Detroit Pistons: 2018 NBA Draft grades

No. 42: Bruce Brown Jr., Miami

Entering his sophomore season in Miami, Bruce Brown was projected to be a first round prospect in the 2018 NBA Draft. After a disappointing season that ended prematurely due to a foot injury, the Pistons were able to draft another solid defender in Brown with the 42nd overall pick.

Unlike Khyri Thomas, Brown stands at 6’5″ with a 6’9″ wingspan, giving him a nice combination of size and length for a shooting guard. Sports Illustrated‘s mock draft had him being drafted the 28th overall pick. However, his lack of skill offensively was the primary reason he dropped into the second round.

One of the primary roles for guards in the NBA is the ability to consistently score. Unfortunately, Brown is a liability offensively with limited potential. Although a good scorer in transition, Brown lacks the ability to create his own shot. He was 26.7 percent from beyond the arc last season, and only shot 31.6 percent throughout his college career. Those numbers, along with shooting 62.9 percent from the free throw line last season, must improve for Brown to receive consistent time in Detroit’s rotation.

Although a liability offensively, Brown has a high ceiling defensively in the NBA. His defensive skills allow him to drive and score the ball in transition. Brown averaged 1.3 steals along with 0.8 blocks per game. He’s also strong on the boards for a guard, averaging 7.1 rebounds per game last season.

If Bruce Brown can improve his offensive skill-set, he could become a valuable contributor in the Pistons’ rotation in the future. However, they already have Reggie Bullock and Luke Kennard in the rotation. With the newly acquired Khyri Thomas a threat to gain minutes, if Brown doesn’t improve offensively, it’s doubtful he receives playing time in 2018-19.

Grade: C-