2017 NBA Draft Big Board 1.0

16. SF O.G. Anunoby, Indiana

Anunoby emerged as one of the most surprising producers in the tournament last season, going from a previously minuscule role to one of the main cogs in Indiana’s Sweet 16 run. As a well-constructed wing with exceptional defensive attributes, Anunoby is already gaining steam as somebody who could rise quickly up draft boards in 2017.

Standing at 6-8 with an incredibly strong frame, Anunoby is more than ready for the physicality of the NBA game. He’s built for defensive excellence on the wing, and that’s where the majority of his game in built around. He’s able to body up the opposition’s best perimeter players with ease, and combines his athletic dominance with exquisite instincts on the defensive end. In terms of a defensive stopper in this draft, it’s hard to pinpoint anybody who projects better than  Anunoby on the perimeter.

Offensively, Anunoby isn’t quite as far along, but showed plenty of flashes in tournament play. His outside shot isn’t overly developed yet, but he did show that he can knock a few jumpers down with range from time to time.

The majority of Anunoby’s offense is going to be derived from cuts to the basket. He’s extremely difficult to stay in front of when he gets moving towards the rim, whether on of off the ball, and is able to play above the rim with absolute ease. He showed a decent knack for passing at times as well, but excels most when going at the basket with a full head of steam. He resembles Kawhi Leonard in some aspects, and should only rise on this draft board if he’s able to show more in an expanded role throughout the season in 2016-17.

Next: 15. Markkanen