The 2015 NBA Draft is often remembered for its potential and talent, but as of 2024, only three of the top 10 picks from that draft are still active in the league: Karl-Anthony Towns, D’Angelo Russell, and Kristaps Porzingis. The remaining seven have either moved overseas or, in the case of Justise Winslow, are playing in the G-League.
Karl-Anthony Towns, the first overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves, remains the cornerstone of the franchise. Over the years, Towns has established himself as one of the league’s premier big men, known for his versatility, scoring ability, and outside shooting.
With four All-Star selections and two All-NBA team honors to his name, Towns has consistently been a bright spot for the Timberwolves. Now, with the emergence of Anthony Edwards, Towns has a legitimate co-star, giving Minnesota a chance to compete in the highly competitive Western Conference.
D’Angelo Russell, selected second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers, has had a journey filled with ups and downs. After an unceremonious exit from the Lakers, Russell found success with the Brooklyn Nets, earning an All-Star selection in 2019. He later played for the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves before returning to the Lakers. Russell remains a solid option at the point guard position, known for his playmaking and scoring ability, though his journey has been far from smooth.
Kristaps Porzingis, the fourth overall pick by the New York Knicks, is currently with the Boston Celtics, where he is part of the reigning NBA champions. Porzingis, known as the “Unicorn” for his unique blend of size, shooting, and shot-blocking ability, has also had a tumultuous career.
After promising beginnings with the Knicks, he was traded to the Dallas Mavericks, then to the Washington Wizards, and finally found his home in Boston. He has one All-Star selection to his name and plays a crucial role as a modern-day stretch big who can both shoot from deep and protect the rim.
The other top-10 picks from the 2015 draft, such as Jahlil Okafor, Mario Hezonja, and Emmanuel Mudiay, have not found sustained success in the NBA and have moved to play overseas. Justise Winslow, who was once seen as a promising talent, now plays in the G-League, battling to keep his professional career alive.
Despite the disappointments among the top-10 picks, the 2015 NBA Draft still produced several standout players outside the lottery. Devin Booker, drafted 13th overall by the Phoenix Suns, has become a superstar, leading his team to the NBA Finals in 2021. Other notable names include Myles Turner, Jerami Grant, Kelly Oubre Jr., Cameron Payne, and Terry Rozier, all of whom have carved out successful careers in the NBA.
In retrospect, while the top of the 2015 draft was filled with promise, it is the players selected outside the top 10 who have had the most significant impact on the league.
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