2016 NBA Draft: Top 10 Safest Prospects

NASHVILLE, TN - MARCH 13: Jamal Murray #23 of the Kentucky Wildcats celebrates during the 82-77 OT win over the Texas A&M Aggies in the Championship Game of the SEC Basketball Tournament at Bridgestone Arena on March 13, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

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Jan 9, 2016; Spokane, WA, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Domantas Sabonis (11) attempts a free throw against the Portland Pilots during the second half at McCarthey Athletic Center. The Bulldogs won 85-74. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /

8. Domantas Sabonis, Gonzaga Bulldogs

Position: Forward/Center
Age: 20 (5/3/1996)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’10”, 238 pounds, 6’10.5″
Slash Line: .611/.357/.769
Season Averages: 31.9 MPG, 17.6 PPG, 11.8 RPG, 3.1 ORPG, 1.8 APG, 0.9 BPG

From 2014-15 to 2015-16, Gonzaga Bulldogs power forward Domantas Sabonis became one of the most improved players in the country. A workhorse who made his name by competing on both ends, Sabonis developed into a skilled offensive contributor during his sophomore season.

If Sabonis continues to expand his offensive game, he can be a starting-caliber player at the next level.

Sabonis has a skill that translates as well as any from the college game to the pros: rebounding. He’s a tenacious rebounder who boxes out—a lost art in today’s NBA—and gets his hands dirty on the offensive glass.

Considering Tristan Thompson just made $82 million off of his presence on the boards, it’s safe to say that Sabonis can carve out an NBA career in the same way.

What makes Sabonis so intriguing is the expansion of his offensive game. He’s a capable passer from the high post with a solid midrange jump shot and an increased emphasis on becoming a threat from distance.

If Sabonis can legitimize his 3-point range, he can become a full-time starter in the NBA.

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