9. Washington Wizards – Tyrese Haliburton, G
Tyrese Haliburton would be my choice as the safest pick in the lottery. It feels certain that Haliburton will manage to have a long NBA career – although he may never be a star at any point.
While that is enough of a reason to deter many teams from choosing him, it shouldn’t turn the Washington Wizards away. The franchise is doing its best to cling onto Bradley Beal by surrounding him with capable talent. A high-IQ point guard with strong playmaking and defensive capabilities could push the Wizards into the postseason.
Haliburton averaged 15.2 points 6.5 assists and 5.9 rebounds in 22 games for Iowa State. The sophomore earned a spot on the All-Big 12 team and should translate well to the NBA level.
The only issue here is if John Wall makes a healthy return to the Wizards. But, having Haliburton lead the charge with the second unit isn’t a bad thing. Plus, here is there for depth if Wall has more injury concerns.