Philadelphia 76ers: 3 under-the-radar prospects to watch in 2020 NBA Draft

3. Cassius Winston, Michigan State

PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 20-45

POSITION ON BIG BOARD: N/A

Cassius Winston has four years of experience in one of college basketball’s top programs. He’s a grizzled vet by college standards, and to some, he was best point guard in college basketball last season. He should have no shortage of NBA scouts hot on his trail.

What Winston lacks in athleticism, he makes up for with a well-rounded skill set. He’s both smart and poised. He doesn’t turn the ball over much, he doesn’t press too hard, and he’s thoroughly unselfish as a lead guard. Philadelphia is on the verge of contention, and Winston — a high-I.Q. playmaker known for his winning pedigree — should have natural appeal.

Despite a small 6-foot-1 frame, Winston displays excellent vision as a passer out of the pick-and-roll. His in-between game is equally strong, with a smooth pull-up jumper and a nice collection of floaters and touch shots at his disposal. Add his ability to play off-ball — including a red-hot 43.2 percent mark from deep — and it’s not hard to envision Winston’s fit in the Sixers’ offense.

Given his height and his limited athleticism, there is a natural cap on Winston’s ceiling at the next level. Even so, his base skill set and his ability to avoid mistakes should yield a role in the NBA, and Philadelphia as an especially strong need at the point guard spot. Winston defends hard, he’s usually the first player on the floor when diving for loose balls, and he’s the type of personality Philadelphia can rally behind.

The 22nd pick is admittedly high for Winston, and Philadelphia may target him as more of an early second-round pick. When you consider the uncertainty around this class, the Sixers’ desire for immediate contention, and Winston’s sheer productivity in college, however, it’s not unreasonable to earmark him for first-round consideration.