2016 NBA Draft: Jamal Murray Player Breakdown

Mar 12, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Jamal Murray (23) leaves the court after defeating the Georgia Bulldogs during the second half of game eleven of the SEC tournament at Bridgestone Arena. Kentucky won 93-80. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports /

4 of 6

Mar 17, 2016; Des Moines, IA, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach John Calipari talks with guard Jamal Murray (23) during the second half in the first round of the 2016 NCAA Tournament at Wells Fargo Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports /

Key Weaknesses

Jamal Murray has elite size for a point guard, the shooting stroke to play the 2, and the basketball IQ to thrive regardless of position. Nevertheless, one can’t help but wonder if he’s built to play the 1 or the 2 at the next level.

Generally speaking, positional ambiguity is the cause of underachievement in the NBA.

Statistically speaking, Murray underwhelmed as a facilitator with averages of 2.2 assists to 2.3 turnovers in 2015-16. That sub-1.0 assist-to-turnover ratio is quite concerning for a player who, assuming he plays point guard in the NBA, will be tasked with at least doubling his turnovers with assists.

If Murray does play shooting guard, his 6’7″ wingspan would prove less than ideal.

It’s vital to note that Murray playing the 2 at Kentucky was the result of SEC Player of the Year Tyler Ulis having clout at point guard. Thus, scouts are working with the knowledge that Murray’s collegiate career was misleading by way of evaluating his ability to facilitate.

Nevertheless, one can’t help but wonder if Murray can run point at the next level.

Next: Upside Comparison

Home/NBA Draft