Staff writer Bill Oram predicts how the first round of Thursday’s NBA draft might unfold. Will the Lakers go with Lonzo Ball at No. 2? Where will Josh Jackson finally land after being linked to so many teams? What about UCLA’s other potential first-round picks?
1. Philadelphia 76ers (From Boston)
Markelle Fultz, PG, Washington
Why Fultz? Philly is selling the farm to get Fultz, the consensus best player in the field. The 76ers sent three first-round picks to Boston and believe he is the missing piece to their dynamic young core. Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons just have to stay healthy.