Pistons Palace NBA mock draft post lottery

5. Utah Jazz

Dario Saric, SF, KK Cibona (Croatia)

Utah could go many different ways on the draft board, but I have a feeling they’ll be replacing Gordan Hayward this off-season and will look to surprise everyone by taking Saric in the fifth slot. Especially if the team buys into Alec Burks at shooting guard, who really took a step forward this season.

A lot of experts think that the Jazz could go with Julius Randle or Marcus Smart with this pick, but they also think that Utah would match any offer sheet for Hayward, who is a restricted free agent. The sharpshooter lost some of his touch this season and watched his three point percentage drop 11 points to a measly 30% from beyond the arc.

He has a really good handle for a 6’10” forward and is really good facing the basket or finding the lane from the corner. His experience at the higher levels has made him great in transition. He can use his dribbling skills to set up isos, or dish it across court to an open teammate.

Though Saric hasn’t had the best three point numbers overseas, many believe he can be a top notch long range shooter, with good inside post moves and an even better mid-range game. He is great off the catch and release, and has improved drastically shooting it off the dribble.  The Jazz have been known to reach for players, and Saric — while having the talent to maybe be the next Dirk Nowitzki, needs some time to still develop.