3. Kevin Huerter, SG/SF — Maryland
- Height: 6’7.25″
- Weight: 194 lbs
- Age: 19
A knockdown sniper in the mold of Allen Crabbe, Kevin Huerter made a name for himself as a shooter. As you’ll find out, however, Huerter does much more than just shoot.
Long range shooting itself is very valuable (and Huerter made an efficient 41.7 percent of his 3s), but finding wiggle room to get open and hit a shot off a screen or an off-balance curl is an even more valuable element because of timing. Shooters have to get creative in the NBA to get open, and Huerter does so very well.
Making shots isn’t the only element to a modern offense, either. When Huerter can’t find an opening to fire away, he is smart at not only attacking closeouts, but also passing out of the drives that result from them. When you can’t make the shot, find someone who can. This drive-and-kick mentality is a perfect fit in the Nets’ system.
His defense is heavily underrated as well. His 6’7.5″ wingspan is sufficient, and he adds toughness and energy to his frame to make him a viable defender. He doesn’t beat himself on the point-preventing end because he’s a focused and smart player.
Quite simply, Huerter just knows how to play the game. He’s intelligent, plays within himself and spaces the floor well. He’d fit in any lineup, especially one that has a crush for copious amounts of 3-pointers.