who when you really drill down should be similar prospects, but one guy, for whatever reason(s) gets momentum in NBA circles and he ends up in mid-first, while the other guy is early second, or whatever.

honestly, that's why Siakam lasted so long. just never picked up that momentum. He was incredible in college - numbers were off the charts, he had length, athleticism - all those things NBA people are looking for. yet he never gets any traction and lasts until the end of the first - and was mocked even lower.

one guy gets picked apart for his weaknesses, while NBA people/experts give other guys passes on their weaknesses. imo, that's a big reason you have busts early on and gems later on.