2018 NBA Draft Big Board 5.0: March Madness on the horizon

FAYETTEVILLE, AR - JANUARY 20: Daniel Gafford #10 of the Arkansas Razorbacks screams after dunking the basketball during a game against the Mississippi Rebels at Bud Walton Arena on January 20, 2018 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Razorbacks defeated the Rebels 97-93. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

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26. De’Anthony Melton, PG/SG, USC

Melton won’t play this season due a suspension stemming from the FBI’s investigation into impermissible benefits. Another lengthy comboguard and high-end defender, Melton showed enough in his freshman campaign with the Trojans to warrant first round consideration.

He wasn’t a dynamic scorer and only shot 28.4 percent from deep last season, but Melton’s playmaking chops and transition prowess are appealing. His jumper is a swing skill of sorts, but his ability to impact the game in other ways should still keep teams interested.

This is a league that hinges on guard play and versatility, which is what makes prospects like Melton so valuable outside the lottery. He can become an immediate impact player on both ends, making smart plays within the offense and guarding a handful of positions defensively.