The Nuggets have more depth than any franchise in the NBA. That has led to some fruitful home-run swings in recent drafts — Michael Porter Jr. and Bol Bol. Immense talents, with equally immense baggage. Both seem primed to pay off. R.J. Hampton is not operating on the same level of uncertainty, but he’s a calculated upside swing nonetheless. And a smart one for Denver.
Before the season, many pegged Hampton as a top-10 prospect. He struggled with both injuries and inconsistency in his lone season overseas — playing for New Zealand against pro competition — but the athletic tools and core skill set remain. He’s a slippery ball-handler and a gifted shot-maker. The emphasis moving forward is on efficiency.
For Hampton, he needs to iron out his jump shot, trim his shot profile, and put a greater emphasis on his responsibilities to create for others. In Denver, his role would start small. He would have the luxury of time and an absence of pressure. Both Jamal Murray and Monte Morris are good players to learn behind.