NBA Draft 2020: Big Board 3.0

(Photo by TF-Images/Getty Images)
(Photo by TF-Images/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Dianne Manson/Getty Images)
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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.