Player Profile:
“O.G.’s versatility on the defensive end is an extreme rarity in college ball. He’s already up to par with the best wing athletes in the NBA in some ways, and possesses on that side of the ball that rarely stem from a 19-year-old.
His strength and length should allow him to guard one through four at the next level, with the potential to do so at an elite level. He has drawn comparisons to Kawhi Leonard on the defensive side of the ball, and the freakish physical tools — underrated vision on that side of the ball — certainly make some valid connections.
Offensively, Anunoby still has some room to improve. He is a deadly slasher, but doesn’t have the most polished of offensive games. He lacks isolation scoring ability, and doesn’t create his own looks at a very high level.” — 2017 NBA Draft Big Board 4.0.
Outside Opinion:
“Despite suffering a season-ending knee injury, OG Anunoby still warrants first-round consideration, assuming the medical reports don’t indicate permanent damage.
Prior to going down, his athleticism, length and quickness fueled defensive specialist potential. And though he wasn’t a productive scorer, his shooting stroke looked fluid enough to eventually threaten in spot-up situations.
Coming back as a junior would be risky for Anunoby: Struggling upon his return would destroy his draft stock.” — Jonathan Wasserman in Bleacher Report’s NBA Mock Draft: End-of-January Update.
Team Fit:
With a torn ACL derailing a season that could’ve potentially launched Anunoby into top 10 consideration, the Bucks could seem a bit gutsy in selecting him 12th — and that’s just how they like it. After selecting Giannis Antetokounmpo and Thon Maker in recent years, this is a Bucks team that is clearly willing to take risks and gamble on versatility.
With a wingspan reported at 7-6 in some circles, Anunoby’s defensive repertoire is among the most impressive you’ll find on the wing. He can cover multiple positions, defend several areas of the court, and utilize that length to make plays in several different facets of the game.
With Giannis being the ever-versatile force that he is, Milwaukee could look to overwhelm teams defensively with both him and a healthy Anunoby in the starting rotation, alongside Jabari Parker ideally returning to form at the four spot. That’s a lot of athleticism and some freaky defensive pressure. Sign me up.