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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(Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
(Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

Gafford had a chance to go in the lottery this summer, but opted to return to school instead. With limited center depth at the top of the 2019 class, that decision could prove beneficial if he builds on his strong freshman campaign.

An ultra-athletic big man, Gafford projects as a rim-runner and lob-catcher on the offensive end. He lacks polish, but is able to use his long arms and bounce to play above the rim and finish efficiently in the paint.

Defensive fundamentals are another concern, but Gafford has one of the highest two-way ceilings on this list. Along with his ability to block shots at a high clip (2.2 per game), he can switch onto the perimeter and stick with quicker guards on occasion. That’s key to becoming an effective defensive anchor.

As long as Gafford can improve his skill level on the offensive end, he should keep himself firmly in the lottery conversation next year. Passing up a first-round selection to return to school is always risky, but Gafford is in a good position to make money off that decision.