What If The NBA Team With The Worst Record Got The No. 1 Draft Pick Since 2000

The recent NBA draft lottery left fans and analysts alike in disbelief as the Atlanta Hawks defied the odds, leaping from the 10th to the 1st pick with a mere 3% chance of success. Meanwhile, the Detroit Pistons, enduring another dismal season, found themselves relegated to the 5th spot for the second year running.

This surprising twist has prompted discussions about the potential ramifications if the team with the worst record were granted the No. 1 overall draft pick each year since the 2000 NBA Draft. Join us as we explore this intriguing concept and its potential impact on the NBA landscape.

2000 NBA Draft

Redraft: Los Angeles Clippers select Kenyon Martin

Original selection: New Jersey Nets selected Kenyon Martin

In the 1999-00 NBA season, the Los Angeles Clippers finished with the league's worst record at 15-67. Despite their struggles, they did not secure the top pick in the 2000 NBA Draft; instead, it went to the New Jersey Nets, who chose Kenyon Martin first overall out of the University of Cincinnati. If the Clippers had received the No. 1 pick under a different draft system, they likely would have selected Martin as well.

Kenyon Martin's rookie season with the Nets saw him average 12.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. He quickly established himself as a strong presence in the paint and a key player for New Jersey's future. For the Clippers, having Martin could have provided a much-needed boost to their frontcourt and potentially altered their trajectory in the early 2000s.

2001 NBA Draft

Redraft: Chicago Bulls select Kwame Brown

Original selection: Washington Wizards selected Kwame Brown

In the 2000-01 NBA season, the Chicago Bulls finished with the worst record in the league at 15-67, similar to the Los Angeles Clippers the previous year. They were last in the Eastern Conference and had significant struggles on both ends of the floor. If the draft rules favored the team with the worst record, the Bulls would have had the first pick, instead of their actual fourth overall pick.

Kwame Brown, selected by the Washington Wizards as the first overall pick, came straight from high school with high expectations. His rookie season stats included 4.5 points and 3.5 rebounds per game, which were modest. Over his career, Brown struggled to live up to the expectations of a number-one pick, but he did have moments where his potential shone through, providing solid defense and rebounding.

For the Bulls, drafting Brown could have been seen as an attempt to rebuild around a young, raw talent, potentially altering their rebuilding strategy during the early 2000s. His presence might have changed the dynamic of the team, but given his overall career trajectory, it's uncertain how much impact he would have had on improving the Bulls' fortunes immediately.

2002 NBA Draft

Redraft: Golden State Warriors select Yao Ming

Original selection: Houston Rockets selected Yao Ming

The Golden State Warriors finished the 2001-2002 NBA season with the league’s worst record at 21-61, placing them at the bottom of the Pacific Division and last overall in the Western Conference. This dismal record would have granted them the first pick in the draft, instead of their actual third overall pick.

Yao Ming, originally chosen by the Houston Rockets, was the first-ever Chinese player to become the number-one pick in the NBA Draft. In his rookie season, Yao averaged 13.5 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game, quickly becoming a fan favorite and a symbol of the NBA’s global reach. His impressive skill set, especially his shooting touch for a 7-foot-6 center, made him a unique and impactful player in the league.

For the Warriors, selecting Yao would have dramatically changed their team dynamics. His size and skill could have provided them with a franchise centerpiece to build around, potentially altering the trajectory of the franchise well before the emergence of their later championship core.

2003 NBA Draft

Redraft: Denver Nuggets select LeBron James

Original selection: Cleveland Cavaliers selected LeBron James

In the 2002-2003 NBA season, both the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Denver Nuggets finished with identical dismal records of 17-65. However, for the purpose of this redraft scenario where the team with the worst offensive output gets the first pick, the Nuggets would have been awarded the top selection due to their lower average of 84.2 points per game compared to the Cavaliers' 91.4.

LeBron James, famously drafted by his home-state Cleveland Cavaliers as the first overall pick, was one of the most highly anticipated players coming out of high school. In his rookie season, LeBron averaged 20.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, immediately proving his potential as a generational talent and future NBA superstar.

Had the Denver Nuggets selected LeBron, the entire landscape of the NBA might have been altered. Getting LeBron instead of Carmelo Anthony, who was actually selected third overall by Denver in reality, could have formed one of the most dynamic teams in league history. This move would have dramatically shifted the balance of power in the Western Conference and could have set the Nuggets on a path to becoming a perennial contender much earlier in their timeline.

2004 NBA Draft

Redraft: Orlando Magic select Dwight Howard

Original selection: Orlando Magic selected Dwight Howard

In the 2003-04 NBA season, the Orlando Magic finished with the league's worst record at 21-61. This poor performance placed them last in the Eastern Conference and naturally positioned them to receive the first overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft, which indeed they did under the actual draft system.

Dwight Howard, selected directly from high school, was the Magic's choice at number one. He made an immediate impact in his rookie season, averaging 12.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game. Howard's exceptional athleticism and defensive prowess quickly established him as one of the top centers in the league and a cornerstone for the Magic.

Had the draft rules been altered to ensure that the worst team always received the first pick, the outcome for the Magic in 2004 would have been the same. Dwight Howard's selection and subsequent development into a superstar would still have been pivotal in shaping the Magic’s future, leading them to a Finals appearance in 2009 and several strong playoff runs.

2005 NBA Draft

Redraft: Atlanta Hawks select Andrew Bogut

Original selection: Milwaukee Bucks selected Andrew Bogut

In the 2004-05 NBA season, the Atlanta Hawks finished with the league's worst record at 13-69, solidly placing them last in the Southeast Division and across the entire NBA. This performance would have secured them the first pick in the 2005 NBA Draft under our hypothetical scenario where the worst team automatically receives the top selection.

Andrew Bogut was the actual first overall pick by the Milwaukee Bucks. Coming out of the University of Utah, where he was recognized as the consensus national college player of the year, Bogut was a highly skilled center with a robust all-around game. In his rookie season, he averaged 9.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, showing promise as a foundational player.

For the Hawks, selecting Bogut would have provided them with a significant presence in the middle, potentially altering their team-building strategy. Bogut's ability to impact both ends of the floor could have complemented the young core the Hawks were developing during that period, possibly accelerating their return to competitiveness in the Eastern Conference.

2006 NBA Draft

Redraft: Portland Trail Blazers select Andrea Bargnani

Original selection: Toronto Raptors selected Andrea Bargnani

In the 2005-06 NBA season, the Portland Trail Blazers finished with the league's worst record at 21-61. This abysmal record placed them at the bottom of the Western Conference and would have earned them the number one pick in our alternate draft scenario.

Andrea Bargnani was originally selected by the Toronto Raptors as the first overall pick in the 2006 NBA Draft. Coming from Italy, Bargnani was noted for his shooting ability, versatility, and was often compared to Dirk Nowitzki due to his skills as a tall forward who could play both inside and outside. In his rookie season, Bargnani averaged 11.6 points and 3.9 rebounds per game, showcasing his offensive talents though he often struggled on defense.

For the Trail Blazers, picking Bargnani could have significantly impacted their team strategy, emphasizing a more European-style, perimeter-oriented game. However, given Bargnani's mixed success in the NBA, it's uncertain how much this would have altered the Trail Blazers' trajectory, which later found success through other draft picks and acquisitions.

2007 NBA Draft

Redraft: Memphis Grizzlies select Greg Oden

Original selection: Portland Trail Blazers selected Greg Oden

In the 2006-07 NBA season, the Memphis Grizzlies finished with the league’s worst record at 22-60. This poor performance would have placed them at the top of the draft order in our hypothetical scenario, where the team with the worst record always receives the first pick.

Greg Oden was originally selected first overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2007 NBA Draft. Coming out of Ohio State, Oden was highly touted as a dominant center with the potential to transform a franchise. His rookie season, however, was delayed due to microfracture surgery on his knee, and his subsequent NBA career was marred by injuries.

Had the Grizzlies selected Oden, it could have significantly shaped their future, potentially pairing him with young talents they had or would acquire. Unfortunately, given Oden’s injury issues, this pick might not have altered the course of the Grizzlies significantly in terms of on-court success, but it would have been a notable what-if scenario in the annals of NBA history.

2008 NBA Draft

Redraft: Miami Heat select Derrick Rose

Original selection: Chicago Bulls selected Derrick Rose

In the 2007-08 NBA season, the Miami Heat finished with the league's worst record at 15-67, placing them last in the Eastern Conference. This dismal record would have guaranteed them the first pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, rather than their actual second pick.

Derrick Rose, originally chosen first overall by his hometown Chicago Bulls, had an electrifying impact from the start. Known for his explosive athleticism and ability to score at will, Rose averaged 16.8 points and 6.3 assists per game in his rookie season. He quickly emerged as one of the league's most dynamic point guards, eventually earning the MVP award in his third season.

For the Miami Heat, selecting Rose would have provided a transformative talent at the point guard position, potentially altering their rebuilding plans significantly. Pairing Rose with Dwyane Wade could have created one of the most formidable backcourts in the NBA, offering a different trajectory for the Heat before they eventually formed their "Big Three" with LeBron James and Chris Bosh.

2009 NBA Draft

Redraft: Sacramento Kings select Blake Griffin

Original selection: Los Angeles Clippers selected Blake Griffin

In the 2008-09 NBA season, the Sacramento Kings finished with the league's worst record at 17-65, firmly placing them at the bottom of the Western Conference. This performance would have secured them the first pick in the 2009 NBA Draft in our alternate scenario.

Blake Griffin, originally the first overall pick by the Los Angeles Clippers, was an immediate sensation in the NBA. Known for his high-flying dunks and dynamic play, Griffin didn't play in his original rookie season due to a knee injury but made a stunning debut in the following year, averaging 22.5 points and 12.1 rebounds per game, which eventually earned him the Rookie of the Year honor.

For the Kings, having Griffin could have significantly boosted their frontcourt and provided a charismatic star to build around, potentially altering their fortunes much earlier. Griffin's presence might have not only filled seats but also created a new exciting era for the franchise.

2010 NBA Draft

Redraft: New Jersey Nets select John Wall

Original selection: Washington Wizards selected John Wall

In the 2009-10 NBA season, the New Jersey Nets finished with the league's worst record at 12-70, which was the lowest in the NBA and solidified their position at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. In this hypothetical scenario, this would have secured them the first overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft.

John Wall, the original first overall pick by the Washington Wizards, was renowned for his speed and playmaking abilities right from his debut. In his rookie season, Wall averaged 16.4 points, 8.3 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, showcasing his potential as a franchise point guard.

For the Nets, selecting Wall could have dramatically altered their rebuilding process. His dynamic presence and leadership might have accelerated the team's development, potentially making them a more attractive destination sooner in the league, especially as they were preparing to transition to Brooklyn. Wall's ability to attract other talents could have changed the trajectory of the franchise before they eventually formed their own star-studded lineup years later.

2011 NBA Draft

Redraft: Minnesota Timberwolves select Kyrie Irving

Original selection: Cleveland Cavaliers selected Kyrie Irving

In the 2010-11 NBA season, the Minnesota Timberwolves finished with the league’s worst record at 17-65, placing them at the bottom of the Western Conference. This dismal record would have assured them the first overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft under our hypothetical scenario.

Kyrie Irving, originally selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers, made an immediate impact in the NBA with his extraordinary ball-handling skills and scoring ability. In his rookie year, Irving averaged 18.5 points and 5.4 assists per game, quickly establishing himself as one of the premier point guards in the league and earning the Rookie of the Year honors.

For the Timberwolves, having Irving could have significantly changed the dynamic of their team. Pairing him with young talents like Kevin Love might have propelled the team into playoff contention sooner, potentially altering the course of the franchise's history. Irving's ability to take over games and attract viewers could have also brought a new level of excitement and attention to Minnesota basketball.

2012 NBA Draft

Redraft: Charlotte Hornets select Anthony Davis

Original selection: New Orleans Pelicans selected Anthony Davis

In the 2011-12 NBA season, the Charlotte Hornets (then known as the Bobcats) finished with the league's worst record at a historically low 7-59, clearly placing them at the bottom of the entire NBA. This abysmal performance would have assured them the first overall pick in our hypothetical scenario for the 2012 NBA Draft.

Anthony Davis, originally picked by the New Orleans Pelicans (then known as the Hornets), was highly anticipated coming out of the University of Kentucky where he had won the NCAA championship and numerous Player of the Year awards. In his rookie season, Davis averaged 13.5 points, 8.2 rebounds, and an impressive 1.8 blocks per game, showcasing his potential as a franchise-altering big man with his defensive prowess and expanding offensive game.

For the Hornets, securing Davis could have dramatically shifted the trajectory of their franchise. His defensive capabilities and growing offensive skill set would have provided the cornerstone they desperately needed to rebuild effectively. Davis's presence might have also helped attract other high-caliber players to Charlotte, accelerating their transition into becoming a competitive team in the Eastern Conference.

2013 NBA Draft

Redraft: Orlando Magic select Anthony Bennett

Original selection: Cleveland Cavaliers selected Anthony Bennett

In the 2012-13 NBA season, the Orlando Magic finished with the league's worst record at 20-62, placing them firmly at the bottom of the NBA. This performance would have secured them the first overall pick in our hypothetical scenario for the 2013 NBA Draft.

Anthony Bennett, originally selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers, is widely considered one of the most surprising first overall picks and unfortunately one of the biggest draft busts in NBA history. In his rookie season, Bennett struggled significantly, averaging just 4.2 points and 3.0 rebounds per game. His difficulties in adapting to the NBA's pace and physicality were evident from the start.

For the Magic, selecting Bennett would likely not have altered their rebuilding process positively. His challenges in establishing himself in the league would have continued in Orlando, and the pick could have been seen as a missed opportunity to select other impactful players from the 2013 draft class.

Notably, Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was selected 15th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks, emerged as a superstar and multiple MVP winner. Additionally, Victor Oladipo, who was originally picked by the Magic at second overall, proved to be a very successful selection, developing into an All-Star player. Choosing Bennett over these talents would have been a significant setback in their efforts to rebuild a competitive team.

2014 NBA Draft

Redraft: Milwaukee Bucks select Andrew Wiggins

Original selection: Cleveland Cavaliers selected Andrew Wiggins

In the 2013-14 NBA season, the Milwaukee Bucks finished with the league's worst record at 15-67, securing the worst spot in the Eastern Conference. This dismal performance would have granted them the first overall pick in our hypothetical scenario for the 2014 NBA Draft.

Andrew Wiggins, originally selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers and later traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves, came into the NBA with high expectations due to his athleticism and scoring ability. In his rookie season, Wiggins averaged 16.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, earning the NBA Rookie of the Year award.

For the Bucks, selecting Wiggins could have significantly altered their rebuilding trajectory. While Wiggins showed promise as a high-scoring wing, his impact might not have been as transformative as Giannis Antetokounmpo, who the Bucks had actually drafted the previous year. Integrating Wiggins into a team with Giannis could have potentially changed the dynamic and development paths for both players, influencing how the team structured its growth and strategy around these two young stars.

2015 NBA Draft

Redraft: Minnesota Timberwolves select Karl-Anthony Towns

Original selection: Minnesota Timberwolves selected Karl-Anthony Towns

In the 2014-15 NBA season, the Minnesota Timberwolves finished with the league’s worst record at 16-66, securing their position at the bottom of the Western Conference. This performance naturally granted them the first overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, a scenario that aligns with both the actual outcome and our hypothetical redraft system.

Karl-Anthony Towns, selected by the Timberwolves, made an immediate and substantial impact in the NBA. In his rookie year, Towns averaged 18.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game, showcasing his versatility and effectiveness both inside and on the perimeter. His performance earned him the NBA Rookie of the Year award, and he quickly established himself as one of the premier centers in the league.

For the Timberwolves, retaining Towns in this redraft scenario reaffirms their actual draft decision, recognizing it as the optimal choice given their circumstances. Towns has been a cornerstone for the franchise, embodying the role of a franchise player and significantly shaping the team’s identity and competitive aspirations.

2016 NBA Draft

Redraft: Philadelphia 76ers select Ben Simmons

Original selection: Philadelphia 76ers selected Ben Simmons

In the 2015-16 NBA season, the Philadelphia 76ers finished with the league's worst record at 10-72, securing the first overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, where they originally selected Ben Simmons. Known for his playmaking abilities and versatility, Simmons' career has been a blend of high expectations and complex challenges. Although his initial seasons were promising, highlighted by winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award and multiple All-Star appearances, his trajectory took a significant turn some years ago.

Simmons faced intense scrutiny following the 2021 Eastern Conference Semifinals, where his reluctance to shoot became a major talking point. His performance in that series, particularly his hesitancy in critical moments, led to widespread criticism and raised questions about his fit with the 76ers' championship aspirations. This culminated in Simmons requesting a trade, leading to a prolonged standoff with the franchise that sidelined him for an entire season. He was eventually traded to the Brooklyn Nets in 2022.

For the 76ers, retaining Simmons in this redraft scenario would still underline their initial decision based on his potential and early contributions. However, the developments since 2021 highlight the complexities of building around a player whose skills are as unique as they are limiting in certain playoff contexts.

2017 NBA Draft

Redraft: Brooklyn Nets select Markelle Fultz

Original selection: Philadelphia 76ers selected Markelle Fultz

In the 2016-17 NBA season, the Brooklyn Nets finished with the league’s worst record at 20-62, placing them at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. However, due to previous trades, notably the 2013 trade with the Boston Celtics involving Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Jason Terry, the Nets had traded away multiple future first-round picks, including their 2017 first-round pick. This pick ultimately conveyed to the Boston Celtics, who then traded it to the Philadelphia 76ers, allowing the 76ers to select first overall.

Markelle Fultz, chosen by the 76ers, came into the NBA with great expectations as a dynamic guard from the University of Washington, where he averaged 23.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game in his lone college season. However, shortly after beginning his professional career, Fultz suffered from a shoulder injury that significantly affected his shooting mechanics and overall performance. This issue became a major talking point and led to him playing only 14 games in his rookie season, where he averaged 7.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game.

The saga of Fultz's injury and his struggle to regain his college form led to his eventual trade from the 76ers to the Orlando Magic in 2019. In Orlando, he showed signs of overcoming some of his earlier difficulties, becoming a regular starter and improving his stats to average 12.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 5.2 assists in the 2019-20 season before suffering a torn ACL in January 2021. His career has been marked by gradual improvements interspersed with significant health setbacks.

For the Nets, had they retained their pick and selected Fultz, it would have represented a gamble on revitalizing a player whose early career was plagued by physical and mental hurdles. The narrative of Fultz's career might have evolved differently with the change in team context, support systems, and perhaps less intense media scrutiny compared to Philadelphia.

2018 NBA Draft

Redraft: Phoenix Suns select Luka Doncic

Original selection: Phoenix Suns selected Deandre Ayton

In the 2017-18 NBA season, the Phoenix Suns finished with the league's worst record at 21-61, placing them firmly at the bottom of the Western Conference. This performance secured them the first overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. The Suns opted for Deandre Ayton, a center from the University of Arizona. Choosing Ayton was seen as a strategic fit, as he was a local standout and the Suns were in need of a dominant center to anchor their lineup.

Ayton's impact was immediate; in his rookie season, he averaged 16.3 points and 10.3 rebounds per game, displaying his potential as a two-way player. His presence in the paint and rebounding ability helped to solidify the Suns' interior, and over the seasons, he developed into a key component of their core. Ayton played a crucial role in the Suns' run to the NBA Finals in 2021, demonstrating his value as a high-caliber center in the league.

However, in this redraft scenario, if the Suns had selected Luka Doncic, they would have acquired a player with an extraordinary all-around game, known for his scoring, playmaking, and clutch performances. While Doncic could have potentially transformed the Suns' backcourt dynamics alongside Devin Booker, Ayton's selection addressed their immediate needs in the frontcourt and contributed significantly to their growth and success in subsequent seasons.

2019 NBA Draft

Redraft: New York Knicks select Zion Williamson

Original selection: New Orleans Pelicans selected Zion Williamson

In the 2018-19 NBA season, the New York Knicks finished with the league's worst record at 17-65, placing them firmly at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. This performance would have secured them the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft under our hypothetical scenario, instead of the third pick which they actually held.

Zion Williamson, originally selected by the New Orleans Pelicans, entered the NBA with tremendous hype, largely due to his explosive athleticism and dominant performances at Duke University. In his debut NBA season, despite being limited by injuries, Zion averaged 22.5 points and 6.3 rebounds per game over 24 games, showcasing his potential as a franchise-altering talent.

For the Knicks, selecting Zion could have dramatically changed the franchise's direction and energy. His star power and electrifying play style would have brought excitement and hope to a fanbase eager for a turnaround. Moreover, Zion's presence could have made the Knicks more attractive to other high-profile players and free agents, potentially accelerating their rebuild and enhancing their status in the league.

2020 NBA Draft

Redraft: Golden State Warriors select Anthony Edwards

Original selection: Minnesota Timberwolves selected Anthony Edwards

In the 2019-20 NBA season, the Golden State Warriors finished with the league's worst record at 15-50, largely due to injuries to key players like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. This performance would have secured them the first overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft under our hypothetical scenario, instead of the second pick that they actually held.

Anthony Edwards, originally selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves, has emerged as a prominent figure in the NBA with his explosive athleticism and scoring ability. In his rookie season, Edwards averaged 19.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. His development has been impressive, and in the 2024 NBA playoffs, he has averaged 32.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists over 8 games. His performance has been crucial in the Timberwolves' current postseason, which includes a stunning victory over the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets, in the first game of the Western Conference Semifinals where he scored 43 points.

For the Warriors, selecting Edwards could have provided them with a high-impact player capable of contributing immediately and offering a new dimension to their offense. His ability to create his own shot and finish at the rim would complement the shooting prowess of Curry and Thompson, potentially forming a formidable trio as the Warriors looked to return to championship contention. Edwards’ presence could have also provided valuable depth and youth to an aging roster, positioning the Warriors well for both immediate impact and future development.

2021 NBA Draft

Redraft: Houston Rockets select Cade Cunningham

Original selection: Detroit Pistons selected Cade Cunningham

During the 2020-21 NBA season, the Houston Rockets ended up with the league’s lowest win total at 17-55, positioning them at the bottom of the Western Conference standings. Under our hypothetical redraft scenario, this record would have ensured them the first overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, as opposed to their actual third overall selection.

Cade Cunningham, who was initially picked by the Detroit Pistons, came into the NBA highly touted from his time at Oklahoma State. Known for his scoring, playmaking, and poised leadership, Cunningham was a versatile guard who seemed ready to take on the NBA from the get-go. In his debut season with Detroit, he posted averages of 17.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, quickly establishing himself as a key player capable of shouldering significant responsibilities on the court.

Choosing Cunningham could have been a game-changer for the Rockets, providing them with a cornerstone player around whom they could shape their rebuilding efforts. His ability to score from multiple levels, combined with his vision and leadership, would likely have been invaluable for a Houston team in need of direction and stability. Cunningham's presence could have significantly sped up the Rockets' timeline for returning to relevance in the NBA.

2022 NBA Draft

Redraft: Houston Rockets select Paolo Banchero

Original selection: Orlando Magic selected Paolo Banchero

Throughout the 2021-22 NBA season, the Houston Rockets struggled significantly, compiling the league’s worst record at 20-62. This placed them last in the Western Conference. Under our redraft scenario, this record would have positioned them to pick first in the 2022 NBA Draft, rather than their actual third overall selection.

Paolo Banchero, originally taken by the Orlando Magic, made his NBA debut after a strong college career at Duke. He quickly demonstrated why he was highly regarded, with his ability to score from multiple positions on the floor, create for others, and utilize his physical advantages effectively. Banchero’s rookie season was marked by his impressive adaptability and performance, confirming his status as a potential cornerstone player.

Banchero had an impressive rookie year in the NBA. Over the 2022-23 season, he averaged 20.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game. His standout performance also led to him being named the NBA Rookie of the Year, solidifying his status as a key player for the Orlando Magic.

Selecting Banchero could have transformed the Rockets, offering them a multifaceted forward capable of accelerating their rebuilding efforts. His offensive versatility and potential leadership qualities would have been particularly valuable for a Houston team seeking a new face for the franchise in the post-Harden era. With Banchero, the Rockets could have seen a significant enhancement in their competitive prospects, adding a layer of skill and potential star power to their roster.

2023 NBA Draft

Redraft: Detroit Pistons select Victor Wembanyama

Original selection: San Antonio Spurs selected Victor Wembanyama

The Detroit Pistons, finishing the 2022-23 NBA season with a record of 17-65, secured the first overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. This was the worst record in the NBA, marking the third-worst season in the franchise's history and continuing a trend of missing the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year.

If the Pistons had selected Victor Wembanyama, the impact could have been transformative for the franchise. Originally drafted by the San Antonio Spurs, Wembanyama's rookie season was nothing short of phenomenal.

Wembanyama's debut season was nothing short of spectacular. He averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks over 71 games, quickly establishing himself as a force in the league. His ability to impact games on both ends of the floor was evident, as he not only scored efficiently but also altered opponent shots with his remarkable shot-blocking skills. His performance earned him the NBA Rookie of the Year award, setting high expectations for his future contributions to the Spurs.

The Spurs' decision to draft Wembanyama is reminiscent of their historic picks like David Robinson and Tim Duncan, who both led the team to NBA championships. Wembanyama's addition represents a new hope for the franchise to return to its former glory, potentially heralding a new era of success. His rookie performance has set a high bar for future seasons, with the Pistons potentially missing out on a cornerstone player who could have reshaped their future.