2018 NBA Draft big board: End of January

Photo by Chris Covatta/Getty Images
Photo by Chris Covatta/Getty Images /
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Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images
Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images /

18. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – Kentucky

Going into the season, Kevin Knox and Hamidou Diallo were Kentucky’s blue chip prospects. Knox has been solid, but Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is making his case as the best Wildcat. At 6’6″ with a plus wingspan, he’s a perfect guard for the modern NBA. While not ultra fast, he’s quick and shifty. Gilgeous-Alexander changes direction well and uses his crazy long arms to finish well at the rim.

Gilgeous-Alexander won’t be able to run an NBA team by himself yet, but he’s assisting on over 25 percent of Kentucky’s buckets when he’s on the floor. Add in that he’s shooting 42 percent from 3 on a small sample size, and you get the idea he may play himself into the lottery. As good as a guard as he is offensively, he’s even better on defense. His long arms are disruptive and he moves very well, including getting over screens. A strong end to the season would have him in a great spot.