2023 NBA Mock Draft: Detroit Pistons drop to 6th, add a big forward

Oct 4, 2022; Henderson, NV, USA; NBA G League Ignite guard Scoot Henderson (0) scores a layup against Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92 forward Victor Wembanyama (1) during the fourth quarter at The Dollar Loan Center. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports /

12 of 15

Feb 25, 2023; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Anthony Black (0) drives to the basket against Alabama Crimson Tide guard Nimari Burnett (25) during the first half at Coleman Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports /

2023 NBA Mock Draft

player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Guard. Arkansas. Anthony Black. 11. 142

Arkansas guards go back-to-back here, with Smith to Portland and Anthony Black to Washington.

The Wizards are in an interesting spot. They need to figure out Kyle Kuzma’s deal. He has a player option for next season, and I’m assuming he won’t pick it up to opt for testing the waters in free agency. Kuzma may very well sign a new deal with Washington, that will almost certainly come with a big pay increase.

Related Story. 3 free agents that could turn Detroit into a playoff team. light

Adding Anthony Black in the draft would give Washington a floor general who can eventually serve as an offensive cog.

Being a facilitator alongside a scoring guard like Bradley Beal makes for an intriguing backcourt, especially alongside a frontcourt of Kuzma and Kristaps Porzingis. Porzingis does have a player option for next season as well, but I’m guessing that he will pick that up.

Black would be a bigger point guard at 6-foot-7. He’s a strong defender, which gives him even more upside next to someone like Beal.