29. PG Monte Morris, Iowa State
Morris has been one of the more consistent producers in college basketball at the point guard spot over the past few seasons, overcoming a change in system to continue his high level of play last in lieu of Fred Hoiberg’s departure. The 21-year-old doesn’t have an awe-inspiring upside by any means, but he has all the tools indicative of somebody who should be a very solid facilitator at the next level of play.
Standing at 6-3, Morris already has a nice frame for the one spot. He’s still filling out physically, but he has excellent length and a strong first step that allow him to get into the teeth of the defense and distribute on cue. He has excelled in the pick-and-roll during his time with Iowa State, putting himself among the best players in the country operating in that scenarios.
Morris’ court vision is going to be what leads to success in the NBA. He’s not overly explosive, albeit quick, but he knows how to find his spots and hit the targets he’s aiming for. He doesn’t turn the ball over much at all, a very promising sign coming from a collegiate guard, and doesn’t try to do too much with the basketball in his hands. He has proven his aptitude to take on a larger role while not compromising efficiency and that’s something we often see younger players struggle with elsewhere.
Defensively, Morris has the tools to be effective as well. He won’t be a stopper, especially against the league’s best, but any means, but he has solid physical attributes and strong anticipation skills that allow him to stay in front of his man and force turnovers at a solid clip.
Morris’ scoring came and went last year and it’s clear that his ability to put the ball in the basket won’t be his calling card at the next level, but he’s far from inept in that department. He shot 35% from deep last season, and has soft touch around the basket that allows him to hit a number of little floaters and pull-ups when he’s in positon. He doesn’t score off the bounce as much as your typical point guard, but makes up for it with a highly calculated approach to the game that has made him an elite playmaker through his first three seasons with Cyclones.
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