National Basketball Association

Redrafting the 2016 NBA Draft class

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 11:11 p.m. ET

Fansided, Simon Shortt/FanSided via Hoops Habit

Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; NBA commissioner Adam Silver poses for a group photo on stage with draft prospects before the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

With a majority of the 2016-17 season behind us, let's hit rewind. Which teams wouldn't mind a do-over from last June? This is the 2016 NBA Re-Draft.

With the first overall pick of the 2016 NBA Draft missing the entire 2016-17 season due to injury, the second overall pick getting out to a slow start and overall not a very deep draft class, you could say it was a disappointing season when it came to the rookies. Hell, two of the three Rookie of the Year finalists weren't even drafted last summer!

There were some positives, however. We did see some late/second-round gems, and the seemingly mysterious international group is looking promising for the future. With some unquestionable talent out there among first year players this year one has to wonder if the players were the problem, or if was the teams they were on?

Some teams may be wondering that as well. Perhaps some would take back a trade they made, or pull the trigger on one they didn't. Maybe they would pass on that international prospect and hold out for him in the second round.

The possibilities are endless, and of course, hindsight is 20/20. But just for fun, with the 2017 NBA Draft just around the corner, lets go back and take a look at the 2016 NBA Re-Draft.

Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Ben Simmons (LSU) greets NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being selected as the number one overall pick to the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

1. Philadelphia 76ers

Original Pick: Ben Simmons
New Pick: Ben Simmons

Ben Simmons was far and wide the best prospect in the 2016 NBA Draft. He was even one of the most hyped prospects of the last 10 years with his 6'10" frame, point guard skills and freakish athleticism. The point-forward projection held up in his one year at LSU, as SportsCenter was full of highlights of the freshmen grabbing a rebound (11.9 per game) going coast-to-coast and finishing with an assists (4.8 per game). He wasn't afraid to finish on his own though, every once in a while throwing down a monster jam using his nearly 42″ vertical.

Simmons, perhaps more than Joel Embiid, was THE player Sam Hinkie had in mind for the Philadelphia 76ers when "The Process" began: a true franchise-altering talented with one drop of a ping pong ball. The only debate about drafting Simmons or not came when thinking about positional need.

In college Simmons was a power forward, and did not show the ability to step outside and shoot or defend on the perimeter. With the likes of Embiid, Dario Saric, Jahlil Okafor and Nerlens Noel already on the roster, the team was loaded in the post. In light of this, some believed the 76ers should have taken Brandon Ingram of Duke to provide the team with a wing player, but Simmons is more than just a big man or a wing.

When he gets back on the court, Simmons will probably play point guard for the 76ers. The team will look in the draft and free agency, but more than likely this is how things will shake out. Simmons will have the ball in his hands on the perimeter for a long time in Philly, giving Embiid and Saric plenty of room in the post. Those three, plus a couple of 3-and-D players in between equals Process Achieved.

Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Brandon Ingram (Duke) greets NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being selected as the number two overall pick to the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

2. Los Angeles Lakers

Original Pick: Brandon Ingram
New Pick: Brandon Ingram

The Los Angeles Lakers had an easy decision on draft night, and that has not changed for this re-draft. Ingram was clearly the second-best player in the selection pool, and he fit a team need in a bad way. With a couple of young guards and a couple of big men the team needed a wing, but more importantly, they needed some talent.

Ingram has the potential to be an All-Star level player on both ends of the court. His scoring instincts and abilities showed in the second half of his one year at Duke, and he has the length to excel defensively.

He followed the same model offensively his rookie year, taking time to adjust but finishing strong. From November-January, he averaged just eight points per game on 35 percent shooting from the floor, but turned it around in the second half of the year going for 12 points per game on 46 percent shooting. While the team makes some decisions about their young guys in the upcoming years, Ingram should be a constant as he continues to improve.

2017 NBA Trade Deadline

Jan 24, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Nerlens Noel (4) stands during a break in action against the LA Clippers during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

3. Boston Celtics

Original Pick: Jaylen Brown
New Pick: Jamal Murray (traded to Philadelphia for Nerlens Noel)

The first change of this re-draft comes at one of the most anticipated selections of the night. Danny Ainge and the Boston Celtics had a bevvy of options to choose from, none of which looked like a BAD move.

The pick they ended up making, Jaylen Brown, looks like it will be a good one in time, but they could have done better. With a lack of rebounding, some inconsistent play from Al Horford and a multitude of openings in the post on their roster, having a young athletic center could go a long way.

It was reported the 76ers were offering either Nerlens Noel or Jahlil Okafor for this pick, and given the opportunity the Celtics should take that offer…of Noel. This would allow them to save money by not signing Horford so they could pay their other core players in upcoming years, and shore up their post defense and rebounding.

Feb 26, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) reacts in the third quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at the Pepsi Center. The Grizzlies won 105-98. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

With their newly acquired pick, Philly would take Jamal Murray of Kentucky — a secondary ball handler for Simmons, but more importantly a floor spacer to open up the paint for the team's young stars. Fill the starting lineup with Robert Covington and Dario Saric, and you have a good starting lineup for the future.

Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Dragan Bender (right) greets NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being selected as the number four overall pick to the Phoenix Suns in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

4. Phoenix Suns

Original Pick: Dragan Bender
New Pick: Dragan Bender

The Phoenix Suns have no reason to pass up on Dragan Bender this time around. The 19-year-old has potential to shoot from three and protect the rim, a combination very key to today's game.

Should Bender be able to consistently knock down the three, he has the potential to play with both T.J. Warren and Alex Len in the frontcourt, as both players operate primarily in the paint. But if the team adds depth on the wing, or Alan Williams/Derrick Jones Jr. develop into starters, Bender could turn into a full-time center with his length and shot-blocking ability.

We did not get a large enough sample size from Bender this year, playing sparingly in just 43 games, but he has all the tools for this young Suns team. And with some of the other young frontcourt players this team has, and the age of its core, Bender has some time to reach his star potential.

Apr 1, 2017; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Buddy Hield (24) watches a free throw during the second half against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. The Kings won 123-117. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

5. Minnesota Timberwolves

Original Pick: Kris Dunn
New Pick: Buddy Hield

When this pick was first made, we all gave praise to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Ricky Rubio is always on the trade block, and Kris Dunn could be a plus defender at point guard — an important trait for new head coach Tom Thibodeau.

Dunn had an underwhelming year in Minnesota despite seeing 17 minutes of action per night averaging less than four points per game on sub-par shooting. I'm not ready to write him off, as point guards take time to develop, and he did average over five assists and two steals per 36 minutes.

But he's not the right pick for the Timberwolves. Instead, they look to college shooting star Buddy Hield, who had an impressive rookie year. Hield averaged 10.6 points per game on 39 percent shooting from deep for the year, but 15.1 points and 43 percent shooting from three since joining the Sacramento Kings in February.

Hield would be a great fit for Minnesota by spacing the floor for Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns. While this complicates things a bit for Zach LaVine, it would force him and the team to continue his development. He will either become a super sixth man, or eventually take the reins from Rubio at point guard. But with Rubio's stellar play toward the end of the season, it looks like these three could have been together for quite some time.

Rookie Of The Year

Apr 8, 2017; Charlotte, NC, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jaylen Brown (7) celebrates a three point shot in the first half against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

6. New Orleans Pelicans

Original Pick: Buddy Hield
New Pick: Jaylen Brown

On draft night, the New Orleans Pelicans probably weren't thinking their pick would turn into a trade piece for DeMarcus Cousins. So with Hield off the board, they'd be well-served to take Jaylen Brown. After suffering through poor wing play this season, Brown would come in and contribute right away. His selection here would serve three purposes:

Brown's energy and intelligence would provide the team with an immediate impact. His athleticism gives him potential offensively, and with two-way wings being so important today, he is the best option for the Pelicans at this spot.

Apr 12, 2017; Boston, MA, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Thon Maker (7) reaches for a loose ball in front of Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) during the second quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports

7. Denver Nuggets

Original Pick: Jamal Murray
New Pick: Thon Maker

The Denver Nuggets selected Murray in this draft and it had a direct impact on the minutes of Emmanual Mudiay. So while they look to potentially move on from their 2015 first round pick, they will not get that chance in this re-draft. They could select Dunn here, but Murray's ability to shoot/score as well as facilitate was part of his appeal, and something not quite in Dunn's game yet.

Instead, the Nuggets would select Thon Maker, who had an impressive year for the Milwaukee Bucks. With great length, motor and defensive instincts he could help cover up Nikola Jokic's defensive deficiencies. His offensive versatility would also allow him to play with the team's star, and potentially cause some real matchup problems down the road.

With forwards Kenneth Faried, Wilson Chandler and Danilo Gallinari all potentially gone by Maker's third or fourth year, consistent starting minutes would be in the near future, while still giving him time to develop.

Jan 18, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Malcolm Brogdon (13) brings the ball up the court during the first quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

8. Sacramento Kings

Original Pick: Marquese Chriss (Traded to PHX)
New Pick: Malcolm Brogdon

Hopefully the Sacramento Kings don't reach for "their guy" this time around. They probably would, but for my own sake we'll pretend they make the right move.

With the knowledge that Buddy Hield found success with the team, they would go with another high character guard who can hit the three. Brogdon's skills on the court would help the team, but his personality would help with the culture reset they are looking to go through.

The Virginia product had an outstanding year and is a finalist for the Rookie of the Year award. In Milwaukee he averaged 10.2 points and 4.2 assists per game, and he also shot 40 percent from three. Coming out of the second round, Brogdon is a steal for the Bucks, and earns him this jump in a re-draft.

Selecting Brogdon also leaves room for players to come in at the point and on the wing, two positions the Kings will have opportunities to fill as time goes on. If they still chose to send DeMarcus Cousins to the Pelicans they could land Jaylen Brown, and with their two top-10 picks in the 2017 NBA Draft they could find their point guard.

Mar 28, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Marquese Chriss (0) looks to pass the ball as Atlanta Hawks forward Taurean Prince (12) defends in the first quarter at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

9. Toronto Rapters

Original Pick: Jakob Poeltl
New Pick: Marquese Chriss

Jakob Poeltl could still be an interesting pick for the Toronto Raptors, who may be undergoing some changes this offseason. But considering the Serge Ibaka experiment didn't go as planned, and that he and Patrick Patterson are free agents this summer, a younger more athletic option at the 4 may be a wiser pick than another seven-foot center.

Chriss had a good year statistically, averaging 9.4 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. He showed a decent stroke from deep despite the 32 percent success rate. Although he had some defensive lapses as a rookie, he showed defensive potential with 1.4 blocks and 1.4 steals per 36 minutes. With his size (6'10", 7'0″ wingspan) and athleticism, he is the prototypical wing/forward for today's game.

After going the win-now route this season, and it not quite panning out, it may be time for the Raptors to look ahead. Chriss is the type of player the league is trending toward.

Mar 26, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Austin Rivers (25) defends Sacramento Kings forward Skal Labissiere (3) in the first half of the game at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

10. Milwaukee Bucks

Original Pick: Thon Maker
New Pick: Skal Labissiere

Luckily for the Milwaukee Bucks, and their fans, no team gets a second chance to take their rookies. Maker is clearly their center of the future, and Brogdon is a Rookie of the Year finalist after going in the second round. And if everyone got a do-over, Milwaukee would likely not have either. They could get another gem in this re-draft though, one that provides similar positives to Maker, and that is Kentucky big man Skal Labissiere.

Skal was this year's Harry Giles. He came into college with very high draft stock (at one point considered top three) but after his one year in school that came crashing down. Unlike Giles, Labissiere wasn't dealing with multiple major knee surgeries, he just didn't look that good for coach John Calipari. But he proved the tools and potential we all saw would translate to the NBA game this year by having a positive showing as a rookie.

After starting the year on the bench, Skal got a chance to prove himself post-DeMarcus Cousins trade. He only saw only 102 minutes across 11 games from November-February, averaging just 4 points and 3.1 rebounds per game, but his production skyrocketed in March and April, appearing in 22 games with 12 starts and averaging 11.1 points and 5.8 rebounds. He would continue the length trend in Milwaukee, while providing the potential to shoot from deep.

Apr 7, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl (42) grabs a rebound in front of Miami Heat forward Okaro White (15) at the Air Canada Centre. The Raptors won 96-94. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

11. Orlando Magic

Original Pick: Domantas Sabonis (Traded to OKC)
New Pick: Jakob Poeltl

Like the Kings, the Orlando Magic have made some poor roster decisions in the last year, and a redo could turn things around. For whatever reason Orlando decided it needed to make a few "win now" type moves instead of continuing to develop it young core. This time around, the Magic would do no such thing.

Instead they would elect to not trade two young prospects (Victor Oladipo and the pick) for an aging player on an expiring deal (Serge Ibaka) who forces another young prospect (Aaron Gordon) out of his natural position. Instead they would look at their roster, see which position doesn't fit their timeline/style (center Nikola Vucevic) and select his eventual replacement (Jakob Poeltl).

It could have been that easy. Now with a young core of Elfrid Payton, Oladipo, Evan Fournier, Mario Hezonja, Gordon and Poeltl, you have different skill sets at different positions. Then you take the time to develop them, and slowly add on. This selection could also save them from giving big money to Bismack Biyombo, who is talented but made $17 million to come off the bench this year.

Minnesota Timberwolves Kris Dunn

Apr 12, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Kris Dunn (3) dribbles the ball as Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) defends during the third quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

12. Utah Jazz

Original Pick: Taurean Prince (Traded to ATL)
New Pick: Kris Dunn (Traded to IND)

With the 12th pick we would still see the Utah Jazz make a trade for George Hill, only this time the trade would just involve Utah and the Indiana Pacers. Instead of taking back Jeff Teague, who was solid but nothing special this year, and getting swept in the first round of the playoffs, the Pacers would start looking to the future.

With a chance to snag a potential franchise point guard, they would cut the Atlanta Hawks right out and make the trade straight up. Utah still gets Hill, who was terrific for their playoff run this year, and Indiana starts looking ahead.

Dunn had a less than stellar rookie year while backing up Ricky Rubio, but that does not take away from his potential. With all the physical tools and feel for the game Dunn possesses, he just needs to improve his shot and decision-making before becoming a star. He would join the Pacers and pair with Myles Turner as the team's pillars should Paul George leave in free agency. The two have the length and athleticism for their positions to excel, and could be a fun pick-and-roll tandem in the coming years.

Apr 22, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Taurean Prince (12) celebrates a basket in the fourth quarter of their game against the Washington Wizards in game three of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena. The Hawks won 116-98. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

13. Phoenix Suns

Original Pick: Georgios Papagiannis (Traded to SAC)
New Pick: Taurean Prince

After losing their second selection from this draft, Maqueese Chriss, the Suns will look to find another combo forward to fit their team. Taurean Prince had an impressive rookie year post-All Star break for the Hawks, and would bring his versatility and expanding game to the Suns.

As a wing player with size and athleticism he would fit in the frontcourt with any combination of Bender-T.J. Warren-Alex Len, allowing the team to have flexibility moving forward.

His defense is what earned him minutes for the playoff Hawks. With his strength and wingspan, Prince can defend multiple positions and secure the rebound after the play. His offensive game started to come along towards the end of the year as well.

In March and April (when his minutes were highest) he was attempting 2.5 threes per game, converting on nearly 34 percent of them. He was also starting to look comfortable putting the ball on the floor in the playoffs and finishing around the rim. His versatility and quickly improving offensive game would give the Suns depth for their young roster moving forward.

Jan 24, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; San Antonio Spurs guard Dejounte Murray (5) during an NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-USA TODAY Sports

14. Chicago Bulls

Original Pick: Denzel Valentine
New Pick: Dejounte Murray

It was obvious this year that the Chicago Bulls have a lack of depth at point guard — so much so they felt the need to trade a long, versatile wing player who can shoot threes (key in today's NBA) for a point guard who can't shoot (not key in today's NBA).

Then they traded a veteran on an expiring contract and another wing who can shoot for a point guard they didn't even play. AND the point guard they signed in free agency spent most of the year in the dog house, only hitting his stride in two playoff games before breaking his thumb.

Dejounte Murray would have been the team's best point guard all season long, and had they drafted him they may have kept their floor spacers and had a better offense. Murray looks like he can be the future point guard for the San Antonio Spurs, and if he's good enough for Gregg Popovich he's really good enough for anyone.

Apr 9, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Wade Baldwin IV (4) reacts during the second half against the Detroit Pistons at FedExForum. Detroit Pistons defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 103-90. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports

15. Denver Nuggets:

Original Pick: Juan Hernangomez
New Pick: Wade Baldwin IV

The Denver Nuggets missed out on their scoring combo guard in this re-draft when Jamal Murray was selected, but they can get a player in the same mold in Wade Baldwin IV. At 6'4″ with a 6'11" wingspan, Baldwin can swallow up point guards defensively, or defend some shooting guards.

Offensively he was a good three-point shooter in college, having averaged over 40 percent in two years. He will have to improve on his ball handling and shot creation, but he is already a willing passer having averaged over five assists per game as a sophomore.

Baldwin would be a good fit for this team since he is just as comfortable off the ball as he is with it in his hands. In lineups with Emmanuel Mudiay or Nikola Jokic he can play off the ball, and spot up or use his athleticism to cut to the basket, but with the second unit he can run some of the offense. Baldwin doesn't have the name recognition or prolific offensive game as Murray, but he fits the a similar mold with more defensive upside.

Mar 16, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Domantas Sabonis (3) reacts during their game against the Toronto Raptors at Air Canada Centre. The Thunder beat the Raptors 123-102. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

16. Boston Celtics

Original Pick: Guerschon Yabusele
New Pick: Domantas Sabonis

In the actual draft, the Celtics chose to go with the draft-and-stash Guerschon Yabusele early, but the now available Domantas Sabonis would be too much to pass up.

Sabonis' ability to rebound and score around the basket could be beneficial for the team with Kelly Olynyk entering free agency this summer. He is also an extremely smart player and good passer, which would help him in Brad Stevens' offensive sets.

Sabonis also has the potential to become a shooter from deep, having improved his jumper between is freshman and sophomore years at Gonzaga. As a rookie for the Oklahoma City Thunder he showed a willingness to take the three, putting up 159 of them.

Although he shot just 32 percent, he has a nice form as long as he keeps his release high. As those numbers improve, along with his other skills, Sabonis could be another good piece for a contending team.

Mar 10, 2017; Dallas, TX, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Caris LeVert (22) controls the ball against the Dallas Mavericks during the first quarter at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

17. Memphis Grizzlies

Original Pick: Wade Baldwin IV
New Pick: Caris LeVert

The Memphis Grizzlies were clearly lacking wing scoring this year, which made it surprising we didn't see more of Baldwin on the floor. Either way, with the needs they have, and the season Caris LeVert had, it's a match made in heaven.

At 6'7″ with a 6'10" wingspan, he's long enough to play on the wing and offensively he does most of his work from three or at the rim. Behind the arc is where 48 percent of LeVert's shots came from this year, so he's comfortable taking the shot. Even though he only made 32 percent of them, he did make 39 percent of his corner threes, a shot that gets created in the Grizzlies' offense a lot.

LeVert's injury history could cause concern, especially for a Grizzlies team that's seen it all in that department. But once he was on the floor this year he was productive, and he provides exactly what the team is looking for.

Nov 12, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Malik Beasley (25) reacts from the bench during the second half against the Detroit Pistons at Pepsi Center. The Pistons won 106-95. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

18: Detroit Pistons

Original Pick: Henry Ellenson
New Pick: Malik Beasley

The Detroit Pistons have a lot of players locked up long term right now, with over half their team signed through the 2018-19 season. The one position where they are lacking depth and stability however, is at shooting guard.

With Kentavious Caldwell-Pope entering restricted free agency this summer, the team will have to take a long look at its options. As a young defensive-minded guard with an improving jumper, KCP will likely draw big money, and if the Pistons choose to match they are invested long-term in a core that isn't close to escaping the first round.

Malik Beasley would give the team a scorer who is comfortable off the ball, but has the athleticism to develop into a shot creator. He could serve as the backup shooting guard as a rookie, instead of Stanley Johnson who is more of a forward, and be an insurance policy should the team let Caldwell-Pope walk this summer.

Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Juan Hernangomez greets NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being selected as the number fifteen overall pick to the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

19: Denver Nuggets

Original Pick: Malik Beasley
New Pick: Juan Hernangomez

The Denver Nuggets took Juan Hernangomez with the 15th pick in 2016 for his offensive versatility. At 6'9″ and 220 pounds, he is a combo forward who is comfortable scoring both behind the arc and in the paint. This year he went 46-of-113 from three, which translated to a good percentage but out of a small sample size. The other majority of his shots came right at the rim, where he converted nearly 60 percent of his attempts.

Like Maker, Hernangomez is in a good position with the Nuggets to develop slowly. With Gallinari, Chandler and Faried having a couple years left on their contracts, he has time to round out his offensive game while improving his defense.

Hernangomez's position also makes him a good pick. Not only is he different from both Maker and Baldwin, but other than Gallinari and Chandler, the team does not have any wings with size. As their third pick of the first round, Hernangomez still makes sense for Denver.

Jan 10, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Denzel Valentine (45) celebrates on the court against the Washington Wizards in the second quarter at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

20. Brooklyn Nets

Original Pick: Caris LeVert
New Pick: Denzel Valentine

Having played much of the year with an eclectic group in the back court, taking a chance on Denzel Valentine might be a smart move by the Brooklyn Nets. Valentine was a jack of all trades at Michigan State, averaging 19.2 points, 7.8 assists and 7.5 rebounds per game as a senior. Having yet to find his niche in the NBA, he could do multiple things for this Nets team that needs a lot help all over.

Valentine would have the opportunity to play on and off the ball next to different guards with different skill sets. As the team continues to add pieces and develop, Valentine has the versatility to adjust. Offensively he could become a solid playmaker as a good passer, and his length could make up for his lack of quickness against point guards. Or he could become a wing player thanks to his shooting, as he made over 200 three-pointers and hit 43 percent of those shots in his final two years in college.

His question marks are athletically and on the defensive end, but if he's never explosive enough to hang with guys on the wing, he could always use his size against smaller guards. At 6'6″ and close to 215 pounds, he is big enough to defend either guard position, and with his basketball IQ he can develop into a good "team defender." Valentine's versatility would make him a good constant to have on this roster.

Mar 1, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Dorian Finney-Smith (10) and Atlanta Hawks forward Thabo Sefolosha (25) dive for a loose ball in the first quarter of their game at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

21. Atlanta Hawks

Original Pick: DeAndre' Bembry
New Pick: Dorian Finney-Smith

The Atlanta Hawks are now tasked with replacing their versatile and productive rookie, Taurean Prince, here with the 21st pick. Luckily for them, Dorian Finney-Smith can do just that. Finney-Smith had similar measurements to Prince at the combine. Not quite as explosive, but a little longer. He also averaged more rebounds (8.4) than Prince (6.1) in college the year they were drafted.

It was Dorian's defense that earned him a spot on the Dallas Maverick's roster after going undrafted in 2016. Not only did he stick on a roster after camp, he carved out an immediate role for himself. He played in all 14 games for the Mavericks in the month of November, started in nine of them, and played just under 20 minutes a night (19.9).

His shooting started to come alive in the month of December when he was averaging his highest minutes per game numbers of the season. In 17 games (16 starts) Finney-Smith took 57 three-pointers and made 21 of them for a 36.7 percent success rate. With 83 percent of those shots being assisted and a good looking form, Dorian could become a knockdown spot up shooter. The Florida product was obviously in a different situation than Prince, playing for a non-playoff team, but he was productive nonetheless.

After losing out on the chance to select Prince in this re-draft, the Hawks would select Finney-Smith in the hopes he could duplicate the production. Like Prince, his ability to defend multiple positions and rebound effectively would earn him playing time, and if he shows the improvement like Prince on the offensive end, the Hawks could wind up satisfied with this re-draft.

Oct 19, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons forward Henry Ellenson (8) gets defended by Toronto Raptors forward Patrick Patterson (54) during the third quarter at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Raptors won 103-92. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

22. Charlotte Hornets

Original Pick: Malachi Richardson (Traded to SAC)
New Pick: Henry Ellenson (Traded to SAC)

The Charlotte Hornets decided to forego a draft selection on this night and instead trade for a veteran. The Hornets sent the 22nd pick to the Sacramento Kings for sharpshooter Marco Belinelli. Given Belinelli's season –10.5 points per game, 36 percent shooting from deep — and the uncertainty with their roster, making this trade again in order to provide the team with some consistency might be the right move.

With perhaps the savviest move in recent Sacramento Kings history, they turn a 30-year-old backup shooting guard into another young piece as they rebuild. This time around though, they select the dynamic freshman Henry Ellenson out of Marquette.

While they would probably kill to take Geogios Papagiannis 10 spots below where they originally selected him, Ellenson is the best choice. After losing Skal Labissiere to this re-draft, the Kings find themselves with a hole at power forward.

Ellenson's smooth and versatile offensive game, paired in the post with Willie Cauley-Stein, would give the Kings a solid foundation down low. Ellenson not only has the ability to create for himself in the half-court, but has the athleticism and ball handling to go coast-to-coast and finish after grabbing a rebound. For a team 24th in the league in scoring, this could be a good way to spark some offense.

Apr 10, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Paul Zipser (16) dribbles the ball against the Orlando Magic during the first half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

23. Boston Celtics

Original Pick: Ante Zizic
New Pick: Paul Zipser

Having turned their first two picks of this draft into big men and with an abundance of guards on their roster, the Celtics elect to go with a wing player at No. 23. Zipser has an abundance of experience in Europe and has good size for an NBA wing (6'8″, 215 pounds). This, plus a decent three-point stroke make him a quality prospect for a playoff team.

He'd fit nicely on the Celtics with their plus defenders as he adjusts to the speed of the NBA. Offensively, Brad Stevens could get creative with him on the court, as he can step outside, post up smaller players and even put the ball on the floor a little bit.

Since Boston's backup small forward this year was their third overall pick (which they traded in this re-draft) Zipser fills a positional need here. Having a few qualities that already make him a nice piece for a top team is just icing on the cake.

Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot greets NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being selected as the number twenty-four overall pick to the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

24: Philadelphia 76ers

Original Pick: Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot
New Pick: Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot

On draft night Philadelphia 76ers fans were worried all of Sam Hinkie's hard work would be undone. After spending years stocking up on late/second round draft picks, many thought the Colangelos would go the opposite direction. Instead, the team showed great restraint in 2016 by making good selections at the bottom of the first round.

With this pick, the Sixers would again take Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot from France. The 6'7″ wing possesses great athleticism and should be an excellent role player behind the team's future stars. "TLC" actually declared for the draft in 2015, but withdrew after not receiving much love from teams. This worked out in his favor as he showed major improvement last year, particularly from three where he went from making 29 percent to 36 percent.

If Timothe can continue to work on his jumper and stay engaged while using his athleticism on defense, he can become a solid role player for this team in the next few years.

Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Guerschon Yabusele reacts and celebrates with supporters in the crowd after being selected as the number sixteen overall pick to the Boston Celtics in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

25. Los Angeles Clippers

Original Pick: Brice Johnson
New Pick: Guerschon Yabusele

The Los Angeles Clippers are not known for valuing their late-round draft picks. Looking back on it now, I'm sure they'd have done things differently, which is exactly what they get to do here. With a lack of depth and youth on the team's bench, and with All-Star Blake Griffin entering free agency, a mulligan would probably be appreciated.

Enter Guerschon Yabusele, one of last year's international men of mystery who the Boston Celtics took 16th overall. The "Dancing Bear" is a 6'8″, 270-pound big man with a versatile offensive game. With touch out to the three-point line and explosive leaping ability in space, Yabusele has the tools to become an offensive weapon in the NBA.

Defensively, he leaves something to be desired at this stage, but having played for a lower level French team prior to the draft, and then in the Chinese Basketball Association last year, he hasn't been challenged much to do so. Being around NBA players and coaches may change his tune.

This year, Clippers rookie big man Brice Johnson saw action in nine games (three with Clippers and six in the D-League), showing the team is not super dedicated to getting young guys on the court. With Yabusele willing to play overseas this past year, he would have had a chance to still develop now, while contributing to the team more actively next year. And if Griffin chooses to go elsewhere this summer, Yabusele's presence would be welcomed.

2016 NBA Draft

Nov 9, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; The Philadelphia 76ers logo on the warm up shirt of center Jahlil Okafor (not pictured) prior to action against the Chicago Bulls at Wells Fargo Center. The Bulls won 111-88. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

26: Philadelphia 76ers

Original Pick: Furkan Korkmaz
New Pick: Furkan Korkmaz

Like Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot, Furkan Korkmaz was a terrific selection for the Philadelphia 76ers in 2016. Korkmaz is a 6'7″ guard who can shoot both off the catch and the bounce, although he is most effective as a spot-up shooter.

With some potential as a playmaker, Korkmaz could become an effective combo guard off the bench if he works on his ball handling. His one knock was his rail-thin frame, as he weight just 185 pounds when he was drafted.

The next question for Korkmaz is when he will come to Philly. With multiple guards/wings signed on the roster through 2019 and a tricky buyout clause to deal with, there is not much motivation to bring him over right away. But depending on how some of their current pieces fair over the next year or two, there could be room for Turkish sharpshooter.

Turning just 20 this summer, Korkmaz still has time, and with his development playing larger minutes this past season, it may not be a bad idea to wait another year. But with his shooting and overall offensive potential, there will be a place for him when he gets here.

Oct 16, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward DeAndre Bembry (95) dribbles the ball against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center. The Hawks won 105-98. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

27. Toronto Raptors

Original Pick: Pascal Siakam
New Pick: DeAndre' Bembry

After selecting a post player earlier in this re-draft, the Toronto Raptors pass on Pascal Siakam and select DeAndre' Bembry. Bembry can wind up being a safety net for this team in the near future, depending on what happens to their roster over the next two summers.

With Kyle Lowry and P.J. Tucker entering free agency this year and Cory Joseph (player option) and Norman Powell doing the same in 2018, the Raptors could be short a few wing players/ball handlers. And considering Bruno Cabolco for some reason hasn't turned into Giannis Antetokounmpo just yet, he may be gone in 2018 as well. In college Bembry played sort of a point-forward role, looking comfortable on and off the ball within the offense.

With Bembry's versatility and the question marks the team has over the next couple of years, this is a good fit for both sides. Even if the Raptors retain their core pieces in the upcoming summers, Bembry has the skill set to be a role player off the bench.

Mar 5, 2017; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Tyler Ulis greets fans following the game against the Boston Celtics at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The Suns defeated the Celtics 109-106. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

28. Phoenix Suns

Original Pick: Skal Labissiere (Traded to SAC)
New Pick: Tyler Ulis

It was the year of the little guy between Isaiah Thomas and Tyler Ulis, just for different reasons. Ulis was the second round pick by the Phoenix Suns in 2016 and he earned a higher selection in this re-draft thanks to his performance.

Ulis came up big for the team late in the season when his playing time went up. After playing spot minutes through February, the Kentucky product starting playing over 30 minutes a night as the team's starting point guard in March. He averaged 16.3 points and 7.4 assists over the last 22 games (15 starts) and gave the crowd something to cheer about in the later part of a long season.

Despite his starting being a result of the team tanking (just two wins in his 15 starts) there's no denying his production. Whether he's the team's starter or a sixth man moving forward, Phoenix will be sure to keep him in this re-draft.

Feb 6, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Yogi Ferrell (11) dribbles the ball up court in the third quarter against the Denver Nuggets at the Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

29. San Antonio Spurs

Original Pick: Dejounte Murray
New Pick: Yogi Ferrell

The San Antonio Spurs ended up with a steal at 29 in Dejounte Murray, their point guard of the future, so they would be just about as mad as anyone to have a re-draft. Now, with Tony Parker's injury and Patty Mills' impending free agency, the need for a young point guard seems even greater.

Luckily for the Spurs, an undrafted point guard who couldn't even stick to the Brooklyn Nets' roster early this year broke out for the Dallas Mavericks. That point guard is Yogi Ferrell out of Indiana.

Ferrell played (and started) his first game for the Mavericks against the Spurs on Jan. 29, but it was five days later he exploded for 32 points behind nine three-pointers. Ferrell ended up shooting 40 percent from three in his 36 games (29 starts) for the Mavericks, averaging nearly two makes per game. He also averaged over four assists per night in that time, showing the potential to be a complete point guard.

Whether he take the reins from Parker as the team's next point guard, or from Mills as their three-point shooting sixth man, Ferrell would find a role for this Spurs team.

Apr 2, 2017; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Patrick McCaw (0) during the third quarter against the Washington Wizards at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Wizards 139-115. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports

30. Golden State Warriors

Original Pick: Damian Jones
New Pick: Patrick McCaw

Another second round pick moving up with his team to the first round, Patrick McCaw rounds out this re-draft. The Golden State Warriors had a lot of faith in McCaw this year, so much so that the rookie started 20 games in Kevin Duran't absence.

McCaw was a perfect fit for this Warriors club with his length, athleticism and versatile offensive game. He is 6'7″ and recorded a near 40″ max vertical at the combine, giving him the tools to excel in the Warriors fast break chances. With a good stroke and uptick in makes/attempts between his two years in college, he also shows promise as a jump shooter, though he'll still need to improve in that area.

The Warriors made it clear this year they would give McCaw the chance to develop on the court. Over the next couple of years as they potentially lose some role players, the UNLV product should continue getting those chances.