Kentucky has three players projected to be drafted in the latest NBA mock draft from Bleacher Report.
Jayden Quaintance is currently projected at No. 15.
Most concerning for Kentucky fans is likely center Malachi Moreno, who is at No. 31 in the latest update. That is the first pick in the second round and definitely something to keep an eye on. If he impresses in workouts and slips into the first round, that would be a tremendous loss for the Wildcats heading into next season.
Otega Oweh is currently sitting at No. 47.
Here are some excerpts:
15. Chicago Bulls (via Blazers): Jayden Quaintance (Kentucky)
15 of 60
Gonzaga v Kentucky
Position: PF | Size: 6’10”, 255 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Derrick Favors
Jayden Quaintance lasted four games for Kentucky after trying to return 10 months after last year’s torn ACL. Scouts aren’t banking on seeing him again this year, which creates a tricky evaluation and draft decision for a sophomore who’s still younger than most freshmen.
The long-term ceiling that looked so appealing at Arizona State hasn’t changed. But with questions about his availability, health and current stage of development, it’s becoming more likely that he could lose support from certain teams desperate for a sure thing.
At full strength, Quaintance looks like an outstanding defensive prospect due to his frame, length and shot-blocking rate. He was always behind offensively, but he’s delivered enough flashes of low-post touch, driving ability and shotmaking for scouts to picture some long-term scoring potential to unlock.
31. New York Knicks: Malachi Moreno (Kentucky)
31 of 60
Santa Clara v Kentucky
Position: C | Size: 7’0″, 250 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Nick Richards
With NIL bringing back a number of projected first-rounders, Malachi Moreno has a chance to capitalize during the draft process.
There is already enough intrigue around a 19-year-old, 7-footer with strong shot-blocking and passing metrics, plus some touch indicators. Certain teams would prefer to gamble on a freshman with Moreno’s tools, production, impact and historically translatable/valued archetype, rather than a projected 23-year-old rookie in a shallow draft.
Scrimmages at the NBA combine will represent a huge opportunity for Moreno to generate more first-round interest.
47. Phoenix Suns (via 76ers): Otega Oweh (Kentucky)
47 of 60
NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament – Second Round – St. Louis
Position: SG/SF | Size: 6’4″, 220 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Norman Powell
A strong second half of the season helped revive Otega Oweh’s NBA draft chances. He carried Kentucky to its first NCAA tournament win with 35 points against Santa Clara. Playing a larger role that allowed for more on-ball reps and shots, he wound up with career-highs of 45 threes and 2.7 assists.
Though he misses a specialty skill, Oweh’s on/off-ball versatility and defense could draw second-round interest.
