2020 NBA Draft Thread: Bulls pick 4th!

[Jvaughn]

Why do you think he is a bad defender?

I don’t think he’s quick enough to guard the 3 but don’t think he’s strong enough to guard the 4. Then again, most teams just play another 3 at the 4

He has always been a good defender. You don't need a world class athlete to be a good defender.

Yeah, I don't see any issues with Deni guarding the perimeter. Never been an issue for him so far, and he's actually shown some very good awareness on defensive placement. It's why he gets a good amount of weakside blocks.

To be a good defender I. Today's NBA you have to be able to be switchable and don't really have to worry about stopping someone on an island with all the shifting. There are some areas of concern for Deni (mainly shooting consistency) but defense shouldn't be one of them.

[PlayerUp]

Best shooter in the draft and great IQ on both ends.

Best shooter in the draft is Aaron Nesmith. You need more than just shooting though. Nesmith ball handling, playmaking, ability to finish, quickness/explosiveness, athleticism and questionable defense will hurt him in the NBA.

Give me your report on Bane. Don’t just say Nesmith is better. Prove it.

Don't need to say Nesmith is better. Nesmith is a projected pick between #10-#20. Nesmith value is higher primarily due to upside but he has major flaws in his game. Bane projected to go in the early 2nd. Tyler Bey is another prospect projected in the early 2nd Rd. Both are good value picks and can be solid role players in the NBA.

[JohnnyTapwater]

Other than having a superstar of course, watching these playoffs confirms you need shooting, and versatile defenders. Won't go anywhere without it.

One reason I'm on board of trading back with a team like the Knicks for #8 and #27. Draft Nesmith/Vassell at #8, and Tyler Bey at #27

8 and 27? This isnt the NFL. The chances that 8 is more then a role player and 27 makes the team are slim.

If Vassell is there @ 8, this is a steal.

[Bulldog23]

I think Hayes and Okongwu might go top three...Edwards might be available at the fourth pick.

[drosereturn]

Deni's shooting has indeed improved.

2018-19 I-BSL - 33 Games - 48.7% FG, 26.8% 3PT, 33.3% FT
2019-20 Euroleague - 26 Games - 43.6% FG, 27.7% 3PT, 55.6% FT
2019-20 I-BSL - 33 Games - 52.6% FG, 35.3% 3PT, 59.4% FT

So statistically his shooting numbers have gone up over a span of 1 year which is a good sign. He was projected to be a Top 8 Pick before the 2019-20 seasons started. Reason is scouts see the clear upside with this prospect and high IQ knowing he can further develop his game.

Still don’t understand his FTs. His shot looks fundamentally sound and has good flow. I think it all in his head and him trying to hard. Probably aiming it instead of shooting free and w confidence.

Why most aren't concerned with his shooting. He has a good form just needs some tweaking.

Meanwhile while Deni has improved, Hayes has some questionable shooting efficiency numbers himself as he has been up and down where Deni has shown pretty consistent improvements. That said, Hayes also hasn't played in nearly 6 months unlike Deni who played recently just weeks ago so Hayes could have made significant improvements already.

Hayes Shooting in Comparison
2017-18 - Espoirs Cholet - 32 Games - 47.9% FG, 30.9% 3PT, 86.4% FT
2018-19 - Cholet Basket - 34 Games - 42.7% FG, 18.2% 3PT, 82% FT
2019-20 - Ratiopharm Ulm (L1) - 10 Games - 45.5% FG, 39% 3PT, 90.9% FT
2019-20 - Ratiopharm Ulm (L2) - 20 Games - 49.7% FG, 21.8% 3PT, 85.2% FT

Shooting is one of the most important skills you need in the NBA. This draft lacks shooters. If we want a for sure shooter, then Devin Vassell is the best option in the Top 10 as he has always been a solid shooter even during his freshman season. However shooting is the one skill that can rapidly improve at the next level as well. That's why we have to target a prospect that we believe can transform into a good shooter in the NBA. Deni definitely can be a good shooter in the NBA with the right training.

Big Red flag for both. Cant believe one guy shoots 60 percent while the other guy shoots 20 percent in 3s when hes making close to 90 percent ft.

[drosereturn]

That being said, Hali is a stat god literally has no weakness meaning his floor is a starter although I question his ceiling. In any draft not many can avg 50 40 shooting for 2 straight yrs while providing superb d. That assist ratio, steal, block remind me of lonzo as a prospect such a steal.

[CjayC]

The more I think about it, it feels like Avdija to Golden State makes sense(Assuming no trade down). I think there's going to be a run on the guards and forwards, with Wiseman taking a little dip to Cleveland at #5, if Charlotte doesn't take him. I think the lack of film will be held against him.

Also assuming everything is on the up & up and they both pan out, is a rim running , defensive big, that has the potential to stretch it from the midrange, but can't create his own offense more important than a potential playmaking forward, secondary ballhandler type? At the very least seems like Avdija will be more of a ready body as of right now, which works because Golden State needs to win now.

[Chicagoat]

Still don’t understand his FTs. His shot looks fundamentally sound and has good flow. I think it all in his head and him trying to hard. Probably aiming it instead of shooting free and w confidence.

Why most aren't concerned with his shooting. He has a good form just needs some tweaking.

Meanwhile while Deni has improved, Hayes has some questionable shooting efficiency numbers himself as he has been up and down where Deni has shown pretty consistent improvements. That said, Hayes also hasn't played in nearly 6 months unlike Deni who played recently just weeks ago so Hayes could have made significant improvements already.

Hayes Shooting in Comparison
2017-18 - Espoirs Cholet - 32 Games - 47.9% FG, 30.9% 3PT, 86.4% FT
2018-19 - Cholet Basket - 34 Games - 42.7% FG, 18.2% 3PT, 82% FT
2019-20 - Ratiopharm Ulm (L1) - 10 Games - 45.5% FG, 39% 3PT, 90.9% FT
2019-20 - Ratiopharm Ulm (L2) - 20 Games - 49.7% FG, 21.8% 3PT, 85.2% FT

Shooting is one of the most important skills you need in the NBA. This draft lacks shooters. If we want a for sure shooter, then Devin Vassell is the best option in the Top 10 as he has always been a solid shooter even during his freshman season. However shooting is the one skill that can rapidly improve at the next level as well. That's why we have to target a prospect that we believe can transform into a good shooter in the NBA. Deni definitely can be a good shooter in the NBA with the right training.

Big Red flag for both. Cant believe one guy shoots 60 percent while the other guy shoots 20 percent in 3s when hes making close to 90 percent ft.

Inconsistent shooting from the line and from shoots taken in game is concerning, yes. BUT I would not consider 90% from the FT line bad. Historically speaking being a good FT% shooter shows if a prospect is a good shooter or not and if the shot will translate to the NBA.

From his FT%, Hayes seems to be one of the best shooters of this draft.

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[PlayerUp]

I think Hayes and Okongwu might go top three...Edwards might be available at the fourth pick.

Okongwu might to Golden State or Charlotte but Hayes won't. Warriors/Hornets don't need a PG and Hayes is not BPA Top 3 Prospect at the moment.

[PlayerUp]

Big Red flag for both. Cant believe one guy shoots 60 percent while the other guy shoots 20 percent in 3s when hes making close to 90 percent ft.

No matter how well or how poorly you shoot in college or overseas, it doesn't necessarily translate the same at the NBA level.

Lauri = Best Shooter in 2017 Draft = Regressed
George Hill = Best 3PT in the League in 19-20 = 30-32% 3PT shooter Soph/Jr in college
Coby White = Struggled Early On = Shot 41.1% 3PT in Feb.

It takes alot of work / adjustments when entering the NBA. Main thing is to see if they have room to improve, good forms, can make quick adjustments, have a high IQ.

Gar/Pax tried to draft shooters since 2013 and they failed miserably at it mainly because they looked for shooters rather than players who have a nice skill set and could develop a shot later. We should be targeting high IQ, high motor, somewhat athletic at least/physical profile, skilled players that we believe can develop their shot at the next level.

[kodo]

Big Red flag for both. Cant believe one guy shoots 60 percent while the other guy shoots 20 percent in 3s when hes making close to 90 percent ft.

Hayes' shots are mostly off the dribble and more advanced, like off a P&R stepback / sidestep. His role isn't a catch & shoot shooter like Haliburton. That being said, of course 20% still isn't a positive sign. But he's still pretty young, Donovan Mitchell shot 25% from 3 at this age.

I'd be curious what Hayes' c&s shooting #s are. Sample size would be tiny, he seems rarely assisted by his teammates.

[Chi town]

Other than having a superstar of course, watching these playoffs confirms you need shooting, and versatile defenders. Won't go anywhere without it.

One reason I'm on board of trading back with a team like the Knicks for #8 and #27. Draft Nesmith/Vassell at #8, and Tyler Bey at #27

8 and 27? This isnt the NFL. The chances that 8 is more then a role player and 27 makes the team are slim.

If Vassell is there @ 8, this is a steal.

That’s awful value compared to what ATL got last year and this is a weaker draft which means the picks should be worth less the farther back you go.

I will be shocked if AK trades back. I can see him buying a later first w cash and 44 but not trading back to get another pick.

[Jvaughn]

Just watched some footage of Bane, and I don't know why I haven't heard about him before. Would definitely be worth a flyer in the 2nd. A little concerned about that terrible wingspan for defensive purposes though.

[PlayerUp]

Just watched some footage of Bane, and I don't know why I haven't heard about him before. Would definitely be worth a flyer in the 2nd. A little concerned about that terrible wingspan for defensive purposes though.

Watch on YouTube

He'll go in the lase 1st / early 2nd round. This draft has some quality players later in the draft.

[Chi town]

Best shooter in the draft is Aaron Nesmith. You need more than just shooting though. Nesmith ball handling, playmaking, ability to finish, quickness/explosiveness, athleticism and questionable defense will hurt him in the NBA.

Give me your report on Bane. Don’t just say Nesmith is better. Prove it.

Don't need to say Nesmith is better. Nesmith is a projected pick between #10-#20. Nesmith value is higher primarily due to upside but he has major flaws in his game. Bane projected to go in the early 2nd. Tyler Bey is another prospect projected in the early 2nd Rd. Both are good value picks and can be solid role players in the NBA.

That has nothing to do with Nesmith being a better shooter. You can be a horrible player and a great shooter. I said Bane is the best shooter in the draft based on his career. You say Nesmith is the best because he has higher value? That's apples to oranges. What numbers suggest Nesmith is the better shooter?

[Chi town]

Just watched some footage of Bane, and I don't know why I haven't heard about him before. Would definitely be worth a flyer in the 2nd. A little concerned about that terrible wingspan for defensive purposes though.

He has great hustle, energy, and strength on D. Can guard 2-4 with his strength. Super high IQ on D.

On offense he can score on all 3 levels attacking close outs. Not much there off the dribble without movement. Don't see any PNR potential. But he's high IQ, knows how to get open off ball for 3s and how to cut to open spots for open looks. I like his slight fadeaway on his mid range jumper... much like Coby's. Helps alot in creating space for a clean look. His passing is exceptional. Right pass at right time in the right spots. Will never be a secondary playmaker but will help move the ball much like Otto. Can get his own shot but won't really create for anyone.

Bane is built for today's game and I believe he will produce off the bench as a rookie. He'd flourish with a team like the Heat that gives him a role and grooms him for it.

He would help the Bulls so much with his 2 way game and IQ. His passing would make Coby and Lavine so much more dangerous too.

[Chi town]

I like the potential of Cassius Stanley from Duke alot with our 2nd pick. Would take a trade up though JMO.

See alot of Gary Trent Jr. in his game which has translated well with the Blazers.

Solid defensively and good athlete. Moves well and explosive jumper. Could learn to D up. Good IQ off ball but nothing great. Strong and holds his position.

Offensively his shot looks really good. Not much off the dribble but catch and shoot big potential. Spaces the floor and gets open for 3s. Can really score with the ball in his hands. Lots of secondary moves. Can really finish with authority and lob threat. Plays hard and with an edge. Has PNR potential with his handle.

He's super old for a freshman but I still see lots of growth potential. Maybe a Jordan Clarkson type scorer.

[Jvaughn]

Just watched some footage of Bane, and I don't know why I haven't heard about him before. Would definitely be worth a flyer in the 2nd. A little concerned about that terrible wingspan for defensive purposes though.

He has great hustle, energy, and strength on D. Can guard 2-4 with his strength. Super high IQ on D.

This is the part I have questions about. He can do this at the collegiate level, but I can't think of a single player with that type of lack of length that projects as a plus defender. Even PJ Tucker, as short as he is, has a 7'0 wingspan which helps him defend across the positions. I'm not saying it's a deal breaker, but I wouldn't expect Bane to be able to defend anyone outside of some mid level wings at the NBA level. Even with that, I'd spend a 2nd on him due to his NBA level shooting skill. I don't think I'd spend a 1st though.

[Grodoboldo]

Just watched some footage of Bane, and I don't know why I haven't heard about him before. Would definitely be worth a flyer in the 2nd. A little concerned about that terrible wingspan for defensive purposes though.

He has great hustle, energy, and strength on D. Can guard 2-4 with his strength. Super high IQ on D.

On offense he can score on all 3 levels attacking close outs. Not much there off the dribble without movement. Don't see any PNR potential. But he's high IQ, knows how to get open off ball for 3s and how to cut to open spots for open looks. I like his slight fadeaway on his mid range jumper... much like Coby's. Helps alot in creating space for a clean look. His passing is exceptional. Right pass at right time in the right spots. Will never be a secondary playmaker but will help move the ball much like Otto. Can get his own shot but won't really create for anyone.

Bane is built for today's game and I believe he will produce off the bench as a rookie. He'd flourish with a team like the Heat that gives him a role and grooms him for it.

He would help the Bulls so much with his 2 way game and IQ. His passing would make Coby and Lavine so much more dangerous too.

I remember someone on some podcast (I know, very precise reporting by me!), maybe on The Athletic, stating that his hot take on this draft was that Bane was a top 10 prospect.

[TheSuzerain]

I like the potential of Cassius Stanley from Duke alot with our 2nd pick. Would take a trade up though JMO.

See alot of Gary Trent Jr. in his game which has translated well with the Blazers.

Solid defensively and good athlete. Moves well and explosive jumper. Could learn to D up. Good IQ off ball but nothing great. Strong and holds his position.

Offensively his shot looks really good. Not much off the dribble but catch and shoot big potential. Spaces the floor and gets open for 3s. Can really score with the ball in his hands. Lots of secondary moves. Can really finish with authority and lob threat. Plays hard and with an edge. Has PNR potential with his handle.

He's super old for a freshman but I still see lots of growth potential. Maybe a Jordan Clarkson type scorer.

Are you kidding? Gary Trent had elite shooting stats at Duke.

Cassius Stanley is Ham Diallo with a smaller frame.