In Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Los Angeles Clippers have a versatile defender at the point guard position with the chance to grow offensively.
In a draft-day trade with the Charlotte Hornets, the Los Angeles Clippers traded the 12th pick of the 2018 NBA Draft in exchange for the 11th pick and two future second-rounders.
With both teams picking the other’s desired player, the Clippers acquired Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a point guard out of Kentucky.
Defensive-minded with length to match, it could be argued that SGA is the best perimeter defender in his draft class, capable of stifling the opposition with his long arms and quickness.
NBA teams covet guys with the frame of Gilgeous-Alexander, in large part because of the defensive potential they most likely have.
Los Angeles is in the early stages of a rebuild, looking to acquire as much young talent as possible. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a great start to the new era of Clippers basketball, a foundational piece who should turn into a great young player.