Miami Heat work out 4 more big men ahead of 2017 NBA Draft

5 of 5

Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports /

1. John Collins, PF, Wake Forest

Prospect breakdown:

Age: 19
Height/Wingpsan/Weight: 6’10″, 6’11.25″, 225 pounds
Sophomore year averages:
- 19.2 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 0.5 ASP, 0.6 SPG, 1.6 BPG, 1.8 TOV, 62.2 FG%, 0/1 3PT, 74.5 FT%, 26.6 MPG
Draft Express Mock Position: 1st round, 14th overall pick

Strengths:

Despite the lack of a three-point shot, Collins was among the most efficient one-on-one scorers in the country. Averaged 28.8 points and 14.8 rebounds(!) per 40 minutes as a sophomore, with an absurd 65.8 true shooting percentage. Explosive athlete. Good instincts as a shot blocker. Beastly post game, with difficult-to-stop go-to moves and reliable counters when defenders think they know where he’s going. High motor (offensively, at least). Attempted one three during his two years in college, but at pre-draft workouts, he’s been showing off a consistent stroke from beyond the arc. Form isn’t perfect but it’s quick and not that awkward.

Weaknesses:

Not long at all, and frame isn’t massive. It’s encouraging that his three has looked good in workouts, but will it translate to in-game production as a rookie in the NBA? Doubtful. Doesn’t pass. Not “he’s a bad passer” but rather: literally does not pass. Effort on defense isn’t great. His Wake Forest team ranked 176th in defensive efficiency last season, per KenPom. Can’t pin that all on Collins, but he certainly didn’t help matters. If his perimeter skills don’t improve, his lack of size could kill his prospects of being an effective modern NBA power forward.

Verdict:

Collins’ ability to get buckets and dominate on the block are special. He’s a very good rebounder, as well. A lot of his flaws defensively aren’t effort-related, but poor technique. Who better to learn under than Juwan Howard, Alonzo Mourning and Udonis Haslem in Miami?Moreover, the Heat’s staff is adept at getting guys to improve their three-point shooting. (James Johnson in 2016-17 ring any bells?) If they do the same with Collins and he can space the floor next to Whiteside, it’s legitimately a perfect fit. Draft Express seems to agree, according to their latest projections.