2. John Collins

Age: 19 Size: 6-foot-10, 235 pounds 

2016-17 stats: 19.2 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 0.5 APG

John Collins is another player who will likely be available when the Nuggets hit the clock. A product of Wake Forrest, Collins built a reputation as one of the best above the rim players in the draft. Known for his playmaking on both ends of the floor inside, Collins has the potential to develop into a lethal inside scorer and defender at the next level.

Collins is projected to go anywhere between 13-19 in the draft. The Nuggets are shaping up to be the first legitimate team to seriously consider drafting Collins, and for good reason. Collins style of play would fit Denver’s mold both in the now and the future.

As it stands, the Nuggets are a team filled with youth. Last season, rookies Malik Beasley and Juancho Hernangomez struggled to find consistent playing time, which made for a rookie tour split between the NBA and D-League.

The same thing is expected to happen for whichever players the Nuggets draft. Now, while Collins is certainly equipped to play in the NBA, time spent at the professional level and the newly rebranded G-league would certainly help fine tune Collins’ raw game.

Collins fits the mold of a modern-day forward in that he’s quick, agile, and strong. If he were to come to Denver, he would bring one thing that Denver desperately needs: Defensive identity.

Collins uses his length to his advantage on defense, often forcing his opponents to alter their shots when they enter the paint. In addition to Collins’ presence in the paint, he has developed into quite the rebounder, an area the Nuggets could certainly use help.

While defense is his bread and butter, there is plenty to be excited about with Collins’ offensive potential. Though he is not a prolific scorer, Collins is effective and efficient around the basket and can throw down some wicked dunks. His outside shooting will need some work, but if he were to come to Denver, he would likely find immediate scoring opportunities from Nikola Jokic’s passing ability alone.

Capable of playing and running both ends of the floor, Collins is one of the most intriguing, yet raw, prospects in the draft. Wherever he goes, he will need a lot of work to be set up to thrive in the NBA. If Denver were to pull the trigger and draft him, they would be getting a player who helps their biggest need, defense.