Re-Drafting the 2020 NBA Draft: Haliburton at #1? Wiseman Undrafted?

Joel Piton
1 day ago
17 min read

Five years later, hindsight paints a very different picture. The 2020 NBA Draft was filled with promise, question marks, and bold predictions, but the careers that followed have rewritten expectations entirely. Some prospects soared far beyond their draft slot, others never found their footing, and some lottery picks are out of the league entirely. That’s the beauty and the heartache of the game. But in a world where do-overs are possible, let’s take a step back, reshuffle the order, and see how the first round of the 2020 NBA Draft should’ve unfolded.

Anthony Edwards

Actual Position — No. 1

Career Stats — 23.9 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4.2 APG, 44.6 FG%

Likely a perennial All-Star with Hall of Fame upside, Anthony Edwards has blossomed into everything Minnesota dreamed of when they took him first overall—and maybe even more. At 6’4” with the frame of a linebacker, Edwards has no ceiling when it comes to offense. From highlight-reel dunks to deep-range, there isn’t much he can’t do with the ball in his hands. Beyond the stat sheet, his motor, swagger, and fearless competitiveness have made him the face of the Timberwolves and one of the NBA’s most exciting young superstars. What once looked like a gamble at the top of the draft has turned into a franchise-changing cornerstone.

Tyrese Haliburton

Actual Position — No. 12

Career Stats — 17.5 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 8.8 APG, 47.7 FG%

Haliburton takes a surprising leap in this re-draft, skyrocketing twelve spots from his original selection. The 6’5” floor general has already established himself as one of the premier point guards in the league, leading the NBA in assists at one point and most recently guiding his team on a Finals run. Few guards in history have blended efficiency and unselfishness the way Haliburton has, flirting with multiple 50-40-90 caliber seasons while still keeping his teammates heavily involved. His unique blend of vision, patience, and precision makes him one of the deadliest facilitators in basketball. Once overlooked as just a three-star recruit, Haliburton has turned himself into a perennial All-Star and the type of player every franchise dreams of building around.

LaMelo Ball

Actual Position — No. 3

Career Stats — 21.0 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 7.4 APG, 42.1 FG%

LaMelo stays in the same spot for now. Injuries have clouded much of his young career, keeping him sidelined for long stretches and leaving the Hornets scrambling for competitiveness. But when he’s on the floor, there’s no denying the potential. At 6’8” with elite court vision, Ball sees passing lanes that others can’t, delivering dimes over defenders with ease. Add in his elite handle, deep shooting range and audacious one-legged heaves, and you have one of the most boastful offensive players in basketball. Beyond the numbers, LaMelo’s flair, charisma, and confidence make him a box-office attraction every time he steps on the court. With an All-Star selection already under his belt, the question isn’t if more will follow, but how many once health is on his side.

Tyrese Maxey

Actual Position — No. 21

Career Stats — 19.5 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 4.4 APG, 46.1 FG%

It’s unreal to think Maxey slipped all the way to No. 21 in the original draft. After a quiet rookie campaign, he exploded onto the scene as Philadelphia’s second option, helping push the Sixers deep into the playoffs. Since then, Maxey has worked tirelessly on his game, developing into an offensive machine who thrives in short bursts of scoring flurries that few defenders can contain. Undersized for a traditional shooting guard, he makes up for it with lightning speed, relentless energy as a three-level scorer. Even after an injury-plagued season, Maxey’s upward trajectory is undeniable, and he remains one of the most dynamic guards in the league—proof that late first-round steals can turn a franchise around.

Desmond Bane

Actual Position — No. 30

Career Stats — 17.8 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 3.8 APG, 47.2 FG%

One of the premier sharpshooters in today’s NBA, Desmond Bane has blossomed into far more than just a catch-and-shoot scorer. The former TCU standout has evolved into a 20+ point per game scorer and one of the deadliest perimeter weapons in basketball, boasting a career three-point percentage well above 40%. At 6’5” with a muscular frame, Bane can bully his way to the rim just as easily as he can torch defenses from deep. His underrated playmaking has also come to light, averaging 5 assists last season while serving as a secondary initiator alongside Ja Morant. With strength, efficiency, and an endless green light from beyond the arc, Bane has cemented himself as one of the steals of the 2020 draft class.

Devin Vassell

Actual Position — No. 11

Career Stats — 14.1 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 2.6 APG, 44.4 FG%

A lethal two-way threat, Devin Vassell has quietly emerged as one of the league’s most reliable young wings. Before Victor Wembanyama arrived, Vassell kept the Spurs competitive with his scoring and defensive versatility, showing flashes of a strong second option in a modern NBA offense. At 6’5” with a 6’10” wingspan, he has the tools to guard across all five positions, and his instincts suggest he could blossom into an All-Defensive Team caliber player. Offensively, Vassell has already proven he can shoulder a heavy load, peaking at nearly 19 points per game as San Antonio’s primary scorer. His blend of length, shooting, and defensive intensity makes him an easy choice in a re-draft: there’s no chance he slides as far as No. 11 again.

Jaden McDaniels

Actual Position — No. 28

Career Stats — 10.3 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 1.5 APG, 48.2 FG%

One of the league’s most feared defenders, Jaden McDaniels has carved out a reputation as an iron man who can take on the opposing team’s best scorer for long stretches. At 6’10” with elite lateral quickness and length, he disrupts passing lanes, contests shots, and makes life miserable for stars across every position. While he isn’t the most hype offensive player, his ability to knock down open shots and contribute within Minnesota’s system has been pivotal in the Timberwolves’ consecutive playoff runs. Already an All-Defensive Team recipient, McDaniels is recognized as one of the premier two-way forwards in the game. In hindsight, it’s almost unthinkable that he slipped all the way to 28th on draft night.

Deni Avdija

Actual Position — No. 9

Career Stats — 11.3 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 2.8 APG, 46.2 FG%

Deni Avdija’s stock has risen dramatically over the past season, transforming from a solid rotational piece into one of Portland’s most reliable scoring options. At 6’9”, Avdija can get his shot off from anywhere on the floor—whether it’s from deep, the mid-range, or finishing inside. While his defense still leaves room for growth, he compensates with toughness in the paint and an exceptional knack for rebounding for his position. Last season, he averaged 17 points per game as a bright spot during the Blazers’ struggles. With his confidence growing and his offensive bag expanding, there’s little reason to doubt he’ll remain a central piece in Portland’s future success.

Immanuel Quickley

Actual Position — No. 25

Career Stats — 14.0 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 3.7 APG, 42.1 FG%

A firecracker off the dribble, Immanuel Quickley’s offensive game is a masterclass in speed, creativity, and scoring. At just 6’2”, he uses his quick first step and acceleration to blow past bigger defenders, and he’s developed into a threat from anywhere on the floor—whether pulling up from deep, working the mid-range, or finishing at the rim. Since landing in Toronto, he’s also shown growth as a facilitator, looking to get teammates involved rather than simply hunting his own shot. Unfortunately, injuries have slowed his momentum the past two seasons, keeping him from fully hitting his stride. But when healthy, Quickley gives any backcourt an instant offensive jolt and remains one of the most electrifying guards of the 2020 class.

Onyeka Okongwu

Actual Position — No. 6

Career Stats — 9.6 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.3 APG, 61.4 FG%

A 6’10” defensive powerhouse, Onyeka Okongwu hasn’t quite reached the lofty expectations after USC, but he’s still carved out a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable young bigs. Shooting well over 60% from the field, Okongwu thrives as a paint finisher and an exceptional rebounder, even while often playing undersized at the five. Though he won’t stretch the floor with outside shooting, his polished footwork, soft touch, and back-to-the-basket game make him a tough cover inside. Defensively, his versatility allows him to anchor a unit and switch onto smaller players without hesitation. With his trajectory still pointing upward, it feels like a breakout season is only a matter of time.

Payton Pritchard

Actual Position — No. 26

Career Stats — 9.1 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 2.5 APG, 45.4 FG%

The reigning Sixth Man of the Year, Payton Pritchard climbs fifteen spots in the re-draft thanks to his steady progression and invaluable role in Boston’s rotation. One of the league’s most reliable spot-up shooters, Pritchard brings limitless range and a fearless mentality to the floor. A true sixth man, he thrives as a spark plug off the bench, spacing the floor and keeping defenses honest. Last season, he posted career highs across the board—averaging 14 points per game on superb efficiency, while also contributing career-best marks in rebounds and assists. With an NBA championship already under his belt, Pritchard has proven he can impact winning on the league’s biggest stage, solidifying himself as one of the true steals of the 2020 class.

Aaron Nesmith

Actual Position — No. 14

Career Stats — 8.9 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 1.1 APG, 46.3 FG%

Aaron Nesmith’s career took off the moment he landed in Indiana. Once struggling to get minutes at all in Boston, Nesmith blossomed into a key contributor for the Pacers, giving them the offensive jolt they needed to reach the NBA Finals. His efficiency speaks for itself—finishing the regular season on 50-40-90 splits (just short of qualifying due to games played) and then carrying that momentum into the playoffs, where he knocked down nearly 50% of his threes across 23 postseason games. Beyond his shooting, Nesmith has steadily improved as a defender, growing into a reliable two-way presence who can guard wings and compete physically on the perimeter. With his confidence rising and his role expanding, Nesmith has become one of the class’s underrated success stories.

Cole Anthony

Actual Position — No. 15

Career Stats — 12.5 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.8 APG, 41.9 FG%

Cole Anthony’s path hasn’t been the smoothest, but his move to Milwaukee presents a fresh opportunity to redefine his career. The former 15th overall pick showed flashes of scoring punch in Orlando, though efficiency issues often held him back. Still, his offensive tools are undeniable—crafty dribble pull-ups, a polished floater game, and sneaky athleticism above the rim make him a constant perimeter threat. In Milwaukee, where the backcourt depth is thin, Anthony has a chance to carve out a bigger role and prove he can be more than just a spark plug. If he can find consistency night-to-night, he has the talent to become a valuable long-term contributor for a championship contender.

Saddiq Bey

Actual Position — No. 19

Career Stats — 14.1 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 1.8 APG, 40.8 FG%

Injuries have disrupted the flow of Saddiq Bey’s career, but when healthy, he’s proven himself as an electric offensive weapon. A natural catch-and-shoot threat with the ability to create his own shot, Bey has the kind of scoring versatility teams crave on the wing. He flashed that upside in a big way during his second season, when he exploded for a 50-point game—a reminder of just how dangerous he can be when locked in. Early on, Bey also showed he could handle the grind of an 82-game season, and the hope is that he can rediscover that durability. Scoring remains his calling card, and with Brandon Ingram gone, New Orleans will be leaning on Bey to provide the offensive punch that keeps their lineup balanced.

Obi Toppin

Actual Position — No. 8

Career Stats — 8.5 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 1.2 APG, 52.3 FG%

Once written off after a rocky rookie season, former National College Player of the Year Obi Toppin has revitalized his career in Indiana. Embracing a role off the bench, Toppin has flourished as a high-energy scorer around the rim while also expanding his offensive game to the perimeter. His improved outside shooting has been a revelation, knocking down over 40% of his threes during the 2023–24 season. Though he slides a few spots from his original No. 8 draft position, Toppin’s value as a versatile forward has grown steadily. With his athleticism dazzling crowds—dunk contest trophy included, he’s turned into a reliable piece of Indiana’s rotation and a reminder that patience can pay off for once-hyped prospects.

Isaiah Joe

Actual Position — No. 49

Career Stats — 7.6 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 1.1 APG, 43.1 FG%

It’s hard to believe Isaiah Joe originally slid so far. Now one of the most reliable young shooters in the league, Joe has proven to be the type of player you simply can’t leave open on the perimeter. With a career three-point percentage north of 40%, his shooting gravity has become a weapon for Oklahoma City, stretching defenses and opening lanes for stars like Shai. While he didn’t see heavy minutes in the Finals, Joe’s sharpshooting was a key ingredient in the Thunder’s playoff push last season. Still just in the early stages of his career, Joe has the potential to become even more lethal from deep as he continues to polish his game and grow within OKC’s system.

Naji Marshall

Actual Position — Undrafted

Career Stats — 8.8 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 2.3 APG, 45.6 FG%

After going undrafted in 2020, Naji Marshall quickly proved teams wrong when the Pelicans picked him up and gave him a chance. From the start, he showed flashes as a reliable catch-and-shoot option paired with steady perimeter defense. For years his game flew under the radar, but last season he finally broke through in Dallas, becoming a critical role player during the Mavericks’ postseason run. Averaging 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists on an efficient 51% shooting, Marshall showcased newfound consistency and maturity in his game. His blend of toughness, defense, and complementary scoring makes him the type of player every contender needs—and in hindsight, there’s no question he belongs firmly in the first round of this draft class.

Nick Richards

Actual Position — No. 42

Career Stats — 7.3 PPG, 5.9 RPG, .6 APG, 64.0 FG%

Nick Richards makes one of the biggest jumps of the re-draft, climbing 24 spots from his original No. 42 selection. For years, Richards quietly carved out a role as one of the league’s most dependable backup centers, but with expanded minutes, he’s shown he can deliver starter-level production. Shooting an outstanding 64% from the field, Richards thrives on interior grit, using his strength and touch around the basket to punish defenders. A nightly double-double threat, he doesn’t feel the need to stretch his game to fit modern trends—he simply controls the paint and finishes through contact. In a class that produced several strong bigs, Richards has earned his spot by sticking to what he does best and doing it at a high level.

Patrick Williams

Actual Position — No. 4

Career Stats — 9.6 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.5 APG, 46.2 FG%

The former No. 4 overall pick always carried questions about his upside, and his college tape at Florida State didn’t exactly scream lottery pick. Fast forward six seasons, and Williams has carved out a steady role in Chicago as the team’s second-longest tenured player and a reliable defensive presence at power forward. Offensively, he’s been consistent if unspectacular, averaging around 9–10 points per game across his career. However, his shooting efficiency dipped noticeably last season, raising concerns about his ability to grow into more than a defensive player. What Williams lacks in offensive punch, he makes up for with toughness and versatility on the defensive end, giving the Bulls a valuable piece in their frontcourt rotation. Still, in hindsight, it’s difficult to imagine him being drafted in the top 10 again.

Tre Jones

Actual Position — No. 41

Career Stats — 8.4 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 4.7 APG, 48.8 FG%

Selected 41st overall, Tre Jones has had his share of ups and downs, but he’s consistently made the most of his opportunities. Known for his steady hand at the point, Jones shoots an efficient 48% from the field and has served as a reliable floor general in San Antonio. Like his brother Tyus, outside shooting has never been his strength, but his ability to control tempo, facilitate offense, and take care of the basketball makes him a valuable rotational player. At his peak, he averaged 13 points and 6 assists during the 2022–23 season, showcasing what he can bring when trusted with starter-level minutes. Now in Chicago, Jones projects as a spark off the bench, filling a TJ McConnell-type role—keeping the offense organized and setting up teammates to succeed.

Jalen Smith

Actual Position — No. 10

Career Stats — 8.5 PPG, 5.3 RPG, .8 APG, 50.5 FG%

Originally drafted 10th overall, Jalen Smith entered the league with lofty expectations as a versatile big out of Maryland. While he hasn’t quite lived up to that billing, he’s developed into a solid rotational piece who brings energy and shooting touch off the bench. Undersized for a traditional center, Smith still plays bigger than his listed height, using his length and timing to compete inside while also stretching the floor with mid-range jumpers and the occasional three. Averaging around 9 points per game in his best stretches, he’s shown the ability to contribute as a reliable role player. Though not the star Maryland fans once envisioned, Smith has carved out a steady NBA career and provides depth at a position every team values.

Isaac Okoro

Actual Position — No. 5

Career Stats — 8.1 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 1.6 APG, 46.7 FG%

Drafted 5th overall, Isaac Okoro entered the NBA with the reputation of being one of the most NBA-ready defenders in his class. While he’s delivered flashes of that defensive upside, his career hasn’t unfolded as expected, and he’s struggled to maintain a consistent role in starting lineups. Offensively, he’s made strides as a catch-and-shoot threat, but he’s yet to develop into a reliable scorer or shot-creator. Defensively, Okoro’s strength and versatility still allow him to check multiple positions, but the lack of offensive growth limits his ceiling. Though he may never live up to his original draft slot, Okoro has shown enough flashes to carve out a role as a defensive-minded wing in the right system.

Isaiah Stewart

Actual Position — No. 16

Career Stats — 8.6 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 1.3 APG, 50.7 FG%

Known for his relentless motor, toughness, and fiery competitiveness, Isaiah Stewart has made his mark as one of the most physical bigs in the league. At 6’8”, he often plays undersized against taller centers, yet he holds his own with strength, energy, and a willingness to battle on the glass. Stewart has been a productive piece for Detroit, capable of stretching the floor with a developing jumper while still doing the dirty work inside. However, the rise of Jalen Duren has shifted Stewart’s role, pushing him more into a bench player than a long-term prospect. While his future in Detroit may be uncertain, his grit, versatility, and no-fear mentality ensure he’ll always have value as a rotational big in the NBA.

Josh Green

Actual Position — No. 18

Career Stats — 6.7 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 1.5 APG, 48.2 FG%

The Australian native slides down just a few spots from his original draft slot, but Josh Green has proven himself as a quality rotation player with legitimate starting upside. Last season, he was a bright spot for the Hornets, starting 67 of 68 games and establishing himself as a dependable three-and-D guard. Green knocked down 39% of his threes, providing much-needed spacing, while also showing flashes as a capable finisher at the rim. His defensive energy and ability to guard multiple positions made him a reliable two-way option on a roster desperate for stability. Unfortunately, a major shoulder surgery in the offseason has raised questions about how he’ll bounce back, but if he returns to form, Green remains one of the safer, high-floor contributors from this class.

Vit Krejcí

Actual Position — No. 37

Career Stats — 5.6 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 2.6 APG, 49.7 FG%

Vit Krejcí might not be a household name, but he’s carved out a sneaky-valuable role in Atlanta. The 6’8” point forward brings a rare blend of size, efficiency, and playmaking to the Hawks’ second unit. Last season, he averaged 7 points per game and shot 49% from the field and 43% from three—a level of consistency that’s hard to match given his limited minutes. Krejcí’s height gives him a unique advantage as a playmaker, allowing him to see over most opposing guards and set up teammates with ease. Though Oklahoma City originally took a flier on him, Atlanta has reaped the benefits of his development. And given OKC’s already stacked roster of oversized, positionless playmakers, Krejcí found the perfect home elsewhere to showcase his game.

Sam Merrill

Actual Position — No. 60

Career Stats — 6.5 PPG, 1.9 RPG, 1.4 APG, 40.5 FG%

Selected dead last in the 2020 NBA Draft, Sam Merrill has worked his way up the ladder and now earns a well-deserved jump of more than thirty spots in this re-draft. Known first and foremost as a sharpshooter, Merrill finally got his first extended run of rotational minutes last season, appearing in 71 games off the bench for Cleveland. He quickly proved his value as a sharp', knocking down shots with confidence and providing reliable depth on the perimeter. Beyond his shooting, Merrill is an above-average rebounder for his size and is the best free-throw shooter in Cleveland by far. Once an afterthought on draft night, Merrill has carved out a meaningful NBA role through persistence and elite shooting touch.

James Wiseman

Actual Position — No. 2

Career Stats — 9.1 PPG, 5.6 RPG, .7 APG, 56.0 FG%

There you have it. James Wiseman takes one of the steepest drops of this re-draft, falling twenty-five spots from his original No. 2 selection. Once touted as the Warriors’ next great big man, drafted in the hopes of bridging the gap during their injury-plagued 2020 season, Wiseman’s career never lived up to that promise. With only three collegiate games under his belt, Golden State took a gamble that never truly paid off. Injuries derailed his development from the start, and even when healthy, he’s struggled to establish himself as more than a fringe starter. Early flashes of floor-spacing potential, rim protection, and interior finishing suggested a versatile two-way center, but those skills never consistently translated at the NBA level. Still, Wiseman remains on an NBA roster—something not every 2020 draftee can say—and at just 24, there’s still time for him to write a redemption chapter.

Xavier Tillman

Actual Position — No. 35

Career Stats — 5.3 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 1.2 APG, 50.9 FG%

Xavier Tillman hasn’t made a huge impact in Boston yet, but his early years in Memphis showed the kind of upside that keeps him valuable in a re-draft. An undersized center-forward, Tillman built his reputation on interior efficiency and toughness, shooting around 51% from the field for his career while providing steady rebounding and defensive versatility. In Boston, opportunities have been limited—whether because of injuries or the team’s deep frontcourt rotation—but his grit and basketball IQ remain assets. With the Celtics’ frontcourt thinning this season, Tillman is poised to take on a larger role and remind fans why he was so sought after at Michigan State.

Paul Reed

Actual Position — No. 58

Career Stats — 4.9 PPG, 3.9 RPG, .8 APG, 54.8 FG%

“B-Ball Paul” Reed jumps up to the 29th spot in this re-draft, and it’s well deserved. A former G League MVP, Reed has carved out a reputation as a high-energy big who rebounds relentlessly and finishes efficiently around the rim. While his counting stats won’t jump off the page, his field-goal percentage and impact in limited minutes tell the real story. Reed has embraced his role as a spark off the bench, bringing hustle, rim protection, and finishing touch whenever called upon. With his motor and upside, he’s the type of player every team values—a dependable role player who can change the energy of a game in an instant.

Zeke Nnaji

Actual Position — No. 22

Career Stats — 4.2 PPG, 2.3 RPG, .4 APG, 50.9 FG%

An NBA champion, Zeke Nnaji doesn’t wow anyone in the box score, but his consistency and versatility have kept him in Denver as a valuable stretch big. Over five seasons, he’s proven himself as a mobile frontcourt player who runs the floor well, finishes efficiently at the rim, and competes on the glass with smart positioning. While his soft hands have frustrated Nuggets fans at times, his ability to space the floor and provide energy minutes makes him a reliable depth option. Playing behind Nikola Jokic has limited his role, and it’s tough to imagine him stepping into heavy usage in Denver, but Nnaji has carved out a steady niche as a rotation big and brings championship experience to the table.

Honorable Mentions : Killian Hayes • KJ Martin • Precious Achiuwa

All three of these players suited up in the NBA preseason and have each brought something unique to the table during their careers. While none of them are currently on NBA rosters, it feels unlikely their stories are finished. Each has enough talent to warrant another opportunity, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see them back in the league before long. For now, though, they remain just outside the re-draft board.

Looking back, this re-draft is worlds apart from what anyone could have imagined on draft night in the pandemic-ridden 2020. Unexpected stars have emerged, undrafted signees have become consistent role players, and careers have taken turns both inspiring and disappointing. And the truth is, five years in is still fairly early—this class is far from finished writing its story. As the seasons unfold, the order could shift yet again, reminding us that this draft is only the first chapters. How does this re-draft stack up with your hoops takes? What would you change? Let us know down below!