NBA Draft 2020: Big Board 4.0

4 of 33

(Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images) /

30. Xavier Tillman Sr., big, Michigan State

A contender in need of frontcourt help would be wise to target Xavier Tillman. He’s one of the most NBA-ready talents on the board — a smart, savvy two-way big who understands the nuances of interior defense.

Tillman lacks size at 6-foot-9, but he’s strongly built and an underrated athlete. He’s an adequate rim protector and is fairly mobile on switches. His maneuverability, and the fundamental soundness of his game, will go a long way in ensuring a role at the next level.

Offensively, Tillman is limited by a poor 3-point stroke. That said, his basketball I.Q. shines, and he should contribute amply as a screen-and-roll threat. He’s a tantalizing playmaker from the middle of the floor, and his touch around the rim could precede improvement in his jumper. Add a level of poise few rookies can match, and Tillman should carve out playing time as soon as this season.