2025-11-21 12:00
by
nlpkak
Looking back at the 2018 NBA Draft, it’s fascinating how much our perspectives have shifted in just a few years. At the time, the consensus was pretty clear—Deandre Ayton to the Suns, Marvin Bagley III to the Kings, and Luka Dončić heading to the Hawks before being traded to Dallas. But if we were to redraft today, knowing what we know now, the entire board would look dramatically different. I’ve spent countless hours reviewing game footage, advanced stats, and player development trajectories, and I can confidently say that some franchises would make entirely different choices if given a second chance.
Let’s start with the obvious: Luka Dončić. Back in 2018, there were questions about his athleticism and how his game would translate to the NBA. Fast forward to today, and he’s not just an All-Star—he’s a generational talent who’s already in the MVP conversation. If the Suns had a do-over, I’m convinced they’d take Luka first overall without hesitation. His playmaking, scoring versatility, and clutch performance are off the charts. Just look at his numbers: he’s averaging around 28 points, 9 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game for his career. That’s elite company, and it’s why he’d be the undisputed top pick today.
Then there’s Trae Young, who went fifth to the Mavericks before being swapped for Dončić. In a redraft, I’d slot him right after Luka. Sure, his defense has its limitations, but his offensive impact is undeniable. He’s a walking highlight reel with deep range and elite court vision. I remember watching him drop 49 points and 16 assists in a playoff game—it’s those moments that make you realize his ceiling is sky-high. Meanwhile, players like Jaren Jackson Jr. and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have surged up the board. Shai, in particular, has blossomed into a franchise cornerstone for the Thunder, putting up around 24 points and 5 assists per game while showing remarkable efficiency.
But let’s not forget the role of hindsight in evaluating draft classes. For instance, I’ve always been high on Mikal Bridges, who went 10th to the Sixers and was traded to the Suns. His two-way versatility is exactly what modern NBA teams crave. He’s a lockdown defender who’s improved his scoring every year, and I’d argue he’d go top five in a redraft. On the flip side, some highly-touted picks haven’t panned out as expected. Marvin Bagley III, taken second overall, has struggled with injuries and consistency. If the Kings could go back, I bet they’d opt for someone like Jaren Jackson Jr., whose shot-blocking and floor-spacing would fit perfectly alongside De’Aaron Fox.
What’s interesting is how player development and team fit can alter careers. Take Collin Sexton, for example. He was known for his scoring punch coming out of college, but his growth in Cleveland—and later in Utah—has shown he’s more than just a volume shooter. He’s refined his playmaking and decision-making, and I’d slot him in the late lottery in a redraft. Similarly, Robert Williams III, who fell to the 27th pick, would likely go much higher thanks to his defensive impact and athleticism. His ability to protect the rim and finish lobs makes him a valuable modern big man.
Now, you might wonder how international prospects factor into this. Well, Luka aside, players like Goga Bitadze or Isaac Bonga haven’t made the same splash, but it’s a reminder that drafting is part science, part luck. I’ve spoken with scouts who admit that even with all the data, predicting NBA success is incredibly tough. That’s why redrafts are so compelling—they highlight both the hits and misses. For instance, Michael Porter Jr., who slipped to 14th due to injury concerns, would be a top-10 pick today. His scoring ability and size make him a unique weapon when healthy, though durability remains a question.
In wrapping up, it’s clear that the 2018 class has produced several superstars and solid rotation players. If I were a GM with a time machine, my top five would be: 1. Luka Dončić, 2. Trae Young, 3. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, 4. Jaren Jackson Jr., and 5. Mikal Bridges. Of course, others might disagree—maybe you’re higher on Deandre Ayton or even someone like Mitchell Robinson. But that’s the fun of it; these discussions never have a perfect answer. Ultimately, redrafts remind us that player evaluation is an evolving process, and what seems certain on draft night can look very different just a few years later.
