2020 NBA Draft Grades
The bizzaro zoom draft of 2020 is complete. While there weren’t as many trades as expected, there’s still plenty of intriguing picks to analyze.
1. Anthony Edwards to Minnesota: B
Pluses: Great athlete, defensive potential
Minuses: “Not that into” basketball
Edwards wasn’t #1 on my board, but there really is no super exciting option at #1 in this year’s draft, so I can’t really blame Gersson Rosas and company for the pick. It was a good draft for Minnesota, acquiring Ricky Rubio (the prodigal son returns) and drafting Jaden McDaniels and Leandro Balmero. At 1, I would’ve tried to trade the pick first… which it seems like they did… but if that’s not an option, Edwards is the clear fit compared to Ball and Wiseman.
2. James Wiseman to Golden State: B+
Again, this is a pick that was certainly in trade discussions, but it seems like Wiseman will be a Warrior, now that the proverbial car has been driven off the lot. He’ll be a great fit there. While I’m not sure he was the best player available (I tentatively prefer Ball), Golden State loves a lob-catching, rim-running center. It’ll be very interesting to see how much Steve Kerr and co. trust Wiseman in the short-term, considering their win-now state.
3. LaMelo Ball to Charlotte: A
While I’m not in love with LaMelo as a prospect, I tentatively had him #1 on my personal board, so how can I not love the value at #3? Although it’s a bit of a rough fit with their current roster, neither Devonte’ Graham or Terry Rozier is a future cornerstone to the extent of discouraging an opportunity like this.
4. Patrick Williams to Chicago: B
Assuming Ball was off the board, it was clear the Bulls were honing in on either Deni Avdija or Patrick Williams at #4. Williams has been the hottest name in the draft for the past week or two, rapidly rising on boards. He and Avdija are different kinds of players, but at a comparable level in my view. While Williams came off the bench at Florida State, he projects as a unique kind of prospect that can fill in as a role player (excellent off-ball defense, switchability, versatility, solid shooter) that also has the potential to blossom (high-end athleticism, skills are still raw). Could Chicago have traded down to take Williams lower? Maybe. But I’m not sure he would’ve fallen much further.
5. Isaac Okoro to Cleveland: C+
The Cavaliers have been linked to Okoro for awhile now, so this came as no surprise. Still, it’s hard to find big boards that have the Auburn wing in the top 5. Does this make it a poor pick? Not necessarily. Especially in a draft like this one, where the top 10–11 players are so jumbled together and interchangeable, it’s hard to criticize any team too harshly for its choice in that range. That’s why a C+ is the lowest I went here. Okoro is a relatively low-upside play, relatively safe, but nothing too exciting.
6. Onyeka Okongwu to Atlanta: A-
Okongwu has been one of the most intriguing prospects in this draft for me all throughout the process. His defensive motor and potential are really, really exciting for the modern game. You’ll hear Bam Adebayo comparisons, and those aren’t fair (especially considering the offensive skills of Adebayo) but they’re also not totally unfounded, at least on the defensive end. Meanwhile, Okongwu’s athleticism and rim-running ability will be fun to watch in the pick & roll with Trae Young. However, I do question the fit of Okongwu with Clint Capela and John Collins… that’s a pretty jumbled frontcourt.
7. Killian Hayes to Detroit: A+
Killian Hayes could very well turn out to be the best player in this draft. His high-level creating ability paired with his playmaking for teammates makes him a very exciting offensive prospect, one of the best in the draft. Still, his jumper has yet to really come around, and it would’ve been tough to take him in the top 3. Falling to 7th, however, this is an excellent pick by Detroit.
8. Obi Toppin to New York: B-
While I’m not the biggest Obi Toppin fan, there weren’t a lot of super exciting options with Hayes and Okongwu off the board. While I might prefer an Avdija or even a Haliburton, Obi is an undeniably talented player who will get the MSG fans (if we ever get to have them) on their feet. While I have real questions about his defense, his floor is relatively high and I can’t blame New York for this pick.
9. Deni Avdija to Washington: A
The Wizards were pleasantly surprised that Deni Avdija fell to #9, and rightfully so. Avdija almost went #4 to Chicago, until they opted to go with Patrick Williams. In Avdija, Washington gets a proven playmaker with good athleticism and great defensive instincts. Great value pick at 9.
10. Jalen Smith to Phoenix: D+
This one came totally out of left field. With the nature of this draft, many suspected we’d see one shocking pick like this one. Really, it’s reminiscent of Phoenix taking Cam Johnson at #11 last year. That didn’t turn out to be quite the disaster many presumed, so we should be a little careful here, too. But no one had Jalen Smith top 10 on their board. He’s a relatively skilled big man, who doesn’t have great size and may struggle defensively, but there’s some upside. This could end up being a good pick, as any pick could. Who knows? But it seems like a reach right now.
11. Devin Vassell to San Antonio: A
Vassell is an excellent example of a modern 3-and-D wing. He shot 42% from three at Florida State, absolutely lights out. While he’s no lockdown defender yet, we know Vassell can shoot it, and every team needs wings that can do that. He was top 10 on most boards, higher on some. Good pick.
12. Tyrese Haliburton to Sacramento: A+
Another faller, the Kings were shocked that Haliburton made it to 12. While he is older, he’s proven to be a solid defender at the guard position, with a reliable jumper and good playmaking ability. Haliburton is the perfect role player guard, and while he doesn’t have superstar upside, I’d bet he’ll be in an NBA rotation for over a decade. Great value at #12.
13. Kira Lewis to New Orleans: B
Now we’re reaching the point in the draft where the top tier of prospects are gone (also Jalen Smith is gone), and it’s kind of a free-for-all on who is picked next. The Pelicans navigated this position well by taking Lewis, a speedy guard from Alabama with a smooth jumper. While his defense and size are a concern, Lewis projects as a sparkplug scorer at the least.
14. Aaron Nesmith to Boston: B+
I, for one, am a Nesmith fan. His scouting report is on the simpler side. We absolutely know he can shoot it. At Vanderbilt, Nesmith shot 52.2%… yep. Are you in yet? He’ll shoot it off the dribble and off movement, too. However, concerns about defense and finishing ability pushed him to the end of the lottery. Still, the way the league is moving, there’s always room for a guy who can shoot the lights out off movement and made the defense respect him.
15. Cole Anthony to Orlando: C+
Years ago, early outlooks of the 2020 draft were focused on Cole Anthony and James Wiseman at the top, but here we sit, with Anthony falling out of the lottery. It was a relatively disastrous year at North Carolina, as the team fell apart around Anthony. He’s an athletic point guard, with tumultuous shot selection, lack of playmaking instincts, and defensive issues have hurt his stock. I see the value in taking a flyer on Anthony, he has some upside as a scorer, but this ultimately feels like a reach for someone whose high-end outcome may be a bench sparkplug.
16. Isaiah Stewart to Detroit: F
Finally! We have our first F! Step right up, Detroit! Our first A+ of the draft, and now our first F, that’s impressive. On most big boards, Isaiah Stewart maybe had a chance to sneak into the first round. Yet here we are at #16. Stewart is a big center, with a throwback-style game. He can’t really move his feet, I don’t know how he will ever crack a rotation in the playoffs. I just don’t understand why you’d spend a first-round pick, especially this high, on a regular season backup center. Trust me, there will be plenty of those guys available for the Mid-Level Exception, or even the veteran’s minimum. Baffling.
17. Aleksej Pokusevski to Oklahoma City: A-
It’s funny that the Thunder found a way to trade for Poku here. He’d been linked to OKC all throughout the draft process, and he’s exactly the kind of project-style prospect Sam Presti enjoys taking on. Pokusevski is 7'0", 201 lbs. Yep. Read it again if you have to. He has a very impressive skillset for a seven footer, and moves really well. He’ll have to put some weight on, but he can shoot it and handle the ball, I’m excited to see what he can become playing alongside OKC’s other 195381293 first-round picks in the next few years.
18. Josh Green to Dallas: B
Green is a pretty standard 3-and-D wing prospect. He shot 36% from deep at Arizona, and projects as a solid positional defender. He’s also pretty athletic, and a good off-ball cutter, which gives him a little more upside. A solid enough pick for the Mavericks, who can always use guys like this to fill in around Luka.
19. Saddiq Bey to Detroit: A+
Other than that Isaiah Stewart pick, the Pistons sure had a great draft. Bey is one of my favorite prospects outside the top tier. On the surface, you may think he’s a mundane 3-and-D wing, but Bey has much more size and versatility than someone like Josh Green. He’s 6'8 with a 6'10 wingspan, a very smart defender who can guard multiple positions. Meanwhile, he shot 45% from three last season at Villanova, on 5.7 attempts per game. A classic Jay Wright kind of player, Bey may not become a superstar, but he sure feels like a modern NBA role player to me.
20. Precious Achiuwa to Miami: A
Achiuwa is a high-energy player on both ends, with great athleticism and rim-running potential to go with versatile defensive ability. While his jumpshot is a real concern, Precious feels like a minor steal at #20, and while he’s not Bam Adebayo, he’s gonna fit in great in Miami. Think of a Montrezl Harrell type.
21. Tyrese Maxey to Philadelphia: B
Tyrese Maxey is just a gamer. He plays with high energy, he’s a smart and crafty finisher, great perimeter defender, and while there are legit concerns about his size, jumpshot, and shot selection, Maxey should be a good fit in Philly. He really will need to knock down spot-up threes if he wants to get on the court next to Simmons and Embiid, but Maxey has great potential as an off-guard next so a big ball handler like Simmons.
22. Zeke Nnaji to Denver: D
We’ve had a few good grades in a row, so you knew there were some bad ones coming up. Nnaji is a pretty fluid athlete for a big, with some shooting prowess, but he isn’t really a rim protector or a guy who can guard the perimeter, so it’s really tough to see what his role will be in the NBA. The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor compares him to Ersan Ilyasova, Channing Frye, and Meyers Leonard. He’ll need to really be an elite shooter to see the floor too often. Definitely feels like a reach, although Denver does have a good track record in the draft.
23. Leandro Balmero to Minnesota: B-
Balmero is a very skilled Argentinian ball handler, standing at 6'7", he’s got great size for a ‘guard’ (he’s really just a perimeter initiator). Balmero’s playmaking is his elite skill, with a great sense for open teammates, and he can create with the ball in his hands. He really needs to improve on his jumpshot, only 29% from three in his international career, but I really like Balmero’s potential. I would’ve liked it more as a value pick maybe five slots later, but this is about where he belongs.
24. RJ Hampton to Denver: B
You likely know RJ Hampton as the other prospect who went to Australia’s NBL instead of college this past season. As for his scouting report, Hampton is likely the most athletic guard in the draft, depending on how you categorize Anthony Edwards. Before the draft, I wasn’t as high on Hampton as many — some ranked him in the lottery, while I had him in the early twenties. It was surprising to see RJ fall this far, for sure, but he ended up getting picked right around where I would’ve ranked him.
25. Immanuel Quickley to New York: C-
This one feels like a reach. While Quickley is a very good shooter, he’s only 6'3", and even with his 6'10" wingspan, struggles to finish at the rim and shows real defensive concerns. Quickley is probably going to be able to be effective as a catch-and-shoot threat, but has very little playmaking ability for his teammates, and definitely won’t be a primary ball handler. Not necessarily a disaster of a pick here, but I don’t know of anyone who projected him going in the first round.
26. Payton Pritchard to Boston: B
Pritchard is a classic 4-year guard prospect. He’s an excellent shooter, 42% from three at Oregon, a great passer with a real feel for the game, he’s a high-effort defender, but quite undersized at 6'2", can handle the ball, but not going to break down defenders. This is a high floor pick for the Celtics, someone who will be able to hold his own in an NBA game as a rookie, but when — if ever — will he be in a playoff rotation?
27. Udoka Azubuike to Utah: F
This is a pretty tough one to explain. Like the Isaiah Stewart pick at #16, it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. Like Stewart, Azubuike is a big slow center who has no shot at holding his own on the perimeter. He’s got a post game, sure, but how often do backup centers come in and get buckets in the post anymore? Oh also, he can’t shoot at all. 42% from the free throw line at Kansas. Would never take a jumper. I’m being quite harsh — Doke was one of the best players in the country last season, he’s got a 7'7" wingspan and he’s a force on the block (or he was against college opponents). Maybe a good pick at 57… not at 27.
28. Jaden McDaniels to Minnesota: A-
McDaniels is quite the intriguing prospect. He was a consensus top ten pick before last season (so like a year ago) but really underwhelmed at Washington. He’s 6'8", 200 lbs, with a 7'0" wingspan. That rail-thin frame is definitely one concern, McDaniels has struggled to finish inside, as well as take advantage of smaller defenders. He also has almost no sense for playmaking, comes off as a ball hog at times. Still, Jaden is incredibly skilled for his size, with a smooth handle and jumper, and he’s even shown potential on the defensive end, as a switchable positionless force, on and off-ball. I really like the upside, and I’m looking forward to watching him in Minnesota.
29. Malachi Flynn to Toronto: B-
Malachi Flynn is such a Toronto Raptors pick, I just can’t get over it. He played three years at San Diego State, here are some quotes from Kevin O’Connor’s scouting report, tell me this doesn’t sound like the Raptors: “Dynamic pick-and-roll playmaker with a polished offensive game ready-made for the pros… Takes pride in his on-ball defense… His hard-nosed defensive mind-set also applies to the boards… Lacks elite athleticism and handles… Good perimeter scorer who is most comfortable pulling up for jumpers.” This is about the range I would’ve expected Flynn to go. He’ll fit in great in Toronto.
30. Desmond Bane to Memphis: A+
If I could give this pick an A+++, I totally would. At this point in the draft, I was shocked that Desmond Bane and Tyrell Terry were still available, and guess who swooped in to grab Bane at #30? The Memphis Grizzlies, who also nailed the steal of 2019 in Brandon Clarke. Like Clarke, Bane was something of a draft nerd darling this year, ranked in the lottery by some and the top 20 by most. Bane played four years at TCU and shot 44% from three. He thrives running off screens and movement, and he’s a high IQ player who makes good decisions. He’s a solid positional defender, although not a versatile weapon on that end. Bane should’ve gone far higher than this, and the Grizzlies got one of the steals of the draft here.
31. Tyrell Terry to Dallas: A+
Back-to-back steals. Tyrell Terry has also been a riser in the draft process. After his lone season at Stanford, it was a question whether or not he should return to school or declare for the draft. Terry impressed in workouts and interviews, and should’ve gone far higher than he did. Terry’s #1 skill is his range. 41% from three in college on some very difficult attempts, Terry isn’t afraid to pull from far beyond the line off the dribble. He’s only 6'2", so he’ll be targeted on the defensive end, but he’s a smart playmaker with elite off-ball movement and shooting ability. Reminds me of a Seth Curry at the very least, with potential to be more than that. Bane and Terry are the steals of the draft.
32. Vernon Carey to Charlotte: D
I don’t get it guys. I don’t. Again, why are we taking backup centers whose high end outcome is the end of a regular season rotation? Why are we spending draft picks on these guys? Carey has more shooting touch than a guy like Azubiuke, to be fair, and may project as a guy who can hit the occasional three. That and he’s also more mobile, while not as imposing a physical presence, he has some potential to be able to move his feet and stay on the court. He’s a better prospect than Azubiuke in the eyes of most, so congratulations, you get a D instead of an F.
33. Daniel Oturu to LA Clippers: D
A little bit of deja vu going on here. Oturu is relatively similar to Carey as a prospect. He’s not quite as big, but a better perimeter shooter — 36% at Minnesota. Still, Oturu was primarily a back-to-basket scorer in college, and doesn’t really have the mobility to get many minutes in the NBA.
34. Theo Maledon to Oklahoma City: B+
Mentored by Tony Parker, Maledon is a rather intriguing point guard prospect. He’s got good size, at 6'4" with a 6'9" wingspan, he’s a smart pick & roll ballhandler who makes good decisions, he’s become a solid catch-and shoot threat as well, and projects as a solid defender. Wise investment for OKC, definitely value here at #34.
35. Xavier Tillman to Memphis: A
The Memphis Grizzlies are at it again. I’m a big fan of Tillman’s. He’s got a great frame and a 7'1" wingspan. Tillman played four years at Michigan State and he’s exactly how you’d imagine a Michigan State player. (No, I’m not going to throw out the Draymond Green comp). While Tillman isn’t a great shooter or an explosive athlete, he’s a strong, versatile defender who can guard anyone and play great team defense. He’s a strong finisher, and an excellent playmaker for a big. Sign me up.
36. Tyler Bey to Dallas: B
Bey is an athletic forward whose best quality is his defensive versatility. He has elite defensive upside, able to guard any type of player, and just needs to establish his jumper to crack his way into the rotation.
37. Vit Krejci to Oklahoma City: F
Krejci is a 6'8" guard from the Czech Republic. It’s pretty hard to find him on big boards, and he really didn’t shoot threes in his international career. Head scratcher. To be fair, we’re getting to the point where you take a shot at someone like this who will likely end up a two-way guy anyways. Just not sure if #37 is late enough.
38. Saben Lee to Detroit: D-
Like Krejci, Lee was not really on anyone’s board before the draft. A point guard from Vanderbilt, Lee’s athleticism is his big strength as a prospect. Vandy coach Jerry Stackhouse coached under Detroit’s Dwayne Casey in Toronto.
39. Elijah Hughes to Utah: C+
Hughes was an effective scorer at Syracuse, although his jumper wasn’t very consistent. It’s also tough to evaluate his defense, since he played in a 2–3 zone exclusively in college. He’s a fine enough second round prospect but there were better options available.
40. Robert Woodard to Sacramento: A
I’m pretty surprised Woodard made it further than the three guys we just talked about. He shot 43% from three at Mississippi State, he’s a very smart team player with good passing instincts, has great size at 6'7" with a 7'1" wingspan, and he’s a terrific team defender. The Kings killed it.
41. Tre Jones to San Antonio: B
Jones does feel like a Spursian player. His jumper is a concern, but he’s an established winner at Duke, a team-first player with a high IQ, great passing ability, and high-level defensive instincts. Won’t become a star, but has a good shot of being productive off the bench.
42. Nick Richards to Charlotte: D-
A once-heralded prospect, Richards fell behind his fellow Kentucky Wildcats, saw a huge dip in playing time, and ended up having to stay three years in Lexington. Richards still has the athleticism and size that made him such a coveted recruit, but won’t be much of a creator at the NBA level, and likely won’t be able to defend on the perimeter.
43. Jahmi’us Ramsey to Sacramento: A
Another excellent pick by the Kings, Ramsey isn’t afraid to pull from anywhere, and he shot 43% from deep at Texas Tech. He’s an explosive athlete, too, with potential to become a really good defender. While Ramsey doesn’t have a great sense for passing or finishing at the rim, he’s got real potential as a spark plug on both ends.
44. Marko Simonovic to Chicago: C
Another relatively unknown international prospect, Simonovic is a fluid big man who can also shoot it for his size. At 6'11" and 215 lbs, he definitely needs to fill out, and could struggle defending the perimeter, but could be effective as a rim runner and a shooter, an intriguing pick & roll big.
45. Jordan Nwora to Milwaukee: B+
Nwora was an effective scorer at Louisville, averaging 17 points as a sophomore and 18 last season as a junior. He shot 40% from three in his college career despite a high degree of difficulty. While there are legitimate concerns about his defense, Nwora is 6'7", and should have a good chance at cracking the Bucks’ rotation as a spot-up threat.
46. CJ Elleby to Portland: D+
Elleby is a score-first wing out of Washington State, who averaged 18 points per game as a sophomore last season. He shot 37% from three in his college career, and the Blazers will need him to hit jumpers in order to find the court, especially considering his defensive concerns.
47. Yam Madar to Boston: B-
Madar is a quick and shifty Israeli point guard with an impressive handle. Although his jumper is questionable, he competes defensively. Madar is pretty solid value at #47, and an especially wise draft-and-stash option for the Celtics, who are running out of roster spots for their rookies.
48. Nico Mannion to Golden State: A
Mannion was somewhat of an internet sensation before his days at Arizona, where he mildly underwhelmed. Still, Nico is one of the best playmakers in the draft, with a borderline genius feel for the game. He’s also a very good shooter, even off the dribble. While there are concerns about his size, defense, and finishing ability, it’s surprising that he fell so far, and Golden State made a great pick for #48.
49. Isaiah Joe to Philadelphia: A+
Speaking of fallers… Mannion and Joe were both expected to go higher, but Joe was ranked in the first round by some. Joe’s a dynamic shooter. At Arkansas, he took threes off the dribble and off movement, displayed great touch, and some quickness and defensive instincts. Still, Joe took over ten threes per game last season, which brought down his efficiency from 41% to 35%. Back in a smaller role in the NBA, I trust he’ll be a knockdown shooter, just like the Sixers need. This is a steal.
50. Skylar Mays to Atlanta: C-
A 6'4" guard from LSU, Mays wasn’t sure if he’d be drafted tonight or not. He’s a polished combo guard with some playmaking and shooting ability, but not a primary creator at the NBA level, and concerns about how he’ll hold up on the defensive end prevented him from going any higher. Unlikely he’ll play much in the NBA.
51. Justinian Jessup to Golden State: D
A 6'6" senior guard from Boise State, Jessup wasn’t on many people’s radar. He’s already signed a deal with LaMelo Ball’s NBL team, the Illawara Hawks, where he’ll be stashed for now. Jessup’s primarily a shooter, who may find his way to the Bay Area in future years.
52. Kenyon Martin Jr to Houston: D+
Welp. That was a fun night for Rockets fans, wasn’t it? As if the impending exits of your two superstars wasn’t enough, Houston shipped Robert Covington, a very good NBA role player, to Portland for Trevor Ariza and the 16th pick… but then proceeded to sent that same package to the Pistons for tax relief and a future pick. But at least you get Kenyon Martin Jr! A 6'7" forward, Martin is a dynamic athlete, like his dad, but hasn’t polished his skills enough to be highly considered on many draft boards.
53. Cassius Winston to Washington: A-
Winston graduated from Michigan State as one of the best passers in the history of the Big Ten. He’s an incredibly high IQ player and a high quality teammate, a good team defender with good pick & roll instincts. Winston also shot over 40% from three at MSU, but at 6'1", he’ll likely be targeted defensively. Still, there’s a real chance Winston finds himself as a valuable NBA role player.
54. Cassius Stanley to Indiana: A
Back-to-back Cassiuses! Stanley is an incredibly explosive athlete who broke Zion’s vertical record at Duke. He’s also a relatively reliable shooter, 36% from three in his one season there. At 6'6" there are questions about his role and his defense, but he competes, and it’s definitely a surprise that he fell this far in the draft.
55. Jay Scrubb to LA Clippers: B+
Although unfortunately named, Scrubb is a 6'6" combo guard out of junior college who has shown real scoring ability. He’s an excellent shooter and can create off the dribble, but has plenty of questions about his shot selection, defense, and the competition against which he did it. Still, not a bad flyer for #55.
56. Grant Riller to Charlotte: B+
Riller played four years at the College of Charleston, and really impressed as a shooter and ball handler. He can create in the pick & roll, but struggles to find open teammates and had his fair share of defensive issues. At #56, though, it’s pretty good value.
57. Reggie Perry to Brooklyn: C
At 6'9" and 250 lbs, Perry is a big and athletic forward who played two years at Mississippi State. He has solid defensive potential and projects to be versatile on that end, while improving as a jumpshooter his sophomore year, hitting 33% of his threes. There’s definitely potential to be a solid role player, but he’ll likely start in the G-League.
58. Paul Reed to Philadelphia: A+
I was shocked that Paul Reed fell this far. John Hollinger has Reed 12th on his board, admittedly higher than most anyone, but I expected him to go early in the second round. Reed is a wrecking ball on the defensive end, a positionless dynamo at 6'9", 220, with a 7'2" wingspan. A great shot blocker, Reed also uses his great athleticism to finish on the offensive end. His jumper isn’t great, but 33% at DePaul is passable enough for someone of his defensive ability. I can’t believe he fell to #58. Daryl Morey is a magician.
59. Jalen Harris to Toronto: D+
A guard from Nevada, Harris wasn’t in many top 60’s. A transfer from Louisiana Tech, he made Mountain West First Team last season as a junior averaging 22 points per game. He definitely showed his scoring ability and shot creation at Nevada, we’ll see if he makes it to the league.
60. Sam Merrill to Milwaukee: C+
While there are other players that I’d have taken over Merrill (DEVON DOTSON), he’s certainly more recognizable than some of the second-round selections. Merrill shot 42% from three in his career at Utah State, and this alone gives him a chance to make it to the league.
UDFA — Devon Dotson to Chicago: A+
I was shocked that Devon Dotson didn’t get drafted. I, like many, viewed him as an early second kind of player. Dotson’s an athletic and smooth scorer, a good finisher around the rim, and a smart playmaker. He’s got some room to improve with his jumper, only 31% last season at Kansas, but I still can’t believe he went undrafted.
UDFA — Killian Tillie to Memphis: A-
While Tillie isn’t a super high-ceiling prospect, he’s a very good shooter and a very smart passer, which I assumed would be enough to get him drafted out of Gonzaga. Still, Tillie ended up in a great place, where I hope so see him on the NBA floor for Memphis soon.
UDFA — Markus Howard to Denver: A-
Howard may only be 5'11", but he absolutely lit it up at Marquette, finishing his four years there as the Big East’s all-time leading scorer. It’s definitely a surprise that wasn’t enough to get him drafted, but he’ll get his chance to prove what he can do on a two-way deal.
UDFA — Ashton Hagans to Minnesota: B+
While not a total shock, Hagans was another guy I would’ve expected to go in the second round. He’s a high-motor defensive point guard out of Kentucky who really plays hard… his jumper is really bad though, 27% from three in two years of college.
UDFA — Myles Powell
The reigning Big East Player of the Year, a consensus First Team All-American, and the winner of the Jerry West Award, given to the nation’s top shooting guard, you would think that would be enough for Seton Hall’s Myles Powell to hear his name called. I’m sure he’ll get the opportunity to work his way into the league via a two-way deal, but many expected him to find a home in the draft.
UDFA — Ty-Shon Alexander
A smooth scoring guard out of Creighton, Alexander is another guy I would’ve expected to have found a home after sixty picks. He still hasn’t been signed as now, but I’m sure he’ll get a chance on a two-way deal somewhere. He shot 40% from three in college.
