New Orleans Pelicans mock 2nd round NBA Draft 2.0

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Xavier Tillman could be a second round target for the New Orleans Pelicans (Photo by G Fiume/Maryland Terrapins/Getty Images) /

New Orleans Pelicans 2nd Round NBA mock Draft: Pick 39

Xavier Tillman: Power Forward, Michigan State

The 39th pick is an interesting one, as the Pelicans may still be able to find impact talent this early in the second round or maybe package the pick as part of a bigger deal if another team sees a guy they like fall.

Xavier Tillman is a guy who may not be there when the Pels choose at 39, as he is a 6-foot-9 combo forward who can defend all over the floor.

The Big 10’s Defensive Player of the Year, Tillman is a shot blocker with active hands that he uses to deflect passes and get steals. His 7-foot-1 wingspan is exactly what teams are looking for in a guy who profiles as a plus-defender.

Tillman can’t shoot and doesn’t project as a guy who will, but he is a good passer, averaging three assists per game for the Spartans.

He has Draymond Green potential, as he has the strength to defend at least three positions and he can make plays for shooters on offense.

Tillman is also a junior, which is one of the reasons he’s likely to fall to the second round. He will be ready to play if he can make a roster, so he’d be more likely to contribute than some of the higher ceiling prospects in the first round.

Player comparison: Draymond Green

Fallback pick if Tillman is gone: Reggie Perry: PF, Miss St.