Rui Hachimura stepped into big shoes this season, becoming the Zags’ go-to option after two years in the shadows. He filled those shoes quite well, emerging as one of college basketball’s most prolific offensive threats. There are questions about how his skill set will translate at the next level, though.
Listed at 6-foot-8, 230 pounds with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, Hachimura has splendid physical tools. His athleticism comes in waves, whether it’s an impressive block or an emphatic dunk. He has the ability to push through smaller defenders inside, drive past slower defenders outside and work the in-between game effectively. He hasn’t expanded his range comfortably to the three-point line, but it’s getting there. His touch on mid-range jumpers is promising.
On defense, it’s more hypothetical and than tangible with Hachimura at this stage. He’s long, strong and mobile — all the tools needed to defend four to five positions and develop into a do-it-all marvel. But right now, he’s more prone to lackadaisical coverage, poor awareness and ill-timed miscues. That, alongside questionable decision-making on offense, gives Hachimura an uncomfortably low floor.