Before Tatum: NBA Draft Picks You Might Have Missed

Hey guys! Ever wondered about the NBA draft and the players who were selected before your favorite stars? It's always a fun trip down memory lane, especially when we talk about a baller like Jayson Tatum. Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 NBA draft to see who went before Jayson Tatum and where they are now. This draft class was loaded with talent, and it's a fascinating look at how teams make their choices and how careers unfold. We're going to break down the top picks, the surprises, and the hidden gems. Ready to get started? Let's go!

The Top of the 2017 NBA Draft: A Look Back

The 2017 NBA draft was pretty stacked with talent, and the top picks were highly anticipated. The Philadelphia 76ers, holding the number one pick, went with Markelle Fultz. Now, I know what you're thinking, Markelle Fultz? Yeah, it didn't quite pan out the way the Sixers hoped. Fultz had some tough luck with injuries and struggled to find his footing in Philly. Nowadays, he's showing flashes of his potential with the Orlando Magic. It’s a classic example of how unpredictable the draft can be. The Los Angeles Lakers, picking second, snagged Lonzo Ball. Ball's a different story; he's a great passer and defender, which is always useful, but his career has also been impacted by injuries. He's currently with the Chicago Bulls, and when healthy, he brings a unique playmaking ability. Coming in at number three was Jayson Tatum, selected by the Boston Celtics. That pick was a game-changer!

The Phoenix Suns had the fourth pick and chose Josh Jackson. Jackson was an athletic player, but he didn't quite live up to the hype in Phoenix. He's bounced around the league a bit, playing for different teams. And at number five, the Sacramento Kings picked De'Aaron Fox. Fox has become a really solid player, particularly known for his speed and scoring ability. He’s become the Kings' franchise player. This draft class really highlights the different paths players take, showing how much development, opportunity, and, yeah, a little bit of luck can play a role in their careers. It's wild to see how some players thrive while others struggle to make their mark. The NBA draft is a gamble, and it's always a story worth revisiting.

The Lottery Picks: Where Are They Now?

After the top five, the draft continued to offer some interesting choices. The other lottery picks included players like Jonathan Isaac, selected by the Orlando Magic at number six. Isaac’s been plagued by injuries, but when he’s on the court, his defensive skills are super impressive. At number seven, the Chicago Bulls picked up Lauri Markkanen, a sharpshooting big man who had a stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers and currently plays for the Utah Jazz. He’s found a good groove there. The New York Knicks selected Frank Ntilikina at number eight. Ntilikina had moments but never really blossomed into the player the Knicks hoped for. Dennis Smith Jr. was picked ninth by the Dallas Mavericks. He's another player who showed flashes of potential but didn't quite reach his ceiling. The lottery picks, like all draft picks, demonstrate the unpredictable nature of player development. Teams scout and analyze, but there's no guaranteed formula for success. Injuries, playing style fit, and the right coaching all come into play. It’s fascinating, right?

Jayson Tatum's Path to Stardom: A Celtics Success Story

Jayson Tatum's journey is a fantastic example of a player exceeding expectations. When the Boston Celtics drafted him, they saw his potential, but I don't think anyone predicted he'd become such a dominant force. Tatum’s got all the tools: a smooth jumper, excellent handles, and a knack for scoring in clutch situations. He’s become the Celtics’ go-to guy, and his growth has been fun to watch. Tatum's development wasn't immediate, though. He had to work on his game and learn to read defenses better. The Celtics' coaching staff and the team environment played a big role in his improvement. The Celtics' front office is also very good at player development. They drafted Tatum with the future in mind, giving him time to grow and learn the game at the NBA level. Tatum's success also highlights the importance of fit. He landed in a situation where he had opportunities to play alongside other talented players and learn from experienced veterans. It's a great example of how much the right team and the right environment can help a player reach their full potential. Tatum’s been instrumental in the Celtics' success, leading them to multiple playoff runs and solidifying his place as a top player in the league. Now, he’s a perennial All-Star and a key figure in the Celtics' quest for another championship. Pretty inspiring, huh?

Comparing Tatum to the Others

Comparing Jayson Tatum to the players drafted before him in 2017 is interesting. While Markelle Fultz and Lonzo Ball showed promise, Tatum has clearly outperformed them, especially in terms of consistent production and impact on winning. Fox has also become a great player. It’s a testament to Tatum's work ethic, his natural talent, and the environment he’s been in. It also shows that the draft is not an exact science. Many factors contribute to a player's success. It's not just about raw talent; it’s about development, opportunity, and the ability to adapt. What's also amazing is his ability to elevate his game. Tatum's become a true superstar, and the Celtics are reaping the rewards. He’s shown that with hard work, the right mindset, and the right support, you can absolutely become one of the best in the league.

The Aftermath: What Happened to the Other Draft Picks?

Beyond the lottery, the 2017 draft kept delivering surprises. Kyle Kuzma, drafted at number 27, has carved out a solid career, showing that you don't have to be a top pick to have success. OG Anunoby, picked at number 37, has become an important player for the Toronto Raptors, known for his amazing defense. Even further down the draft, players like Dillon Brooks (pick 45) have found their roles and made an impact. The 2017 draft is a great reminder that scouting and player development continue to evolve. Teams are always searching for hidden gems, and the later picks sometimes become the biggest steals. It shows that persistence and the right opportunity can make all the difference. The NBA is a dynamic league, and the story of the 2017 draft underscores that every draft class has its own unique narrative. Some players shine quickly, while others take time to develop. The draft is a continuous cycle of scouting, evaluation, and development, and the quest to find the next superstar is always on.

The Impact of Trades and Free Agency

Trades and free agency have also changed the landscape of the 2017 draft class. Players like Lonzo Ball, who initially thrived with the Lakers, moved to the Bulls through trades. Others, like Markkanen, found new opportunities with different teams. These moves show how fluid the NBA is. Player movement can influence a team’s success. It also impacts the players' careers. Sometimes, a change of scenery can be exactly what a player needs to unlock their potential. The constant shifting of the roster is a key element of the NBA. Teams always look to improve by making smart trades, signing free agents, and developing their young players. These decisions shape the league's competitive balance and give fans a lot to talk about.

Conclusion: The 2017 Draft - A Mixed Bag

Alright guys, the 2017 NBA draft was definitely a mixed bag. Some of the top picks didn't quite live up to their potential, while others, like Jayson Tatum, have become superstars. Looking back, it shows how unpredictable the draft is and how much player development matters. It’s also a testament to the fact that even later picks can find success. The draft is a constant evaluation process, and the 2017 class is a great example of that. What do you guys think? Let me know who your favorite players from this draft class are. Thanks for reading!

Final Thoughts

The 2017 draft class reminds us that talent and potential are only the beginning. The journey from draft night to NBA stardom is filled with challenges and opportunities. Player development, team fit, and a bit of luck all play a crucial role. Jayson Tatum's success is a great example of how hard work, combined with the right situation, can lead to incredible achievements. It's a testament to his talent and the Celtics' commitment to developing their players. The NBA draft is always a fascinating topic, and the 2017 class proves that the story never truly ends. Teams will continue to assess, and players will continue to evolve.