NBA Draft 2019: Big Board 4.0
There are legitimate concerns about Rui Hachimura, who’s still somewhat raw as a junior. Even so, his marked improvement and physical tools could garner lottery consideration. There will be teams who see the upside and are willing to gamble.
After holding a small role for two seasons, Hachimura stepped up as the Zags’ primary option this season. He’s averaging 19.7 points and shooting 60.3 percent from the field, developing a workable mid-range game and finishing at a high level around the rim. Even his three-point shot, in a small sample size, has improved.
The defensive end is where some of Hachimura’s biggest questions reside. He shows flashes with impressive blocks and athletic feats, but he’s also a clumsy defender in space who’s prone to youthful mistakes. It could make for a rough transition to the next level.