Ater what was largely considered a weak draft class in 2016, 2017 breathes a new sense of importance into the process that many teams overlooked this season. It’s time to look at players the Philadelphia 76ers could consider taking in the 2017 NBA Draft, a year removed from selecting Ben Simmons first overall.
The 2016 NBA Draft was a massive endeavor for the Philadelphia 76ers and fans alike. Ben Simmons was the presumptive number one pick throughout almost the entirety on the pre-draft process, but the shear wealth of talent that the LSU star possessed kept the majority of the NBA universe intrigued all the way up until the actual announcement on June 23rd.
More from Draft
- Philadelphia 76ers Ten Biggest Mistakes of the Last Ten Years
- The Sixers sign four undrafted players after the NBA Draft
- Players the Sixers should target in undrafted free agency
- How to Watch the 2023 NBA Draft as a Sixers Fan
- 2023 NBA Mock Draft: 5 wing prospects 76ers could target
Now, with 2016’s sizable undertaking complete and a trio of rookies added to the team’s future assets, it’s time to begin looking forward to what could be an even more exciting 2017 class. While this year’s draft was considered relatively weak by typical NBA standards, the upcoming class draws a stark contrast, with a myriad of highly touted freshman and international prospects that could make the 2017 Draft one of the most star-packed hauls in recent memory.
With that said, it’s certainly a bit early to begin making that claim. The upcoming freshman still haven’t proven anything at the collegiate level for the time being, and some of the most intriguing upperclassmen still have quite a bit to prove in order to legitimize their standing in the class. There is however an immense amount of raw talent that is soon to be flooding college basketball, and looking forward to how they could project not only next season but once they reach the NBA is far from a pointless task.
The following is my way-too-early big board for 2017 NBA Draft prospects, breaking down the top 30 overall:
Next: 30. Bates-Diop
30. SF Keita Bates-Diop, Ohio State
Anytime you find a wing player who measures out at 6-7 with a 7-4 wingspan, there’s reason to be interested. Bates-Diop still has a while to go before he’s truly ready to produce at a high clip in the NBA, but he has all the physical tools needed to excel in a number of rotations in time.
Bates-Diop’s most prominent attribute early on will be his defense. He’s light on his feet and has the length needed to bother shots and get into passing lanes with ease. In a league that seems increasingly geared towards positionless basketball and having the rotational freedom to switch players between spots, getting somebody with the physical attributes that KBD could easily be a worthwhile investment long term.
Alongside his defensive versatility on the outside, KBD showcased a much improved 3-point shot during his sophomore campaign with the Buckeyes. With a high release points that’s tough to contest and a solid frame that is still maturing, knocking down upwards of 32% of his outside shots last year was a major positive for Bates-Diop, albeit in a small sample size overall.
Bates-Diop does still have a lot of work to do elsewhere on the offensive end, however. He attacks the basket well in a straight line, but struggles to change directions with the basketball is his hands and can often be turnover prone when attempting to create off the bounce in any capacity. His length also allows him to finish inside at a high clip, despite not being overly explosive with his vertical leaping.
In all likelihood, Bates-Diop would be labeled as a work in progress coming into the league, and rightfully so. He’s not ready to produce in major minutes yet, but has the upside of somebody who could develop into a very versatile wing at the next level under the right conditions.
Next: 29. Morris
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.
Next: 28. Kurucs
28. SF Rodions Kurucs, Barcelona
Kurucs is a raw, but skilled player who could transition nicely as a draft-and-stash prospect at the next level. He’s 6-8 with somewhat unimpressive explosiveness, but makes up it with he’s fluid mobility and multifaceted offensive game.
Kurucs’ most pressing issue is going to be his strength when making the switch to the NBA, as it is with a number of European prospects early in their career. He’s a lanky forward who can get around the court with ease, but often gets overpowered by stronger opposition in the post and is going to be overpowered quite often on the defensive end early in his career.
With that said, Kurucs’ all-encompassing offensive output could be a nice addition to almost any team. He’s a smooth shooter from deep and can create off the dribble a bit when driving down the line, while also having the ability to post up smaller defenders and utilize his body in the high post. That may not translate quite as well early on, but has his body matures, his scoring instincts from numerous areas on the court will be a strong asset.
In addition to his scoring, Kurucs sees the floor extremely well for a forward. He can wrap passes around his defenders and find open teammates on the perimeter with ease at times, and operates well at multiple different speeds depending on the pace of the game.
He’s someone who can dish the ball out in stride and provide a secondary or tertiary playmaker for an offense depending on the situation. He won’t be the primary ball handler, but is highly skilled in his approach to the game.
Next: 27. Hart
27. SG Josh Hart, Villanova
Hart was a major cog for Villanova in their title run last season, and decided to remain in school for a chance at repeating in his senior year. As somebody who has filled a plethora of roles for Nova over the course of his career there, Hart has given NBA teams a lot to like with his versatility and skill set, even if he’s somewhat underwhelming from an athletic standpoint.
Offensively, Hart is, in some ways, a poor man’s Denzel Valentine in terms of how he approaches the game. He isn’t physically dominating in any way, but he understands how to position his body of success depending on the state of the game, and has a number of skills he’s able to fall back on and produce with.
As a scorer, Hart’s 3-point shooting with make him an immediate asset at the next level. He shot just under 36% from beyond the arc last season, and improved his aptness in creating offense for himself off the dribble when needed.
Hart is also an excellent passer from the wing, something that could intrigue a number of teams. He sees the floor well at 6-6, and excels when finding his spots on the floor and distributing the ball from there. He was the Wildcats’ secondary ball handler behind Ryan Arcidiacono for the majority of the past couple of seasons, and gave Nova another playmaker that greatly upped their offensive production.
Hart also overcomes his lacking of quickness with unyielding aggression on the defensive side of the ball. He sees the floor very well and can get into passing lanes and force turnovers before the offense has a chance to attack him in isolation. He’s not afraid to be physical on that side of the ball, and will get in the opposing player’s grill, even if he is outmatched in some form or fashion.
He doesn’t wow you with his play, but Hart simply understands how to play the game of basketball. He makes the right plays with the ball in his hands and has the tools needed to produce when it’s not. What he lacks in physical NBA-readiness, Hart makes up for with one of the most impressive basketball I.Q.s in college ball.
Next: 26. Bacon
26. SF Dwayne Bacon, Florida State
Bacon was a considered by many to be a potential top 20 pick in last year’s draft prior to taking his name out of consideration, and could very well revive his stock heading into 2017 with a strong sophomore campaign for the Seminoles.
Standing at 6-5, Bacon played the three for the most part alongside Malik Beasley last season, but projects much better as a shooting guard size-wise in the NBA, and will likely be forced to play that position considerably more often with Jonathan Isaac joining the squad this season.
Bacon’s athleticism is his most impressive attribute as an NBA prospect. He’s explosive en route to the basket and an elite cutter when attacking the rim off the ball. He’s able to finish strong in space, and has the physical tools needed to transition to either wing spot without getting outmatched from a quickness standpoint. He showed a lot of upside as a shot creator as well, showing some improved craftiness with the ball in his hands and the ability to create space off the bounce, but needs to improve his shooting stroke significantly to maximize that potential.
Bacon shot a mere 28% from deep last season, and struggled to find the consistency some teams would have liked in terms of scoring the basketball– which was likely a reason for him staying in school another year. He does project well as an exterior defender, even if he’s somewhat of a tweener position-wise, and has the offensive upside and athletic package to carve out a strong niche at the next level if he continues his improvements.
Next: 25. Jackson
25. SF Justin Jackson, North Carolina
Jackson was another player who could have feasibly gone in the first round last season, but inevitably saw his stock waver and backed out in favor of another year at school. As a gifted scorer with a lot of innate talent, Jackson has shown a plentiful number of signs that he could be more than serviceable as a go-to offensive threat in time at the next level.
Jackson’s scoring prowess is among the most polished in college basketball at the moment. The mechanics on his 3-point shot are a little funky, but otherwise, he is capable of producing at a high level in a plethora of different facets.
Standing at 6-8 with a long, wiry frame, Jackson’s ability to attack his defender off the dribble and hit pull-up shots from almost any angle is notably promising. He needs to work on getting all the way to the basket more often, but he excels at creating space and utilizing his length and killer touch inside the arc to his utmost advantage. He can shoot over smaller defenders with ease and get by slower opposition and finish around the basket when opportunities present themselves.
Jackson also showed greatly improved passing skills during camps prior to last season, and continued showing those flashes throughout the Tar Heels’ run to the championship game. Like the aforementioned Kurucs, he won’t run the offense, but can find open teammates on the outside with consistency and helps keep the ball in motion when shots aren’t available.
Jackson had an up-and-down campaign last season, but if he’s able to find stability heading into 2017, there’s no reason why he shouldn’t be a first round selection.
Next: 24. Bolden
24. C Marques Bolden, Duke
Bolden is is a beast underneath the rim, standing at 6-11 with a frame that would be NBA-ready if he made the leap today. He has excellent length around the basket as well, and is fairly nimble for his size when he puts the effort into motion. As an All-American going into a spectacular program at Duke, there’s a lot of room to improve this ranking if he is able to polish off his skill set.
As somebody who uses his physical tools to gain advantages more so than he basketball skills for the time being, Bolden still has a lot of room to grow. He’s an easy lob target around the basket and a brutal force rolling off of screens, but still lacks the developed post arsenal of some of the most elite bigs in recent drafts. Bolden will be able to finish above the rim with ease and play big underneath without a problem, it’s just a matter of expanding his arsenal to improve his draft stock as the season progresses- a draft stock that is already fairly high in some circles.
With that said, a 7-6 wingspan is almost unheard of in some draft classes, and his length and strength under the basket will be second to none in what is already a loaded draft class. If he is, in some way, able to seperate himself from the pack with a strong showing next season, this 24th standing won’t last all that long.
Defensively, Bolden’s lackadaisical approach is disappointing at times considering just how much upside he has here. His overarching presence underneath the rim will make him a viable rim protector from day one and a hefty rebounder, but he can seem indifferent at times, which limits the extent to which he’s able to affect the game as a whole.
There’s a ton of potential with Bolden based on physical dominance alone. 6-11 with a 7-6 wingspan in truly incredible when you think about it, he just lacks to overall skill to earn a ranking higher than this at this stage in his development. His performance this season will do an even larger part than normal in determining his standing heading into the Draft next season, assuming he inevitably commits.
Next: 23. Ball
23. PG Lonzo Ball, UCLA
Ball seems to be gaining a lot of praise as one of the best point guards in this draft class, but I’m not quite as sold on him becoming someone worthy of a top 10 spot on draft night. Standing at 6-4, Ball has a solid frame to grow into for the point guard spot, but has a few deficiencies that could, in the end, limit his upside.
Playmaking is going to be Ball’s most prominent skill once he reaches the NBA, as his unique combination of size and vision has made him one of the draft’s most lauded faciliatators. During the McDonald’s All-American game, he went scoreless, but ended up compiling 13 assists- somewhat of a symbol for where his game is in terms of development at this point.
Ball will be perfectly capable of running an NBA offense, much less an collegiate one, from his first day in the gym. He excels in pick-and-roll situations, and can whip the ball around the floor with precision that few prospects can. His scoring ability, on the other hand, leaves much to be desired.
In theory, Ball has been a solid outside shooter throughout his high school career, but it’s tough to see his mechanics translating. He was already inconsistent at times as it stands, and with his slow and awkward windup, I don’t picture it getting much better during his first campaign with the Bruins next season. In addition to his lackluster shooting prospects, Ball struggles to finish around the basket at times, and doesn’t have the most versatile scoring array of the point guard crop in this upcoming draft.
Defensively, Ball does redeem himself a bit. He has all the physical tools to excel as a multi-positional stopper once his frame fills out, and accompanies that with excellent anticipation off the ball. He’s able to force turnovers and body up the opposition without problem, and in many ways in comparable to Wade Baldwin IV, this year’s 17th overall selection.
Next: 22. Charalampopoulos
22. SF Vasilis Charalampopoulos, Panathinaikos
Charalampopoulos is certainly a fun name to say, but there’s a lot more to his draft stock than that. As one of the most skilled European prospects tabbed as a potential draftee in 2017, the Greek stud has flown largely under the radar thus far. He was on the same team as this year’s 13th overall selection, Georgios Papagiannis, last season, and has the potential this season to legitimately make a name for himself if he’s able to grab adequate playing time for Panathinaikos in Greece.
While he may seem like an obscure name at this point, Charalampopoulos brings a level of skill and polish that few players, especially at his age do. He stands at 6-8 with an excellent wingspan and a frame that provides plenty of room to grow into, all while having the skills needed to a little bit of everything when he’s on the floor.
Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress called him “one of the smartest and most polished teenagers you’ll find anywhere in the world,” and it shows when he’s given the freedom to operate on the court.
V.C. can score in a number of ways on the offensive side of the ball. He’s able to utilize his solid frame to get into the paint and put the ball in with nice touch around the basket, or spot up from three and knock down shots with consistency. He’s not overly athletic by NBA standards, but knows how to angle his body and put himself in position to score the ball. He shot 40% from beyond the arc as a pro, and has been playing professional basketball in the European ranks since age 15.
In addition to his scoring prowess, V.C. is an extremely smart passer. He won’t blow by his defender and create is stride, but he sees the floor well, whether from the post or the outside, and has a knack for hitting teammates with crisp passes that is extremely rare for a player with his size.
To top it off, he’s an aggressive defender and skilled anticipation, allowing him to stick with threes despite his limited quickness and play stretch four at times if asked. He also averaged 10 rebounds per 40 minutes at U19 FIBA championships in 2015.
Givony later went on to make the comparison to Draymond Green, and it seems oddly fitting when watching some of what Charalampopoulos is capable of doing on the floor. How he continues to progress this season from a playing time perspective with Panathinaikos could be the deciding factor as to where his draft stock falls, but there’s a lot to like about the European stud heading into next season.
Next: 21. Beachem
21. SF V.J. Beachem, Notre Dame
If there’s one thing V.J. Beachem is good at, it’s shooting the basketball. The Notre Dame stud stood out last season of one of college basketball’s most prominent threats on the perimeter, and seems to, at the very least, project as a solid 3-and-D player at the next level of competition.
Beachem hasn’t always played the largest role with Notre Dame, as he’s played alongside the likes of Jerian Grant, Demetrius Jackson, Pat Connaughton, and Zach Auguste over the course of the past couple of seasons. Despite not having the most prominant role in a loaded rotation, however, Beachem has consistently found avenues of production and been one of the Irish’s most valuable contributors, especially late in games.
As a lengthy 6-8 forward who shot over 44% from three during his junior campaign, Beachem will obviously have plenty of teams willing to give him a shot at the next level. He isn’t the strongest in terms of his frame and that hinders him in some areas, but he’s a solid athletic prospect for somebody with the touch he has shown from beyond the arc.
He doesn’t create too much off the dribble, but is a stellar spot-up shooter. With his feet set, there are few players who can match his proficiency at the college level. In addition, his length gives him a high release point that makes it difficult to contest his jumper effectively, and allows him to get of shots with less space than other shooters in his echelon.
Beachem also has a good feel for the game on the offensive side of the ball. He won’t run the offense by any means, but he keeps the ball moving along the perimeter when shots aren’t available and he’s intelligent in the manner in which he approaches the game. He should fit well into a number of different systems, and is the type of “glue guy” floor spacer that almost any team could feasibly benefit from.
Defensively, there are concerns, but Beachem has the lateral quickness and length to hang with multiple positions. There will clearly be some players that are stronger than him early on, but his ability to bother shots and cover ground with long strides gives him upside worth taking note of. 3-and-D players are at a premium, and Beachem is an excellent example of one.
Next: 20. Bridges
20. SF Miles Bridges, Michigan State
Bridges is a highly unique prospect heading into Michigan State, but I doubt there’s a better program for him to work within than Tom Izzo’s come next season. Standing at 6-6, Bridges has spent a lot of time playing as a faceup four, which could be problematic. He’ll likely have to make the transition to small forward to maximize his potential, but has the tools needed to do so.
Athletically, that type of switch shouldn’t be too much of a problem for Bridges. He’s light on his feet and extremely difficult to contain as a thrasher. He has a solid, NBA-ready build as it stands, and the leaping ability in space to play above the rim with ease. Much akin to Jaylen Brown, he’s somebody who should be able to make the physical leap to the next level without problem.
Skill-wise is where the majority of the concern is, but his potential somewhat triumphs over some of those issues. Mechanically, he has a lot of work to do on his perimeter jump shot, but has shown occasional flashes of being able to knock down rangy shots during his high school career thus far. In addition, he’s a fairly mediocre ball handler at this point, and will need to up his proficiency in that aspect to make the transition to the perimeter more seamless.
Bridges’ quick first step off the perimeter and excellent instincts with the basketball lead me to believe he’ll be able to find avenues of production come time for him to make the NBA transition. He has a quick first step and gets to the rim with ease, knowing how to finish of shots and what he wants to do with the ball once he does so.
Rebounding is also another benefit Bridges provides. While spending less time around the basket defensively could dilute his numbers a bit in that category, Bridges is an aggressive rebounder whose nose for the ball is far more noticeable than it may be for other players his size. He understands how to position his body, and sets himself up for success as a result.
Bridges’ size and athleticism also sure up his defensive ability on the perimeter. He has all the attributes indicative of somebody who should be highly effective as an exterior defender, and under Tom Izzo, shouldn’t have much problem developing into one.
Next: 19. Allen
19. SG Grayson Allen, Duke
Grayson Allen will be part of a loaded Duke team this year, but will likely still be given ample opportunities to make his case to NBA teams as the Blue Devils’ veteran leader of sorts on the perimeter. After a strong season in his sophomore year that likely would’ve placed him into the later stages of the first round this year, Allen decided to return to Duke, citing his love for the university.
While his stock may not rise given the influx of talent in this year’s draft class, Allen’s ability as a player shouldn’t be overlooked. He’s somewhat undersized for the two-guard, but understands how to maneuver his way around the court and was arguably the most effective offensive player with Duke last season, often looking more polished than second overall pick Brandon Ingram.
Allen utilizes a quick first step and explosive athleticism to get by the defense and create space. He’s a reliable outside shooter both off the catch and off the dribble, and has excellent touch around the basket when he’s able to find a driving lane. While he can seem somewhat narrow-minded at times, Allen is one of the better pure scorers in the draft as it stands.
He has excellent handles that allow him to create space without turning the ball over excessively, and he’s capable of knocking down a myriad of shots from multiple angles at any given time. His upside may seem limited in some facets, but as a scoring spark off the bench or playing off ball as a tertiary scoring option, there are few players who can match Allen’s aptitude.
Defensively, Allen is in a jam to some extent in terms of finding the best position for him, but he should be able to overcome that. He has the lateral quickness needed to stay with either guard spot, and is a fiery player when motivated on the court. His motor could be a bit more consistent on that side of the ball, but when it’s on, he is among the most aggressive players on the court.
Next: 18. Adebayo
18. PF Bam Adebayo, Kentucky
Adebayo comes to Kentucky as one of the more hyped members of this year’s freshman class, presenting a solid 6-10 frame with athleticism to boot. While he’s not all that polished off in terms of his skill set, his presence around the basket gives him one of the more intriguing upsides to watch in the coming weeks.
Defensively and on the boards are the two areas in which Adebayo will make the biggest impact early on, both in college and once he reaches the NBA. He has a lengthy wingspan and solid core that allow him to match competition at either frontcourt spot from a physical perspective, and has consistent showcased excellent shot blocking underneath the rim. He’s mobile for his size as well, and has the flexibility to switch onto the perimeter without being overly embarrassed.
Abedayo’s rebounding will also be a massive benefit, regardless of where he ends up. He’s still raw in a number of facets, but has the instincts needed to find the ball off the shot and the athletic prowess around the basket to grab rebounds at a high clip.
Offensively, there’s some major hitches in his game, but he has the tools needed to carve out an effective role. He plays above the rim with ease, making him an easy lob target and someone capable of finishing off give-and-gos at the basket. His length and physicality allow him to finish through contact with ease, and his aggression on the offensive boards on reassures his ability to contribute on that end.
His arsenal of moves on the block are a bit limited at this point and he doesn’t contribute much outside the paint, but he’s the type of two-way physical force that will always have a spot in the NBA.
Next: 17. Hartenstein
17. PF Isaiah Hartenstein, Zalgiris
Hartenstein, flaws and all, is another skilled European who has all the fundamental skills needed to build an NBA career off of. The 18-year-old has been stellar at international camps and during his tenure with Zalgiris’ 18-U team, showcasing mobility and skill that few forwards his age possess.
Standing at 6-11 with wide shoulders and a solid build, Hartenstein already has the physical attributes to compete at the next level once he comes from overseas. He has excellent touch around the hoop in combination with a nice set of hook shots and turnaround jumpers that he’s able to utilize consistently around the basket. He can get tunnel vision at times and force up ill-advised shots when not fully engaged in the outcome of the game, but should be able to improve his decision making as he matures and is placed alongside more adequate talent.
He’s also a fluid athlete who can attack his man off the bounce from the perimeter. He has shown flashes of being a knockdown shooter from deep in time, but still hasn’t found the consistency that often comes with prospects a few years older than he is. He has the ideal skill set and physical attributes of somebody who can be molded into the ideal modern stretch four, it’s simply a matter of further development- something we could see this upcoming season overseas and he moves up a level in competition.
Defensively, Hartenstein’s fluidity in motion and ability to stretch out to the perimeter is a huge boost. He won’t protect the rim all that much and could certainly improve his toughness in some scenarios, but has all the tools to be an efficient switch defender without giving up too much ground to smaller players.
Next: 16. Anunoby
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
15. PF Lauri Markkanen, Arizona
In order to up his experience against better competition, Markkanen, originally from Finland, has committed to playing at Arizona for a year (at least), rather than entering the league this season.
Standing at 7-0 with plenty of room to fill out his frame, Markanen’s expansive skill set in highly intriguing from an NBA perspective, especially on the offensive end. He’s a fluid athlete who rotates well off of screens and can put the ball on the floor smoothly. He’s not overly quick, but he handles himself well around the court, and can be put into a plethora of different sets on offense.
His ability to shoot from deep is what makes his NBA projections so intriguing. He’s a mobile 7-footer capable of executing well in the pick-and-pop or when diving to the basket, and accompanies his touch outside with a nice arsenal of moves down low. He’s also a smart passer off the low block and someone who has continuously shown his will to share the ball and operate within the team’s system, rather than it operating solely through him. He’s one of the most polished offensive options in this draft class, and somebody well worth watching this upcoming campaign.
Defense is the only area where Markkanen has some major concerns. He’s aggressive on both ends and mobile enough to switch onto the perimeter from time to time, but lacks the core strength and lower body development to hang with stronger opposition in the post at the moment. He oftens gets backed down and his somewhat underwhelming wingspan makes it tough for him to block shots.
Regardless of the work he’ll have to do to get stronger and improve his ability to defend as a whole, Markanen’s offensive arsenal is undeniably appealing to NBA offenses. He stretches the floor with his shot and can create off the dribble, an incredible asset to have out of a full fledged 7-footer.
Next: 14. Yertseven
14. C Omer Yertseven, Fenerbahce
Yertseven is another well polished European big, providing a level of development on the low block that isn’t really found elsewhere in this draft quite yet. Standing at 7-0, Yertseven has an exceptional frame physically that has plenty of room to continue growing, and his nimble nature at that size is a gigantic bonus.
In terms of the most skilled post scorers in this upcoming draft class, Yertseven ranks near the top. He has exceptional fundamentals on the low block and in the the high post, and is capable of utilizing a number of different moves to free up space and knock down shots in close proximity. His jump hook is incredibly difficult to guard effectively, and he’s among the draft’s most aware offensive minds available.
In addition to his scoring skills, Yertseven is a smooth passer out of the post as well. He sees the court well and can dish the ball off to teammates effectively when he’s not able to get off solid shots of his own. He’s one of the more polished players intellectually that you’ll find at such as young age, and that should carry over very well to the next level of play.
Defensively, his somewhat mediocre wingspan does limit his upside, but he’s far from ineffective. He’s still large enough to bother shots underneath the basket and put himself in position for rebounds, while his competitiveness has been consistently praised. He’s not the most outwardly demonstrative attitude on the court, but he’s a smart player who puts himself in position to be effective.
In a draft that is highlighted by some big names at the center spot, Yertseven is in a position to put himself directly into the conversation as one of the most wanted players in the draft down low. He has some improvements he could make, but he’s as thoroughly bred skill-wise as big men come into the league.
Next: 13. Isaac
13. SF Jonathan Isaac, Florida State
Isaac has a ton of tools to work with, it’s just a matter of putting them together this upcoming season with the Noles. The rising freshman has truly impressive physical attributes for somebody who spends the majority of his time on the wing, standing at 6-11 and wielding a 7-1 wingspan. He’s still slim in build, but is far more mobile than typical players with his stature, and has shown flashes of becoming an excellent two-way force.
On the offensive end, Isaac’s consistency has been his main hindrance thus far. He has solid mechanics on his jumper and a fairly decent grasp on handling the ball (he played guard in high school), but has never been able to show them off in prolific fashion for an extended period of time.
He can space the floor out to the 3-point line and knock down jumpers off the dribble, attributes that make him a tantalizing prospect as an isolation scorer, but he still must iron out some of his most glaring kinks on that side of the ball.
Defensively, Isaac has excelled thus far in the early semblances of his career. He can step out to the perimeter and guard wings at a level few players with his physical gifts can, and he has the athleticism needed to produce as a shot blocker or someone who can create turnovers at a high rate. He still gets pushed around by stronger opponents underneath the basket from time to time, but has plenty of room to fill out his frame.
.
Isaac is one of the biggest unknowns heading into his freshman campaign with Florida State. He has the potential to be a legitimate top 5 pick and establish himself as a frightening prospect at the next level, but his inconsistency could very well drop his stock in the opposite direction as well. He’s somebody worth keeping an eye on.
Next: 12. Jeanne
12. C Jonathan Jeanne, Le Mans
It’s tough to find a more unique prospect than Jeanne, as the 7-3 Frenchman brings an almost unheralded combination of height, length and athleticism that alone will make him one of the draft’s most sought-after foreigners. He’s still rail thin and highly underdeveloped, but has the type of primative skill set and freakish athletic profile that’ll make some scouts’ mouths water with excitement.
In a sense, he’s the French version of Thon Maker.
Jeanne’s wingspan is officially listed in the 7-7 range, and his mobility on the court is difficult to match in terms of players his size. He can shoot the ball with some consistency, and has even shown prowess attacking his defender off the dribble and nailing pull-up jumpers on occasion.
He can space the floor all the way out to the perimeter, and has shown a level of ball handling ability that is quite frankly not seen in your typical 7-3 big man by almost any account. He can push the pace in transition or get to the basket off the bounce. He still has to polish off a great deal of the minutia in regards to his game offensively, but he has everything needed to blossom into a true stud with time and the right coaching staff behind him.
Defensively, as well as some areas offensively, is where Jeanne’s 195 pound frame really hurts him at the moment. He’s listed about one to two inches taller than the aforementioned Maker, and weighs about 20 pounds less. If you’ve seen Thon Maker in any capacity, you can see why that’s a more than slight problem.
Jeanne has plenty of room to fill out his frame and will certainly put a great deal of stress on doing so, but that’s his greatest weakness coming in. He moves his feet well on both sides of the ball and has the base skill set needed to produce in almost any facet. Being bullied by stronger bigs is going to be what limits him early on, and what he must, must overcome to exploit the full expanse of his massive potential as an NBA player.
Next: 11. Bryant
11. C Thomas Bryant, Indiana
Adding to the list of physically imposing centers in this upcoming draft class, Thomas Bryant showed plenty of flashes of somebody who could be highly effective at the next level of play. After coming into his freshman campaign as one of the most hyped players in the class, Bryant decided to forgo this year’s draft in favor of, in all likelihood, entering in 2017, despite the possibility of being a lottery pick regardless.
Bryant’s physical tools are what stand out at first glance when watching him play. Listed at 6-10 and weighing over 240 pounds underneath the basket, Bryant has a lengthy wingspan and uncanny athleticism at the five spot that makes him a sizable force on both sides of the ball.
He’s still fairly raw in a number of aspects, but that’s always a common theme among the younger big men at the collegiate level. He showed massive strives as his freshman campaign progressed last season with Indiana, and will have yet another season to continue his upward trend in a more expansive role in 2017.
Bryant’s stature alone makes him a defensive stud on the low block. He got into foul trouble at times early on, but corrected that problem on a consistent basis as time passed. He has excellent lateral mobility for somebody with his size, and an NBA-ready body that should make him a viable shot blocker as soon as he steps foot onto a professional court. He can get up and alter shots at will, and has shown excellent progression in his fundamentals as well in regards to his footwork around the basket.
Bryant is also a strong rebounding threat give the nature of his game and his oft-lauded motor that made him a forceful presence down the stretch last season. He has a nose for the ball and is willing to put all his energy into producing in whichever manner benefits the team.
His willingness to be energetic on both sides of the ball is part of what makes a player of Bryant’s physical dominance so appealing, and is one of those consistently mentioned intangibles that will almost always carry over to the next level of competition. It’s an attribute that seperates him from some of the upcoming class’ other hyped big men, such as Marques Bolden, and is something that we saw make players among the likes of Domantas Sabonis and Thon Maker highly sought after, while leaving AJ Hammons in the middle of the second round.
Offensively, Bryant has a lot of work to do, but he did show some promising signs. He’s an easy lob target for obvious reasons, and his swift method of motion makes him difficult to contain in pick-and-roll situations. He can set hard screens and get to the basket without much resistance, while also showing some flashes of a budding arsenal of moves around the low block.
.
Bryant is a hard worker and somebody who is tailor made to make an impact from day one at the next level. He still has immense room for improvement, but has the intangibles of somebody who should be a very good NBA center.
Next: 10. Allen
10. C Jarrett Allen, Texas
Allen is yet another freakishly long big man that’s likely to enter the draft in 2017. The Texas commit stands at 6-11 with a whopping 7-6 wingspan, and has among the highest two-way potential of any big man in the draft class.
Allen, contrary to what may be initially thought given his physical measurements, has mainly made his name thus far as a polished offensive threat in the high school ranks. He possesses excellent touch around the basket on the offensive end, allowing him to rely on a nice little hook shot and a few other moves on the low block to create space via utilizing his length. Allen is a nimble player for somebody his size as well, and has excellent coordination when handling the ball with his back to the basket.
Mobility also allows Allen to get out and run the floor much better than the vast majority of players at his size. He won’t make a living per say in the open court, but he’s an energized runner who can get up and down the floor with enough steam to finish off the shot. He also excels in pick-and-roll scenarios.
Defensively is where Allen has had his more pressing issues thus far, but the raw potential is undeniable. He needs to up his toughness is some regard and be more physically aggressive when facing opposition that’s able to match his intensity, but his length and athletic prowess around the basket are enough to make him a considerable rim protector and somebody who could be molded into a highly skilled defensive force under the right coaching staff.
His instincts have always been present on the defensive end, it’s a matter of whether or not he’s able to finish strengthening his core and become more willing as a forcible interior threat.
Allen has shown tons of promise as a two-way player. His offensive game is already well on track towards becoming among the most impressive of any center entering the draft, while his upside on the other side of the ball is clear cut when analyzing how he’ll be able to improve. There are some subtle flaws that are holding him back, but Allen should be one of, if not the best center in the 2017 Draft by the time next year comes.
Next: 9. Rabb
9. PF Ivan Rabb, Cal
Rabb was projected by many as a lottery pick in this year’s draft prior to making the somewhat surprising decision to return to California for a second year in college. Now with both Jaylen Brown and Tyronne Wallace out of the mix and a much greater load likely to be placed on Rabb’s shoulders offensively, there’s going to be plenty of room for him to improve and show his chops as a major piece of a loaded 2017 draft class.
Chris Bosh was probably the most intriguing comparison tied to Rabb all season, as his skills do compare similarly in some aspects. Rabb has showcased legitimate range as a shooter and should only continue to develop as a stretch four. He’s highly athletic and in turn highly mobile on the outside, and can find space quickly in pick-and-pop scenarios or even create some off the dribble from time to time.
Rabb’s array of post moves was impressive throughout last season, and is bound only to make even greater strides as he continues his development. He can knock down a turn-around jumper on the block, and has excellent touch around the rim when making a move towards the basket. His ability to get into the air with ease also makes him an acrobatic finisher when needed, and somebody more than capable of playing above the rim when needed.
Defensively, he has the shot blocking tools and improving core strength needed to hold his own at the next level. He still has some holes to fill on that side of the ball, but has shown his ability to alter shots at a high clip and fits the mold of a modern NBA power forward almost seamlessly.
Rabb’s more pressing weaknesses largely revolved around his inability to get get proper touches in a talented, ball-dominant core and his lack of experience in a few facets. Another year in college as the main cog will likely mend a number of those issues, and should certainly help up his stock even more if he’s able to produce at the level he’s capable of.
Next: 8. Fox
8. PG De’Aaron Fox, Kentucky
In a loaded point guard class, Fox has made a name for himself as arguably the best two-way point that’s likely to enter the draft in 2017. The Kentucky commit could feasibly have some trouble finding consistency in what will be a loaded backcourt alongside Isaiah Briscoe and fellow freshman Malik Monk, but his ability to execute offensively in combination with elite defensive tools gives him a level of intrigue few prospects will garner.
There are certainly some gaps in Fox’s game that he will have to work through at U.K. and he’s far from a finished product, but his skill set is truly one that’s difficult to find on a yearly basis. Defense is going to be the focal point of the freshman’s game early on, as his anticipation on the perimeter is second to none.
Fox reads passing lanes at a level no other player in this draft class can, and his ability to get into the opposition’s space and use grit to force turnovers and get out in transition makes him an immediate asset. He measures well for the point guard spot at 6-4, albeit weighing just 171 pounds, and should be able to cover either guard spot with tremendous success once he fills out his frame just a bit more.
On the offensive end, Fox isn’t the most polished scorer, but he has all the tools to continue improving in that aspect of his game. He has a quick first step and gets into the teeth off the defense with ease, combining upper level court vision and a knockdown pull-up jumper to find methods of production on a fairly consistent basis.
He lacks the finishing touch some teams want around the basket, but he has little problem getting to the rack and should be able to help iron out that hitch as time wears on. Fox has a combination of speed and athleticism that is highly promising for the point guard spot, it just comes down to him putting the pieces together offensively at this point.
There aren’t many players that present the type of two-way upside that Fox does, and his stock could continue to see gradual growth as a result. His ability to find avenues of production alongside Briscoe and Monk is going to be critical in terms of assuring his draft appeal, but his status as a highly-touted NBA prospect seems to be unquestioned heading into next season.
Next: 7. Ntilikina
7. PG Frank Ntilikina, Strasbourg
As the top rated foreign prospect in the class at this point, Ntilikina has established himself as one of the most skilled point guards in a class characterized by depth at the position. Despite just recently turning 18, Ntilikina already possesses a level of poise and precision when he plays that few players years older than him are able to attain, and his overarching range of talent is among the most NBA-ready out there.
Facilitation is the facet of the game in which Ntilikina excels the most, and he does so at a level no other guards in the 2017 class have yet to reach. Standing at 6-5 with a rangy wingspan and exceptional court vision, Ntilikina reads the defense with incredible wisdom for a player of his age. His aptness is understanding the inner workings of the offense and how to manipulate the defense is truly astounding, and he utilizes that to his advantage every possession.
He’s a willing passer who can run the show from day one at the next level. He’ll make teammates better around him, while giving the defense someone they have to specifically create a game plan for for that very reason. He’ll be able to run plays and set up his team for success at will, and that’s something that should be very appealing to a number of teams.
In terms of his scoring touch, the tools are there, it’s simply a matter of execution. Ntilikina is a solid outside shooter and has a strong first step that allows him to get into the lane and finish when desired. He can score the ball plenty when he’s motivated to do so, it’s simply a matter of getting him to take advantage of opportunities given to him. He’s almost unselfish to a fault at times, a similar knock to the one that we saw pegged on Ben Simmons relentlessly during this year’s pre-draft process.
Ntilikina brings that overarching intelligence and on-court I.Q. to the defensive end as well. He has the size needed to cover either guard spot, and reads passing lanes at a level only the aforementioned Fox matches. He understands his role on that side of the ball and is able to operate successfully in a plethora of different scenarios.
It’s tough to find floor generals with the two-way talent and ability to run the court that Ntilikina possesses. Add in his extremely young age and the fact that he has a level of mental development that many veteran point guards don’t obtain, and his stock is one that should remain high all the way up until draft night.
Next: 6. Jackson
6. SF Josh Jackson, Kansas
On a scale of one to ten, Josh Jackson is a flat out ten when it comes to athleticism. The bouncy wing has already established himself as one of the draft class’ most hyped prospects, even highlighting the top spot in some circles, and has a bountiful amount of Kansas Jayhawks fans excited to see how his exciting game translates to the collegiate level of play.
In terms of his NBA projections, Jackson is a few fixes away from being locked into the top two or three. He’s a ridiculous athlete on the wing who can get to the rim and play above it almost at will. He’s an aggressive slasher who has no problem matching up with the most dominant athletes he’s had the task of facing thus far in the primitive stages of his career, and that shouldn’t change much as the competition level increases moving forwards.
Jackson’s passing skills on the offensive end, however, seem to be the most overlooked aspect of his game. In the midst of the thrilling dunks and his exhilerating displays of physical beauty, Jackson is a strong creator for the three spot, and is more than capable of creating opportunities for teammates off the dribble. He’s not going to run the show yet by any means, but he’s a highly skilled player in several aspects, and that seems to get downplayed at times with how exciting it is to watch him play.
Jackson’s main offensive hindrance will be his jumper, and that will go a long way in establishing where his draft stock falls in 2017. He’s comfortable shooting off the dribble in some scenarios, but has funky mechanics when he’s spotting up and has never really been all that successful as a perimeter shooter. His main offensive production comes en route to the basket when driving down the lane, and his aptitude in stretching the floor is something that could make or break his already-lofty ceiling in terms of just how good he’s capable of getting at the next level.
Jackson accompanies his offensive promise with elite defensive tools. He can cover any spot on the perimeter, and has excellent instincts in regards to forcing turnovers. His length leaves some to be desired, especially by top-6 draft prospect standards, but he has more than proven himself throughout his high school career as somebody who can produce effectively on both sides of the basketball.
Next: 5. Tatum
5. SF Jayson Tatum, Duke
Tatum, a Duke commit, brings a wing that starkly contrasts the previously mentioned Jackson in a number of ways. Rather than being a high-flying athlete who dominates his opposition on a physical basis, Tatum is a fluid scorer who utilizes his offensive instincts and incredible scoring prowess with the ball in his hands to find methods of production.
Any Duke player is going to have the chance to see massive improvement under Coach K and their developmental staff, but Tatum brings an even greater level of intrigue than normal. While a lot of Tatum’s play during his high school career has been centered around getting the ball and operating in isolation, he has a chance to further expand upon his game when surrounded by more talent at Duke.
His calling card will be his scoring ability. He’s a solid shooter from deep, and has a knack for finding space on the floor and knocking down shots from a variety of angles on a consistent basis. He’s a highly coordinated player with the ball, and is quasi-unstoppable at times when locating his spots from midrange and drilling pull-up jumpers. Tatum also works very well at multiple speeds, and has the undervalued athleticism needed to play above the rim in just about any situation when it’s necessary.
Tatum, like Jackson, can play with the ball in his hands quite a bit as well. He has shown promise as a passer from time to time, but unlike his previously mentioned small forward counterpart is often looking for his own scoring opportunities.
Defensively, Tatum has all the tools requisite of somebody who could produce at a high level on both ends. Standing at 6-8 with a 6-10 wingspan, he has ideal size for the three spot at the next level, and the lateral quickness needed to stay with any athlete at the position. A stronger core would provide a major boost, but that’s a problem that is almost universal among upcoming rookies at times.
Next: 4. Giles
4. PF Harry Giles, Duke
Giles has a ton of upside at the four spot, and with a strong showing at Duke this upcoming season could certainly see himself move even further up this list. As easily the top big man in the draft and a forceful physical presence around the basket, Giles’ blend of mobility and explosiveness is tough to find in players standing at 6-11.
On the offensive side of the ball, Giles’ greatest asset is his ability to move around the court with incredible fluidity. Whether it’s rolling to the basket after setting a screen or getting out into the open court and pushing the pace, he’s far quicker than most players his age and is a bouncy finisher when he gets near the rim.
Giles’ fundamentals are also well beyond his years in terms of development. His scoring moves with his back to the basket are still a work in progress, but he understands how to move and how to position himself for success within an offense. He has instincts that aren’t often found in bigs and is able to use those to find holes in the defense and set him up for success.
While he does have soft touch around the rim, Giles’ floor spacing ability is still largely in doubt. He has somewhat stiff mechanics that don’t often yield desirable results when he’s working outside the free throw line, and his free throw shooting is far from consistent in any manner at this stage. He has the ability to get into the lane off the bounce and is a highly aggressive offensive player, but is still far from developing the type of stretch four skill set that has been the hallmark of modern basketball as of late.
Rim protection will, however, be a major strength for Giles come next season. He has a lengthy 7-3 wingspan and is a terrific athlete from a one on one perspective. He tends to make pointless mistakes from time to time and hasn’t fully evolved in terms of decision making on the defensive end, but he should be able to alter shots with his length and guard either frontcourt position without being too much of a liability.
If he’s able to get a jumper falling at any rate next season, Giles’ stock could feasible skyrocket. He has as much raw upside as anybody in this loaded draft class, and is a strong season at Duke away from making a lot of NBA teams consider him as one of, if not the best prospect on the board.
Next: 3. Smith
3. PG Dennis Smith Jr., NC State
Standing around 6-3, Smith is possibly the quickest player in the 2017 draft class. He only ways 160 pounds, but is incredibly well built for that size, and has the athletic tools needed to get anywhere on the court without hesitation. With Cat Barber now out at NC State and Smith likely to take the reigns as the main creator, he’ll have ample opportunities to showcase his talents throughout the season in a solid ACC program.
Offensively, Smith’s ability to create plays off the dribble is simply fun to watch at times. He’s a crafty ball handler who can get into the lane with apparent ease, and has the combination of speed and finesse needed to either find his own shot or create for others at that point. He’s a strong finisher regardless of positioning around the basket, and is highly difficult to contain given his precision with the ball and uncanny first step.
Smith’s prowess on the fast break is another massive boost to his game. He works well at different speeds and is more than capable of getting out into the open court and orchestrating transition opportunities.
Decision making has been the biggest knock on Smith thus far, as he can tend to over-dribble from time to time loses some of his passing touch off the dribble, but that’s an issue that should get better with more talent around him and more work with an upper level coaching staff. He has all the physical tools to put himself in whichever position he pleases on the court, and is a few better passes away from being a frightening entity at any level of play.
Defensively, Smith has the tools to defend the one spot to a ‘T’. He’s extremely light on his feet and has the physical tools needed to guard the most elite forces at the position. He hasn’t always been keen on being an elite defender, but with less of an offensive burden to carry and a more pressing coaching staff behind him, that’s something else that could change.
Next: 2. Monk
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.
Next: 1. Fultz
1. PG Markelle Fultz, Washington
Fultz has, for the time being, established himself as the best prospect in the 2017 draft class heading into his freshman campaign with Washington. Standing around 6-5 with a 6-9 wingspan and a solid frame, Fultz is incredibly well built for the point guard spot, and possesses all the requisite skills needed to excel for years to come.
Much akin to D’Angelo Russell in a number of ways, Fultz is a highly skilled offensive threat. He’s a smooth shooter from deep, having excellent numbers when spotting up and showing plenty of prowess when creating his own shot off the dribble. Futlz has shown his ability to play either guard spot in some scenarios, and has a combination of scoring touch and passing ability that’s difficult to find, even if a class loaded with upper echelon point guards.
Fultz’s scoring instincts are at a level reached by only a handful of players in this class, and only a handful of players in recent memories. He understands how to manipulate the defense to his advantage and is extremely crafty with his ball handling. He finds lanes to the basket and is able to exploit them with ease, whether that’s gliding to the rim for a basket or kicking the ball out to an open teammate on the perimeter.
Fultz is somebody who will be able to step in and operate and NBA offense from day one. His court vision is second to only Frank Ntilikina in the scope of 2017, and his ability to play unselfishly and create for others at a high level when not finding his own avenues of production is outright impressive.
Defensively, he has all the tools to be effective if he puts in the energy necessitated to excel. He’s well built for covering either guard spot and has the quickness and defensive vision needed to get into passing lanes and create turnovers on a dime. He lacks focus at times and hasn’t always been oriented towards defensive success, but greater competition at the college level and some extra push from the coaching staff could help change that.
Next: Looking Back, Ben Simmons Was the Sixers' Best Option
In terms of gifted offensive players, Fultz is among the best we’ve seen in recent years. He has the potential to be a truly generational talent with his blend of well-tuned offensive skills and a feel for the game that doesn’t come around with too many 18-year-olds. He’ll have a bounty of opportunities to showcase his skills next season with Dejounte Murray now out in Washington, and if everything goes as well as it could, I wouldn’t be surprised to see his name called first come next year.