Locked On NBA Draft with No Ceilings

Latest Episodes:

Duke's Prospects Shine in Exhibition: Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, & Tyrese Proctor Stand Out Oct 21, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Locked On NBA Big Board Podcast, Rafael Barlowe and Leif Thulin dive into Duke’s dominant exhibition win over Lincoln, with a focus on top NBA prospects Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, Khaman Maluach, and Tyrese Proctor. Flagg delivered a standout performance, finishing with 22 points, 6 assists, and a string of highlight plays, while Knueppel impressed from deep, hitting 5 of 7 from beyond the arc and totaling 17 points.

On the flip side, Maluach had a tough night offensively, contributing just 4 points but adding value with 11 rebounds and 2 blocks. Tyrese Proctor’s surprising bench role is discussed in depth, as he still managed to score 19 points despite coming off the bench.

Barlowe and Thulin explore Proctor’s potential role this season, along with Isaiah Evans, who posted 9 points in a limited role but shows promise as a future isolation scorer.

Duke's starting five - 3:56

Cooper Flagg - 6:19

Kon Knueppel - 12:22

Flagg or Knueppel as Duke's leading scorer - 14:29

Tyrese Proctor - 19:56

Khaman Maluach - 23:00

Isaiah Evans - 28:10

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The International Draft Files: Traore's Flashes, Avdalas's upside, Yang's draft range & Mo Faye rising Oct 20, 2024

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In this episode of the Locked On NBA Big Board Podcast, titled The International Draft Files, hosts Rafael Barlowe and Alec Kichian dive into the top international prospects for the 2025 NBA Draft.

They begin by analyzing the performances of Noah Essengue and Ben Saraf in a recent game against the Portland Trail Blazers, before turning their attention to French point guard Nolan Traore, a projected top-5 pick known for his flashes of brilliance but inconsistent efficiency.

The conversation then shifts to Greek prospect Neoklis Avdalas, whose positional size and NBA-ready tools are promising despite his inefficiencies this season.

Next up is Australian wing Alex Toohey, who’s off to a strong start but faces questions about his shooting and long-term NBA role.

The episode wraps with in-depth evaluations of two big men: Chinese center Hanson Yang, praised for his post-scoring, shot-blocking, and rebounding but with concerns about his mobility, and Mo Faye, a 19-year-old sleeper prospect quietly putting up solid numbers in Italy.

Noa Essengue - 2:47

Ben Saraf - 6:15

Nolan Traore - 7:04

Neoklis Avdalas - 13:17

Alex Toohey - 21:22

Hansen Yang - 24:28

Mo Faye - 31:27

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Did Overthinking Impact the Draft? Clingan vs Edey, Knecht’s Drop, and Dunn’s Offensive Growth Oct 19, 2024

Show notes

On this episode of the Locked On NBA Big Board Podcast, hosts Rafael Barlowe and Leif Thulin dive into the question of whether NBA teams overthought key prospects in the 2024 NBA Draft. They debate if Portland will regret taking Donovan Clingan over Zach Edey, analyzing early preseason returns from both players. The hosts also explore how NBA teams may have overthought Dalton Knecht’s potential, letting him slip to the Los Angeles Lakers at pick 17, where he’s already making an impact. Lastly, they discuss whether concerns over Ryan Dunn’s offensive struggles at Virginia were overblown, as Dunn has shown significant improvement as a shooter in preseason action.

Zach Edey - 2:50

Dalton Knecht - 17:52

Ryan Dunn - 25:40

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Friday Focus: Ace Bailey & Dylan Harper impress in exhibition, Dalton Knecht Burns Suns for 35!! Oct 18, 2024

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On this episode of the Locked On NBA Big Board Podcast, hosts Rafael and James Barlowe, break down a series of impressive performances from top prospects and rookies. They start by discussing the stellar debuts of Rutgers freshmen Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper, highlighting Bailey’s shot selection and debating whether he could overtake Cooper Flagg as the potential No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

They also dive into Harper’s poised 20-point performance, which, while strong, was overshadowed by Bailey’s offensive firepower in a game against St. John's.

In the last segment, they cover Dalton Knecht’s explosive 35-point game against the Phoenix Suns, making a case for Knecht to solidify a key role off the bench for the Lakers. Rafael and James then debate Stephon Castle’s game and how it compares to NBA stars Brandon Roy and Jimmy Butler, before covering Rob Dillingham’s bounce-back performance after a rough preseason. Finally, the episode wraps up with a discussion on Jazian Gortman’s new two-way contract with the Dallas Mavericks.

Ace Bailey - 2:16

Dylan Harper - 12:12

Dalton Knecht - 21:16

Stephon Castle - 27:20

Rob Dillingham - 31:05

Jazian Gortman - 34:53

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NBA Draft Watch: Noa Essengue & Ben Saraf make a bold statement against the Trail Blazers Oct 17, 2024

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On the latest episode of the Locked On NBA Big Board podcast, hosts Rafael and James Barlowe dive into the standout performances of ultra-young 2025 NBA Draft prospects Ben Saraf and Noa Essengue, who impressed in Ratiopharm Ulm's recent matchup. Despite being just 18 and 17 years old, both players made the most of their minutes, giving scouts a real glimpse of their potential. Rafael and James break down their individual strengths, developmental paths, and areas needing improvement, with James voicing concerns about Saraf’s long-term position and ability to finish at the rim. In the final segment, the brothers share their player comparison for Essengue and debate his draft range and future upside.

Noa Essengue - 5:50

Ben Saraf - 11:57

Areas for development - 21:50

Essengue's NBA comparison - 27:15

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Rookie Watch: Knicks Rookies Impress, Lakers Knecht catches fire late & Sheppard needs more minutes! Oct 16, 2024

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In the latest episode of the Locked On NBA Big Board podcast, Rafael and James Barlowe break down standout rookie performances from Tuesday night’s preseason action. The brothers dive into Pacome Dadiet’s strong debut for the Knicks, where the first-round pick put up 16 points and 5 rebounds. They also highlight Tyler Kolek’s near triple-double performance and Ariel Hukporti’s impressive athleticism.

In the second segment, they analyze Tidjane Salaun’s 13-point outing, focusing on his defense, shot selection, and potential role this season. Dalton Knecht’s late-game scoring surge for the Lakers against the Warriors is also discussed, as the hosts evaluate his preseason form and chances of securing rotation minutes.

The Barlowe brothers express their desire to see Reed Sheppard get more playing time, while also debating Stephon Castle’s playing style. Finally, they assess Yves Missi’s role with the Pelicans and AJ Mitchell’s battle for minutes in Oklahoma City.

Knicks Rookies - 2:25

Pacome Dadiet - 2:34

Tyler Kolek - 6:44

Ariel Hukporti - 9:29

Tidjane Salaun - 13:17

Reed Sheppard - 17:53

Stephon Castle - 19:57

Dalton Knecht - 23:38

Cody Williams - 28:15

Yves Missi - 29:28

Ajay Mitchell - 31:59

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Zach Edey Makes It Look Easy! Zaccharie Risacher and Other Notable Rookie Performances from Monday Oct 15, 2024

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In the latest episode of the Locked On NBA Big Board podcast, hosts Rafael and James Barlowe break down Zach Edey’s dominant performance against the Indiana Pacers, where the rookie center put up 23 points and 9 rebounds, showcasing his ability to dominate on the block.

They also highlight Jaylen Wells, who continues to impress for the Memphis Grizzlies, adding 12 points and 6 rebounds while leading the team in preseason scoring. The Barlowe brothers discuss Zaccharie Risacher, the number one overall pick, who delivered another strong game for the Atlanta Hawks with 14 points and 8 rebounds.

Matas Buzelis’ well-rounded 15-point, 2-rebound, 2-assist performance for the Chicago Bulls against the Milwaukee Bucks also gets attention. Jared McCain contributed 11 points for the 76ers in their matchup with the Hawks, and Jazian Gortman kept up his momentum with 13 points for the Mavericks against the Clippers.

On a tougher note, A.J. Johnson struggled mightily, shooting just 2-for-15 in his game against the Chicago Bulls.

NBA Draft analyst Rafael Barlowe from NBA Draft Junkies and current author of the NBA Big Board newsletter is joined by Richard Stayman (@MavsDraft), James Barlowe, and Leif Thulin to breakdown the NBA Draft. Rafael & Team gives passionate NBA Draft fans a deep look into the NBA Draft with great guests, Mock Draft, player rankings, and of course BIG BOARDs.

Part of the Locked On Podcast Network.

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Ryan Dunn’s 3-Point Surge & Cody Williams Finds His Groove: Preseason Rookie Report Oct 14, 2024

Show notes

In the 5th installment of the Locked On NBA Big Board preseason rookie reports, hosts Rafael and James Barlowe break down the latest standout performances from the weekend.

Ryan Dunn continues to impress for the Phoenix Suns, transforming into a dangerous 3-point shooter after struggling in college (23% from deep) and the summer league (1-13). Dunn hit an impressive 6-of-11 from beyond the arc against the Nuggets, and the Barlowe brothers discuss his rapid improvement.

Cody Williams’ assertive 17-point game against the Spurs also draws attention, as Rafael and James debate how his consistency and confidence will determine his success after earning the nickname “Cadio Cody” for passive play earlier in the preseason.

Donovan Clingan’s double-double in 18 minutes against the Kings highlights his strong interior play, but Rafael humorously calls for more power in his finishes, while James emphasizes the importance of Clingan sending a message to defenders in the paint.

The Barlowe brothers then break down Memphis rookies Zach Edey and Jaylen Wells’ performances against the Bulls, where Wells led the team with 26 points and Edey added 15. They discuss their chemistry and whether Wells will force his way into the Grizzlies’ rotation.

Lastly, they review the weekend performances of Jared McCain, Bub Carrington, and Jamal Shead.

Ryan Dunn - 1:36

Cody Williams - 7:48

Donovan Clingan - 12:12

Zach Edey - 17:01

Jaylen Wells - 20:01

Jaylen Wells - 20:40

Jared McCain - 25:44

Bub Carrington - 27:25

Jamal Shead - 29:15

Rob Dillingham - 31:22

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Jazz Juggling Act: Push for the Playoffs or Punt for Picks? Oct 12, 2024

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In the latest episode of Locked On NBA Big Board titled "Jazz Juggling Act: Push for the Playoffs or Punt for Picks?", hosts Rafael Barlowe and Leif Thulin dive into the Utah Jazz’s dilemma for the 2024-25 season. The episode begins with a deep discussion on whether the Jazz should aim for a playoff spot or tank for a high pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.

In the second segment, Barlowe and Thulin focus on identifying the Jazz’s long-term core, highlighting Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George as key foundational pieces. They also discuss how sophomores like George, Taylor Hendricks, and Brice Sensabaugh could shape the team's future, analyzing their preseason performances and developmental trajectories.

The final segment shifts to Utah’s rookies, where the hosts explore rotation battles and development concerns. They evaluate whether Cody Williams, Isaiah Collier, and Kyle Filipowski can earn consistent minutes, factoring in their up-and-down preseason showings. Rafael also voices concerns about Hendricks' and Williams' play during the preseason, questioning their immediate impact.

Lauri Markkanen - 6:47

Keyonte George - 7:25

Cody Williams - 8:07

Walker Kessler - 8:19

Sophomore Class - 12:00

Taylor Hendricks - 12:33

Cody Williams - 17:17

Brice Sensabaugh - 18:02

Rookie Class - 22:16

Kyle Filipowski - 22:53

Isaiah Collier - 25:03

Cody Williams - 27:25

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Thursday’s Rookie Recap: Dillon Jones Goes Off, AJ Johnson and Jaylon Tyson Show Promise Oct 11, 2024

Show notes

In the latest Locked On NBA Big Board podcast, hosts Rafael and James Barlowe break down the rookie performances from Thursday night’s NBA preseason action. While most rookies like AJ Johnson, Jaylon Tyson, Dalton Knecht, and Tidjane Salaun are still battling for defined roles, Zach Edey stands out as the only rookie who played on Thursday night with a clearer path to early rotation minutes. AJ Johnson bounced back with 13 points, showing poise and better decision-making after a shaky debut. Jaylon Tyson, starting for the Cavs, filled the stat sheet with 11 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and a block. Dalton Knecht struggled with efficiency but contributed across the board in 34 minutes, while Salaun’s confidence continues to show in 13-point effort vs Grizzlies. Zach Edey had 10 points but shot just 2-of-8 from the field, and Cody Williams remained passive offensively. Dillon Jones was the standout of the night, dominating with 23 points, 13 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 steals, and 2 blocks in a well-rounded performance.

Jaylon Tyson - 2:12

AJ Johnson - 6:32 and 10:54

Dalton Knecht - 16:02

Zach Edey - 20:26

Tidjane Salaun - 25:33

Cody Williams - 28:47

Dillon Jones - 34:26

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