2. Kevin McCullar Jr.
*UPDATE: McCullar was ruled out for the NCAA Tournament with a knee injury.
Things have gone downhill for Kansas since McCullar Jr. suffered a bone bruise on his knee. He has missed multiple games and struggled when he tried to play through it. The 6’6 wing did not play in the conference tournament, but the Jayhawks hope he can return for their March Madness opener on Thursday.
McCullar is in his second season at Kansas, but his fifth year of NCAA basketball. He played three campaigns at Texas Tech before transferring. The 23-year-old has taken his game to another level this season where he averages 18.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.5 steals in 34.2 minutes per game.
McCullar is a strong defender capable of guarding multiple positions. His rebounding and playmaking also have scouts intrigued, but the 23-year-old’s shaky jumper has some questioning his status as a first-round pick. McCullar is older than Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball, who are in their fourth NBA season. Drafting a wing with a questionable jumper is never ideal in 2024.
The Philadelphia 76ers need defense and could help him develop his shot. It depends on how much Daryl Morey and the team’s brass believe in his ability to contribute to a contender. Philly may decide to go the other way and shoot for offensive upside as they figure out their defense by adding veterans.