There is no word yet on where the Denver Nuggets will focus. Assuming they concentrate on improving their defense, Willie Cauley-Stein could be their guy.
The 7-foot 240 pounder has been known to be a defensive wiz in college, a shot-blocker who knows how to swipe the ball. The former Kentucky player is one of the players expected to be gone in the first round though it remains to be seen how fast.
The Nuggets hold the 7th pick in the coming 2015 NBA Draft and could acquire the former Kentucky cager unless teams before the Nuggets beat them to him.
For a tall player that carries uncanny versatility, Cauley-Stein should be a steal for the Nuggets or any team for that matter. He provides the necessary defensive player any team would love to get. In fact, he is likened to a former Nugget known for his tenacious defense, Kenyon Martin.
While his defensive side is undoubtedly something to look forward to, his offensive end needs work. Cauley-Stein did show he has a mid-range shot as well as some behind the arc, though much of that may not be needed wherever he lands.
For his height, Cauley-Stein may need to work on his post-up game and be willing to take the contact and convert. In the NBA, 7-footers have not been known to settle for jump shots unless they are consistent and already have an inside game.
There are other teams targeting Cauley-Stein though he may have to wait for the other rookie prospect favorites to go before he does. It is likely that interest in him will start at the fifth pick which is owned by the Orlando Magic.
The Sacramento Kings pick 6th before the Nuggets get their turn.
With the first and second pick practically known, the Philadelphia 76ers and the New York Knicks could draft him. But this would all depend on their needs.
It is believed that after Karl-Anthony Towns and/or Jahlil Okafor, either Emmanuel Mudiay or D' Angelo Russell would be the next in line.
If the Sixers and the Knicks decide to go big, then Cauley-Stein stands to be drafted ahead of the two guards.
