still sort of dealing with the hangover of the NBA Finals, which I was wrong about, by the way. I just want to reiterate. Anyways, that's it. That's all I got. Price.

[Bryce Simon]

We also have another kind of big name who's been in the news in Giannis Antetokounmpo that's kind of taking headlines right now as well. We'll see if anything comes of it or not. But yeah, sure. The NBA. The NBA does stop. It does not. Never sleeps. Which is good for podcasters.

[Podcast Host]

S. It's wonderful for podcasters like you and I. Bryce. Yes, that is correct. Bryce Simon, thank you very much. You can find him on social media at Motor City Hoops, one half of the Game Theory podcast with Sam Dessini. Bryce, my guy. Thank you very much. Thank you to everyone who listened to the athletic NBA Daily. We got you guys covered with for draft coverage until next week. We'll see you guys later. Bye bye. Thanks for listening. Make sure you hit the subscribe or follow button so you never miss an episode. If you enjoyed it, drop a like, leave a rating or let us know in the comments. Thank you guys for waking up with us. Activecampaign is the marketing automation platform built

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