2018 NBA Draft: 5 under-the-radar power forward prospects

4. P.J. Washington — Kentucky

P.J. Washington leads one of the most interesting yet under-the-radar Kentucky classes in recent memory. There’s no top recruit this year, no Karl-Anthony Towns, no John Wall. But don’t fear, John Calipari has a slew of athletes he’ll trot out. Power forward is an interesting position for the Wildcats because many of their guys are probably best off at that position. However, that means many minutes will be needed at other positions.

Between Washington and other forwards, some are going to have to spend time at small forward and maybe even center. For his NBA potential though, Washington will likely need to be a 4. Washington is 6’8″ like Manten and built nearly as strongly, despite being several years younger. What Washington does have is an astounding 7’3″ wingspan, which could help him one day maybe even play some small-ball 5.

Only time will tell how good Washington is right now. He was a poor 3-point shooter, but a strong rebounder in the games in Draft Express‘ data base. In 23 games they have, Washington averaged 17 points and nearly 11 rebounds, but shot only 30.4 percent from 3 and less than 60 percent from the line. His scoring, shot-making and passing will all be under the microscope, as well as his defense. He has the frame, but is he willing to defend well?