The 2021 NBA Draft class has already made significant waves in the league, showcasing an impressive array of talent. With standout players emerging and others solidifying their roles, it’s time to take a fresh look at how the draft might have unfolded if teams had the benefit of hindsight. This re-draft ranks players based on their performances and potential nearly four years after their initial selection.
1. Cade Cunningham (Original Pick: No. 1)
Career Earnings: $45,599,089
Career Stats: 22.1 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 7.4 APG, 44.6 FG%, 33.9 3P%
Cade Cunningham retains his top spot in this re-draft, a testament to his development into an All-Star and All-NBA caliber player. The Detroit Pistons guard has not only showcased his scoring ability but has also demonstrated leadership, guiding the Pistons back to playoff contention for the first time since the 2018-19 season. His versatility as a scorer and playmaker makes him a cornerstone for Detroit’s future.
2. Evan Mobley (Original Pick: No. 3)
Career Earnings: $36,664,177
Career Stats: 16.4 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 2.9 APG, 54.8 FG%, 31.5 3P%
Evan Mobley, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, has proven to be an exceptional modern big man. His ability to block shots while also contributing offensively has transformed the Cleveland Cavaliers into serious contenders. His skill set and impact on both ends of the floor justify his rise in this re-draft.
3. Alperen Sengun (Original Pick: No. 16)
Career Earnings: $15,550,974
Career Stats: 16.0 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 4.1 APG, 51.8 FG%, 27.2 3P%
Sengun has emerged as a dynamic force for the Houston Rockets, drawing comparisons to Nikola Jokic with his playmaking and scoring ability. His development has been pivotal in Houston’s transition from a rebuild to a competitive team, making him a top-three pick in this re-draft.
4. Scottie Barnes (Original Pick: No. 4)
Career Earnings: $33,064,660
Career Stats: 17.2 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 5.0 APG, 46.6 FG%, 30.0 3P%
Scottie Barnes continues to impress with his all-around game. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the court keeps him firmly in the fourth spot. As the Toronto Raptors look to build around him, his impact will be crucial for their success.
5. Franz Wagner (Original Pick: No. 8)
Career Earnings: $22,781,932
Career Stats: 19.1 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 3.7 APG, 47.4 FG%, 32.2 3P%
Franz Wagner’s offensive skills and versatility have made him a standout player for the Orlando Magic. His ability to score both on and off the ball, combined with his potential for growth, solidifies his position in the top five of this re-draft.
6. Austin Reaves (Original Pick: Undrafted)
Career Earnings: $27,480,288
Career Stats: 14.5 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 4.3 APG, 48.1 FG%, 37.0 3P%
Austin Reaves has become one of the most remarkable success stories, transitioning from undrafted to a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers. His scoring ability and playmaking have earned him a sixth overall pick in this re-draft.
7. Jalen Green (Original Pick: No. 2)
Career Earnings: $40,808,448
Career Stats: 20.1 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.4 APG, 42.2 FG%, 34.2 3P%
While Jalen Green was selected second overall, he drops to seventh in this re-draft. His scoring prowess is undeniable, but inconsistency has held him back from reaching his full potential.
8. Jalen Johnson (Original Pick: No. 20)
Career Earnings: $12,888,585
Career Stats: 11.0 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 2.6 APG, 50.4 FG%, 32.3 3P%
Jalen Johnson has developed into a solid two-way player for the Atlanta Hawks, showcasing his versatility and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor.
9. Jalen Suggs (Original Pick: No. 5)
Career Earnings: $29,955,705
Career Stats: 12.3 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 3.3 APG, 41.9 FG%, 32.9 3P%
Suggs has made strides in his game, becoming a reliable two-way player, although his shooting consistency remains a concern.
10. Josh Giddey (Original Pick: No. 6)
Career Earnings: $27,214,807
Career Stats: 14.1 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 6.1 APG, 46.4 FG%, 33.0 3P%
Josh Giddey has impressed with his unique playmaking ability and rebounding for a guard. His versatility keeps him in the top ten of this re-draft.
Biggest Riser:
Austin Reaves: From undrafted to No. 6
Reaves’ journey from being undrafted to becoming a key contributor for the Lakers is a testament to his hard work and talent.
Highest Picks Not Listed:
Several notable players from the 2021 draft, including James Bouknight (No. 11) and Chris Duarte (No. 13), have yet to make a significant impact, resulting in their exclusion from this re-draft.
As the NBA continues to evolve, the 2021 draft class will undoubtedly shape the future of the league. This re-draft serves as a reflection of the players’ growth and the potential they hold moving forward. Fans can look forward to seeing how these young stars will continue to develop in the coming seasons.