2024 NBA Mock Draft 6.0: Spurs attack needs, Hornets make shock selection

7. Portland Trail Blazers grab Donovan Clingan

Clingan’s draft stock is difficult to pinpoint. Several teams are set at center and may see no need to add another talented big man. Clingan is drawing buzz to go number one overall. If that does not happen, the former Huskie may fall to seventh.

He won two consecutive NCAA championships with UConn. Clingan was a backup big man as a freshman before taking over as their starter in year two. Last season, he averaged 13.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 2.5 blocks in 22.5 minutes per game. The 20-year-old played a key role, but created plenty questions.

Clingan is a traditional center. He excels at protecting the rim and finishing around the basket. The 7’2 center is a drop coverage big man who locks down the paint. Teams cannot expect too much. He isn’t blossoming into this switchable five capable of spacing the floor and defending on the perimeter.

There are fit questions in Portland. Deandre Ayton played well down the stretch and Robert Williams III should return from injury. The Blazers are in the early stages of a rebuild and can afford to take the best player available. This forces them to trade a big man, but Clingan could be a key paint protector in Rip City for the next 15 years.