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 Mark LoMoglio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
(Photo by Mark LoMoglio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Porter was a borderline lottery prospect in the 2018 class, as I detailed in his draft profile. At just 18 years old, he has the talent needed to get drafted higher than his older brother, Michael Porter Jr. He will once again be featured in Missouri’s offense next season.

The biggest concern with Porter is his defensive ceiling, largely due to his athleticism. He’s not a bad athlete for his size, but he’ll need to shed weight and add strength to succeed on both ends in the NBA.

On the offensive end, he has the makings of a legitimate focal point at the five spot. He shot 36.4 percent from three-point range last season, showing clean mechanics in pick-and-pop scenarios. He can also roll to the rim, flashing soft touch in the lane.

Passing is an underrated skill for Porter. He can catch the ball in the post or at the top of the key, using his size to see over defenders and pinpoint open shooters. His game is surprisingly different from that of his brother, who’s often labeled as a go-to scorer with questionable playmaking skills.