2018 NBA Draft: 5 best prospects at small forward

2. Isaac Bonga, Frankfurt

As arguably the biggest upside play among first round talents, Bonga boasts point guard skills with the physical tools of a small forward. He’s somebody who has a lot to prove next season in Frankfurt, but presents the type of versatile skill-set that fits seamlessly with the trends of today’s NBA.

You could easily slot Bonga at point guard, and if it weren’t for a limited jumper and some questions about his quickness, we might have. He’ll likely be stashed overseas to start off his career, but we should see Bonga carrying some ball-handling duties whenever he does make his way to the States.

With a 6’9” frame and 7’0″ wingspan, Bonga’s vision is aided tremendously by his size. He has a basketball I.Q. that’s advanced well beyond most 17-year-olds, and couples that with the ability to see over defenders. He can pinpoint passes at different angles, and has proven himself to be someone who’s capable of running the show in international competition.

Bonga’s biggest concern is his jumper. He only hit 21.5 percent of his 3-pointers last season, and just kicked off the 2017-18 campaign with an 0-for-7 outing from range in his first game with Frankfurt’s junior team. He’s also an active, instinctual defender, but lacks the quickness and strength needed to thrive right away. It’ll take some time before we know where he’s best suited on that side of the ball.

His stock is based more on upside than results, but Bonga has the kind of physical tools and skill that — under the right system — could be special in the long run.