Torch Photo / Sebastian Zelaya
Going into the NBA Draft on June 23, Zuby Ejiofor and Bryce Hopkins represent St. John’s best chance at having one of its former players selected in the first two rounds.
The tandem of forwards has understandably received much of the attention after leading the Red Storm to the Sweet 16 in their senior season. Both have received workouts from multiple teams, increasing the likelihood that their names will be called come draft night.
With Ejiofor’s and Hopkins’ draft stock rising, teams have also taken notice of Dillon Mitchell. The 6-foot-8 forward brings athleticism, speed and playmaking capabilities to any franchise.
16 teams have hosted Mitchell for workouts, according to Zach Braziller of the New York Post. Mitchell feels good about taking part in the draft and is excited to see where he is drafted.
Rick Pitino has made calls and gave Mitchell tips throughout the process.
With the assistance of the Hall of Fame coach and his widely versatile skill set, Mitchell can benefit any team, especially these three.
New York Knicks
For the past three months, New York has been in a basketball frenzy due to the Knicks historic championship victory. Orange and blue filled the streets of “The Big Apple,” leading into another long offseason.
The Knicks will have to decide how they want to use their draft picks. New York holds the No. 24 overall pick in round one and the No. 31 and No. 55 selections in the second.
In prior years, they used their picks to add Tyler Kolek and Mohamed Diawara, who have all made an impact during the season.
This year, they can use one of their second-round selections to take Mitchell, whose size, strength and speed can make for a solid fit in the Knicks’ offense. His opportunities will be more limited on an established roster like New York’s, but he can still make an impact off the bench.
Depth was key towards the Knicks success, with Mitchell Robinson, Landry Shamet and Jose Alvarado making key plays during their postseason run. Mitchell can do so as well, using his playmaking and rebounding to generate second-chance opportunities for the offense.
Philadelphia 76ers
On the opposite side of the Atlantic division, the Philadelphia 76ers present another solid fit for a player of Mitchell’s caliber.
Last year, Philadelphia selected guard VJ Edgecombe at No. 3 overall. He made an immediate impact on both sides of the court, with his ability to attack the basket at will.
In this year’s draft, they hold the 22nd overall pick of the first round. Using their selection to acquire Mitchell is risky, but it comes with adding another scorer and playmaker.
The 76ers are in need of additional bench depth to bolster their rotation alongside big man Andre Drummond and guard Quentin Grimes.
San Antonio Spurs
As the Knicks hoisted the Larry O’Brien championship trophy, the San Antonio Spurs exited their home court in defeat. They held a lead in all five finals games, only for their defense to stall against New York in the fourth quarter.
If San Antonio wants to reach another NBA Finals, it will need to retool their roster. Center Victor Wembanyama and guard Stephon Castle are at the helm of their success, but they can benefit from adding another forward to the front-court.
They hold the No. 20 overall pick in the first round and the No. 35 and No. 44 selections on day two.
Adding Mitchell in the second round gives them another forward, who can help take scoring pressure off the starters. He can also space the floor, creating more opportunities for Wembanyama.