2023 NBA Mock Draft: Spurs land franchise PG, tanking pays off for Pistons

Houston Cougars freshman Jarace Walker is likely the most versatile forward in his draft class and is a name to look out for as early as the #3 overall pick. On offense, he’s proven himself to be an outstanding playmaker for a 6’8”, 240-pound forward, is a good play finisher out of the pick and roll and in the dunker’s spot, has occasionally shown advanced ball-handling, and appears to have good touch on his jump shot.

Defense is where Walker will make his money in the league, though, as he has very real upside as a five-position defender that can cover smaller guards on the perimeter and match up with bigs around the bucket. He moves his feet well, is incredibly strong for his age, reportedly has a 7’2” wingspan, and moves well in the open court. That’s a recipe for a player that will make a living out of easy transition points, especially being that he’s a talented playmaker as well.

Such a wide-ranging impact is very difficult to find in a draft prospect, so I think there’s a strong chance he’ll be picked much earlier than this. But for now, I have him sliding down the board all the way to the Indiana Pacers at #8 overall, and what an absolute draft-night steal this would be for the Pacers organization.