2019 NBA Draft: Full Mock Draft 1.0, Atlanta Hawks Take Two Stars
By Chris Guest
#13. Miami Heat – PJ Washington
After an uninspiring freshman campaign, PJ Washington out of Kentucky came back renewed and refreshed and delivered a sterling sophomore campaign that saw him in the conversation for SEC Player of the Year. Though the honors went to Grant Williams of Tennessee, Washington might get the better prize of being drafted in the NBA lottery.
If all anyone watched was Washington’s NCAA Tournament run, you’d be forgiven for thinking Washington is a surefire Top 5 pick. PJ completely dominated during the tournament, and he almost single-handedly pushed the Wildcats in the Final Four past the Auburn Tigers with a bonkers 28-point, 13-rebound performance:
In his sophomore season, Washington played 12 more minutes but produced new career-highs in points scored, rebounds, assists, steals and blocks – all the while producing two less turnovers and fouling 14 less times. A stunning turnaround.
Beyond his statistical argument, Washington carries himself with an inimitable swagger and plays with a snarl, something that should translate to the next level regardless of how impactful he is. An excellent with a solid defensive pedigree, Washington should thrive in Erik Spoelstra’s Miami Heat system.