Player Profile:
“Baylor is among the best team’s the country this season, in large part due to Motley’s exceptional play down low. The 21-year-old boasts a lanky 7-4 wingspan, along with a solid 6-9 frame that’s continuing to fill out. Motley isn’t the most polished offensive weapon yet, but has made vast improvements with his game on the low block — while boasting exceptional energy in every facet of his game. He’s the type of gritty, energetic presence that can be likened to Montrezl Harrell in a number of ways. Although he’s a tad of undersized, Motley finds his way onto the boards with impressive proficiency, while also providing versatile defense out of the interior. He’s averaging 16 points and 9.6 rebounds in 29.6 minutes per game for the Bears this year.” — NBA Draft Big Board 5.0.1.
Outside Opinion:
“In Big 12 play, the Baylor junior is averaging 21.9 points and 14.6 blocks per 40 minutes. Offensively, he’s shown the ability to score in a variety of ways, including in the post, facing up and even occasionally from behind the arc. It’s an enticing combination for a power forward.
Defensively, Motley is a tremendous rebounder due to his activity, athleticism and length. This season, he’s posted a 22.7 percent defensive rebounding rate while playing primarily in Baylor’s hybrid 1-1-3/1-3-1 zone defense. Motley is also a decent weakside rim protector, blocking 2.1 shots per 40 minutes during his career, and has experience guarding perimeter players because he’s often stationed on the wing of the zone.” — Chris Stone in FanSided’s NBA Mock Draft 2017, Week 14.
Team Fit:
The Jazz’s incredibly well-rounded rotation doesn’t have any gaping holes, but there’s some room for improvement in regards to their frontcourt depth. While Rudy Gobert is a clear cornerstone at the five spot and Derrick Favors is a more-than-solid starter, their reserves cold use the boost a player like Motley brings. As a high-energy big with excellent defensive instincts and an improving offensive game, the Baylor stud’s tools should allow him to contribute immediately, if needed.
He’s undersized in some scenarios, but boasts a really nice ceiling as a small ball five as well. His length allows him to block shots at a high clip, and his fluidity could allow him to press in transition and run the court with the likes of Gordon Hayward and George Hill.