With the NBA Draft peeking its head around the corner, the draft class of 2018 looks like a decent group of players. With more than half of the prospects positioned at either the 4 or 5 spots, the need for a dominant big man is key for some teams, especially those who are picking in the top five.
#1 DeAndre Ayton – Arizona (20.1 PPG, 11.6 RPG)
Listed at 7’1″ 250 lbs, Ayton is an athletic shot-blocker, to say the least. His attention to the defensive end is something I haven’t seen in a few years. His quick reaction time and recovery are a few of the things scouts are looking at heading into the draft. Ayton’s post game is very similar to Joel Embiid, and what separates him from the rest of the draft class is his ability to run the floor. The numbers compliment his play, and the force he has attacking the rim getting those second-chance points is something to look into come Draft day,
#2 Luka Doncic – Slovenia (16.8 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 4.8 APG)
The 19-year-old from Slovenia has brought the most hype in the draft thus far. Winning a title, earning MVP, and finishing in the top 10 in steals and rebounds for the past two years, there’s no doubt that this kid can hoop. He isn’t the quickest, but he can get to any spot on the floor he wants to. He can play both sides of the ball, is comfortable in the post, and can hit the three-ball somewhat consistently at 30%. One of the biggest things that surprised me is his iso-play. Doncic slows the tempo of the game down at key points like James Harden. He’s no Harden, but his isolation-ball is his greatest strength. Is he only hyped up because he’s from Slovenia? Who knows, but the kid can hoop.
#3 Marvin Bagley III – Duke (21.1 PPG, 11.1 RPG)
Similar to Ayton, Bagley is a force down low. His patience and finesse in the low-post are key when looking for a big man. If you throw the ball up, Bagley will go up and get it. His tenacious rebounding ability is what kept Duke competitive this season. His drop-step is a lethal weapon and among the many similarities he shares with Ayton, his speed and agility will separate him. Being 6’11” 234 lbs makes him quicker on his feet. I’m hoping my Atlanta Hawks can capitalize and acquire him at the third pick.
#4 Mohamed Bamba – Texas (12.9 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 3.7 BPG)
Mohamed Bamba is an all-around player who knows his role. Despite being a blocking machine on defense, his offense is something most take for granted. Bamba is one of the best when it comes to facing up in the post. One jab-step, then a mid-range jumper falling through the back of the net. His jump-shot is better than Ayton and Bagley, and he falls back on his shot a lot in games. Another thing to look at is his positioning on the low block. Most times the ball doesn’t even get across half-court, and Bamba already gets position on his defender. He’s at his best when his back is at the basket. When it comes to defense he reminds me of a young Dwight Howard. Bamba never gives up on a player and will send shots into the fourth row. I expect him to go early in the first round, as he’s one of the better big men in the draft class.
#5 Trae Young – Oklahoma (27.4 PPG, 8.7 APG)
Young is one of the first generation Curry-esque players of his generation. He’s shifty and quick with a consistent three point shot (36%). When Young penetrates the gaps in the open floor he creates great looks for his teammates as well as creates space for himself. As soon as he steps on the court he’s in range, but can he adapt to the NBA game? Is he the next Steph? It’s kind of early to tell.
This draft is filled with talent beyond these five players. Who will go number 1?