NBA Mock Draft Pick #1 -- Nerlens Noel, Center, Kentucky
SB Nation's Cavs blog Fear the Sword explains the pick:
For us, this is the easiest pick in the draft. We're operating under the assumption that Nerlens Noel's knee is just fine and his ACL recovery is coming along smoothly. Everything that his doctors and trainers have said in the past few days indicate that that's the truth and we have no reason to believe otherwise. Once that is settled, this is a no-brainer.
Noel is a "freak of nature" athlete, has an enormous wingspan, a terrific motor, and incredible defensive instincts. He's one of the best shot blockers that I've ever seen and that fills a huge need for the Cavaliers.
Cleveland allowed one of the highest FG% in the restricted area last season and a rim-protector like Noel is exactly what they need.
In this draft, every prospect will have question marks so the Cavs will happily deal with Noel's lack of a polished offensive game and need to put on muscle. He's 19-years-old, probably isn't done developing physically, and has plenty of time to develop as an offensive threat. With Kyrie Irving and Dion Waiters in the backcourt, the Cavs can afford let their front court focus more on improving one of the worst defenses in the NBA.
Plus: Noel has a sweet flat top.
SB Nation Scouting Report: Nerlens Noel
Updated 2013 NBA Mock Draft Board:
1. Cleveland Cavaliers: NERLENS NOEL2. Orlando Magic 3. Washington Wizards 4. Charlotte Hornets 5. Phoenix Suns 6. New Orleans Pelicans 7. Sacramento Kings 8. Detroit Pistons 9. Minnesota Timberwolves 10. Portland Trail Blazers11. Philadelphia 76ers12. Oklahoma City Thunder13. Dallas Mavericks 14. Utah Jazz 15. Milwaukee Bucks 16. Boston Celtics 17. Atlanta Hawks 18. Atlanta Hawks 19. Cleveland Cavaliers 20. Chicago Bulls 21. Utah Jazz 22. Brooklyn Nets 23. Indiana Pacers 24. New York Knicks25. Los Angeles Clippers 26. Minnesota Timberwolves 27. Denver Nuggets 28. San Antonio Spurs 29. Oklahoma City Thunder30. Phoenix Suns