Chad Ford from ESPN has released his first NBA mock draft of the season. Of course, this is based on the current standings and will likely change after the lottery has run its course. It's also assuming no trades and no workouts so far by the teams. For now, he has the Jazz taking Knight and Burks (Insider):
#6 Brandon Knight
Analysis: The Jazz acquired this pick in their February trade-deadline deal with the Nets. They lost their All-Star point guard Deron Williams in the deal but picked up this pick, Derrick Favors and Devin Harris in return. The Jazz like Harris but see Knight as a potential franchise player down the road.
Knight's freshman season was up and down, but he has a few qualities that make him a terrific fit in Utah. He is big, plays defense, shoots the ball well, and is a great kid on and off the court. He should be a perfect fit with the Jazz.
And at #12, Alec Burks
Analysis: The Jazz have traditionally lacked a scoring athletic slasher in the backcourt. It's been an acknowledged need for years. This might be the year that brings changes. Burks is one of the most athletic guards in the draft. He has a quick first step and is a terrific finisher at the rim. His lack of a consistent jump shot and motor lowers his stock a bit. But at this point in the draft, he's worth the risk.
For what it's worth, he has the Suns taking Jimmer Fredette at #13. That move makes sense given Steve Nash's age and uncertain future with the team. They do have Aaron Brooks who they just obtained from Houston, but Jimmer could find a home there.
What we can be sure of is that the future of current Jazz players could ride on who is selected in the draft. Picking Hayward signaled the end of Kyle Korver's tenure in Utah. Picking a point guard could spell the end of Devin Harris. Selecting a wing might close the chapter on CJ Miles or Andrei Kirilenko.