2021 NBA Draft Big Board: Top 60 prospects
512. . G. Sun Devils . Josh Christopher. 40. player
2021 NBA Draft Big Board — 40. Josh Christopher, Arizona State
Josh Christopher is an electric 6-foot-5 guard who has, by all indications, impressed during the pre-draft process. He showed flashes at Arizona State, too, with rim-rocking finishes, a penchant for hitting difficult shots, and real eyebrow-raising plays on defense. If he puts the pieces together, Christopher can succeed at the level of a first-round pick.
That said, he does need to put the pieces together. His jumper is a mess, with hot streaks and cold spells and rampant inconsistency. He can fall back a little too much on difficult shots, and he has never been the most team-oriented player. He has to prove he can elevate teammates, as well as himself.
G. Bulldogs . Joel Ayayi. 39. player. 541.
2021 NBA Draft Big Board — 39. Joel Ayayi, Gonzaga
Gonzaga has become a hotbed for smart, well-rounded players with NBA upside. Next in line is Joel Ayayi, who spent much of his career in the shadow of Corey Kispert, Jalen Suggs, and the like. He’s a real NBA talent in his own right, with a versatile offensive skill set and the capacity to defend either guard spot.
Ayayi is the perfect complementary guard. He’s not a point guard, and he’s not going to run the offense, but he does all the little things. He makes timely cuts, he makes quick decisions, and he does everything in his power to smooth out possessions. He shoots the 3 well enough, and his high basketball I.Q. is an immediate draw for contenders looking for a day-one contributor in the second round.