2. Lauri Markkanen, Arizona
Fultz is the focal point of an offense which makes him incredibly valuable, but Arizona forward Lauri Markkanen gives an offense an entirely different dynamic that can prove even more beneficial.
You’ll see Ryan Anderson comparisons all the way until the draft, and just as Anderson changed the Houston Rockets’ offense, Markkanen could have a similar impact on day one.
The true 7-footer combines his size with unquestionable NBA range. He’s the prototypical stretch 4 (or 5) and his shooting ability opens up an offense while adding yet another threat from deep.
Markkanen’s 42 percent from 3 this season puts him just a notch above noted shooters Fultz and UCLA’s Lonzo Ball. He’ll be an attractive prospect for teams that are looking for more floor spacing and shooting, especially after the success of an offensively comparable player—Kristaps Porzingis.