2018 NBA Mock Draft: A way-too-early look ahead

Mar 29, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds All-American West forward Michael Porter Jr. (1) poses with the trophy after winning the John Wooden Award as the most valuable player for the 40th Annual McDonald's High School All-American Game at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 26, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds High School All-American forward Wendell Carter Jr. (34) poses for a photo during the 2017 McDonalds All American Game Portrait Day at Chicago Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

Perhaps the most polarizing player on this board is incoming Duke Blue Devils freshman Wendell Carter. Carter has the talent to be a potential Top 5 draft pick, but his motor has been the primary question mark coming out of high school.

Mike Krzyzewski will happily bench a player who doesn’t want to be out there, however, and that implies Carter’s tremendous upside should be realized.

Carter most recently measured at 6’10” and 257 pounds with a 7’3″ wingspan and a 9’0″ standing reach. Those are elite measurements for a power forward, and strong enough measurements to play center in the modern NBA.

For perspective: Carter is slightly taller than Al Horford, with a longer wingspan and standing reach, and a heavier weight as an incoming freshman.

Offensively, Horford may actually be the best ambitious upside comparison for Carter. He’s an excellent passer out of the high post, a skilled low-post presence, a deceptively explosive athlete, and an improving shooter from midrange.

Carter will need to improve the consistency of the effort he puts forth, but if he succeeds in doing so, he could be the Horford of this class.