Austin Rivers, SG

Rivers could be the most polished scorer in the draft, but gets a bad rep for his ball-dominant tendencies. At 6'5, there shouldn't be any concerns over his size playing off the ball. He could slip out of the lottery because team's fear the possibiity of Rivers disrupting flow. But he becomes a steal in the 10-20 range considering his scoring prowess and sixth man potential. 14 a game by year three isn't an unrealistic expectation.
Terrence Jones, PF
Jones' stats weren't that impressive, primarily because he played on a team with five other future NBA players. But he's a unique player with substantial talent, and is mobile enough to play both the small and power forward positions. Jones can score inside or out, and when is motor is revved, can be a pest on the glass. Jones has starter upside, but has flown under the radar considering his numbers haven't jumped from one year to the next. Someone will make out like bandits if he slips out of the lottery.
Jared Sullinger, PF

He's the best post player in the country, whether he's fat, undersized or injury prone. He's going to slip thanks to one of these reasons, and some team will find a cheap source for interior production. He's a damn good player who gets nitpicked like no other. Assuming he slips out of the lottery, he could end up being the most under-valued prospect in the draft.
Jeffery Taylor, SF
He is Thabo Sefolosha. I can't find a difference. He can spot up, defend 2s, 3s and stretch 4s. That's all teams will need him to do. Thabo is an extremely important piece in OKC's rotation, and Taylor will be the same for someone else. The fact that he's projected late first round means he'll end up on a playoff team posing as a defensive stopper and offensive floor-spacer- a valueable asset to bring off the bench.
Royce White, SF
He's a top 10 talent. Nobody questions that. He was arrested for shoplifting three years ago, struggles with an anxiety disorder and has a fear of flying. So now he's projected to go late first round. If teams take those negatives seriously, they'll be kicking themsevle in the head when they suit up against him. Anthony Mason 2.0. Yes, that's a good thing.
John Jenkins, SG

Consider this: JJ Redick is a 6'4 sharpshooter, who struggles to get off clean looks unless he's open as a spot up target. His wingspan is 6'3. Jenkins is better off the dribble, just as good of shooter, and sports a 6'7 wingspan. In a league where elite shooters are rare and relied upon, Jenkins will provide a team with great value as a late first or early second rounder.
Draymond Green, SF
He's guaranteed to fill a spot in a rotation. Every team needs glue guys, and Green's game fits that description. Though not advanced in any one area of the game, his ability to contribute across the board makes him an attractive complimentary cog in an unbalanced lineup. Getting a rotation player in 2nd round would be huge value.
Comments (5)