2019 NBA Draft Prep

Post #121 » by **Jamaaliver** » Wed Sep 19, 2018 1:21 pm

A couple of foreign prospects to consider:

Luka Samanic, 6-10, PF, Croatia

Molded in the form of today’s big man, Samanic has skills that translate to him being able to be utilized in a multitude of ways. SI ranked Samanic as the 11th-best prospect heading into the 2019 NBA draft. That seems a bit high for the 6-foot-10 big man, especially when you consider the level of competition the 18-year-old has faced. Although to his credit, he has shown the ability to score, rebound and make his presence felt when facing off against his peers, which was indeed the case in January when he led the Under-18 FC Barcelona Lassa team to the championship game of the U18 Adidas Next Generation Tournament. Samanic, who turned 18 years old in January, didn’t get the win but he was still named Tournament MVP after averaging 23.3 points, 14.8 rebounds and 2.8 blocked shots per game.

Adam Mokoka, 6-5, 210, SG, France

Mokoka looks the part of a combo guard in the NBA, but his game needs a good deal of refinement before what works overseas has a shot at translating to good play in the States. Considered by most at this point a second-round pick in the 2019 draft, one of Mokoka’s greatest strengths is his play defensively. The 20-year-old from France was named the LNB Pro A Best Young player award-winner last season, averaging just 3.2 points and 1.8 rebounds per game. He entered the 2018 NBA draft, only to wisely withdraw and set his sights on the 2019 draft. You love his 6-foot-5, 210-pound frame and that he’s locked into being an above-average defender. But he will have to show significant growth as a scorer and facilitator this upcoming season, in order to convince NBA folks there’s more to his game than what he does defensively.

NBC Sports

Post #122 » by **Jamaaliver** » Wed Sep 19, 2018 1:33 pm

Forbes.com does a very early NBA Mock Draft. Here's a few highlights:

An Early 2019 NBA Mock Draft: Duke's Barrett And Reddish On Track To Go 1-2

1. Atlanta Hawks: R.J. Barrett (G/F, Duke, 6-7, Fr.)

Widely considered the crown jewel of this upcoming draft class, Barrett is currently the favorite to be selected with the top overall pick. An incredible all-around athlete with a terrific feel for the game, he has to potential to be a dominant player on both ends of the floor. The only noticeable flaw in his game is his outside shot. He shot 31% from 3-point territory during his high school career and made just six of his 21 attempts during Duke's three exhibition games in Canada this summer.

2. Boston Celtics (via Sacramento): Cameron Reddish (F, Duke, 6-8, Fr.)

With Barrett, Reddish and Zion Williamson all committing to Duke, it will be fascinating to see how these three top-rated freshmen share the floor and the ball during their lone season in Durham. In terms of sheer talent and potential upside, Reddish may be this draft’s most promising prospect.

3. Chicago Bulls: Nassir Little (SF, North Carolina, 6-7, Fr.)

At 6'7" with a 7'1" wingspan, Little projects as a prototypical NBA wing. His stock soared this past spring due to excellent performances in postseason showcase games. He was named MVP of the 2018 McDonald's All-American Game after pouring in 28 points in 21 minutes on an efficient 12-for-17 shooting. He was 2-for-4 from three and added five rebounds, one assist, and one steal. He then went on to score 24 points in the Jordan Brand Classic.

10. Atlanta Hawks (via Dallas): Rui Hachimura (F, Gonzaga, 6-8, Jr.)

After seeing minimal playing time as a freshman, Hachimura stepped into a more significant role as a sophomore and stepped up. Last season, he averaged 11.6 points and 4.7 rebounds in 20.7 minutes per contest, while shooting a solid 56.8% from the floor and 79.5% from the free-throw line. He really raised eyebrows in the NCAA tournament. He scored 25 points (on 9-of-11 shooting), grabbed five boards and blocked four shots in the Zags win over Ohio State in the second round. He followed that up with 16 points, nine boards and two blocks vs. Florida State.

28. Houston Rockets: Bruno Fernando (C, Maryland, 6-10, So.)

A native of Angola, Fernando didn’t pick up the sport up basketball until relatively late in his adolescence. However, he’s made rapid progress and has drawn attention from talent evaluators on the next level. He closed out his 2017-18 season playing his best ball of the year, averaging 14.4 points (on 63% shooting), 8.8 rebounds and 1.0 blocks over the Terps final five games.

Post #123 » by **Jamaaliver** » Wed Sep 19, 2018 2:08 pm

^From what I've read/seen over the last 9 months, word is that Rui Hachimura has some serious Ron Artest-like defensive prowess. Getting a switchable forward like that with a second lottery pick could complement the offensive talent we've already accumulated.

I really like the defensive abilities of Bruno at the center position as well.

While undeniably raw on the offensive end, Hachimura’s defense is what has him ranked so high. At 6-foot-9, he’s the prototypical NBA forward on that end, switching onto the perimeter with ease and blowing up plays with his athleticism.

If polished and developed, Hachimura could be the best defender in this draft class. His sheer upside on that side of the ball should pique the interest of late-lottery teams.

Last season, Hachimura shot just 19.2 percent from deep — obviously not an ideal number. His fluidity as an athlete leaves serious promise long-term, but he’ll need to become more consistent, especially as a shooter, to provide value at the next level.

SIXERS Fansided

Post #124 » by **Jamaaliver** » Wed Sep 19, 2018 4:53 pm

Daydreaming of a top-4 pick next summer...

Cameron Reddish -- Wing, Freshman, Duke

If Reddish can shake his reputation for under-performing, he has more than enough talent to be the No. 1 pick. He has very real playmaking upside at 6-foot-9, boasting smooth handles and dynamic passing ability.

He isn’t the most explosive athlete, but Reddish is arguably the most fluid offensive player in the draft. He’s easily the best shooter of the Duke trio, while his skill set is easy to build around. Most 6-foot-9 players with point guard skills generate interest from NBA teams.

Reddish will provide a great deal of positional versatility as well. He can reasonably slot into any position 2-4, with the ability to coexist with other playmakers. In the modern NBA, Reddish is an ideal prospect.

Effort and consistency have long been concerns with Reddish, which is something he’ll need to improve at Duke. That’s especially true on the defensive end, where his upside hasn’t always matched the on-court product.

R.J. Barrett -- Wing, Freshman, Duke

I’m not fully sold on Barrett as the No. 1 prospect yet — all three Duke guys have legitimate cases, with Reddish possessing unique upside and Williamson possessing once-in-a-generation athleticism.

What puts Barrett at the top, however, is his consistency. He tries on every possession, digging in defensively and carrying his weight on the offensive end. An elite athlete in his own right, Barrett has already shown flashes of two-way stardom.

At 6-foot-7, Barrett has the versatility to defend multiple positions. He’ll also be Duke’s go-to option on offense, where his slashing and shot-making can open up opportunities for his star counterparts.

Barrett’s three-point shot needs work, but he’s already an elite finisher around the rim. His combination of explosiveness and finesse is rare, making quick bursts to the rim and finishing with a variety of touch shots as needed. He’s easily the most accomplished prospect in this class as well.

The 76ers Sense

Post #125 » by **Jamaaliver** » Wed Sep 19, 2018 5:14 pm

RidiculousUpside.com’s 2019 NBA Draft Big Board

No. 1 | R.J. Barrett | SF | Duke

Class: Fr. | HT: 6’7” | WT: 200

Barrett’s incredible floor should draw comparisons to 2018 NBA Draft darling Luka Doncic. There isn’t an obvious hole in the Canadian native’s game, and he shouldn’t have a problem carving out a lengthy career in the NBA. He can create off the dribble with both hands, finish through contact, and connect on jumpers from beyond the arc. Defensively, Barrett’s length and athleticism should be ready for the rigors of the professional game from the moment he hits the floor.

No. 2 | Nassir Little | SF | North Carolina

Class: Fr. | HT: 6’7” | WT: 215

Little announced his arrival with impressive showings in the McDonald’s All-American Game and Jordan Brand Classic. Armed with an explosive first step, the 18-year-old forward will produce a plethora of highlight-worthy moments for the Tarheels this season. Little’s impressive wingspan oozes with defensive upside, and he’s shown the makings of an adequate outside shooting touch. At his current pace, Little could easily close the gap on Barrett.

No. 4 | Cam Reddish | SG | Duke

Class: Fr. | HT: 6’8” | WT: 203

Reddish has all the tools to be the No. 1 player in the 2019 class, but he has to improve his decision making. Offensively, the 18-year-old wing can create for himself at all three levels. Adding to his smooth scoring touch is his ideal size. At 6-foot-8, Reddish is set to thrive as a shooting guard and small forward. He can drastically improve his stock by limiting turnovers, playing within himself, and facilitating in Duke’s loaded lineup. If he can do those things, his impressive offensive profile should put him in the running to become the No. 1 pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.

Ridiculous Upside

Spoiler:

tbhawksfan1 · Post #126 » by **tbhawksfan1** » Fri Sep 21, 2018 8:05 pm

I'm very optimistic that the Hawks are going to get oth CLEV and DAL firsts. DAL is clearly in win mode with big signings and Doncic trade. CLEV also mysteriously didn't tank. DAL is going to fight and fall well short winning about 35. CLEV is no longer a contender but in the lEast they're goning to finish #8 or #9.

My current prediction for Hawks picks: #1, #9 (DAL), #12 (CLEV)

Post #127 » by **ATL Boy** » Mon Sep 24, 2018 4:39 pm

Apparently the Cavs are looking into trading for Butler. I don't think they'll achieve it but it indicates that they're serious about winning now for some reason.

Post #128 » by **Jamaaliver** » Fri Sep 28, 2018 11:29 am

2020 draft prospects:

Read on Twitter

Post #129 » by **Jamaaliver** » Thu Oct 4, 2018 1:02 pm

From CBS Sports

Providing answers to 8 big 2019 NBA Draft questions entering the 2018-19 college basketball season

An early look at what Duke's big four might look like, which international prospect will be drafted first and more

Who is the best freshman NBA Draft prospect?
It's not always a guarantee that the best prospect as a freshman is always the best player as a freshman, but with Duke's R.J. Barrett, it seems more likely than not he'll check both boxes en route to becoming the No. 1 pick next June.

The 6-7 Canadian wing starred in Duke's trip abroad this preseason, showing off his versatility as a two-way player and ability to score in a number of ways, and, barring injury, he's almost certainly going to be a top-3 pick. He has great ball-handling skills, length to guard multiple positions at the next level, and an elite scoring prowess to boot. And for those who have a soft spot for lefties, you're going to love his southpaw stroke.

Which upperclassmen has the best shot at crashing the lottery?
The most likely junior or senior to hear his name called inside the top 14 is … drum roll … Rui Hachimura, a junior from Gonzaga. Hachimura's raw talent and upside has been all the rave since he arrived at Gonzaga, and while he's not wowed statistically (7.7 points, 3.3 rebounds per game in two seasons), his physical gifts are undeniable. He's a switchy 6-8 forward whose athleticism is off the charts, and if he continues to develop at the same rate, he may be a first-round lock in 2019 if he chooses to come out.

Who will be this year's Trae Young?
Realistically, there's not going to be another Trae Young anytime soon.

Which sophomores are primed to shine?
there are a few I'm convinced are bound to bounce onto the 2019 NBA Draft radar as first-rounders. Virginia's De'Andre Hunter, Missouri's Jontay Porter, Arkansas's Daniel Gafford, Kentucky's PJ Washington, and Texas Tech's Jarrett Culver are all names I'd keep heavy tabs on this season. All of them are either wings or bigs who have ideal length and size defensively that should translate to the NBA in some form or fashion.

Spoiler:

ChokeFasncists · Post #130 » by **ChokeFasncists** » Fri Oct 5, 2018 2:07 am

Man, Coach K's on a roll.

kg01 · Post #131 » by **kg01** » Fri Oct 5, 2018 12:27 pm

ChokeFasncists wrote:Man, Coach K's on a roll.

Considering the revelations coming out about the going rate for low-top 25 level recruits being in the $60,000-150,000 range, I'm sure K's winning personality alone is getting these top-5 level kids to turn down money from other places.

:roll:

kg01 · Post #132 » by **kg01** » Fri Oct 5, 2018 2:43 pm

Aye, can any of y'all convince me Barrett isn't just another Wiggins?

Seem to have a lot of similarities.

Post #133 » by **Duke4life831** » Fri Oct 5, 2018 3:58 pm

kg01 wrote:Aye, can any of y'all convince me Barrett isn't just another Wiggins?

Seem to have a lot of similarities.

Im not sold on Barrett as some lock to be a star like many others are. But there is one drastic difference between Barrett and Wiggins and that is the fire that they play with. If you gave Wiggins Barrett's intensity and motor, Wiggins would be an all star by now.

I love Barrett's intensity, has good size for the 2, is a real good straight line athlete and has a good feel for both ends of the court. But his average wingspan and lack of lateral quickness may limit his defensive versatility, while being a good straight line athlete he is very stiff and mechanical in his movements. Really not much wiggle to his game. His handle is average for his size and his jumper is slow and bad. As of right now I dont see how he is going to be able to consistently create his own space and Im not sure what kind of potential he has with that jumper.

So I think he has lots of flaws and I personally have him at #4 right now in this draft, but he is definitely going to play harder than Wiggins and wont disappear throughout games.

Post #134 » by **Jamaaliver** » Fri Oct 5, 2018 4:38 pm

kg01 wrote:Aye, can any of y'all convince me Barrett isn't just another Wiggins?

Seem to have a lot of similarities.

Who Would Scouts Take No. 1 If 2019 NBA Draft Were Today?

NBA scouts all seem to have the same prospect atop their board in October.

Duke freshman RJ Barrett is the consensus early favorite ahead of teammate Zion Williamson, while others like North Carolina's Nassir Little and France's Sekou Doumbouya were merely mentioned in passing.

A smooth athlete, instinctual scorer and consistently the best player on the floor, Barrett comes off as the safe, easy answer when projecting No. 1.

There will always be high demand for a two-way scoring wing like Barrett. It's also tough to imagine any red flags will pop up as they did for previous No. 1 picks.

There won't be questions about his alpha-dog mentality like there were with Andrew Wiggins, who appeared passive at times in college. Barrett isn't shy. He won't stop shooting after consecutive misses or hesitate to take the game into his hands.

Bleacher Report

ChokeFasncists · Post #135 » by **ChokeFasncists** » Fri Oct 5, 2018 7:07 pm

kg01 wrote:
ChokeFasncists wrote:Man, Coach K's on a roll.

Considering the revelations coming out about the going rate for low-top 25 level recruits being in the $60,000-150,000 range, I'm sure K's winning personality alone is getting these top-5 level kids to turn down money from other places.

You mean Duke has been offering far more money than any other school recently?

Post #136 » by **Duke4life831** » Tue Oct 9, 2018 4:59 pm

ChokeFasncists wrote:
kg01 wrote:
ChokeFasncists wrote:Man, Coach K's on a roll.

Considering the revelations coming out about the going rate for low-top 25 level recruits being in the $60,000-150,000 range, I'm sure K's winning personality alone is getting these top-5 level kids to turn down money from other places.

You mean Duke has been offering far more money than any other school recently?

Someone better get in talk with K then, cause Duke has been whiffing on recruits left and right for this upcoming class and chances are wont even have a top 10 class.

kg01 · Post #137 » by **kg01** » Tue Oct 9, 2018 5:14 pm

Duke4life831 wrote:
ChokeFasncists wrote:
kg01 wrote:
Considering the revelations coming out about the going rate for low-top 25 level recruits being in the $60,000-150,000 range, I'm sure K's winning personality alone is getting these top-5 level kids to turn down money from other places.

You mean Duke has been offering far more money than any other school recently?

Someone better get in talk with K then, cause Duke has been whiffing on recruits left and right for this upcoming class and chances are wont even have a top 10 class.

Heh. Give 'em a break. The head bagg-man left for Pitt. Don't worry, K will adju$t accordingly.

Honestly, I don't even know if I blame y'all. The game is the game.

Post #138 » by **Jamaaliver** » Fri Oct 12, 2018 2:22 pm

New Mock Draft from Bleacher Report.

NOTE: Neither of these guys seem to fit the mold of what Travis has brought in of late. But getting Barrett next to Trae would be an undeniable win. He reminds me a bit of Tracy McGrady.

2019 NBA Mock Draft: Way-Too-Soon 1st Round Draft Predictions

1. Atlanta Hawks: RJ Barrett, Duke SG/SF, Freshman

NBA scouts all seem to have the same name atop their draft boards entering the 2018-19 season.

RJ Barrett already has overwhelming support around the league. Scouts are familiar. They've watched him show out in plenty of settings over the years, whether it's been at FIBA tournaments or showcase events.

He'll work as Duke's No. 1 option with his relentless scoring and competitiveness. And at 6'7" with a solid frame, athleticism and developing perimeter skills, it's easy to picture Barrett's tools and game translating to the NBA floor.

The Atlanta Hawks just need the best player available, and the fact Barrett is a wing should only make him more attractive.

10. Atlanta Hawks (via Mavericks): Keldon Johnson, Kentucky SG/SF

Kentucky will be counting on Keldon Johnson to fill in for Kevin Knox and Hamidou Diallo on the wings.

He's an eye-test standout for NBA tools and athleticism that are illuminated in transition or off drives to the basket. Johnson isn't overly skilled yet, but he's flashed enough shot-making and creating potential to encourage scouts assessing his development.

He'll also help set the tone for Kentucky with a high level of effort and toughness.

Taking him top 10 would just mean betting on his handles and shooting to significantly improve.

Post #139 » by **Jamaaliver** » Fri Oct 12, 2018 2:41 pm

Other players I like in this draft class:

4. New York Knicks: Cam Reddish, Duke SF/PF, Freshman

There will be games when Cam Reddish looks like Duke's No. 1 prospect. Consistency and efficiency will be the keys to avoid criticism, as he's developed a reputation for playing hero ball and lacking urgency.

But at 6'8" with long arms and exciting athleticism, Reddish's ball-handling, three-level scoring and defensive versatility fuel star-caliber upside.

He may raise questions throughout the year, but none the New York Knicks can take too seriously if given the chance to add him. On paper, eight months before the draft, Reddish would seem to fit nicely alongside Kevin Knox, another interchangeable forward/wing.

7. Orlando Magic: Quentin Grimes, Kansas SG Freshman

Quentin Grimes figures to touch each statistical category at Kansas, which should play to his selling point as a well-rounded, Gary Harris-like guard who'll shoot, attack, pass and defend.

He averaged 14.7 points, 4.0 boards, 3.8 assists, 1.7 steals and a three this summer for USA at the FIBA U18 Americas Championship. Grimes stands out with NBA tools and athleticism, plus the skill set to play-make with the ball, score off it and guard positions 1-3.

11. Charlotte Hornets: Jontay Porter, Missouri C Sophomore

A modern-day center for his shooting, passing and shot-blocking, Porter checked the right boxes as a freshman. Scouts will now be looking to see how much he's added, particularly with his ability to attack closeouts and create his own shot. Returning in better shape with a more diverse scoring repertoire is the recipe for Porter, a Nikola Jokic-type big who compensates for limited athleticism with skill and IQ.

17. San Antonio Spurs: De'Andre Hunter, Virginia SF/PF Sophomore

Expectations are high for Hunter after generating NBA draft buzz last season. He'll build a case around two-way versatility, being a 6'7" athletic forward who excelled at slashing, showed promise as a shooter, flashed one-on-one moves and guarded multiple positions. At this stage, he does a little of everything. He'll benefit by establishing a go-to strength or simply developing into a more threatening scorer.

20. Brooklyn Nets (via Nuggets): Rui Hachimura, Gonzaga PF Junior

An NBA-level athlete with 6'8" size, Hachimura has scouts waiting for his skills to catch up. He took a step last year, but not one big enough to earn starter minutes or solidify first-round interest. The microscope will focus on his shooting this year, after he made four triples as a freshman and five as a sophomore. Raising his free-throw mark to 79.5 percent was a promising sign. The degree to which he improves his jump shot, as well as his overall shot-creating, will determine how far he moves up boards.

Bleacher Report Mock Draft 2.0

Post #140 » by **Jamaaliver** » Fri Oct 12, 2018 2:46 pm

^My thoughts on the guys above:

Cam Reddish reminds me a bit of Joe Johnson, for better or worse.
Quentin is a 2-way combo guard who seems like he'd mesh well with Trae.
Jontay is a better version of Omari who's and has been compared to Nikola Jokic quite a bit.
D Hunter is reminiscent of Jaylen Brown of the Celtics.
Rui Hachimura reminds me of a not crazy version of Ron Artest.

What direction should Hawks go with their lottery picks?