NBA Mock Draft 2013: Predicting the First 10 Picks

4. Charlotte Bobcats: Alex Len, UNLV (C)

Age: 19 (Freshman)

Height/Weight: 7’1″/255 lbs.

Apr 2, 2013; New York, NY, USA; Maryland Terrapins center Alex Len (25) goes up for a layup over Iowa Hawkeyes center Gabriel Olaseni (0) during the first half of the NIT Tournament semifinal at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Standing a full 7’1″, Alex Len is a physical specimen that’s becoming a hot commodity in the NBA. Much of the NBA runs at least one small-ball lineup, and many are totally without an over seven-foot player at center. That’s where most of Len’s draft stock comes from. That, and potential.

Most of the reason he goes this high is because of his size and what he could be. He’s got a fantastic first step, and displays an uncommon amount of speed for how large he is. His frame is small (as much as it can be at 7’1″, 255), but wide shoulders suggest that he’ll fill out quite easily and very well in the NBA.

He also shows the ability to elevate extremely well and very fast, leading top prospects in blocks per 40 minutes, in spite of missing some of his year due to eligibility concerns due to his overseas play in the Ukraine. Due to his athleticism and size, he also shows the potential to be a game-changer on defense.

The downside to all this is that most of it is speculation. He has potential. He racks up too many fouls too fast, and overall he’s way too raw as a player. But the potential is there. That’s what Charlotte hopes.