2017 NBA Draft Big Board 1.0
2. PG Malik Monk, Kentucky
Monk is one of two highly praised guards set to join Kentucky next season, committing alongside the aforementioned De’Aaron Fox, as well as forward Bam Adebayo. Athleticism is the first word that comes to mind when watching Monk play, and his explosiveness on the offensive end is likely going to make him a tough force to contend with.
Standing at 6-4, Monk is in the same conversation as Josh Jackson for most exciting player in the draft class. He has played a good bit of both guard positions and will likely be asked to play off the ball quite a bit alongside Fox and Isaiah Briscoe next season as a result, but his ability to run the show with the ball in his hands shouldn’t be overlooked.
Monk has a quick first step and is extremely aggressive in attacking the lane. He can operate above the rim with ease in almost any scenario, and has the court vision needed to distribute the ball at a high level in stride. He can create space off the bounce with ease, and is perhaps the most underrated passer among the group of highly coveted point guards set to enter the college ranks next season.
Getting out in transition could very well be Monk’s most effective method of production. He has great size for the one spot and has a combination of physical tools that make him difficult to keep pace with effectively when he is traveling full speed in the opposite direction. He can push the pace and dish the ball off to diving teammates, or take it to the rim himself and cap off the drive with bucket.
Monk hasn’t been the most consistent outside shooter throughout his high school career, but his mechanics seem well-based. He can hit shots both off the dribble and in catch-and-shoot situations, it’s just a matter of reassuring his NBA range and retaining consistency, something that could come with less of an offensive burden at Kentucky.
Monk’s physique also makes him one of the more intriguing perimeter defenders in the draft class, especially when he’s in his most aggressive state. He has the aptness to guard both guard spots at a high level, with a rangy style of play that allows him to get into to opposition’s space and force turnovers.
Monk has a few subtle flaws in his decision making at times and isn’t an entirely finished product by NBA standards, but his level of polish is unique for an athletic force as young as he is. He is capable of outmatching his opposition with skill as well as physical superiority at times, and has already made a name for himself as one of John Calipari’s most prized recruits in recent years, drawing comparisons to Derrick Rose from the former Memphis coach at the time.
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