Former Zag Dan Dickau reminisces about NBA Draft

Former Gonzaga and NBA player Dan Dickau is no stranger to the NBA Draft.

Dickau was the 28th pick in the 2002 NBA Draft and played six seasons with six different teams.

The former Bulldog is expecting big things from the next set of Zags who are heading to the NBA.

Dickau is projecting forward Julian Strawther will be selected in the second round.

"His game translates well to the next level with the fact that he can shoot it from deep," Dickau said. "He's a wing with good size. He can defend well at that level."

Strawther shot 46.9 percent from three-point range during the season.

A number of mock drafts have forward Drew Timme landing in the second round or going undrafted.

Dickau says Timme could benefit as an undrafted free agent as it gives players the option to sign where they see fit.

"I think he can be a curveball off the bench with how he scores," Dickau said. "Whether that's on the low block because guys aren't used to guarding low post players anymore, whether it's in short roles or catching it in space and making decisions. I think for Drew so much of it is fit and really at the end of the day it only takes one to love you at that next level. Hopefully there is that one right now that's playing their cards close to the vest."

Timme is a three-time All-American and Gonzaga's all-time scoring leader.

Malachi Smith is not appearing on mock draft boards.

An undrafted free agent contract or summer league invite are on the table if Smith goes undrafted.

"It's different now with NIL and it's different now with the fact that those guys tested the waters last year before deciding to come back," Dickau said. "I remember 21 years ago when I went through the process I had I think 17 NBA workouts with different teams. But you learn right away you're competing for a job."

Smith was the WCC Sixth Man of the Year last season.

The NBA Draft is set for 5 p.m. on Thursday.

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