The Sixer Sense
Fansided

Way-too-early 2019 NBA Draft Big Board

By Christopher Kline

ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 26: Zion Williamson of Spartanburg Day School attempts a dunk during the 2018 McDonald's All American Game POWERADE Jam Fest at Forbes Arena on March 26, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 26: Zion Williamson of Spartanburg Day School attempts a dunk during the 2018 McDonald's All American Game POWERADE Jam Fest at Forbes Arena on March 26, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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SPRINGFIELD, MA – JANUARY 15: R.J. Barrett #5 of Montverde Academy goes up for a layup in a game against Mater Dei High School during the 2018 Spalding Hoophall Classic at Blake Arena at Springfield College on January 15, 2018 in Springfield, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)
SPRINGFIELD, MA – JANUARY 15: R.J. Barrett #5 of Montverde Academy goes up for a layup in a game against Mater Dei High School during the 2018 Spalding Hoophall Classic at Blake Arena at Springfield College on January 15, 2018 in Springfield, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /

Barrett has long been viewed as the top prospect in this class. He profiles as the most NBA-ready prospect on both ends, showing immense polish as a slasher and multi-positional defender. Duke has the luxury of potentially having the three best prospects in the 2019 draft.

With shifty handles and plus athleticism, Barrett can create for others and himself. Shooting has been a concern in the past, but his ability to get to the rim, create for others and score off the dribble should ease some of those concerns. The skill level and talent is undeniably present.

At 6-foot-7 with a 6-foot-10 wingspan, Barrett should be capable of defending three or four positions. He’s aggressive on the ball and creates turnovers off the ball, something that can’t always been said for the top prospect.

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As long as Barrett continues to improve his shooting — which he has done recently — he should be locked into the No. 1 spot on every draft board entering the season. Reddish is his primary competition, but Barrett might get the upper hand as Duke’s offensive focal point.