2018 NBA Draft: 5 under-the-radar prospects at center

4. Moritz Wagner, Michigan

Wagner was paired alongside D.J. Wilson is one of the NCAA Tournament’s most entertaining frontcourts in March, leading the Wolverines to an unexpected Sweet 16 run. The German 5-man was thrown around moderately in the draft conversation last season, but the likelihood of him committing always felt slim. This year — with Wilson out of the picture — we’ll get a good sense of where he stands as a prospect.

There are some obvious flaws in Wagner’s game, which start on the defensive end. He’s light on his feet, but lacks strength and doesn’t do the greatest job protecting the rim. He’ll get beaten on that side of the ball at the next level, and that could cap his upside despite a well-rounded offensive attack.

With that being said, floor-spacing has immense value at the 5-spot, and Wagner showed he was more than capable of providing that. He shot 39.5 percent from deep in three attempts per contest last season, functioning nicely in pick-and-pop actions while boasting the awareness needed to attack closeouts off the bounce when applicable.

He combines that with a silky post game, from spin moves to gorgeous hook shots around the interior. On top of that, he’s one of the most energetic individuals you’ll find, hyping up teammates and quickly becoming a fan favorite during Michigan’s tourney run.

If he has a strong showing this year, he could very well force his way into the first round conversation.