NBA Draft 2020: Big Board 1.0

(Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
(Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images for Powerade)
(Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images for Powerade) /

As Grant Williams and Admiral Schofield transition to the NBA, freshman Josiah James will fill the talent void at Tennessee. He’s a great piece to do so, providing size and playmaking chops on the wing.

At 6-foot-6, James spent time at point guard in lower-level competition. He’s a legitimately smart passer, using his size to see over defenders and make advanced reads. Add in a strong frame and ability to get downhill, and there’s clear upside — even if he’s more of a secondary initiator in the NBA.

While not an elite athlete, James has the size and strength to handle professional wings. He should defend multiple positions well. As is common with freshmen, James will need to prove his 3-point shooting. That’s his swing skill.