NBA Mock Draft 2016: Bold Predictions for Low-Profile Prospects

While we are still a long way from the 2016 NBA draft on June 23, there are a number of prospects who aren’t getting the hype they deserve.

Players such as Ben Simmons and Brandon Ingram are getting the most buzz because of their standings as the likely top two picks, while college stars Buddy Hield and Denzel Valentine already have plenty of fans. Other players have generated interest, but some guys still remain relatively anonymous heading into the offseason.

Here is a look at a complete mock draft as well as a breakdown of some prospects who aren’t household names quite yet but could be drafted much higher than anticipated.  

Henry Ellenson, PF, Marquette

This year has a number of one-and-done stars, but it’s tough to remember many getting less hype than Henry Ellenson.

Marquette wasn’t good enough to make the NCAA tournament this season, and since Ellenson didn’t come in with Simmons’ background, it was easy for him to be overlooked. However, the power forward had an impressive season with the Big East team, as head coach Steve Wojciechowski told ESPN Milwaukee:

“Henry had a remarkable freshman year. We gave him a lot of responsibility and he delivered.” – @MarquetteMBB’s @steve_wojo on Ellenson

— ESPN Milwaukee (@ESPNMilwaukee) April 12, 2016

Ellenson averaged 17.0 points and 9.7 rebounds per game while showcasing a wide skill set throughout the year. The 6’11” player has great footwork to help him score in the post to go with a nice shooting touch that extends to the three-point line. Although he shot just 28.8 percent from beyond the arc, he has the talent to be a threat from outside.

On defense, the freshman made an impact with his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities, ranking third in the Big East with a 24.1 percent defensive rebounding rate, per KenPom.com.

The fifth overall pick might be considered …

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