After the conclusion of the NBA draft combine, Bleacher Report unveiled their latest two-round mock draft. With their first-round selection at No. 13, the Miami Heat select Michigan Wolverines forward and recent NCAA champion Yaxel Lendeborg. In the article, Lendeborg is handed a pro comparison of Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon, a longtime veteran who has been an all-around type of player through his stints with the Orlando Magic and Nuggets.
"NBA teams won't put much stock into Yaxel Lendeborg's NBA combine performance or workouts," the article wrote. "There is enough tape of his versatility and gradual improvement as a shooter and defender, and there is clearly enough evidence of high-impact minutes after his national championship run at Michigan."
If the Heat decide to trade Andrew Wiggins or Kel'el Ware, Lendeborg could be a logical target in the draft. Wiggins has a $30 million player option he can opt into this offseason. That salary could still be viewed as a trade piece and Ware could be moved as well as part of a bigger trade. At 6'9", Lendeborg could fit in either forward position or potentially even play small-ball center. The flexibilities are a big part of his game.
The Heat's second-round selection in the mock draft is Iowa State Cyclones forward Joshua Jefferson. In the article, Jefferson is given the pro comparison of a recent familiar face, forward Kyle Anderson. The veteran was with Miami for a few months and was sent from Golden State as part of the blockbuster Jimmy Butler deal before being dealt for Norman Powell last offseason.
"Improved shooting and a new playmaking role have turned Joshua Jefferson into a complete player and believable NBA prospect," the article added. "Aside from the improved three-point efficiency, his passing has really popped the most, particularly for a 6'9", 240-pound forward. But he's tough around the basket with strength and touch, and he's quick and smart defensively. There will be NBA teams that would rather target youth and upside, but Jefferson has turned himself into a popular name with so much versatility and adaptability."
Jefferson dealt with injuries in the NCAA tournament but was a big reason for Iowa State's success this season. Like Lendeborg, Jefferson has flexibilities that could help the Heat's forward rotation. With the team seemingly already regretting the Nikola Jovic extension and Jaime Jaquez Jr.'s future uncertain, Jefferson could slide into a solid role almost immediately.
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