2020 NBA Draft Regrade (4 Years Later)
The 2024 NBA Draft is approaching, and the anticipation is palpable. It's also fascinating to reflect on how previous draft classes have fared with time. Let's cast our minds back to four years ago, to the 2020 NBA Draft, and regrade each selection from the first round.
Keep in mind, if I assign a selection the grade of "BILLY KING," it signifies an F grade. This is, of course, in honor of Billy King the former Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers GM. He is considered the worst GM in NBA history.
Now that is established that, let's proceed with the regrades. First up, the Minnesota Timberwolves...
1. Minnesota Timberwolves: SG Anthony Edwards - Grade: A+
The top pick of the draft was going to be either Anthony Edwards or LaMelo Ball. The Timberwolves were set to make a solid choice no matter what. They made the optimal decision by drafting Anthony Edwards first overall, as he is a player of exceptional talent. He is arguably the face of the Minnesota Timberwolves' roster. Edwards has excelled as an elite player both offensively and defensively.
Four years later, the Timberwolves' decision to draft Edwards earned an unequivocal A+ grade, and it would not be surprising if he were to become a Hall of Famer in the future.
2. Golden State Warriors: C James Wiseman - Grade: BILLY KING
It was common knowledge that the Golden State Warriors would select James Wiseman, as they were in dire need of a center and hoped Wiseman would be their future cornerstone. Unfortunately, this expectation did not materialize.
Wiseman's tenure with the Warriors was disappointing, totaling only 60 games. A torn meniscus injury hampered his performance, and he has not returned to his pre-injury level of play. His defensive struggles compounded the issue, leading to visible frustration from coach Steve Kerr regarding Wiseman's play and recovery process.
Ultimately, the Warriors traded Wiseman to Detroit in a four-team deal. While Wiseman demonstrated potential during his latest season with the Pistons, his limited starts and averages of 7.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game cast doubt on his long-term NBA prospects. A significant upcoming season is crucial for his career.
At least James Wiseman got an NBA Championship as part of his achievements. As for his whole career, it has been a tremendous disappointment, and it has resulted in this selection getting the Billy King grade.
3. Charlotte Hornets: PG LaMelo Ball - Grade: A-
The Charlotte Hornets were in the least stressful spot as their choice was virtually decided once the Timberwolves made their pick. LaMelo Ball possesses the intangibles you desire in a player: a 3-point shooter, offensive playmaker, creator of assists/opportunities for others, and he's also an underrated defender.
Two issues prevent this grade from being an A+ or an A. The first is the injuries as he has struggled to stay healthy. The second is LaMelo's off-court immaturity. How often must we hear about LaMelo driving recklessly, reminiscent of a GTA 5 character?
Also, how many lawsuits is LaMelo going to be a part of? Remember the 200-million-dollar lawsuit LaMelo and his piece of work father was involved in?
Nonetheless, this was an excellent selection, and hopefully, Charlotte can guide Ball effectively. He has immense potential to become the best player in Charlotte Hornets history, second only to Kemba Walker. The possibilities for Ball are boundless.
4. Chicago Bulls: SF Patrick Williams - Grade: C
The Chicago Bulls' selection of Patrick Williams as the 4th overall pick remains perplexing. There were much better prospects available, and Williams, while a high-ceiling player, was quite unpolished.
In terms of performance, he has been solid defensively and consistent from beyond the arc, yet he has not shown significant development in other areas of his game. His play is marked by inconsistency, which, coupled with persistent injuries, has been a source of frustration.
Williams is with the Bulls, but it seems a change of scenery might benefit him, particularly with the increasing rumors of a potential team shake-up involving Zach Lavine and Nikola Vucevic.
Evaluating his contributions, Williams is an average player, warranting an average grade for this draft pick.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers: SF Isaac Okoro - Grade: B
Isaac Okoro's career began sluggishly, yet he has shown improvement, particularly as one of Cleveland's most dependable defenders. Given Okoro's adept defensive abilities and his proficient 3-point shooting, he should secure a substantial new contract either with Cleveland or elsewhere
For a Top 5 pick, while not extraordinary, it has proven to be a successful selection. Cleveland did well with this pick.
6. Atlanta Hawks: Onyeka Okongwu - Grade: C
This selection was surprising because the Hawks had acquired Clint Capela through a trade during the middle of the 2019/2020 NBA season. It seemed like the Hawks were seeking a backup plan in case Capela's tenure didn't work out, or if they decided to trade him at the deadline.
Onyeka Okongwu is a decent player, but he hasn't been given many opportunities to start. I believe he should play more minutes. Given his potential, it's unclear what's preventing the organization from giving him the starting minutes. I would rate this selection as a C.
7. Detroit Pistons: PG Killian Hayes - Grade: BILLY KING
After the events of last season, this selection is an easy Billy King grade. Particularly, since Monty Williams allotted excessive playing time to Killian Hayes, who became a significant liability for the team.
Hayes had already been deemed a bust even before last season's incidents. His subpar three-point shooting, mediocre defense, and the negative impact on his teammates' performance were evident.
His career took a decisive downturn after the altercation with Moritz "Mo" Wagner on December 28th, 2022. Following the punch, Hayes was ejected, subsequently suspended, and ultimately waived.
Currently a free agent, Hayes has yet to receive an offer from any team, casting a bleak outlook on his professional prospects. It's unfortunate for a player with immense potential to see his career conclude in such a manner. This grade is getting the Billy King label.
8. New York Knicks: PF Obi Toppin - Grade: D
Obi Toppin has been another disappointment as he was an intriguing prospect during the draft. Although the Knicks had Julius Randle and didn't require a power forward, Toppin's potential seemed too significant for them to overlook.
Unfortunately, that potential never materialized on the court. It's not entirely his fault since he wasn't afforded many opportunities, but Toppin failed to develop his game in New York. His offense was passable, but it didn't show much improvement.
Ultimately, Toppin was traded to the Indiana Pacers in exchange for two second-round draft picks. He seems to be a much better match for Indiana's system, and he's definitely a player to keep an eye on in their upcoming season. However, regarding this draft pick, I am going to grade it a D.
9. Washington Wizards: SF Deni Avdija - Grade: B+
If Deni Avdija were not on the Wizards, there would likely be more discussion about his talents. Despite the team's struggles in recent years, Avdija has shone brightly, with last season he solidified himself by averaging 14.7 points, 3.8 assists, and 7.2 rebounds per game.
Although his initial seasons were not outstanding, Avdija has shown consistent improvement each year. His defensive skills, in particular, have evolved from a weakness to a strength, making him one of the team's most reliable defenders. Both for the present and the future, Avdija represents a valuable asset for the Wizards.
He may have been a late bloomer, but after four years, he has certainly earned his B+ rating.
10. Phoenix Suns: PF/C Jalen Smith - Grade: BILLY KING
The Phoenix Suns have a history of taking risks on prospects. This strategy paid off when they selected Cam Johnson in the 2019 NBA Draft, who became a solid player for Phoenix and was later involved in the Kevin Durant trade.
The gamble did not pay off with Jalen Smith, who performed poorly during his time with the Suns. He averaged just four points per game and committed numerous mistakes. Recognizing the issue, the Suns traded Smith to Indiana, along with a second-round pick, for Torey Craig during Smith's second season.
While it's unfortunate to deem this selection a failure, it's clear that the pick did not work out for the Suns. Fortunately, Smith has improved since joining Indiana, becoming a valuable rotational big man for the team. For the Suns though, it was a busted pick, and it is a Billy King grade.
11. San Antonio Spurs: SG Devin Vassell - Grade: B+
Devin Vassell's selection was intriguing as he consistently climbed the draft boards when the event approached. Despite being part of underperforming Spurs teams and enduring a knee injury, Vassell has shone as a beacon of improvement each year.
Last season marked his personal best, averaging 19.5 points per game (PPG), 2.1 assists per game (APG), 1.1 steals per game (SPG), and 3.8 rebounds per game (RPG). Offensively, he's been outstanding, boasting a fluid three-point shot. However, Vassell's defense requires enhancement, as it tends to be notably weak.
Vassell remains a valuable asset for the Spurs. His contribution was recognized with a substantial 5-year, $146 million contract extension. Indeed, a commendable move by the Spurs and the pick gets a B+ grade.
12. Sacramento Kings: PG Tyrese Haliburton - Grade: A+
Awarding an A+ grade is a no-brainer here, as Tyrese Haliburton is widely considered one of the NBA's top young guards. A two-time All-Star already, Haliburton's career promises many more accolades. His immediate impact with the Sacramento Kings earned him All-Rookie Honors and a third-place finish in the Rookie of the Year voting.
The Kings' trade of Haliburton to the Indiana Pacers for Domantas Sabonis was significant for both parties. Sabonis has been a great player in Sacramento. Haliburton has only improved in Indiana, playing a crucial role in their deep playoff run this season. His performance was rewarded with a max contract extension from the Pacers, underscoring this selection's excellence.
13. New Orleans Pelicans: PG Kira Lewis - Grade: BILLY KING
The decision to draft Kira Lewis was initially puzzling, especially given the abundance of point guards already on the Pelicans roster. As a Pelican, Lewis primarily served in a rotational capacity and, regrettably, his performance declined with each game. His 2021 ACL injury certainly didn't help matters. During his tenure, he averaged a mere 5.8 points, 1.8 assists, and 1.2 rebounds per game before spending time with the Pelicans' G League team.
Lewis was traded to Indiana for cash considerations. Indiana then immediately traded Lewis only to be to Toronto in a deal involving Pascal Siakam. In Toronto, Lewis saw limited action, mainly making G League appearances.
The journey continued as Lewis was traded to the Utah Jazz, alongside Otto Porter and a first-round 2024 NBA Draft pick, in exchange for Kelly Olynyk and Ochai Agbaji. Currently, Lewis appears to be settling into a journeyman benchwarmer role, a far cry from the expectations set on draft day.
14. Boston Celtics: SF Aaron Nesmith - Grade: B-
Aaron Nesmith is the final lottery pick in this draft. In Boston, Nesmith struggled significantly and served primarily as a rotational player or benchwarmer, largely due to the team's depth. Despite showing potential as a proficient 3-point shooter, his skills did not flourish in Boston.
Following his trade to Indiana in exchange for Malcolm Brogdon, Nesmith's performance improved markedly, earning him more playing time. He became a more effective player on both offense and defense, contributing to the Pacers' deep playoff run this season. His turnaround was rewarded with a three-year, $33 million contract extension with the team.
Overall, Nesmith's journey warrants a B- grade. The 'B' reflects the player's potential and performance with the Pacers, while the minus accounts for his time in Boston.
15. Orlando Magic PG Cole Anthony - Grade: C+
Cole Anthony's performance is difficult to gauge. He's not a poor player; in fact, he has demonstrated the potential to be a starting guard in the NBA. His 2021/22 season was impressive, with averages of 16.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game. However, the 2022/23 season was less favorable.
Anthony was dealt with an oblique injury and faced suspension due to an altercation during a game against the Pistons, leading to career lows in production.
Despite his struggles, Anthony remains a reliable scoring option off the bench, which any team would value, evidenced by his 3-year contract extension with the Magic. Anthony's below-average defense and shot creation inconsistency compels me to maintain a C+ grade for him.
16. Detroit Pistons PF/C Isaiah Stewart - Grade: A-
Isaiah Stewart is remembered for his attempt to confront LeBron James after being elbowed, which left him bloodied. He also had an incident where he punched Drew Eubanks in a parking lot before a game, leading to his arrest and a multiple-game suspension. Additionally, he once tried to engage with the entire Charlotte Hornets team.
It's unfortunate that Stewart's reputation for temper and suspensions overshadows his skills as an underrated defender and shooter.
Currently, there's speculation about whether Stewart will stay with the Pistons, as numerous trade rumors suggest he could be moved. Regardless of the outcome, Stewart's selection by the Detroit Pistons was excellent, meriting an A- grade.
17. Oklahoma City Thunder - SF/PF Aleksej Pokusevski - Grade: BILLY KING
During the NBA draft, many analysts viewed the selection of Aleksej Pokusevski as the steal of the draft. His NBA career has not justified the "steal" label.
The result of this selection was underwhelming, and Oklahoma City's swift rebuilding process did not contribute positively. His inconsistent performance and the leg injury led to the team waiving him in 2024.
Presently, Pokusevski is with the Charlotte Hornets, vying for a position on a squad teeming with young talent. Sam Presti is a good NBA GM, but this choice was a misstep, meriting the Billy King grade.
18. Dallas Mavericks Josh Green - Grade: B
Josh Green was a player viewed as a Top 10 prospect in his class and consistently Although Green hasn't been a standout player, he has established himself as a reliable swingman and role player for the Mavericks.
He is a dependable 3-point shooter for the Mavericks and a competent defender. Many believed the Mavericks would trade him to Brooklyn for Kyrie Irving, but that was not the case. The Mavericks evidently declined to entertain the idea of trading him and instead secured him with a three-year extension. This demonstrates the high regard they have for him. In summary, this decision gets a grade of a B.
19. Detroit Pistons: SF Saddiq Bey - Grade: B
Saddiq Bey is an intriguing case, as he performed exceptionally well in his first two NBA seasons. He even placed fourth in the Rookie of the Year voting. As a solid shooter and a valuable role player for the Pistons, he made a significant impact.
Bey's inconsistency and lackluster defense have been notable since he joined the league. Despite showing improvement over time, the Pistons chose to trade him after his third year.
In a four-team deal, Bey was sent to the Atlanta Hawks, which led to the Pistons acquiring James Wiseman. It was surprising that Detroit parted with Bey, especially since he appeared to be a strong addition to the Hawks.
Unfortunately, Bey suffered a torn ACL last season and may potentially miss the 2025 season, depending on his recovery progress. This is particularly untimely for the Hawks, who may be in the midst of retooling their team.
In retrospect, Bey's selection has proven to be a fruitful one for Detroit, despite him not being a lottery pick.
20. Miami Heat: PG Precious Achiuwa - Grade: C
Precious Achiuwa has generally delivered average performances throughout his NBA career. While in Miami, Achiuwa struggled to excel and was not a good fit for their system. He was later included in a sign-and-trade deal for Kyle Lowry, and his performance improved significantly in Toronto.
Achiuwa serves as a competent rotational player, but his inconsistent shooting makes it unlikely for him to be a full-time starter, especially given his unremarkable defensive abilities. The Raptors recognized this and included him in the trade for Ogugua "OG" Anunoby.
The decision by Miami to draft a point guard was understandable at the time due to their needs. Perhaps, in hindsight, they should have selected the player who was drafted immediately after their pick.
21. Philadelphia 76ers: PG Tyrese Maxey - Grade: A+
Is there really any debate? Tyrese Maxey stands out as an All-Star selection. As a key player for the 76ers alongside Joel Embiid, his prospects for greatness are undeniable. It wouldn't be surprising to see him secure a max extension soon, particularly after averaging 25.9 points per game last season. This is an easy A+ grade.
22. Denver Nuggets: PG/C Zeke Nnaji - Grade: D
I'm not particularly impressed with this selection. Even a few scouts anticipated Zeke Nnaji being drafted in the first round. Initially considered a project player, his performance over the past four years hasn't been very promising, particularly due to his inconsistent shooting and subpar defense.
While it's not a disastrous Billy King-level decision, as Nnaji serves as a rotational depth piece and remains with the Nuggets, it does raise the question: why did they sign him a four-year, $32 million extension?
23. Minnesota Timberwolves - SF Leandro Bolmaro - Grade: BILLY KING
No joke I forgot Leandro Bolmaro was drafted in this class. The Timberwolves, having taken a liking to him in the NBA Draft, traded up to select him, but unfortunately, it didn't pan out. Bolmaro's NBA career was lackluster, and he didn't make much of an impact.
Bolmaro was included in the major trade deal for Rudy Gobert, but the Utah Jazz barely made use of him. Currently, Bolmaro is no longer in the NBA and is playing in Germany for FC Bayern Munich.
24. Denver Nuggets: SG R.J. Hampton - Grade: D
The Denver Nuggets' selection of R.J. Hampton proved to be a misstep. He lasted less than half a season before being traded, along with Gary Harris and a future first-round pick, to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Aaron Gordon and Gary Clark.
While Hampton showed promise in Orlando, even starting several games, his inconsistency led to his departure mid-way through the 2022/23 season. Presently, Hampton is playing with the Washington Wizards' G League affiliate, the Capital City Go-Go.
The pick cannot be deemed a complete failure, as Hampton's tenure with the Magic was solid, and the Nuggets were able to acquire Aaron Gordon, who became an integral part of their championship team.
25. New York Knicks: SG Immanuel Quickly - Grade: A
At the time, selecting Immanuel Quickly as the 25th overall draft pick was considered a stretch, with many scouts projecting him as a late second-rounder or potentially undrafted. The Knicks took a gamble and chose him 25th overall. This move proved fruitful as Quickly became an excellent player for the Knicks, averaging 13.6 points, 2.9 assists, and 2.9 rebounds per game during his tenure with the team.
Quickly proved to be a reliable free-throw shooter, making 85.7% of his attempts. Quickly was later traded to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for Ogugua "OG" Anunoby, a trade that turned out to be beneficial for both parties as Quickly improved in his first season with Toronto, starting in every game he played.
Considering he was a late-round pick, Quickley has had a commendable career with the team, and it wouldn't be surprising if the Raptors offered him an extension, especially given the expansion of his role.
26. Boston Celtics: PG Payton Pritchard - Grade: B+
Payton Pritchard has proven to be a valuable depth player for the talent-rich Boston Celtics. He secured a significant amount of playing time and achieved a career-high last season, averaging 9.6 points, 3.4 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game. Despite rumors that Boston considered trading him to strengthen the team, the Celtics ultimately chose to retain him, rewarding his performance with a four-year contract extension.
Earning his place as a late first-round pick, Pritchard also boasts an NBA Championship on his resume, a commendable achievement for both him and the Boston franchise.
27. Utah Jazz: C Udoka Azubuike - Grade: BILLY KING
The selection of Udoka Azubuike in the first round was a puzzling decision, as he was anticipated to be an undrafted rookie by most scouts. Perhaps the Utah Jazz foresaw Rudy Gobert's potential departure and sought to develop a center in advance.
After the Jazz traded Gobert to Minnesota, Azubuike saw more playing time. However, he struggled to make a significant impact in games or on defense. His progress was further hampered by a foot/ankle injury that sidelined him for the majority of the 2021/22 NBA season.
Ultimately, the Utah Jazz chose to release him, and Azubuike went on to sign with the Phoenix Suns. There, he has primarily served as a reserve player. Indeed, this draft pick did not meet expectations.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves: SF Jaden McDaniels - Grade: A
McDaniels is such an underrated asset on the Timberwolves' team. He is arguably one of the best defenders they have, which is notable given the array of talent in Minnesota.
Moreover, his shooting skills are solid, and he makes a significant offensive contribution. He certainly justified his first-round selection and the five-year contract extension he secured with Minnesota. The Timberwolves redeemed themselves with this selection after the disappointing Bolmaro pick.
29. Toronto Raptors: PG Malachi Flynn - Grade: D+
Malachi Flynn is an average player in the NBA. His performance as a shooter and defender is inconsistent, yet he is reliable at free throws. His role is primarily that of a rotational player or benchwarmer.
He was involved in the trade that brought Ogugua "OG" Anunoby to the New York Knicks, after which he was traded to the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Bojan Bogdanovic. Since his departure from Toronto, he has not started in an NBA game, and it seems unlikely he will secure a starting position unless injuries severely impact his team.
At least Flynn can say he scored 50 points in an NBA game. Can't take that away from him no matter how the rest of his career turns out.
30. Memphis Grizzles: SG Desmond Bane - Grade: A
Desmond Bane almost fell out of the first round of the draft. It's still astonishing to reflect on how Desmond Bane nearly missed being a first-round draft pick, especially since he was among the top shooters selected. His transition to the NBA has been seamless, proving to be a reliable 3-point shooter for Memphis. Bane has an impressive career average of 17.4 points per game.
The Grizzlies secured a fantastic player in Bane and rightfully earned an A grade for this pick. The only factor preventing an A+ is Bane's injury history. As the final pick in the first round, the Grizzlies indeed made a remarkable choice with this pick.
So those are my regrades for the 1st round of the 2020 NBA Draft. What do you guys think? Do you agree? Do you Disagree? How would you regrade the 2020 NBA Draft? Leave your thoughts in the comment section and don't forget to give a like on this article, along with checking Stadium Rant's NBA content.