1. Kyle Filipowski, PF/C, Duke (Bleacher Report 23rd Pick)
Taking the top spot is Kyle Filipowski of Duke, who Bleacher Report has the Bucks taking in the first round. He is 6-foot-11 and is versatile enough to play at the four or five with an ability to stretch the floor. Filipowski could be the center that takes over from Brook Lopez in the long run.
In the 2023-24 season with Duke, he averaged 16.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.5 blocks on splits of .505/.348/.671. He can play any role in the offense, as he possesses the skills to be a ball-handler and run actions, but he is still strong in the screening and cutting game, too. Surrounding him with shooters could be the way to get the best out of him, so a pick-and-roll involving Filipowski and Khris Middleton or Damian Lillard could be a deadly duo with his ability to roll or pop.
That shooting ability is what has him in the top spot, as it separates him from Missi. He could come in and take the role that Lopez plays without taking away the lack of shooting from the center position. Defensively, he is solid and averaged a steal per game to go with his blocks. He likes to get his hands in to disrupt opponents on the perimeter.
The main area he needs to improve is his ability to score at the rim when faced with bigger and more physical defenders. Developing strength and muscle would set him up to be more successful in this area of his game, and that will come with time. Similar to the other players mentioned and most young players in general, turnovers will be something he needs to cut down on, but that comes with the experience of playing.
Filipowski, if available with the 23rd pick, would be an almost perfect player for the Bucks to select. His ability to stretch the floor is what sets him apart, and as the Bucks look for the successor to Lopez, he fits the mold perfectly. The defense is still very strong both on the interior and the perimeter. He looks like a real prospect who could go on to do big things in Milwaukee.
With a month still to go until the NBA Draft, mock drafts may change, and it will be interesting to see who the Bucks invite to their workouts. Make sure to stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks draft news and analysis as the event edges closer.