Deseret News' NBA mock draft

SALT LAKE CITY — John Wall is the big prize in tonight's draft; that's a given. The top five picks seem pretty clear-cut, too.

But starting at No. 6, the draft will start getting interesting — which adds intrigue for Utah fans since the Jazz own a rare-for-them, top-10 pick at No. 9.

Many experts think the Jazz covet Georgetown's Greg Monroe, but he's not expected to be around. Nevada's Luke Babbitt is a popular choice for the Jazz in national mock drafts. But Ed Davis, Epke Udoh, Xavier Henry, Gordon Hayward, Cole Adrich and several others have also been on the Jazz's radar screen, too.

We'll know for certain soon, but just for fun, here's one more mock draft to take a look at before the annual festivities begin:

1. Washington Wizards, John Wall, PG

The scoop: Kentucky star has good size (6-4) for a playmaker and could be the Chris Paul/Deron Williams-like leader the Wizards desperately need.

2. Philadelphia 76ers, Evan Turner, SG

The scoop: Versatile ex-Ohio State star is 6-7 and can play several positions. His ball-handling and passing skills mean he could even run the point.

3. New Jersey Nets, Wesley Johnson, SF

The scoop: Syracuse star could step right in and start for the Nets, who would then like to add a free agent power forward (Carlos Boozer?).

4. Minnesota Timberwolves, Derrick Favors, PF

The scoop: Being young (18), big (6-10, 245 pounds) and talented makes this Georgia Tech product too tough to let slide any further.

5. Sacramento Kings, DeMarcus Cousins, C

The scoop: Averaged just under a double-double at Kentucky (15.1 ppg, 9.8 rpg) and has an NBA-ready 6-11 body — and he's only 19.

6. Golden State Warriors, Al Farouq Aminu, SF

The scoop: Stands 6-9, but Wake Forest star has a 7-foot-4 wingspan and outstanding athleticism. Will be a fine rebounder for a small forward.

7. Detroit Pistons, Greg Monroe, PF

The scoop: Left-handed big man from Georgetown is mature with a high basketball I.Q. and strong post moves. More NBA ready than most.

8. Los Angeles Clippers, Ekpe Udoh, PF

The scoop: Already a strong shot-blocker and rebounder, Baylor alum needs to work on his offensive game to become better all-around player.