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 /

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Feb 20, 2023; Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke Blue Devils center Kyle Filipowski(30) reacts after scoring during the second half against the Louisville Cardinals at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The Blue Devils won 79-62. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports /

2023 NBA Mock Draft

Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Center. Kyle Filipowski. 81. Duke. 13. player

Toronto goes big here, with newly acquired center Jakob Poeltl in need of a new deal this summer.

Even if Poeltl re-signs with Toronto, Filipowski is an interesting prospect for them. This season, with Duke, he’s averaging 18.6 points, 11 rebounds, as well as 1.5 steals and a block per game.

Outside of Wembanyama, Filipowski is one of the top big men in this year’s draft. Late in the lottery, I wouldn’t be shocked if teams took a shot on other players with upside after a ton of guards and wings went before their pick.

If Filipowski gets into a role with decent minutes, he could immediately make an impact. He’s strong on the offensive end and plays hard on defense. He has the potential to develop as a decent 3-point shooter in the NBA, which would be a huge positive as a 7-footer.

The Raptors take a shot at the first big man to hear his name called after Wembanyama.