19. R.J. HAMPTON / GUARD / NEW ZEALAND
A season hampered by injuries and inconsistency in Australia wasn’t the biggest help to R.J. Hampton’s draft stock. Even so, he’s a fringe lottery talent to some and a near-lock for the first round. Unfortunately for him, he’s a gifted point guard in a guard-heavy class.
From an athletic perspective, there’s a lot to like about Hampton on the perimeter. He’s a slippery 6-foot-5, using a quick first step and sly handles to break down defenders and get to the rim. With a 6-foot-7 wingspan, he has plenty of size to play next to other point guards, which may be necessary — at least, until he can smooth over his playmaking chops.
There’s a lot to like about Hampton’s offensive repertoire as well. He can create his own shot and he’s fairly comfortable in the pick-and-roll. He even has solid vision as a passer, with some advanced passes up his sleeve. On the whole, however, he’s a wildly inconsistent shooter who is prone to the common mistakes of youthful guards. He needs time to mature in the NBA.