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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France’s power forward Victor Wembanyama holds the ball during the qualifying match for the 2023 World Cup between France and Lithuania, in Trelaze, western France, on February 26, 2023. (Photo by JEAN-FRANCOIS MONIER / AFP) (Photo by JEAN-FRANCOIS MONIER/AFP via Getty Images) /

2023 NBA Mock Draft

Pick Analysis. Victor Wembanyama. 69. player. Scouting Report. Forward/Center. Metropolitans 92. 1

New Orleans finds some magical lottery luck in this scenario. The Lakers actually win the lottery here, but the Pelicans hold the right to an unprotected pick swap with LAL this year, one of the many assets acquired in the Anthony Davis trade.

I wouldn’t wish winning the lottery and having to give up your pick on anyone, even the Lakers. Let alone in a year where Wembanyama is the prize.

However, adding Wembanyama to New Orleans’ core is a fun thought. A starting five of Wembanyama-Zion-Ingram-McCollum and maybe add Jonas Valunciunas in there for even more rebounding? Good luck scoring on that team or keeping up with them on offense.

There isn’t much discussion for the no. 1 overall pick this year, as Wembanyama immediately brings a generational talent to any team that’s lucky enough to call his name on draft night.