Who are the Top 30 prospects in the 2016 NBA Draft and what must they do better in the New Year?
With the dawning of a new year, the top prospects for the 2016 NBA Draft have officially entered the spotlight. With roughly six months remaining before the annual selection process, the basketball community will focus intently on the future of the association.
In order to make the most of this golden opportunity, the Top 30 prospects in the 2016 NBA Draft must properly execute their New Year’s Resolutions.
Some players have built upon their preexisting reputations, thus strengthening their standing in NBA Draft circles. Said athletes will have resolutions that pertain to maintaining their work ethics and improvements.
Others have failed to live up to the hype, or have simply fallen short in a significant area. Those athletes will be tasked with addressing their flaws in order to solidify or improve their respective draft stock.
Thus, the question beckons: who are the Top 30 prospects and what must they do better in 2016?
Next: The Clear No. 1 Prospect
1. Ben Simmons, LSU Tigers
Position: Forward
Age: 19
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’10”, 240 pounds, 7’0.25″
Slash Line: .574/.333/.748
Season Averages: 34.1 MPG, 20.5 PPG, 13.1 RPG, 3.8 ORPG, 5.4 APG, 2.1 SPG, 1.4 BPG
New Year’s Resolution: Shoot the 3-Ball
Ben Simmons stands at 6’10” and 240 pounds with a 7’0″ wingspan and as tight a handle as most guards in this draft class. He’s a competent post player, a productive slasher, a dominant rebounder, a lethal threat in transition, a masterful facilitator and a productive defensive playmaker.
If there’s one thing that Simmons seemingly can’t do—and, really, it’s the only thing he can’t do—it’s score from beyond the arc.
In 13 appearances, Simmons has attempted three 3-point field goals—a very troubling sign for a player who many project as a small forward. Inconsistent at the free throw line, the fear exists that Simmons—one of the most versatile prospects of all-time—struggles in the one area that seems to matter most in the NBA.
If Simmons can’t at least convert the 3-point shot when open, his early NBA seasons will be harder on him. He could be the next big thing, but he could be the next stellar collegiate player who fails to make it at the pro level without a reliable jump shot.
Thus far, it appears as though Simmons is a less explosive and more defensively focused Blake Griffin—a power forward who handles the ball, facilitates, and scores in every way but with the 3-ball.
Next: Unlimited Scoring Upside
2. Brandon Ingram, Duke Blue Devils
Position: Small Forward
Age: 18
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’9.5″, 196 pounds, 7’3″
Slash Line: .483/.373/.621
Season Averages: 30.1 MPG, 16.4 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 1.4 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 1.8 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Thrive Against Quality Opponents
The Duke Blue Devils have one of the best scorers in the country, and his name isn’t Grayson Allen. While Allen may be dominating the collegiate ranks, it’s teammate Brandon Ingram who possesses the most significant NBA potential.
There have been a number of underwhelming outings, but when Ingram has been on his game, he’s been unstoppable.
Ingram is a 6’9.5″ and 196-pound small forward with a 7’3″ wingspan and deep 3-point range. That combination of size, length, and shooting ability, as well as his skinny frame, has resulted in premature Kevin Durant comparisons.
The bad news for Ingram is that he posted duds against the Kentucky Wildcats, Georgetown Hoyas, VCU Rams and, to some extent, the Indiana Hoosiers. The good news is that he’s scored at least 23 points in five of his past seven games.
Ingram’s New Year’s Resolution is to prove that he can score against physical defenders and length that rivals his own.
Next: The Complete Package
3. Kris Dunn, Providence Friars
Position: Point Guard
Age: 21
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’4″, 205 pounds, 6’9″
Slash Line: .477/.368/.667
Season Averages: 30.9 MPG, 17.5 PPG, 7.3 APG, 6.4 RPG, 3.1 SPG, 1.1 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Make Free Throws
Kris Dunn of the Providence Friars is the best point guard prospect in the country. He has prototypical size, elite playmaking skills, and is one of the best defensive players available.
As soon as Dunn gets his shot to fall with more consistency, he’ll be the complete package.
Dunn can create in both the half court and transition, thriving as a facilitator and a penetrating scorer. His size and quickness help him get to the basket and finish in traffic, and his court vision is second to none.
The issue for Dunn is that he struggles at the free throw line. He isn’t the best 3-point shooter, but he’s closer to average than below it, which thus shifts attention to his woes at the charity stripe.
In order for Dunn to complete his evolution into the quintessential point guard, and thus certify his status as a Top 5 prospect in the 2016 NBA Draft, he needs to sink the freebies.
Next: Busting the European Myth
4. Dragan Bender, Maccabi Tel Aviv
Position: Power Forward
Age: 18
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 7’0.5″, 216 pounds, 7’2″
Slash Line: .455/.457/.706
Season Averages: 12.7 MPG, 4.6 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 0.6 ORPG, 0.8 APG, 0.7 BPG, 0.8 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Fight Through Contact
Dragan Bender is benefiting greatly from the myth busting executed by Kristaps Porzingis. Porzingis both adheres to the European stereotype—he can shoot, sees the floor well, and excels in the post—and disputes it with his physical play, relentless rebounding, and defensive potential.
Bender’s skill set warrants the hype, but fewer people are skeptical of his upside due to the current play of Porzingis—whether fair or foul.
The 18-year-old Bender, who won’t turn 19 until November of 2016, has tantalizing potential. He’s a 7’1″ power forward who moves fluidly in transition, explodes at the rim, excels as a passer, boasts range on his jump shot, and is willing to play within the constructs of the team.
While Porzingis may have busted some myths, there are concerns that Bender identifies more with the European assumptions of the past. He doesn’t always play through contact, and has been criticized for deferring too easily.
Bender’s New Year’s Resolution is to prepare himself for the NBA and its verticality rule by fighting through contact when finishing in the paint.
Next: Needs Another Year?
5. Skal Labissiere, Kentucky Wildcats
Position: Power Forward, Center
Age: 19
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 7’0″, 216 pounds, 7’2″
Slash Line: .524/.000/.738
Season Averages: 20.1 MPG, 9.2 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 1.3 ORPG, 1.8 BPG
New Year’s Resolution: Bulk Up and Box Out
Skal Labissiere has the upside of an NBA superstar. He’s an elite shot-blocker, flashes 3-point range on his jump shot, has the foundation for mid-post and low-post offense, and is a very good defender for a 7’0″ big man with a 7’2″ wingspan.
According to Jerry Tipton of The Lexington Herald-Leader, Kentucky Wildcats head coach John Calipari told reporters that, for as tantalizing a prospect as Labissiere may be, he may need a second year in college.
"“Stay in the moment . . . ,” Calipari said. “You can’t put on yourself, ‘Well, I have to be a pro in four months.’ It may not be possible. It may take you two years.” While mimicking an alarmed response to that timetable by blurting out “ooooh,” Calipari said, “There’s no crying on the yacht.”"
Calipari didn’t outright state that was Labissiere, but it’s hard to argue with the implication.
Labissiere’s upside is legitimate, but he’s a 7’0″ defensive anchor averaging 3.5 rebounds in 20.1 minutes per game. It’s important not to harp on college statistics, but that’s a very accurate illustration of how the freshman might struggle at the next level.
While Labissiere is listed at 225 pounds, he’s a very thin player who has trouble gaining position on bigger opponents. That issue suggests he’ll have an even harder time against the stronger and more athletic opponents he’d encounter in the NBA.
There’s still more than enough time to turn things around, but in the new year, Labissiere must bulk up and improve on the boards.
Next: Anchoring Both Ends
6. Jakob Poeltl, Utah Utes
Position: Center
Age: 20
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 7’1″, 242 pounds, 7’1″
Slash Line: .687/.000/.660
Season Averages: 27.8 MPG, 17.7 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 2.6 ORPG, 1.9 APG, 2.1 BPG
New Year’s Resolution: Commit
After the 2014-15 college basketball season, Utah Utes center Jakob Poeltl had the potential to be a lottery pick. He was an incredibly raw offensive player, but he showed signs of being a true defensive anchor—so much so that he contained and outplayed Jahlil Okafor in the Sweet 16.
In 2015-16, the 7’1″ sophomore has complemented his elite defensive play with a similar level of production and ability on offense.
Poeltl still has work to do, but he’s improved dramatically as an offensive option. He’s crashing the boards, and in designed offensive sets, he’s more than comfortable backing opponents down and finishing with either hand out of the post.
Poeltl’s issue on both ends of the floor is that he’s often tentative when he needs to commit. In the New Year, he needs to go up hard around the basket and play without refrain as a rim protector.
As soon as that happens, Poeltl will cement his place as one of the elite prospects in the 2016 NBA Draft.
Next: Explosiveness Pays
7. Jaylen Brown, California Golden Bears
Position: Shooting Guard, Small Forward
Age: 19
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’6.5″, 222 pounds, 7’0.5″
Slash Line: .451/.279/.659
Season Averages: 26.3 MPG, 14.3 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.8 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Improve Shooting Form
The California Golden Bears are 11-3, and a driving force behind their success has been the play of Jaylen Brown. The freshman shooting guard from Marietta, Georgia has provided Cuonzo Martin with a consistent stream of explosive offense.
In order for Brown to live up to his All-Star potential in the NBA, he must improve his consistency as a shooter—a common theme in the Top 30, as you’re soon to see.
Brown is an outstanding finisher in the paint who can go around or over opponents. He plays above the rim, is a blur in transition, and has shown the ability to work without the ball in his hands in the half court.
As a player who consistently attacks the basket, it’s troubling to see Brown struggle at the free throw line. He draws contact and gets to the charity stripe 5.7 times per game, which is an impressive number that’s far too high for him to squander scoring opportunities.
Developing a 3-point shot is also critical, but as a slasher who plays through contact, Brown must be more consistent at the line.
Next: Ridiculous Range
8. Jamal Murray, Kentucky Wildcats
Position: Point Guard
Age: 18
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’5″, 204 pounds, 6’7″
Slash Line: .403/.382/.745
Season Averages: 33.5 MPG, 16.8 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.8 RPG, 1.0 SPG, 2.6 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Embrace Pace
Jamal Murray of the Kentucky Wildcats has arrived in the perfect era. There are areas of his game that must be improved upon, but the freshman has elite size for a point guard and a specific skill of the utmost importance.
The 6’5″ freshman can shoot from anywhere on the floor.
Murray’s never met a shot that he’s afraid to take, and that’s endeared him to the masses. He needs to improve in a variety of areas, specifically his finishing against length and free throw shooting, but Murray can light teams up from beyond the arc.
In 2016, the focus for Murray must be on settling down and making the easy play as a facilitator. He has more turnovers (42) than assists (37) and that’s a very troubling sign for teams looking to make Murray the franchise point guard.
He’s a better facilitator than the numbers show, but Murray needs to slow down and let the game come to him instead of forcing the issue.
Next: A Little Love
9. Henry Ellenson, Marquette Golden Eagles
Position: Center
Age: 18
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’10”, 231 pounds, 7’2″
Slash Line: .419/.261/.753
Season Averages: 31.6 MPG, 16.2 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 2.5 ORPG, 2.4 APG, 1.3 BPG, 0.7 SPG, 0.9 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Stabilize Shooting Form
Henry Ellenson has all of the tools to be the 2016 NBA Draft’s version of Kevin Love. He’s an offensively versatile player whose size, strength, fundamentals as a rebounder and underrated athleticism make him one of the most difficult prospects in the country to overcome.
Moving forward, Ellenson’s primary goal should be to stabilize his shooting form.
Ellenson operates from the low block, utilizing his big and powerful frame to back his man down as he maturely waits for his teammates to move around him. He’s a skilled passer, a selfless playmaker, and a dangerous scorer who can drive, face-up from midrange, finish with a baby hook off glass, or step out beyond the 3-point line.
Ellenson doesn’t move as well off-ball as Love does, but he’s shown signs of being a much better defender. His shooting stroke is also less consistent than Love’s, as the Marquette Golden Eagles star too often rises up without having set his feet.
When Ellenson perfects his shooting motion, he’ll have the chance to work his way into Top 5 consideration as a center who’s tailor made for the current era of NBA basketball.
Next: Selfless Sacrifices
10. Ivan Rabb, California Golden Bears
Position: Power Forward
Age: 18
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’9.75″, 220 pounds, 7’2″
Slash Line: .640/.000/.755
Season Averages: 26.3 MPG, 12.4 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 2.9 ORPG, 1.5 BPG
New Year’s Resolution: Convert in Isolation
Ivan Rabb has wasted no time in becoming one of college basketball’s most productive offensive rebounders. That’s been the foundation for his offensive game, as the highly-touted freshman has selflessly accepted a tertiary scoring role behind Jaylen Brown and Tyrone Wallace.
Between his rebounding, shot-blocking, and team-first approach to the game, Rabb is one of the most intriguing prospects in this draft class.
The 18-year-old power forward is still raw offensively, but he consistently posts opponents up—a sign that he’s working to improve at a fundamental aspect of big man offense. His jump shot is still improving, but his early efficiency at the free throw line inspires hope that he could develop a dependable jump shot.
Moving forward, the task for Rabb will be to improve his individual offense. He mustn’t stray away from his tenacious effort on the offensive glass, but scouts will need to see more from Rabb in isolation.
If he can finish better out of the post and continue to expand his range, Rabb could be a Top 10 pick in the 2016 NBA Draft.
Next: Out of the Shadows
11. Demetrius Jackson, Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Position: Point Guard
Age: 21
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’1″, 194 pounds, 6’4.75″
Slash Line: .500/.377/.702
Season Averages: 35.2 MPG, 16.4 PPG, 4.9 APG, 3.5 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 1.5 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Make Those Free Throws
Watching Demetrius Jackson bounce back from an erratic freshman season has been delightful. His work ethic and in-game motor have propelled him to the ranks of the lottery picks, and his combination of skill and athleticism create intriguing upside.
He may or may not reach this level in the NBA, but Jackson’s play is often reminiscent of two-time All-Star Damian Lillard.
Once Jackson gets an angle on his man, it’s over. His change of motion is almost impossible to contain, and his lethality as a shooter is more than enough to keep the opposition honest.
With an intriguing level of development as a facilitator, Jackson has silenced some of the critics who questioned his ability to run point. He takes care of the ball, excels in running the pick-and-roll, and can both score and facilitate coming off of screens.
Shooting 70.2 percent from the free throw line simply will not suffice for a point guard at any level.
Next: Unreal Upside
12. Cheick Diallo, Kansas Jayhawks
Position: Power Forward
Age: 19
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’9″, 220 pounds, 7’4″
Slash Line: .576/.000/.688
Season Averages: 10.1 MPG, 6.1 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 1.0 BPG
New Year’s Resolution: Earn Playing Time
With every passing NBA Draft, a player comes along whose potential is far too extraordinary to ignore. It’s often a combination of size and athleticism that takes the NBA crowd by storm, and that’s the case with Kansas Jayhawks freshman Cheick Diallo.
There isn’t much of an established sample size, but Diallo has the potential to be one of the best players in this draft class.
Diallo’s physical gifts are intriguing at 6’9″ with a strong 220-pound frame and a 7’4″ wingspan. He has a 9’1″ standing reach—the same as Chris Bosh, who’s 6’11″—and is an explosive leaper who runs the floor well and finishes above the rim.
The knock on Diallo is simple and clear: he’s unpolished. There’s identifiable upside on both ends, and he’s already turning heads as a shot-blocker, but the skills that he has in place are incomplete and not yet ready to be utilized in the NBA.
In order to better display what he’s immediately capable of, Diallo must first earn more playing time in 2016—something that has been negatively impacted by his delayed eligibility.
Next: Overlooked and Under-Appreciated
13. Wade Baldwin IV, Vanderbilt Commodores
Position: Point Guard
Age: 19
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’3″, 194 pounds, 6’10”
Slash Line: .500/.476/.841
Season Averages: 28.6 MPG, 14.8 PPG, 4.2 APG, 3.9 RPG, 1.8 SPG, 1.5 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Finish Against Length
Wade Baldwin IV has a chance to be one of the top playmakers to emerge from the 2016 NBA Draft. He has the size, court vision, length, defensive potential, and shooting stroke to make an immediate impact, and the upside to be a star.
Teammate Damian Jones may be stealing NBA Draft headlines, but it’s Baldwin who should be on everyone’s radar.
Baldwin is a 6’3″ point guard with an absurd 6’10” wingspan and one of the sweetest shots in all of college basketball. He can shoot from well beyond the 3-point line, makes his free throws, sees the floor well, and takes opponents out of games when focused on defense.
Baldwin can get his feet stuck in mud when working off-ball, and even as a point guard, that’s an area needs to improve in the modern NBA. More importantly, he’s a below-the-rim threat scorer who doesn’t properly utilize his length when finishing in the paint.
Baldwin’s rare combination of size, length, and court vision will put him on the radar, and his elite shooting touch will get him drafted. There’s All-Star potential here.
Next: Approaching Stardom
14. Stephen Zimmerman Jr., UNLV Rebels
Position: Center
Age: 19
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 7’0″, 235 pounds, 7’3″
Slash Line: .482/.800/.644
Season Averages: 23.3 MPG, 9.6 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 1.9 ORPG, 1.8 BPG
New Year’s Resolution: Go Up Strong
Stephen Zimmerman Jr. offers both intrigue and immediate value. Assuming he comes off the board in this range, the freshman standout would have a chance to make a smooth adjustment to the NBA as a backup who progressively earns a starting role.
As a positionally versatile 7’0″ southpaw with 3-point range and significant defensive potential, Zimmerman is as intriguing as they come.
Zimmerman’s most obvious appeal is his size and length at 7’0″ and 235 pounds with a 7’3″ wingspan and a 9’1″ standing reach. He complements his physical gifts by running the floor well in transition, finishing above the rim, covering ground defensively, and possessing an NBA-caliber vertical leap.
Offensively, his midrange game is strong with the potential for 3-point marksmanship, and his ability to put the ball on the floor is rare for a player at his size. Defensively, he’s an excellent shot blocker who loves to compete.
For as complete a player as Zimmerman may be, his New Year’s Resolution is to address a type of flaw that can cripple a career: he simply doesn’t go up strong enough when he gets the ball down low.
Next: Rising European Star
15. Furkan Korkmaz, Anadolu Efes
Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 18
Height & Weight: 6’6″ & 200 pounds
Slash Line: .444/.412/.750
Season Averages: 10.2 MPG, 3.4 PPG, 1.2 RPG, 0.7 APG, 0.7 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Bend Knees and Tighten Handle
Turkish shooting guard Furkan Korkmaz has been making waves on the international scene. He’s still developing his game and frame, but Korkmaz is a part of the European revolution of young and explosive perimeter playmakers who finish above the rim.
For an idea of where his draft stock is headed, Korkmaz is essentially 2016’s Mario Hezonja.
He doesn’t see much playing time—18-year-olds in major European leagues rarely do—but he’s already established himself as an offensive asset. He’s a solid jump shooter with 3-point range and a midrange game, and an athletic finisher who finish around or over defenders.
One of the primary issues for Korkmaz is that he lacks the ball-handing ability to consistently create space and take NBA-caliber defenders in isolation. He has poor posture when he dribbles, slumping over without bending his knees and leaving the ball in a position to be stolen.
Thus, Korkmaz’s New Year’s Resolution is to tighten his handle and thus improve his half court offense.
Next: Making Waves
16. Damian Jones, Vanderbilt Commodores
Position: Center
Age: 20
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 7’0″, 245 pounds, 7’2″
Slash Line: .545/.000/.586
Season Averages: 25.2 MPG, 12.5 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 1.8 ORPG, 1.7 APG, 1.9 BPG
New Year’s Resolution: Justify the Hype
The NBA Draft community has become enamored with the massive potential of Vanderbilt Commodores center Damian Jones. There are identifiable flaws, but the upside he possesses is too significant to ignore.
Jones stands at 7’0″ with impressive athleticism and an offensive skill set that’s raw, but progressively coming together.
Jones’ primary appeal is as a defensive player due to his productive shot-blocking and athleticism in the paint. Offensively, he’s quite inconsistent, but has shown flashes of developing a solid attack from the high post.
Moving forward, Jones must address that offensive inconsistency. He needs to develop a post game in his third season at Vanderbilt, and his improved face-up game must continue to be polished.
Most importantly, Jones needs to eliminate all questions about his motor by working harder on the glass and taking fewer plays off.
Next: Walking Triple-Double
17. Denzel Valentine, Michigan State Spartans
Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 22
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’6″, 220 pounds, 6’10”
Slash Line: .456/.400/.851
Season Averages: 30.6 MPG, 18.5 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 7.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 3.0 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Get Well Soon
Denzel Valentine of the Michigan State Spartans was emerging as the runaway favorite for National Player of the Year before going down with an injury that required arthroscopic knee surgery. He was also developing into a potential lottery pick.
Due to the prominence of knee injuries in the NBA, Valentine receives a precautionary drop to No. 17.
It’s worth noting that, for as well as he’s played, there’s a very small sample size of Valentine being in the first round discussion. He’s long been a high-caliber player, but it’s only recently that his production reached its current heights.
Injured or otherwise, the appeal remains. Not only has he been scoring, rebounding and facilitating statistically, but he’s proven himself as a primary ball-handler, post-up playmaker, and slashing scorer who uses his creativity to beat defenders with an athletic advantage.
Coupled with an outstanding jump shot, Valentine is one of the most riveting prospects in the 2016 NBA Draft.
Next: Just Stay Healthy
18. Caris LeVert, Michigan Wolverines
Position: Shooting Guard, Small Forward
Age: 21
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’7″, 200 pounds, 7’1″
Slash Line: .509/.446/.806
Season Averages: 32.4 MPG, 17.6 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 5.2 APG, 1.1 SPG, 2.1 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Stay Healthy
After undergoing two foot surgeries in the span of a year, many feared that Caris LeVert had no remaining NBA prospects. The talent and upside is clear as day, but the injury suggested that he’d never truly be 100 percent.
Not only is LeVert back and thriving, but he’s played at a lottery pick level.
LeVert has made significant improvements as a facilitator, and that’s the key to his Top 20 ranking. He’s long been on the radar as a shooter and all-around scorer, but its his consistent improvement as a playmaker that offers the true reason for intrigue.
In order to maintain and build upon his draft stock, LeVert must remain healthy. He missed a game due to a lower leg injury, although that was the result of his stepping on an opponent’s foot—a case of bad luck, not bad bones.
LeVert is one of my Top 15 players in this draft class, but he needs a full healthy season to secure a Top 15 ranking.
Next: A Load to Handle
19. Diamond Stone, Maryland Terrapins
Position: Center
Age: 18
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’11”, 255 pounds, 7’3.5″
Slash Line: .595/.763
Season Averages: 20.0 MPG, 13.1 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 2.6 ORPG, 1.3 BPG
New Year’s Resolution: Improve Physical Conditioning
A player with Diamond Stone’s game and upside would’ve been a lottery pick in a different era. In the modern NBA, where range seems to appeal more than the ability to collapse a defense, Stone’s draft stock suffers.
That doesn’t change the fact that he’s a Top 20 prospect.
Stone’s 39-point eruption against the Penn State Nittany Lions brought him into the spotlight. Including and beyond that tremendous performance, Stone is a physically dominant player who gains position with his massive frame and moves well off-ball.
He has soft hands, which enable him to catch passes in traffic, and works relentlessly to clean up the offensive glass. He won’t shy away from contact, has flashed potential as a shot-blocker, and runs the floor very well for a player of his size and build.
In order to move up draft boards, Stone must improve his individual offense, the consistency of his motor, and his conditioning.
Next: Physically Overwhelming or Physically Overwhelmed?
20. Zhou Qi, Xinjiang Flying Tigers
Position: Center
Age: 19
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 7’2″, 209 pounds, 7’6.5″
Slash Line: .703/.556/.728
Season Averages: 34.3 MPG, 18.0 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 3.0 ORPG, 1.5 APG, 3.7 BPG, 1.1 SPG,
New Year’s Resolution: Bulk Up
Zhou Qi has a number of flaws in his game that suggest stardom will be elusive in the NBA. He’s also a 7’2″ center with a near 7’7″ wingspan, range on his jump shot, impressive mobility, upside as a shot-blocker, and intriguing potential in the mid-post.
There may be more upside than established NBA-caliber ability, but it’s impossible to rationally ignore what Qi brings to the table.
Qi’s size will intrigue teams enough to put him on the radar. He’s also developed a decent hook shot, can alter shots with his mere presence and length in the paint, and has a solid midrange game.
He’s still very skinny, and that will not work in his favor in the NBA. He’ll have a hard time against slashers who aren’t afraid of contact, and doesn’t yet have the core strength or footwork to defend physical post players.
It’s not as though he’s polished in all other areas, but Zhou Qi has one goal in 2016: bulk up.
Next: Becoming a Two-Way Threat
21. Timothe Luwawu, Mega Leks
Position: Shooting Guard, Small Forward
Age: 20
Height & Weight: 6’7″ & 205 pounds
Slash Line: .395/.360/.671
Season Averages: 30.6 MPG, 15.2 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.7 APG, 2.1 SPG, 2.2 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Better Decision Making
A season ago, Timothe Luwawu was pegged as a potential first-round selection in the 2015 NBA Draft. Rather than declaring, he opted to spend another year overseas, and the gamble has paid off.
Many now project Luwawu as a Top 20 selection, and it’s not hard to see why.
Luwawu has spent 2015-16 addressing his biggest flaws. Previously labeled as a raw offensive player, he’s improved to the point of being a consistent 3-point shooter—from 25.9 percent in 2014-15 to 36.0 percent in 2015-16—and a determined playmaker who keeps his eyes up with the ball in his hands.
For as far as he’s come offensively, there are still issues. He’s averaging more turnovers than assists, and is shooting just 42.7 percent on 2-point field goals—two numbers that accurately illustrate his erratic decision making.
He’s an elite defensive prospect and an elite athlete cut from the same cloth as fellow French standout Nicolas Batum, but Luwawu must refine his offensive discipline in order to succeed in the NBA.
Next: A Little Too Rondo
22. Isaiah Briscoe, Kentucky Wildcats
Position: Point Guard
Age: 19
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’3″, 202 pounds, 6’8″
Slash Line: .467/.211/.386
Season Averages: 30.8 MPG, 11.0 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.7 SPG,
New Year’s Resolution: Please Shoot Better
Jamal Murray isn’t the only Kentucky Wildcats point guard garnering attention in NBA Draft circles. He’s been forgotten by many due to the depth of Kentucky’s backcourt, but Isaiah Briscoe may be the best floor general on the roster.
Only time will tell, but in the meantime, Briscoe has earned his spot at No. 22.
Briscoe’s ball-handling and court vision rate amongst the best in the country. He can make something out of nothing in the half court, trusts his teammates to make plays, and has ideal size for a player who will operate the pick-and-roll in the NBA.
Both in the half court and transition, Briscoe is a difficult player to stop when attacking the basket. When forced to shoot with any measure of range, however, the 19-year-old has been atrocious.
It’s tough to stomach a point guard shooting 21.1 percent from 3-point range and 38.6 percent at the free throw line, but that’s what Briscoe—a star-caliber prospect aside from the shooting—is doing.
Next: Curry or Fredette?
23. Malik Newman, Mississippi State Bulldogs
Position: Guard
Age: 18
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’4″, 179 pounds, 6’5″
Slash Line: .415/.371/.733
Season Averages: 27.9 MPG, 13.3 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 2.4 APG, 2.4 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Define Position
Malik Newman can be defined by one word: fearless. He’ll shoot from anywhere on the court, whether off the bounce or off the catch, and will not refrain from taking it down low amongst the giants to draw contact or finish around the rim.
Newman isn’t the most explosive leaper, and he must improve his consistency on defense, but he can score as well as any player in this draft class.
Newman has a lightning quick first step and an uncanny ability to collapse a defense—a skill he uses to find open shooters on the wings. He’s a rangy shooter who can and will pull up from anywhere on the court, which is something that will both intrigue and alienate those considering him in the 2016 NBA Draft.
Newman cannot control the fact that he’s a shooting guard in a point guard’s body. Thus, his New Year’s Resolution is a vital one: he must define which guard position he will play in the NBA.
Given his style of play, size, and abilities, Newman could be anywhere in between Stephen Curry and Jimmer Fredette.
Next: The Senior Sensation
24. Buddy Hield, Oklahoma Sooners
Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 22
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’4.5″, 215 pounds, 6’8.5″
Slash Line: .495/.494/.905
Season Averages: 31.8 MPG, 24.7 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.4 SPG, 3.3 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Keep On Pushing
Buddy Hield is an early frontrunner for National Player of the Year. The 22-year-old is averaging 24.7 points per game on an obscene slash line of .495/.494/.905 for the 12-0 Oklahoma Sooners.
The question in NBA circles is as simple as it is complex: can he thrive at the next level?
Hield will turned 22 on December 17, which means he’ll be 23 during what projects to be his rookie NBA season in 2016-17—something relatively meaningless in the grand scheme of things. He’s relatively undersized at 6’4.5″, but he boasts a strong 215-pound frame with a 6’8.5″ wingspan and an NBA-caliber skill set.
Hield is a dynamic slasher and lights-out shooter who welcomes contact, makes plays on defense, and isn’t afraid of big moments. Most importantly, Hield is a high-character player who loves the game, competes every time out, and will help bring a locker room together.
His efficiency will inevitably decline, but all Hield needs to do is continue playing his heart out to compete for a spot as a lottery pick.
Next: College Star or NBA Player?
25. Melo Trimble, Maryland Terrapins
Position: Point Guard
Age: 20
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’2″, 185 pounds, 6’2″
Slash Line:.485/.400/.862
Season Averages: 31.7 MPG, 15.1 PPG, 6.0 APG, 2.8 RPG, 1.6 SPG, 1.9 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Finish Against Length
The Maryland Terrapins are off to an outstanding start, and point guard Melo Trimble is the player to be thanked for that. Maryland has other NBA prospects, including Jake Layman and the previously praised Diamond Stone, but Trimble is the floor general.
As for his NBA upside, Trimble garners praise as both a future star and a player destined to be a reserve.
Trimble does it all, providing reason for intrigue as a slashing scorer, facilitator, ball-hawk, and 3-point shooter. He can break opponents down in isolation, finish in transition, spot up from distance, and create offense through his defense.
The primary criticisms of Trimble pertain pertains to his physical build. He has a relatively underwhelming 6’2″ wingspan and isn’t very explosive, which has led to his experiencing trouble finishing against length both in transition and as a shooter.
Trimble has the look of a future star, but he must prove throughout 2015-16 that he can overcome the presence of bigger and more athletic defenders.
Next: Late Blooming Dominance
26. A.J. Hammons, Purdue Boilermakers
Position: Center
Age: 23
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 7’0″, 261 pounds, 7’3″
Slash Line: .630/1.000/.757
Season Averages: 22.1 MPG, 13.9 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 2.3 ORPG, 2.7 BPG
New Year’s Resolution: Don’t Look Back
A.J. Hammons has been on the NBA Draft bubble since his freshman season. Throughout his four-year career, however, the 23-year-old has been unable to break through and solidify his desired NBA Draft stock.
Nevertheless, it’s tough to look at Hammons as anything but an intriguing prospect.
He’s older than most executives prefer a first-round selection to be, but this ranking isn’t based in where he’ll come off the board. Instead, it’s acknowledging the fact that Hammons is one of the Top 30 prospects in this draft class.
The Purdue Boilermakers star is a dominant shot blocker and productive rebounder with improved fundamentals as an offensive asset. He dominated Damian Jones head-to-head, and has done an excellent job of expanding his offensive game and cutting weight to improve his stamina and mobility.
It’s an ambitious upside comparison—and that’s all it is: an upside comparison—but Hammons’ late-blooming dominance is reminiscent of Miami Heat center Hassan Whiteside.
Hammons can’t change what could’ve been in previous seasons; all he can do is push through 2016 with a full head of steam and work his way up draft boards.
Next: Following His Own Path
27. Domantas Sabonis, Gonzaga Bulldogs
Position: Power Forward
Age: 19
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’10”, 236 pounds, 6’10.5″
Slash Line: .659/.333/.826
Season Averages: 30.2 MPG, 18.3 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 2.8 ORPG, 1.4 APG, 0.7 BPG, 0.7 SPG
New Year’s Resolution: Expand Shooting Range
Gonzaga Bulldogs star Domantas Sabonis will be compared to his father—Hall of Fame center Arvydas Sabonis—until the narrative runs dry. Once you get past the storyline, however, a promising NBA player can be found.
He’s not very similar to his father, but Sabonis knows how to get the job done.
Sabonis is a productive scorer and an elite rebounder who welcomes contact and competes for every loose ball. His tireless work ethic can be seen in the fact that he’s jumped from being a 66.4 percent free throw shooter in 2014-15 to a mark of 82.6 in 2015-16 on 1.5 more attempts per game.
The area in which the 19-year-old must improve is vital in the modern NBA: shooting. His range is solid and expanding, and his touch around the basket is superb, but with a relatively short wingspan and a lack of explosiveness, he doesn’t often play above the rim.
Sabonis could be a power forward or a small-ball center in the NBA, and that means he must be able to expand his already impressive versatility with the 3-point shot.
Next: 3-and-D Specialist
28. Taurean Prince, Baylor Bears
Position: Small Forward
Age: 21
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’8″, 217 pounds, 6’11.5″
Slash Line: .413/.370/.823
Season Averages: 28.1 MPG, 15.6 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 2.9 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.8 BPG, 1.5 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Be Responsible with the Ball
If there’s one phrase that defines Taurean Prince’s value as an NBA prospect, it’s 3-and-D. The Baylor Bears star is a 3-point threat who competes on defense and utilizes his size and explosiveness to contain multiple positions.
He may not go in said range, but if Prince is developed properly, he’ll be one of the top 15 most valuable players to emerge from this draft class.
Prince stands at 6’8″ and 217 pounds with a near 7’0″ wingspan. He made 60 3-point field goals on 39.5 percent shooting in 2014-15, is already at 19 on a mark of 37.3 percent in 2015-16, and is beginning to excel in other phases of the game.
Prince’s court vision isn’t LeBron-like, but he sees the floor well enough to make plays for his teammates. He needs to be a little less ambitious with his playmaking, but developing that aspect of his game would inevitably push him up draft boards.
Prince will likely go lower than he should due to the stigma surrounding Baylor forwards, but he has all of the tools to be successful in the NBA.
Next: Finding Stability
29. Nigel Hayes, Wisconsin Badgers
Position: Forward
Age: 21
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’8″, 237 pounds, 7’3.5″
Slash Line: .384/.294/.725
Season Averages: 35.8 MPG, 15.7 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 4.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.0 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Be In Control
With the departures of Sam Dekker and Frank Kaminsky, Nigel Hayes has been presented with a unique opportunity in 2015-16. The Wisconsin Badgers lost the top two stars from a season ago, as well as head coach Bo Ryan, and that means Hayes has a chance to step up and thrive.
Thus far, he’s experienced mixed results in doing so.
The 21-year-old made a name for himself as the Badgers’ swiss army knife, if you will, during the run to the national championship game. In his follow-up campaign, Hayes has improved his court vision and maintains a high level of defensive intensity, but his scoring has suffered without Dekker and Kaminsky alongside him.
Hayes can defend both the perimeter and interior, and he can score from anywhere on the floor. Unfortunately, his inconsistency in creating his own offense will be a blemish on his draft resume until that improves.
Hayes controls his own destiny.
Next: Offensive Standout
30. Justin Jackson, North Carolina Tar Heels
Position: Small Forward
Age: 20
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’8.5″, 200 pounds, 6’10”
Slash Line: .503/.250/.718
Season Averages: 28.3 MPG, 13.2 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 3.5 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.8 3PM
New Year’s Resolution: Get a Jumper
Justin Jackson may be the most polarizing prospect in the 2016 NBA Draft. The lanky sophomore has shown flashes of potential stardom, but not without the troubling signs that plagued him as a freshman shining through.
On the strength of his understated improvements, Jackson is a Top 30 prospect—for now.
Jackson has come a long way as a facilitator, and that development is something to watch. The numbers are strong, but the true progress has been made in his ability to recognize defensive schemes and create offense with his scoring ability and vision as a distributor.
Jackson still needs to find his jump shot, and until he does, teams will be wary of gambling on his upside. That happens to be his New Year’s Resolution.
On the plus side, Jackson can create penetration going left or right, has a nice floater, moves well off-ball, and is a versatile finisher from 16 feet and within—traits of a successful NBA scorer.
Next: First Five Out
First Five Out
31. Tyrone Wallace, California Golden Bears
- Tyrone Wallace is a 6’6″ point guard whose versatility permits elite upside. Unfortunately, the one area in which he struggles is becoming the most significant for a contemporary point guard: shooting. He’s converting just 28.6 percent of his 3-point field goals and 63.0 percent of his free throws. The latter mark is the best of his four-year career—both a promising and troubling sign. Wallace needs to make dramatic improvements in 2016.
32. Devin Robinson, Florida Gators
- Devin Robinson of the Florida Gators is the type of player who can be as good as he wants to be. His physical tools and defensive versatility are all NBA-caliber, but he needs to put on the finishing touches. If Robinson can improve his ball-handling and pack on muscle, he can be a star at the next level. The issue for Robinson is that, as a 3, he’s very thin at 195 pounds—a weight that Florida might be generous with providing.
33. Wayne Selden, Kansas Jayhawks
- Wayne Selden is built like a tank—or just James Harden—at 6’5″ and 230 pounds with a 6’10” wingspan. Thus far in 2015-16, he’s played like an All-Star, as well. Selden has made 36 3-point field goals on 55.4 percent shooting after 13 games, and has been more focused than in any of his previous seasons. He’s seen a significant per 40 rise in points, rebounds, assists, steals and 3-point field goals, and is shooting 16.1 percent better on 2-point field goals than he did in 2014-15. He’s also turned excess fat into muscle. The question is, can he keep it up?
34. Chinanu Onuaku, Louisville Cardinals
- Chinanu Onuaku is one of the most dramatically improved players in the country. After averaging 6.7 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per 40 minutes as a freshman, those numbers have skyrocketed to 17.6 points, 15.0 rebounds, and 3.7 blocks per 40 minutes as a sophomore. The 19-year-old, who stands at 6’10” and 246 pounds with a 7’2.5″ wingspan, is every bit as improved as the numbers suggest—sort of. He’s dominant defensively and powerful physically, but he must continue developing fundamentally to earn a Round 1 grade.
More hoops habit: NBA Power Rankings
35. Monte Morris, Iowa State Cyclones
- Monte Morris is a pure point guard who does everything well—everything but shoot. He needs to improve his consistency from the free throw line (63.3 percent) and needs to rediscover his 40 percent 3-point shooting form from 2013-14 and 2014-15. If he fails to, Morris will feed the doubt of whether or not he can excel in the modern NBA.