2023 Mock Draft 2.0: Spurs roll the dice, Hornets win Wembanyama sweepstakes

The Portland Trail Blazers hold the #2 overall pick in this mock draft, and this is where things could begin to get interesting. The organization is notably in a precarious position with Damian Lillard as it appears he’s growing tired and frustrated with the organization’s inability to create a viable championship-caliber team around him. And this #2 overall pick will likely be viewed in two ways with Damian Lillard in mind: the team either selects who is perhaps the most NBA-ready wing in the draft class that would slot in perfectly next to Lillard, or they select the point guard that will act as Lillard’s successor, who also happens to have superstar upside of his own.

If you’re asking me, this is a non-decision. The Trail Blazers, even outside of Lillard, have several marketable players that will fetch them draft compensation in trades were they to take the plunge into a full rebuild. And considering how impressive Shaedon Sharpe’s flashes of brilliance were this past season, the Trail Blazers would have the chance to form one of the youngest, most dynamic, and most athletic backcourts in the entire league. It’ll be understandable if big fans of Lillard advocate for Brandon Miller with this pick, but Scoot Henderson is the no-brainer selection for me here.