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Scouting NBA draft lottery prospects: Strengths, comps, intel

Who are the best 2020 NBA draft prospects heading into the 2019-20 college basketball season, and what do we know about them now?

Our draft experts give full scouting reports on James Wiseman, Anthony Edwards, LaMelo Ball and more of the top players in our rankings -- including strengths, improvement areas, physical comps, projected roles and intel from around the league.

We are starting off our scouting reports with our current lottery prospects. We'll debut more as players move into and out of our top 14.


1. James Wiseman | C | Memphis | Age: 18.5

Wiseman has long been considered one of the elite prospects in his class, identified at an early age thanks to his enviable physical tools and versatility on both ends of the floor. His productivity has fluctuated throughout his evolution, as he hasn't always been a dominant force. He ended up cementing himself as the near-consensus No. 1 player in his class with a strong showing on the high school all-star game circuit this spring, but he enters the season with a hint of skepticism. Teams will want to see him maintain his intensity level and prove he can affect winning, especially with the declining value of centers in his mold. - Givony

Strengths

• Incredible frame standing over 7 feet in shoes, 250 pounds with a 7-5 wingspan and gigantic standing reach. Exceptional athlete for his size in terms of his ability to get up and down the floor, cover ground and elevate around the rim quickly with explosiveness and power.
• Has a good skill framework. Agile in the post and as a pick-and-roll finisher with impressive body control. Capable of handling and creating for himself. Shows some creativity with his footwork. Has soft touch around the rim and even extending out to 3.
• Impactful as a rim protector when locked in and operating at maximum intensity thanks to his reach, timing and quickness. Also capable of switching on the perimeter with excellent mobility.

Improvement areas

• Feel for the game is a work in progress on both ends. Game moves a little quickly for him at times. Average passer who shows questionable instincts and awareness defensively, especially guarding pick-and-rolls. Can be foul-prone.
• Doesn't always know his best role offensively. Has been intent on proving his skill on the perimeter rather than using his incredible frame to his advantage inside the paint. Elongated release, side spin and questionable percentages from the free throw line raise doubts about his shooting ability.
• Has left scouts wanting more at times in terms of his offensive efficiency, rebounding and defensive impact. Has stretches where he floats, goes through the motions and looks like he's in cruise control. Not always as tough and physical as you might hope boxing out opponents and operating through contact. Very quiet on the floor.

Projected role: Franchise center



Physical comps
PLAYER AGE HEIGHT WEIGHT WINGSPAN
James Wiseman 18.5 6-11 247 7-4½
Steven Adams 19.9 6-10¾ 255 7-4½
Karl-Anthony Towns 18.9 6-10¼ 250 7-3¼
Myles Turner 19.1 6-9¾ 239 7-4




2. Anthony Edwards | SG | Georgia | Age: 18.2

Edwards wasn't identified as an elite prospect until later in his high school career. Eventually, his powerful frame, explosive leaping ability, length and scoring instincts were too impressive for scouts to ignore, and he climbed toward the top of the high school rankings. As he heads into his freshman campaign, Edwards might have found a mentor in head coach Tom Crean, who helped develop Dwyane Wade and Victor Oladipo. Edwards is a legitimate candidate to hear his name called first overall. - Schmitz

Strengths

• Powerful guard with elite length and downhill explosiveness. Tough to contain when he gets going with a head of steam, especially in transition. Strong first step and bouncy off one or two feet in space. Embraces contact in the paint.
• Three-level scorer who can function on or off the ball. Capable shooter with his feet set but most intriguing with the ball in his hands. Can make a pull-up 3 if the defense goes under, rise up in midrange spots or use his strength and explosiveness to get all the way to the rim in a straight line. Shows potential as a facilitator, particularly in the open court. Can make basic passes.
• Strength, length and quickness to be a lockdown defender who can check three positions at the NBA level. Doesn't always buy in on that end but has shown glimpses. Can sit down and slide well. Has the tools to make plays off the ball.

Improvement areas

• Still learning how to play on both ends. Decision-making is a work in progress. Tends to settle for a lot of contested jumpers rather than using his physicality to get all the way to the rim. Shows glimpses of playmaking potential but wired to score. Still learning how to play with other elite prospects. Reputation for inconsistency in his production.
• Streaky perimeter shooter. Career 34.6% 3-point shooter on 205 attempts and 72.1% free throw shooter on 204 attempts. Needs to become a reliable perimeter shooter, as he's not the most gifted ball handler.
• Undisciplined defender who isn't always engaged. Motor and intensity on that end fluctuates play to play. Doesn't have all that much high-level experience.

Projected role: Franchise shot-creator



Physical comps
PLAYER AGE HEIGHT WEIGHT WINGSPAN
Anthony Edwards 16.7 6-3½ 218 6-10
Eric Gordon 19.5 6-3½ 222 6-9
Donovan Mitchell 20.7 6-2¾ 211 6-10
Marcus Smart 20.2 6-3½ 227 6-9¼




3. LaMelo Ball | PG | Illawarra | Age: 18.1

Ball has been on one of the more unique odysseys of any high-profile prospect in recent memory, moving from California to Lithuania to Ohio and now finding himself in Australia as the centerpiece of the NBL Rising Stars program. He accumulated nearly five million Instagram followers along the way, partially due to being the face of his father LaVar's Big Baller Brand. While LaMelo Ball's level of fame has never been in question, NBA executives have had concerns about his development path, questionable approach to defense and shot selection -- along with potential off-court distractions, most notably revolving around his father. Ball has begun to put those concerns to rest by detaching himself from BBB, showing his extraordinary talent on the court and fitting in well with Illawarra. Still, many NBA scouts seem skeptical at the moment. - Givony

Strengths

• Has elite size for a point guard at 6-foot-7. Controls the game from his unique vantage point with impressive creativity, flair, poise and instincts operating off a live dribble. Gifted ball handler who plays at different speeds and can make every pass with either hand, especially operating out of pick-and-roll. Throws 90-foot outlets, makes magical touch passes.
• Has a chance to be an adequate defender eventually due to his combination of terrific size, quick feet and instincts, particularly when he's playing with energy. Already has some impressive moments at times rotating for steals and contesting shots around the basket. Excellent rebounder for a guard.
• Won't turn 19 until well after the draft. Will be one of the youngest players picked in the first round. Might still be growing. Frame should continue to evolve into his 20s.

Improvement areas

• Has struggled to score efficiently throughout his career. Currently shooting 44% from 2-point range and 18% from 3. Shoots jumpers with unorthodox mechanics, including a two-handed release while kicking his legs out. The touch he shows on floaters and career 84% free throw percentage leaves room for optimism, but his inability to buy a basket at times this season has been discouraging.
• Lacks a degree of high-end explosiveness creating offense from a standstill and beating opponents off the dribble. Doesn't have the strength to finish what he does create around the basket. Relies on a lot of tough floaters and other high degree of difficulty attempts inside the arc. Might not ever be a guy who goes and gets you a bucket in a pinch. Much more effective when he can move the defense and create for others.
• Indifferent defender for much of his career. Still reverts back to that frequently, especially off the ball, where he falls asleep regularly. Struggles to get over screens due to his lack of strength. Has been maligned at times for his work ethic and level of focus on and off the floor.

Projected role: Franchise point guard

No official measurements available



4. Cole Anthony | PG | North Carolina | Age: 19.4

The son of NBA veteran Greg Anthony, Cole has been on the scouting radar for years. Anthony transferred to Oak Hill Academy in Virginia for his senior year and pulled off a rare hat trick, winning MVP of the Nike Hoop Summit, Jordan Brand Classic and McDonald's All American Game. Like Coby White last season, Anthony figures to continues his scoring ways as the leader of the Tar Heels' offense. His scoring instincts, competitiveness and yearning for the bright lights should make him one of the most accomplished players in the country and a candidate for the No. 1 pick. - Schmitz

Strengths

• Aggressive, confident scorer who has been extremely productive at virtually every stop. Good open-court athlete who changes ends quickly. Has the ball on a string. Creates space for himself with quick crossovers. Can knock down pull-ups with range, change speeds and direction with burst and initiate contact in the paint. Improving facilitator who can make basic reads, especially in transition.
• Competitive defender who has shown the willingness to fight through ball screens. Has done a nice job of maximizing his frame thus far. Quick hands and feet. Will stick his nose in on the glass. Knows where to be off the ball.
• Impressed NBA scouts at the Nike Academy, competing in every session and going toe-to-toe with NBA players. Should be a productive college and NBA player from Day 1.

Improvement areas

• Much more of a scorer than facilitator at this stage. Can make basic drop-offs and kickouts but still learning how to manipulate defenses with his eyes and change of pace. Tends to pound the ball a little too much. Shot selection has room to improve. Still working to better balance scoring and playmaking. Lack of elite size limits his ability to see over the top of bigger defenders.
• A bit streaky, shooting 35% from the high school 3-point line on 464 attempts, according to Krossover data. Shows deep range and the ability to rise up in the midrange, but scouts will have a close eye on his consistency.
• While tough and quick-footed, average size and length limits his defensive versatility. Got by on athleticism as a high school finisher, but he could stand to add more finesse around the rim to combat NCAA and NBA length. Will have to rely more on floaters. Right-hand-dominant finisher. Will be 20 by the time he's drafted.

Projected role: Franchise point guard



Physical comps
PLAYER AGE HEIGHT WEIGHT WINGSPAN
Cole Anthony 19.2 6-3 187 6-4½
Kyrie Irving 19.2 6-3½ 191 6-4
Cory Joseph 19.8 6-3¼ 186 6-5½
Tyus Jones 19.0 6-2 185 6-5

 

[Skooby]

5. Deni Avdija | SG/SF | Maccabi | Age: 18.8

Avdija hit a late growth spurt that catapulted him from being a 6-foot-2 guard to a big playmaker. He put himself on the NBA radar by posting per-40-minute averages of 19.4 points, 16.0 rebounds, 6.7 assists, 2.5 steals and 1.3 blocks while making a barrage of 3-pointers at the FIBA Under-16 European Championship in 2017. In the two summers since, he helped Israel win back-to-back championships at the FIBA Europe U20s, claiming MVP honors in 2019 despite playing up two years. Avdija joined Maccabi Tel Aviv's youth program prior to starting high school and has been developing with the storied EuroLeague franchise since, now firmly entrenched as a rotation player. - Givony

Strengths

• Big enough to play PF at 6-foot-9 with a good frame, but has the ballhandling, creativity and playmaking skill of a PG. At his best operating out of pick-and-roll, where he displays excellent timing and vision from his unique vantage point, allowing him to make every read and pass in the book. Aggressive offensive player who is in attack mode every time he steps onto the floor. Loves shooting pull-up 3-pointers in transition. Never hesitates to fire away when open. Brings toughness, competitiveness and swagger.
• Learning how to play without the ball this season in a more compact role at the pro level. Elite cutter thanks to his strong feel for the game. Capable of playmaking out of secondary ballhandling situations. Makes the right play more often than not.
• Has made significant strides on the defensive end, one of the main reasons he's been able to get real minutes in the EuroLeague. Covers ground well and plays with real intensity getting over screens, battling on the glass and rotating to protect the rim. Gets in passing lanes, blocks quite a few shots and rebounds very well.

Improvement areas

• Inconsistent shooter who has converted just 32% of his 3-pointers and 58% of his free throws over a huge sample size. Mechanics have been tweaked repeatedly to the point that you rarely see him shooting the same way, sometimes kicking his legs out excessively or looking very stiff with his release.
• Being asked to do very little in terms of creating his own shot in isolation, pushing in the open court or playing pick-and-roll. Some NBA teams might struggle to get past his limited role.
• Struggles to create offense from a standstill. Right-hand-dominant and much more limited when pushed to dribble or finish with his off hand. Reliant on changes of speed and using his body to create space, which might prove more difficult against NBA defenders.

Projected role: Big playmaker



Physical comps
PLAYER AGE HEIGHT WEIGHT WINGSPAN
Deni Avdija 18.1 6-8¾ 218 6-9½
T.J. Warren 20.7 6-8¼ 220 6-10¼
Doug McDermott 22.4 6-7¾ 218 6-9¼
Khris Middleton 20.9 6-8¼ 216 6-10¾




6. RJ Hampton | PG/SG | New Zealand | Age: 18.7

Hampton made his USA Basketball debut in 2016, going on to play a key role for the U16 team at the 2017 FIBA Americas, posting a 39.2 PER over five games. Hampton shocked the recruiting world by spurning Kansas and Memphis to join the Australian NBL's Next Stars program. Already having gone toe to toe with NBA point guards in preseason action, Hampton is starting to find his footing on a talented Breakers team thanks to his athletic tools, playmaking ability and athleticism getting downhill. - Schmitz

Strengths

• Explosive, athlete with nice size and length for a combo guard. Wiry frame but has room to fill out in his upper body. Has grown three inches over the past few years and is far from a finished product physically. Plays above the rim with ease in space. Explosive first step with the ability to shift gears on a dime. Uses Eurosteps well in the open floor.
• Versatile offensive game. Can play on or off the ball in a pinch. At his best putting pressure on the rim with his speed in transition and the half court. Has considerable burst off the bounce. Developing shooter who can make a spot 3 or a midrange pull-up with nice elevation. Holds quite a bit of playmaking potential. At his best in drive-and-kick situations.
• Fundamentals need work but has the tools to defend either backcourt spot at the highest level in time. Quick feet when fully engaged. Length allows him to contest shots on the perimeter. Covers ground quickly on closeouts.

Improvement areas

• Doesn't quite have one elite skill right now. Needs to become a more consistent 3-point shooter, especially off the dribble. Will turn down rhythm 3s once he misses one or two. Handle slows him down against elite defenders. Hasn't shown advanced combo moves at the NBL level. Right-hand-dominant as a driver.
• Can stand to toughen up both as a finisher and defender, not generating many free throws. Gets taken advantage of by stronger guards defensively.
• Defensive technique needs work. Gets hit on screens far too often, more due to fundamentals than lack of strength. Doesn't direct the ball handler in one position or another. Narrow base and hunched frame.

Projected role: Creating combo guard



Physical comps
PLAYER AGE HEIGHT WEIGHT WINGSPAN
RJ Hampton 18.7 6-5 185 6-8
Jordan Clarkson 21.9 6-5 186 6-8
Malik Beasley 19.5 6-4½ 190 6-7
Zach LaVine 19.2 6-5¾ 181 6-8¼




7. Theo Maledon | PG | Villeurbanne | Age: 18.3

Maledon was identified early, receiving a scholarship at age 14 to INSEP academy. He left the program earlier than most to join ASVEL, Tony Parker's club in Lyon, and started to see minutes at the pro level just a few months after turning 16, becoming the second-youngest player in club history to do so. After a summer training with the French senior national team, Maledon rejoined a deep ASVEL squad that was invited to participate in the EuroLeague for the first time since 2015. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury he suffered in early October after four consecutive starts will end up costing him at least a month of games. - Givony

Strengths

• Excellent size for a point guard at 6-foot-5. Has a good frame and a long wingspan, which will allow him to defend shooting guards and eventually small forwards. Plays with excellent intensity, putting a lot of pride into stopping his man. Already an effective defender, which is rare given his age and level of competition.
• Career 36% 3-point and 79% free throw shooter. Has clean, compact, projectable shooting mechanics. Has proved capable both with his feet set and off the dribble.
• Efficient player who keeps mistakes to a minimum and plays with impressive poise for his age. Arguably the most experienced player in the draft in terms of the minutes he's received against quality competition. Draws rave reviews for his work ethic and approach to the game.

Improvement areas

• Doesn't play a huge role for ASVEL as one of three point guards on the roster. Starts most contests, but usually sees around only 15 MPG. Often operates alongside a lead guard in more of a spot-up role.
• Has lacked a level of aggressiveness from a very early age. Not as dynamic or explosive a scorer as many teams like to see from their modern PG. Just an average athlete in terms of pure speed and shiftiness. Looks too focused at times on minimizing mistakes. Will likely be best suited operating alongside a scoring guard who can shoulder the bulk of the shot-creation responsibilities, at least early on in his career.
• Needs to continue to add bulk to his lanky frame. Career 48% 2-point shooter, partially due to lack of strength but also because of his lack of explosiveness and methodical style of play. Relies heavily on craft and touch shots. Gets caught up on screens and struggles with the physicality of handling switches.

Projected role: Secondary creator and 3-and-D guard



Physical comps
PLAYER AGE HEIGHT WEIGHT WINGSPAN
Theo Maledon 18.3 6-5 180 6-8
Delon Wright 23.0 6-5½ 181 6-7½
Derrick White 22.9 6-4½ 190 6-7½
George Hill 22.2 6-2½ 181 6-9




8. Nico Mannion | PG | Arizona | Age: 18.6

Mannion attended multiple USA Basketball camps dating back to 2016, but didn't gain any junior national team traction and opted to compete with the Italian national team instead. (He was born in Siena.) Mannion was a standout at the 2017 U16 Euros, posting a 38.2 PER. Representing the World Team at the 2019 Hoop Summit, Mannion put up 28 points, five boards and five assists against Cole Anthony, earning the respect of NBA scouts. - Schmitz

Strengths

• Offers a healthy blend of scoring and playmaking with the ability to function on or off the ball. Change of pace allows him to get into the paint. Reliable shooter, knocking down 37.6% from 3 and 84.5% from the line. Has floaters in the lane when run off his spots.
• Can make virtually every read necessary to run a team -- transition hit-aheads, pocket passes, hook passes to wings, drive and kicks, drop-offs.
• Competitive defender despite mediocre tools. Solid feet in small spaces. Will fight in the post after switches. Reliable off-ball defender. Has been productive at virtually every setting.

Improvement areas

• Nothing special physically at 6-foot-3 with a fairly narrow frame and a negative 6-2½ wingspan. Solid leaper but lack of a standing reach limits him as an at-rim finisher. Likely only a one-position defender given his tools.
• Doesn't have many ways to create separation right now. Has trouble breaking down athletic defenders. Not the most advanced ball handler.
• Can stand to become a more dynamic shooter. Doesn't have the quickest release, especially off the dribble. Checks a few boxes, but what's his elite NBA skill? Good passer but not in the special category.

Projected role: Lead guard





Physical comps
PLAYER AGE HEIGHT WEIGHT WINGSPAN
Nico Mannion 18.0 6-3 179 6-2½
Monta Ellis 19.7 6-3¼ 177 6-2¾
Steph Curry 21.3 6-3¼ 181 6-3½
Raul Neto 21.1 6-2 179 6-4

 

[Skooby]

9. Jaden McDaniels | F | Washington | Age: 19.0

A late bloomer with perimeter skill, McDaniels averaged 18.6 points over 21 Nike EYBL games in 2018. McDaniels was subsequently invited to USA Basketball minicamp, but he was left off the Nike Hoop Summit team despite his buzz among NBA scouts. With the event taking place only a few hours from his hometown of Seattle, McDaniels opted to take part in the annual Hoop Summit scrimmage in an attempt to prove to USA Basketball that it made a mistake. McDaniels struggled there, as his energy levels and aggressiveness fluctuated, and he ultimately ended his senior year on a bit of a down note. At Washington, he has a great chance to bother opponents with his length in a zone defense and play off of a more aggressive freshman prospect in Isaiah Stewart. - Schmitz

Strengths

• Interesting blend of size, reach and agility at 6-foot-10 with an 8-11 standing reach. Extremely fluid and light on his feet. Can play above the rim in space.
• Holds considerable defensive upside given his agility and size. Has shown the ability to sit down and slide with wings. Reach is a factor contesting on the perimeter and rotating for blocks.
• Versatile offensive attack with his ability to make a standstill 3, handle in the open floor and create for others. Plays an unselfish brand of basketball. Can develop a spot 3 in time and hit midrange pull-ups as well. Has floaters. Fairly skilled for a player his size.

Improvement areas

• Body hasn't improved much at all. Narrow shoulders, rail-thin legs. How much weight can he actually put on his frame? Struggles to play through contact. Can he defend more physical forwards?
• Lacks a degree of toughness on both ends. Tends to fade in and out of games. Doesn't always attack or look for his own offense. Would be far more intriguing if he consistently did the little things, like Jonathan Isaac.
• What's his elite NBA skill? Not the most consistent shooter. Has his wow moments but there's nothing he does consistently well from a skill perspective.

Projected role: Two-way forward



Physical comps
PLAYER AGE HEIGHT WEIGHT WINGSPAN
Jaden McDaniels 17.8 6-10 184 6-11½
Jonathan Isaac 18.5 6-10½ 205 7-1¼
Austin Daye 21.1 6-10¾ 192 7-2¾
Jalen McDaniels 21.2 6-9.75 192 7-0¼




10. Scottie Lewis | SG/SF | Florida | Age: 19.6

Identified as a potential phenom at age 13, Lewis navigated the ups and downs of early fame to ultimately emerge as a top-10 recruit. He has been inconsistent offensively at times, but ended up solidifying himself as one of the top prospects in his class with impressive showings at USA Basketball camps and on the high school all-star game circuit. - Givony

Strengths

• Outstanding athlete with a long wingspan that allows him to play bigger than his height. At his best in the open court using his speed, body control and explosiveness to attack the rim relentlessly. Has a terrific first step and isn't afraid of contact.
• Multipositional defender who operates with arguably the highest intensity level of any player in this class. At his best guarding point guards where he can smother opposing ball handlers at the point of attack with his length and quickness. Gets over screens, crashes the glass and dives on the floor for loose balls.
• Excellent teammate who doesn't need to score to contribute. Willing passer. Wants to do all the little things. Always talking. Embraces contact. Approaches every possession like it's the NBA playoffs. Has a high floor because of his role-player potential.

Improvement areas

• Frame hasn't changed much over the years. Might have a tougher time with the bigger, stronger players he'll be asked to guard in the NBA. Turning 20 in March.
• Plays a frenetic style that can work against him. Not as dynamic a ball handler as he needs to be, especially in the half court. Tends to settle for the first floater or pull-up jumper he can find. Decision-making can be poor. Will the game slow down for him?
• A streaky and at times reluctant shooter. Shows flashing of shot-making ability with his pull-up jumper, but has too many bad misses in spot-up situations that cause him to get hesitant.

Projected role: Versatile 3-and-D guard/wing



Physical comps
PLAYER AGE HEIGHT WEIGHT WINGSPAN
Scottie Lewis 19.6 6-5 184 7-0
Kent Bazemore 22.8 6-5 201 6-11½
Justin Holiday 22.2 6-7 177 7-0½
Will Barton 21.5 6-6 174 6-9¾


11. Kahlil Whitney | F | Kentucky | Age: 18.8

Whitney shot up recruiting rankings in the spring prior to his senior year, averaging 21 points and seven rebounds per game in the Nike EYBL. He emerged as a five-star recruit and committed to Kentucky. He had an uneven senior season as he attempted to become more of a go-to guy offensively, struggling to put the ball in the basket on the high school all-star game circuit, but he rebounded with a strong showing at the Nike Skills Academy in August. Whitney -- who is drawing some early comparisons to Nassir Little -- has a lot to prove as a freshman. Still, he fits the mold of what NBA teams are looking for at the combo forward position physically. - Givony

Strengths

• Physical marvel at 6-foot-7, 210 pounds with a 7-foot-plus wingspan. Shredded frame and tremendous athleticism. Plays above the rim consistently, often in highlight fashion finishing lobs, chasing putback dunks and elevating in the open court. Tested a 42-inch vertical leap at the Kentucky pro day.
• Has significant upside defensively with his ideal combination of length, strength, athleticism, intensity and toughness. Projects as a multipositional defender who can contain smaller guards off the dribble while possessing the bulk to bang with bigger players.
• Shows flashes of ability offensively. One of the top scorers at the Nike EYBL. Made 37% of his 3-point attempts in 19 EYBL games. Has a projectable shooting stroke, both with his feet set and off the dribble. Good in the open court or using straight-line drives. Can punish smaller defenders in the post.

Improvement areas

• Jumper is prone to streakiness. Converted only 66% of his free throw attempts in the EYBL. Needs to improve the speed of his release. Struggles when rushed.
• Not great at generating high-percentage offense for himself or others in the half court. Average ball handler who struggles with pressure and doesn't show much playmaking ability. Drives with his head down, runs into brick walls with predetermined moves and average touch.
• Motor fluctuates at times defensively. Lack of feel shows up on this end of the floor. Doesn't always rebound or generate as many steals or blocks as you might expect relative to his tools.

Projected role: Two-way combo forward



Physical comps
PLAYER AGE HEIGHT WEIGHT WINGSPAN
Kahlil Whitney 18.8 6-6 210 7-0
Thaddeus Young 19.0 6-7½ 210 6-11½
Dorian Finney-Smith 23.0 6-7¾ 213 6-11¾
Jaylen Brown 19.5 6-6¾ 223 6-11¾


12. Isaiah Stewart | C | Washington | Age: 18.4

Stewart has been a staple in the USA Basketball program since he was 15. More of an energetic bruiser at the time, Stewart started to really expand his game after moving from McQuaid Jesuit in New York to powerhouse La Lumiere in Indiana for his final two years of high school. He made his Team USA debut at the 2018 U17 world championships, finishing second in the tournament in PER on a loaded squad that took home gold. By adding more and more skill to his game to go along with his physicality and motor, he was deemed a consensus top-10 player in his class. Stewart is considered a high-floor prospect given his tools and consistent development. - Schmitz

Strengths

• Shredded, powerful frame. Already has the body to battle with NBA bigs. Wide shoulders, long arms. Mobile for his size. Body type that could thicken up but has done a great job of staying in shape. Length helps him play above the rim when he has a runway.
• Relentless pursuing offensive rebounds. Has the strength to defend the post and clean up the defensive glass as well. Willing to do all the little things. Sets hard screens.
• Expanded his game beyond the 3-point line. Gets great rotation with sound overall mechanics. Can make basic reads as well.

Improvement areas

• Strong and long but lacks elite height at 6-foot-9 and doesn't make up for it with great leaping ability.
• Struggles to defend on the perimeter. Will compete on switches but has to rely more on energy to get by than foot speed. Not a natural rim protector. Lack of standstill pop hurts him in that regard. How does he fit in to an NBA defense if he's not going to guard the perimeter or protect the rim? The zone defense should help hide some of his defensive deficiencies.
• Touch around the rim comes and goes vs. length. Can make face-up jumpers and has stretch ability, but still adding more ways to score to his repertoire. Not an advanced passer.

Projected role: Energy big



Physical comps
PLAYER AGE HEIGHT WEIGHT WINGSPAN
Isaiah Stewart 17.2 6-9 248 7-4
Noah Vonleh 18.7 6-9½ 247 7-4¼
Thomas Robinson 21.3 6-8¾ 244 7-3¼
Derrick Favors 19.0 6-10¼ 245 7-4

 

[Skooby]

13. Tyrese Maxey | SG | Kentucky | Age: 18.9

Identified early on as a top-shelf prospect, Maxey spent his entire high school career at South Garland in suburban Dallas, being the first player to commit to Kentucky's vaunted recruiting class. Maxey won a gold medal with USA Basketball at the FIBA Americas U18 Championship and was one of five class of 2019 players to participate in each of the McDonald's All American, Nike Hoop Summit and Jordan Brand Classic events. - Givony

Strengths:

• Versatile guard who has the size, strength and length to play either backcourt position. Instinctive scorer who shows the ability to put the ball in the basket from all over the floor. Ranked as one of the top scorers in the Nike EYBL at 22 points per game. Plays at different speeds and has an advanced floater game for his age. Shows the ability to manipulate a ball screen and get to his spots on the floor. Finishes through contact. Confident shot-maker with range and touch.
• Fills up the stat sheet with assists, rebounds, steals and blocks. Has a feel for the game that allows him to contribute in a variety of ways.
• Physical player who isn't afraid of sticking his nose in defensively. Uses his strong frame, length and anticipation skills to his advantage. Fearless player with toughness and swagger.

Improvement areas:

• Not a freakish athlete from a run/jump standpoint. Has a frame that can get heavy if he isn't careful. Doesn't have blazing speed. Game revolves more around changes of speed, strength and pace. Struggles to finish over length at times.
• Would benefit from showing improved playmaking and decision-making ability, something he's demonstrated flashes of at times. Future appears to be at the point guard position, but he might not be in position to show that much this season.
• Makes 3s at a high volume, but has been somewhat streaky throughout his career. Has a low release point on his jumper that hinders him at times when closely contested.

Projected role: Versatile two-way combo guard





Physical comps
PLAYER AGE HEIGHT WEIGHT WINGSPAN
Tyrese Maxey 18.9 6-1¼ 198 6-7¾
Deron Williams 21.0 6-2¾ 202 6-6¼
Ben Gordon 21.2 6-2¼ 192 6-8½
Jarrett Jack 21.7 6-3½ 198 6-7½


14. Precious Achiuwa | PF | Memphis | Age: 20.3

Born in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Achiuwa moved to the U.S. in eighth grade. He made a name for himself playing for New Heights on the Under Armour circuit thanks to his impressive physical profile and versatility. He eventually finished his high school career at Montverde Academy, where he turned in an up-and-down senior season. How Achiuwa develops as a shooter and decision-maker will go a long way in determining his draft stock, as he'll be 21 years old by draft night. - Schmitz

Strengths

• Elite physical profile. Has the strength and reach (9-foot-1½) to slide all the way up to the center spot in small lineups. Explosive above the rim in space. Light on his feet. Long arms, big hands. Has the tools to check either forward spot in the NBA while also switching onto the perimeter. Can make plays off the ball, particularly rotating from the weak side to protect the rim. Good positional rebounder.
• Has grab-and-go potential. Can handle in the open court. At his best attacking the rim in space as a mismatch 4. Aggressive mentality.
• Has upside as a shooter, sometimes even knocking down shots off the dribble. Midrange shot-making gives him hope from beyond the arc.

Improvement areas

• Feel for the game is a major work in progress. Tunnel vision with the ball in his hands. Can handle in space but really rigid with the ball in traffic. Drives into help defenders. Settles for contested midrange jumpers. More turnovers than assists.
• Needs to become a more consistent 3-point shooter. Shoots on the way down in midrange spots. Hit 32% from 3 on 319 attempts and 58% from the free throw line on 405 attempts, according to Krossover data. Touch around the rim comes and goes.
• Defensive fundamentals and discipline can improve. Doesn't always sit down in a stance. Gets lost off the ball at times. Foul-prone. Will he buy into being a lockdown defender or want to focus more on scoring?

Projected role: Two-way forward



Physical comps
PLAYER AGE HEIGHT WEIGHT WINGSPAN
Precious Achiuwa 20.3 6-9½ 234 7-1½
Amar'e Stoudemire 19.6 6-10 233 7-1¾
Ronny Turiaf 22.5 6-9.5 238 7-1½
Jeff Green 20.8 6--7¾ 228 7-1¼

 

[trick]

Would appreciate it if you could post this report @Skooby

 

[Skooby]

Would appreciate it if you could post this report @Skooby

NBA draft stock watch: Wiseman intel, risers and fallers

What has changed about our 2020 NBA draft outlook early in the college basketball and international seasons?

ESPN draft experts Jonathan Givony and Mike Schmitz update their top-100 draft rankings with the latest intel, including a few breakout players domestically and overseas. We also check in on currently ineligible top pick James Wiseman -- who is awaiting potential reinstatement at Memphis -- as well as projected top-10 picks Deni Avdija and Theo Maledon.

Here are the latest draft risers and fallers, as well as the significant developments across the board.


More: Top 100 NBA draft rankings



James Wiseman | C | Memphis | No. 1 overall prospect
I got an in-depth look at the projected No. 1 pick last week before he became ineligible for a second time, as I watched practice, a game-day shootaround and the Tigers' loss to Oregon.

In the buildup to the game, Wiseman looked as vocal as I've seen him in a practice setting. He was calling out ball-screen coverages with bravado. He seemed to be approaching what could have been his final game in a Memphis uniform with a sense of ferocity.

But the highly anticipated game lost steam early when Wiseman picked up his second foul, forcing him to the bench for the rest of the first half. Wiseman ultimately showed some signs of life late with a couple impressive offensive rebounds, a smooth midrange jumper, an agile rim run and a glimpse of rim-protection potential, though there was little room for him to operate against Oregon's zone. When Wiseman did find space around the rim, he sometimes opted to fall away rather than tear down the backboard. He looked a bit shaky securing rebounds in traffic and was a split second late in reacting defensively.

With several NBA executives in the building, Wiseman's performance varied depending on whom you asked. For those who came in sky-high on the Memphis freshman, his rhythm was taken away by the refs, Memphis' lack of playmaking hurt him, and there was no space for him to function against the zone. Those who came in skeptical were turned off by his sometimes apathetic in-game demeanor and lacking basketball instincts. The truth probably lies somewhere in between.

At this point, Wiseman has shown enough as a finisher and rim protector with skill upside to warrant consideration at the top of the draft, especially given the scarcity of bigs. He's one of the safest prospects in this crop, and it's hard to imagine him going outside the top three.

If there's one college prospect who could take over the top spot while Wiseman and Memphis push for his reinstatement, it's Georgia's Anthony Edwards, whom I would rank ahead of Wiseman (but behind LaMelo Ball). Should Edwards show out at the Maui Jim Invitational later this month, he could start to generate buzz as the top player overall. But Wiseman's freakish tools, agility and shooting potential should keep him high in the draft, regardless of how long he's out. -- Schmitz



Zeke Nnaji | PF | Arizona | No. 25
Few players have boosted their stocks as rapidly as the Arizona freshman has boosted his, as he looks like a potential one-and-done first-round pick through four games. So far for Arizona, he's averaging over 20 PPG while shooting a ridiculous 84% from the field.

Although not freakishly long with a 6-foot-11 ½ wingspan, Nnaji is a physical specimen at just a hair under 7 feet, with outstanding agility and a shredded frame. He puts his tools to good use on the defensive end, where he has looked outstanding guarding away from the rim either in hedge-and-recover situations or in ball-screen switches. Although not a prolific shot-blocker, he does alter quite a few shots around the rim and covers up any length limitations with his nonstop energy. In practices, he raises the level of competition in every drill with his intensity and physicality.

Offensively, Nnaji doesn't have a clear skill set, as he isn't exactly a ball handler, playmaker or stretch threat. He's also more agile and fluid than freakishly explosive at the rim, but he's always around the ball on the offensive glass and has great touch from the elbows -- with potential to space the floor as he continues to improve. At 237 pounds, he's simply too physical for most collegiate bigs, doing some damage with rip-throughs and attacks from short range. His efficiency is bound to come back down to earth once conference play hits, but Nnaji's energy level gives him a chance to impact the game offensively.

In a draft that's light on big men, Nnaji figures to continue winning over NBA scouts. -- Schmitz



Killian Hayes | G | Ulm | No. 14
With Hayes coming off a rocky season with Cholet in France Pro A, there were real questions about his effectiveness against athletes and his approach to the game, leading some to wonder if he might end up as another early bloomer who never panned out.

But since moving to Ulm in Germany during the offseason, the 6-foot-5 Hayes has earned back some fans in front offices with his play through 14 games in the EuroCup and Germany BBL. Parsing through the film, you still see Hayes' weaknesses, but he has made some eye-opening deliveries with the ball, shown potential on the defensive end of the floor and flashed just enough shooting upside to instill hope that he can be a reliable spacer long-term.

He's a nifty ball handler who is learning how to facilitate off the dribble, a perfect combination with his improved pull-up shooting. At just 18 years old, the French guard is averaging 12.6 points, 6.3 assists and 1.7 steals in 27 MPG while shooting 50% from 2 and 32.1% from 3 in seven EuroCup games.

You have to take some of Hayes' production with a grain of salt, though. He dominates the ball on a team that is a combined 3-11 in both leagues. He still struggles to get by more explosive athletes. He's an inconsistent shooter and is currently turning the ball over on more than 30% of Ulm's offensive possessions. But even in a draft full of point guards, Hayes has certainly reminded scouts that he's a lottery talent who appears to be living up to the hype he generated as a youth player. -- Schmitz



Carlos Alocen | PG | Zaragoza | NR
What Spanish point guard Carlos Alocen has done for Zaragoza at age 18 has really started to open some eyes. Alocen is quarterbacking a 6-2 Zaragoza team through the ABC, one of the toughest domestic leagues in the world.

Alocen's actual per-game stats aren't mind-blowing -- 7.1 points, 2.8 assists, 11.1 PER -- but when you put his winning impact into context, the fact that he's running a competitive team in the ACB at his age is impressive. The 6-foot-5 Alocen is averaging 22.5 MPG while starting his past four games, most recently going for 14 points, four rebounds, five assists and two steals in 30 minutes in a narrow loss to Joventut. He also turned in a signature nine-point, nine-assist game in a win over Barcelona, threading the needle all over the floor to open teammates against several players with NBA experience. Only six other players younger than 19 have averaged more than 20 MPG in the ACB since 2000, including Luka Doncic, Ricky Rubio, Rudy Fernandez and Sergio Rodriguez.

Alocen is a crafty ball handler and creative facilitator who mixes in a ton of flare with his basketball instincts. He likes to push the tempo and whips the ball all over the floor out of ball screens The fact that he's shooting 37% from 3 has also been a big reason for his breakout. He's still slight and gets taken advantage of defensively at times, despite his quick hands and feet, and he has trouble scoring efficiently against a set defense. But Alocen is emerging as a great draft-and-stash option, potentially even as high as the late first or early second round, depending on how he progresses. -- Schmitz



Yam Madar | PG | Hapoel Tel Aviv | NR
The shifty 6-2 point guard is taking full advantage of his increased playing time, averaging 10.2 points, 2.8 assists and 1.4 steals per game in 20.2 minutes while shooting 52.4% from 2 and 5-of-9 from 3 through five contests..

On one hand, the 18-year-old Madar -- just 170 pounds -- is a long way from being able to step onto an NBA floor physically. His team is also 1-4. But Madar has a lot of the attributes you want in a draft-and-stash guard.

The success of guards such as Trae Young and Ja Morant should open doors for lean guards such as Madar. He's a relentless competitor who plays bigger than his body suggests. He also has one or two 'wow' moments per game, given his ability to put defenders on skates, pass off the dribble and make shots while pressuring the ball on defense, even if he struggles with more physical guards.

Given the depth of this international class along with the glut of point guards, it wouldn't be surprising to see Madar wait until 2021 to keep his name in the draft, but so far he has proven that he's a real NBA prospect. Madar will take on Deni Avdija and Maccabi Tel Aviv on Dec. 15, a game scouts will surely have their eyes on. -- Schmitz

Deni Avdija | SG/SF | Maccabi | No. 6
Maccabi Tel Aviv is off to a tremendous start, tied for first place in the Euroleague with a 6-2 record. They've done it mostly without help from projected top-10 pick Deni Avdija, though, as he hasn't seen any competitive playing time in the Euroleague in the month of November.

Injuries could certainly force Avdija into more Euroleague action as the season moves on, but with the likes of Omri Casspi, Yovel Zoosman and Elijah Bryant in front of him at the forward positions, Avdija might be waiting a while for extended playing time.

Instead, Avdija has been tasked with helping Maccabi hold down the fort in domestic competition in the Israeli league, where he plays a major role for the undefeated club. He had his best game of the season last weekend in the Israeli Cup, with 12 points, seven assists and five rebounds in 28 minutes.

Scouts have focused their attention on watching Avdija against Israeli league competition, as he has shown great versatility, averaging 14.5 points, 11.6 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 2.0 blocks and 1.5 steals per 40 minutes. He has been efficient, shooting 61% from 2-point range and 36% from 3, though his continued struggles at the free throw line (54%) leave questions about his evolution as a shooter long-term.

Avdija is not playing the same point-forward role we saw in his MVP performance with the Israeli national team at the U20 European Championship this past summer, but it hasn't been difficult to see flashes of his body control, court vision, creativity and touch. Opportunities to play pick-and-roll or go one-on-one have been rare, as he's mostly asked to operate within the offense -- something that is likely good for his long-term development but perhaps not his short-term appeal. He has demonstrated a level of athleticism blocking shots and playing above the rim that he simply didn't have a year ago, and it's difficult to not be impressed by his all-around skill level, versatility and feel at 6-foot-9, especially with his added level of intensity on defense.

Continuing to shoot the ball well from the perimeter will be the most important thing he can do as the season moves on to ease concerns teams have about how his game translates to the NBA. Still, it's difficult not to see him as a top-10 pick. -- Givony

Theo Maledon | PG | ASVEL | No. 11
After nearly six weeks on the sideline due to injury, Maledon returned to action in a road Euroleague win over Red Star on Friday, contributing five points, four assists, four turnovers and four fouls in 17 minutes. On Sunday, he went scoreless in 11 minutes of action. Maledon returns to a much more crowded field of lottery-hopeful point guard prospects, with six players who are getting minutes at the position ranked ahead of him in the ESPN Top 100. Others, such as Killian Hayes, are nipping at his heels.

Maledon has plenty of opportunity for playing time at ASVEL but will need to play better, as he has been struggling to put the ball in the basket dating back to the preseason, scoring just 28 points in 100 minutes of action on middling shooting percentages.

Although Maledon wasn't incredibly productive last season, either, it was admirable to see a then-17-year-old starting games on a team that won the French championship and made a deep EuroCup run. In Maledon's draft-eligible year, NBA scouts want to see more from him in terms of aggressiveness attacking the rim, making open jump shots, getting to the foul line and creating for teammates. Instead, they've seen an even more risk-averse player who is getting beaten off the dribble.

Teams will be watching to see how Maledon performs over the next few months to get a better gauge of whether he emerges as the starting-caliber prospect they hoped to see or if he ends up projecting as more of a super solid backup destined to land in the teens or 20s. -- Givony

 

[Skooby]

Abdoulaye N'Doye | G | Cholet | No. 51
After years on the draft radar, N'Doye has emerged as one of the most versatile players in France, averaging 12 points, five rebounds, three assists and one steal in 30 MPG for 7-2 Cholet.

The intrigue around N'Doye starts with his measurements. He stands more than 6-foot-7, 206 pounds with a 72 ½-inch wingspan, which compares favorably to the likes of Robert Covington, Jerami Grant and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson. Although our database offers comparisons to NBA 4s, N'Doye sees a decent amount of minutes at the 1 for Cholet. As his frame continues to fill out, N'Doye should be able to defend guards, wings and forwards alike.

The issue for N'Doye has always been on the offensive end, where his lack of perimeter shooting and scoring prowess in the half court limits him. But this season, he has upped his per-40-minute scoring averages from a terrible 9.0 points to a much more acceptable 16, while his efficiency has skyrocketed from a middling 55% true shooting percentage to a scintillating 68%.

N'Doye has been a far more aggressive pick-and roll-player, doing a better job of using his size and length to get shots off against a litany of smaller guards. His long strides, fluid body control and ability to play at different speeds help compensate for his relatively average first step and explosiveness. He has been tossing in layups and floaters at an incredible rate thus far, helping him shoot better than 65% from inside the arc, a likely unsustainable mark.

N'Doye has even flashed some semblance of a perimeter jumper. That has come in a small sample with his feet set, but it's still encouraging. It will be interesting to see how much N'Doye is able to sustain his level of play as defenses give him more attention. If he continues to fare well, there will be quite a bit of interest in him from NBA teams. -- Givony

Myles Powell | PG | Seton Hall | No. 43
Alongside 24 NBA scouts, I caught Powell's 37-point outing in a great game against Michigan State (a 76-73 loss at a jam-packed Prudential Center). Powell showed his credentials as one of the nation's elite scorers. He made a series of impossible shots coming off screens or pulling up from well beyond NBA range and used that attention to attack defenders with subtle changes of speed. Powell needs only a hint of daylight to get his shot off, even from difficult vantage points, making him someone who can't be guarded by smaller players at this level. His ability to catch and shoot off a pindown at full speed makes him extremely difficult to defend.

NBA scouts brought up names of sharp-shooting combo guards such as Carsen Edwards or Isaiah Canaan in discussing the role they could see Powell playing in the NBA. He is averaging close to a 1-1 assist-to-turnover ratio for his college career, which isn't ideal considering that he measured just 5-foot-11 barefoot at the G League Elite Camp last May. He does have a 6-foot-7 wingspan, though, which gives him measurements that compare favorably to those of CJ McCollum, Eric Bledsoe and Collin Sexton. That might allow him to steal some minutes alongside another guard in backup units.

Scouts will be monitoring Powell closely to see how efficient he can remain over the course of the season. He came into the season as a career 36% 3-point shooter on a huge amount of attempts. Showing a little more potential as a playmaker and defender would help his draft stock. -- Givony

Anthony Lamb | PF | Vermont | No. 56
One of the most productive players in college basketball, Lamb paid a visit to New York City this weekend, providing a convenient setting to evaluate him against a high-major opponent in St. John's. Vermont secured the road win thanks to some late-game heroics from Lamb, as he scored on a contested pull-up jumper late with multiple defenders draped all over him, capping an impressive 23-point, 15-rebound, five-assist, two-block performance.

Lamb is severely undersized for a 4 at 6-foot-6, 227 pounds, without real length or explosiveness. But what he lacks in pure measurables he seems to make up in skill, as he has an outstanding feel for the game. He is a much-improved defender and shows the type of instincts and versatility that have allowed players such as Jared Dudley, Georges Niang and Kenrich Williams to carve out a niche at the NBA level.

After entering last year's draft and being invited to work out for three NBA teams, Lamb returned to college and shed 20 pounds, which seems to have helped him make significant strides on the defensive end. The fact that he has a 6-foot-11 big man in Daniel Giddens next to him in the starting lineup means he can play his more natural power forward position a lot more. He did an excellent job of mirroring St. John's Mustapha Heron and forcing him into an ugly performance.

One negative you can point to: Lamb has started the season cold from 3-point range at 3-for-25 through four games. Despite not possessing the most conventional shooting mechanics -- with a one-handed, hitchy release -- the fact that Lamb shot 37% from 3 last season and is a career 75% free throw shooter indicates that he should improve to a degree. Still, shooting is his clear swing-skill projecting to the NBA.

NBA scouts will watch Vermont's visit to Virginia on Tuesday closely. We've learned over the years not to rule out prospects in his mold who help teams win games. Making the NCAA tournament out of the America East conference for the third time in his college career would likely help his cause, but he'll have ample opportunity to impress teams during the pre-draft process as well. He'll be a lock for the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament and possibly the NBA combine. -- Givony

 

[Alexander The Great]

Buy or sell: The Blazers should make a big win-now trade

 

[Skooby]

Buy or sell: The Blazers should make a big win-now trade

Buy or sell: The Trail Blazers should make a big win-now trade



The Portland Trail Blazers have been the third seed in the Western Conference in each of the past two seasons and made it to the conference finals last season But the Blazers have won only five of their first 17 games and own the second-worst record in the West. FiveThirtyEight's projections are very pessimistic, giving Portland only a 9% chance to make the postseason.

The Trail Blazers have already generated a lot of buzz by signing Carmelo Anthony and bringing him back to the NBA after a one-year layoff. But if that was not enough to help get their season jump-started, should they do something bigger to get back into contention? Or should they go the other way and start the rebuilding process, trading away their productive veterans for draft picks and future considerations?





Buy or sell: The Trail Blazers should make a big win-now trade



Who are this season's Trail Blazers?

Reports of the Trail Blazers' demise have been greatly exaggerated -- the season is still young, with about 80% to go. While an NFL team starting 1-3 would be bad, it would not represent the end of playoff hopes. The same applies here with the Blazers, who not only have plenty of time to recover but also have a history of very strong finishes.

Last season the Blazers got hot and went 38-16 down the stretch. The season before, they rose up to go 28-12 in their last 40 games. Both of those teams were built around the current core of Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, so the Blazers know they have the opportunity to turn things around.

The first step is to identify the root issues. Last season, the Blazers were third in the NBA in offensive rating and 16th in defense. Thus far, they have fallen to 12th in offense and 22nd in defense.

The defensive woes are more easily explained, as their entire starting frontcourt from last season is injured (Jusuf Nurkic) or departed during the offseason (Al-Farouq Aminu and Maurice Harkless). Portland brought in Hassan Whiteside to play center and promoted Zach Collins to a starting role. But Whiteside has been inconsistent and injured and Collins is out after shoulder surgery.

Both Aminu and Harkless were positive defenders with the versatility and mobility to help out Portland's defensive guards, and their absence will continue to be felt until adequate replacements can be found.

The Trail Blazers' offense has been driven by Lillard and McCollum for years, so it is initially surprising to see such slippage with both still present. One difference: Portland's tendency toward isolation play is even more pronounced this season. Last season, the Blazers ranked 25th in the NBA with 23.0 team assists per game; this season they are last with only 19.5 APG.

According to Second Spectrum tracking, Lillard and McCollum are running 13.9 isos per 100 possessions as compared with 12.3 last season, but that alone doesn't explain the difference. Instead, let's look to the shot breakdown of the other finishers on the team.

Last season, the four most frequent shooters after Lillard and McCollum were Nurkic, Aminu, Seth Curry and Harkless. Per Second Spectrum, the primary shot types for these four players were off-ball finishing such as catch-and-shoot (20.5% of their shots), standstill layups (15.4%), cut layups (10.9%) or catch-and-shoot relocations (6.0%).

On the other hand, the four most active non-Lillard and non-McCollum shooters this season are Anfernee Simons, Whiteside, Kent Bazemore and Rodney Hood, whose scoring methods are inverted. This season, the secondary scorers are using more isolation play than off-ball finishing, more pull-up jumpers than catch-and-shoots and more driving layup attempts than standing layups. Put that together, and it's not just that Lillard and McCollum are running more isos -- the team on the whole is creating more from isolations with fewer shots created by off-ball movement and team passing.


What are the options?

The Blazers have the highest payroll in the NBA for the 2019-20 season, and they have signed Lillard and McCollum to max deals that run through 2023-24. Those two stars are unlikely to be moved.

The team is chock full of veterans and multiyear contracts and does not appear in position to go through a rebuild even in the unlikely scenario that 29-year-old Lillard and 28-year-old McCollum had the stomach for it. Thus, in poker terms, the Trail Blazers are somewhat pot committed to trying to win now.

Nurkic and Collins are not expected to return soon. Skal Labissiere, Mario Hezonja and Nassir Little have each shown some promise -- 100% of their 3-point makes and more than 63% of their 2-point makes this season have been assisted, so they play more in the style that the Trail Blazers need. But none appears quite polished or experienced enough for heavy responsibility on a team with aspirations to contend. Thus, the Blazers probably need to look externally for frontcourt help.

On one level, it would appear that Anthony is exactly what they don't need, as his career calling cards are iso offense and lack of defensive ability. However, even at this stage of his career, Anthony is a better iso scorer than the other forwards on the roster. Also, Anthony seems to be embracing the catch-and-shoot role, as he has taken 5.3 3-pointers per game and all of his makes were assisted. Anthony is far from a complete solution, as his defense has been consistently poor and probably will remain there, but if he rounds into form, he could at least provide some offensive utility to the team.

The most likely way for the Blazers to turn this season around would be to trade for frontcourt talent such as Kevin Love or Danilo Gallinari. Both big forwards are excellent shooter/scorers who can operate off the ball. For example, Love's off-ball finishing moves, per Second Spectrum data, have included catch-and-shoots (18.7% of his shots), catch-and-shoot relocations (15.4%) and standstill layups (9.8%) during the past two seasons.

In addition to their scoring ability, Love and Gallinari are veteran players on teams considered unlikely to make the playoffs. Although neither has a reputation for defense, Gallinari has measured out as a slight net positive on defense in the past three seasons (with an average defensive real plus-minus of around 0.4), and Love is capable enough. Adding Love or Gallinari would help the Blazers to stretch the floor, finish more efficiently and promote ball movement, which could help them recapture their team identity.

Bottom line

The Trail Blazers are in a difficult position, locked somewhat into a huge payroll, little roster flexibility and two veteran stars signed to long-term deals.

The season is still young enough that they could turn things around, but it is unclear that their current forward options are the solution. Newly signed Anthony is hardly an obvious fit, and even if all goes well, he is not enough by himself to right the ship.

Thus, I do buy that they should try to make a win-now trade for an impact forward such as Love or Gallinari -- even if that requires giving up some combination of Simons, Little, Collins, first-round draft picks and salary filler. Either Love or Gallinari would help the Blazers regain the floor-stretching, perimeter-finishing balance and have a better chance to compete with the top teams in the West.

Portland's timeline indicates that going the win-now route is the right move after a slow start, even at the cost of future flexibility and assets.

 

[Alexander The Great]

@Skooby what you think they should do?

I was thinking they should trade bazemore to memphis for iggy OR maybe CJ to Miami, Whiteside to Cleveland and get back Winslow, Waiters, and Love. BUT if they could get back Love or Gallinari for just Simons, Little, and Collins then..do that

EDIT: man I just looked at the salaries, I don't how the author thinks that trade would work the salaries don't even come close.

 

[Skooby]

@Skooby what you think they should do?

I was thinking they should trade bazemore to memphis for iggy OR maybe CJ to Miami, Whiteside to Cleveland and get back Winslow, Waiters, and Love. BUT if they could get back Love or Gallinari for just Simons, Little, and Collins then..do that

EDIT: man I just looked at the salaries, I don't how the author thinks that trade would work the salaries don't even come close.

The only piece that works is Bazemore. He makes 17 million. But we'd have to include a young piece. I'm hoping Skal and some draft picks would be enough. Cavs already have two young guards so they wouldn't need Simons.

I'm thinking if we're going to trade for Love they'll ask for a combo of Bazemore, Collins and draft picks. But Portland isn't giving up Collins...so maybe they'll settle for Skal in place of Collins.

 

[954UAlreadyknow]

NBA draft No. 1 pick debate: LaMelo, Edwards or Wiseman?

@Skooby

 

[Skooby]

NBA draft No. 1 pick debate: LaMelo, Edwards or Wiseman?


What has changed in the 2020 NBA draft No. 1 pick race since the college basketball season began?

Memphis big man James Wiseman originally had the top spot, but he won't return to the court until Jan. 12 following an NCAA suspension. In Wiseman's absence, Georgia's Anthony Edwards and the NBL's LaMelo Ball have both put up extraordinary performances that have helped their cases as the top prospect.

So who should be No. 1 now? What do NBA teams think? And how close is the race among these three prospects?


ESPN draft experts Jonathan Givony and Mike Schmitz dive into the debate as Ball moves to No. 1 in our new rankings.

What is the case for and against LaMelo Ball at No. 1?
Givony: We outlined in September why Ball was making a strong case for No. 1. That drumbeat has only gotten stronger over the past two months, reaching a crescendo with his exhilarating 32-point, 13-rebound, 11-assist performance Monday in an overtime victory against Cairns in the Australian league. That could very well end up being the single most impressive performance by a draft prospect all season. The fact that it came in a pro game featuring four former NBA players and a host of seasoned veterans will make it very difficult for any college basketball player to top.

Ball struggled with his shooting early in the season but has been on a tear over the past five games, averaging 21 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists and 2 steals while shooting 13-for-37 (38%) from 3. His team, the Illawarra Hawks, has also won two of its past three.

There are only a handful of players in the NBA who can legitimately play point guard at 6-foot-7 like Ball. The mastery he has displayed operating in pick-and-roll gives him the ability to control a game unlike any player in this draft class. Ball is the youngest prospect in our top 20 and still has a huge amount of room to grow -- both physically and in terms of skill -- giving him the highest upside of any player in the draft.

He has made a huge jump on the defensive end already, playing with much more focus and intensity, following his team's scouting report and coming up with a number of key stops late. Combine that with his creativity, basketball IQ and scoring touch and you're talking about a player with absolutely special talent who simply doesn't come around often, which is why he has risen to No. 1 on our board.

However, I believe that if the draft were held today, he probably would not be the No. 1 pick. Of course, that will heavily depend on the team that ends up winning the May lottery. But both Schmitz and I have just received a significant amount of blowback from NBA teams who say that they simply don't trust Ball enough to hand him the keys to their franchise. They worry about what all the attention around him will do to their team culture, how strong his work ethic is and if his father, LaVar, could become a distraction.

Once teams really dig into the film, get more background intel and seriously start to consider the possibility of passing on the most talented player in the draft, I do think they'll come around. Ball would help his chances by finishing out the season strong, continuing to help his team win games and staying engaged defensively.


What is the case for and against Anthony Edwards at No. 1?
Schmitz: The Maui Invitational was the perfect demonstration of Edwards as a prospect.

When he's on, he's nearly unstoppable, looking every bit like the draft's top prospect. A 6-foot-5 wrecking ball who can get to his pull-up against virtually any defender, Edwards showed glimpses of stardom during his 33-point second-half outburst against Michigan State with a slew of NBA execs sitting courtside. Against Aaron Henry, the Spartans' best perimeter defender, Edwards rose up from NBA range without breaking a sweat, got to midrange spots comfortably and even started flying around defensively, putting his range and near 7-foot wingspan to good use. He showed spirit and charisma in one of the most impressive stretches of shot-making I've ever seen, one that even strong NBA defenders couldn't have shut down.

 

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NBA scouts gushed about Edwards' scoring instincts, while also getting a brief window into his untapped passing instincts, as he threaded the needle through defenders in the open court. It's easy to see a dialed-in Edwards functioning like Donovan Mitchell or Victor Oladipo in the NBA -- a combo guard who plays off the ball, but one who can go get a bucket from all three levels down the stretch. One of the youngest players in the draft, Edwards is also well ahead of both Mitchell and Oladipo at the same stage of his development.

With Wiseman out and Ball halfway across the world, if Edwards turns in a productive, efficient season, it's easy to see scouts feeling most comfortable with him at the top of the draft. A 225-pound athlete who can get offense whenever he wants will be extremely attractive to any team selecting No. 1 come June.

But for as good as Edwards was during that 16-minute stretch against Michigan State, what about the Dayton game, when he scored six points on 10 shots while looking lost on both ends? And what about the first half of the MSU game, when scouts were ready to seriously question Edwards as a potential top prospect? When Edwards is down and those difficult pull-ups aren't falling, his still-evolving feel for the game and dips in energy stand out. He settles for contested jumpers early in the clock rather than using his linebacker frame and force to get to the front of the rim. He'll take possessions off defensively, ball-watching when in help position or not sitting in a stance on the ball.

Unless the Bulldogs improve significantly, Edwards' evaluation becomes a bit tricky if most of his production comes in losses. We've seen this with Markelle Fultz, Ben Simmons, Trae Young and a handful of other top prospects who were on the wrong side of lopsided defeats. It doesn't make for the cleanest evaluation. Edwards doesn't come from a successful high school program, either, and whether his style is conducive to winning has long been a question.

Still, there aren't many teenagers in the world who can take over a game the way Edwards did in Hawai'i. And he did it without ideal spacing while also being asked to play his fair share of point guard, which is new to him. Although his performance was uneven overall, Edwards showed more than enough wow factor to be considered the top prospect in the 2020 draft as it stands now.


Is this a two-player race until Wiseman returns?
Givony: My gut wants me to say yes, but without knowing who will actually get the No. 1 pick, that's probably a little too strong of a statement at the moment.

More than anything, I think what's working against Wiseman is just how limited an impact a center in his mold can have on today's NBA game compared to a player like Ball -- or Edwards, to a lesser extent. Having star players who can create a huge volume of efficient offensive possessions with their ability to dribble, pass and shoot is paramount. Among the top 40 NBA players in total points and assist opportunities created per game this season, only five -- Karl-Anthony Towns, Anthony Davis, Domantas Sabonis, Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid -- are true bigs, per Second Spectrum tracking data.

We just haven't seen enough shot-creation out of Wiseman to come anywhere close to feeling comfortable projecting him being able to play a role similar to those guys. Plus, his impact defensively has been pretty inconsistent, something that makes it difficult to see him compensating for his lack of offensive prowess by becoming an otherworldly defensive stopper, like Embiid or Rudy Gobert.

So, sure, Wiseman is only getting started, and he will have plenty of opportunities to impress scouts when he returns Jan. 12. The real question: How valuable is a guy like him, even operating at max potential, compare to Ball or Edwards?