2017 NBA Mock Draft 3.0

There’s no guarantee that Bruce Brown commits to this draft this offseason, but if he does, there’s a chance he ends up coming off the board higher than many expect. The 6-5 comboguard has modeled his game after Russell Westbrook in some ways, proving an explosive offensive game in unison with a noticeably confident demeanor on the court.

While there are certainly some rough spots in his game still, the Miami freshman has shown all tthe tools needed to be an effective offensive sparkplug at the next level. His quick first step and high leaping ability makes him a strong finisher around the rim, as he often finds ways to finish above or through contact at the rim with impressive ease. Brown is also a 34.8 percent shooter from deep, providing streaky-but-effective production from beyond the arc when necessitated.

His mid-range game (currently just 25.9 percent, per Hoop-Math.com) is still a work in progress, but his ability to make quick bursts off the dribble and find space off the hop should be able to translate into a more consistent threat in time.

Brown’s defensive potential is what slides him into the late lottery, mid-first round conversation though — even if it seems a year or two early at this point. His strength and length (6-9 wingspan) allows him to play the passing lanes with success, while guarding both guard positions at a high level on the outside.

His high energy play on both ends, as well as the raw potential he provides on the offensive end, is enough for a Bucks team — who likes to take risks — to pull the trigger.