2024 NBA Mock Draft 5.0: Spurs find point guard, Raptors keep lottery selection

21. Phoenix Suns take Zach Edey

The 7’4 big man was the most productive college player for the second straight year. He found ways to improve in his senior season and was the two-time consensus Player of the Year. Edey was a problem in the paint and led Purdue to the NCAA title game where they lost to UConn.

In his final college season, the 21-year-old averaged 25.2 points, 12.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 2.2 blocks in 32.0 minutes per game. He shot over 62 percent from the field and hit 71.1 percent of his free throws. There was no stopping Edey, so why is going in the 20s in an uncertain draft class?

There are questions about his foot speed and ability to defend on the perimeter at the next level. He will be a drop coverage big man, but is he more Jarrett Allen or Boban Marjanovic? Edey is 7’4 and does not space the floor. Teams are going away from traditional centers, but can he find a role in the NBA? Some team will take a shot, and it will be on the 21-year-old to translate his game.

The Suns are all-in on their Big 3 but need depth. Zach Edey could solve some of the rebounding and rim protection woes in a limited role early on. He just dominated the NCAA, so do not rule out him making a significant impact at the next level too.