2019 NBA Draft: Full Mock Draft 2.0 – Pelicans take Zion; who goes next?

#17. Brooklyn Nets: Brandon Clarke, F

School: Gonzaga | Class: Junior | Height: 6’8″ | Weight: 215 | Age: 22

The latest underrated Gonzaga star could be the best. The Brooklyn Nets should grab the versatile big man if he drops this far. Clarke would fit well in the Nets’ “function over frills” team culture. Even better, Clarke enjoys the dirty work and understands his offensive limitations.

The Nets could add a great rotational player here that would ease the scoring burden without needing to touch the ball on offense; a great skill that leads to guys becoming true team players.

Clarke takes pride in his defense and his screen setting. He is above the NBA average in both areas already. His timing is great in the pick and roll on both ends of the court. Clarke rarely fumbled a lob into a turnover and has decent touch on his shots outside the paint.

Until he extends that range a bit further, Clarke’s minutes will be limited. While he may be a great rim protector, he could become a paint-clogger as well, denying his team open driving lanes. There’s some risk here, but the reward could be much greater if he’s around for the Nets to select at #17.

– Chris Dodson (@DoingItDodson)