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 Takashi Aoyama/Getty Images)
(Photo by Takashi Aoyama/Getty Images) /

Hachimura has spent two years at Gonzaga, coming off the bench on deep, competitive teams. Now he’ll be featured as one of their primary weapons on both ends next season, setting him up for a potential lottery run.

At 6-foot-8, the Japanese forward is one of the most intriguing athletes in the draft. He should be capable of guarding three or four positions, sliding his feet on the perimeter and using his athleticism to nab the occasional weak-side block.

He’s raw on the offensive end, but flashes plenty of potential as a slasher who can finish inside and hit  spot-up jumpers. He doesn’t have reliable three-point range yet, but that could be on the docket. He can hit mid-range jumpers consistently.

In the modern NBA, versatile defenders on Hachimura’s ilk are at a premium. Even going into his junior season, there aren’t many prospects with more athletic upside than Rui. Expect him to shine on a Zags team that is expected to contend for a Final Four spot.