Willie Cauley-Stein and Skal Labissiere are both fine players, but neither of them present the kind of long-term upside Sacramento needs in the frontcourt. Carter was largely overshadowed by Bagley in Duke’s frontcourt, but he has a chance to be just as good at the next level.
Many have compared Carter to Al Horford, and it’s easy to see why. His athletic tools are complimented by a fluid post game with compact footwork and plenty of touch around the basket. He’s also a smart passer who can space the floor on occasion.
Carter wasn’t great on the defensive end this season, but Duke struggled as a whole for most of the year before switching to zone. His length, athleticism, and lateral quickness should bode well on that side of the ball.