3 Projected Second-Round Picks in the NBA Draft Who Could Become Studs

With the NBA Draft fast approaching, hot-take season is in full swing. Though second-round picks rarely amount to much in the NBA, there are always those special players who fight past their draft position and make a name for themselves at the next level. With that in mind, here are three potential second rounders that could end up being home runs.

1. Jontay Porter, Missouri C

Porter is undeniably a first-round talent when healthy, but legitimate questions following his second ACL tear will likely drop his draft stock. He's a skilled passer for a big man, an attribute that has become increasingly more important in an era when the Nikola Jokic prototype is valued more highly than a traditional back-to-the-basket center. Throw in his defensive skills and polished shooting stroke, and Porter could become a massive steal if he's able to stay healthy.

2. Ty Jerome, Virginia PG

Jerome may very well go in the end of the first round, but if he remains on the board in the second, he would absolutely be worth a pick from a team looking for some shooting production. The former Virginia standout is not going to become a ball-dominant star at the next level, but he could provide smart play and long-range shooting ability for a team in the market for a modern utility guard.

3. Terence Davis, Ole Miss SG

Davis is arguably one of the five most athletic prospects in this draft class, and that alone should make him an intriguing pick if he makes it to the second round. He showed steady improvement in his passing and defense over the course of his college career, and his shot-making ability is undeniable. If you have the chance to get an athletic freak with a feel for his jumper in the second round, it's undeniably a top candidate to be a draft day steal.