HEREFrank Kaminsky – Wisconsin PF 7’0″ 242
Kaminsky has put on a show in the NCAA tournament and has really made a strong case for lottery consideration. The big question for Kaminsky is where will he play in the NBA? He is clearly big enough to be a stretch five-type center, however he’s not a great athlete and his foot speed leaves a lot to be desired. However, his footwork, hands, passing ability and toughness are going to get him drafted. He’s also a heck of a shooter. Some have said the worst case for Kaminsky is New Orleans big man Ryan Anderson, who is more of a spot up three-point shooter. The best case might be Pau Gasol. There are so many similarities to Kaminsky’s game and Gasol coming into the NBA. Neither are highly thought of on the defensive end, both are super skilled offensive players and both have a motor that is uncanny.
Justise Winslow – Duke SF 6’7″ 229
If you have been watching the NCAA tournament, it’s easy to get excited about what Winslow could be in the NBA. The best way to describe his game is he’s a utility knife player. He is stellar with the ball, on defense and at creating for himself and others. When it comes to second-option players, Winslow might be the best on the board, in much the way Andre Iguodala was in his prime. The trap on Winslow is believing he can shoulder a team on his own; that is where his issues might leave you wanting. When it comes to the first second-tier guy taken, Winslow could be the best of the bunch.
Sam Dekker – Wisconsin SF 6’9″ 229
Like Kaminsky, Dekker has put on a show in the NCCA tournament. He is a knock down shooter with a crafty offensive game. His length can cause problems for opposing players. The problem for Dekker is he is not an elite athlete and at the next level his game may not translate as well. There is risk with Dekker in the lottery. He might be the best guy of the “ready-to-play” bunch, or he may end up being simply a solid rotation player on a good team. NBA teams value winners and guys that can play in the clutch and that’s certainly something Dekker has shown in the tournament, but when the players get bigger, stronger and faster, is he going to be that kind of guy in the NBA? There is no doubt that Dekker gets drafted and likely gets drafted pretty high, but this pick is likely as hit or miss as they come. Dekker embodies what the NBA has been seeking with an increased age limit – the ability to really look at a prospect – and Dekker has been thoroughly scouted and scrutinized.
So, what will you guys be looking for tonight? Any predictions on the matchups we might see? Or who wins the whole she-bang?
