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2019 NBA Draft: Updated lottery Big Board for the new year

By Roger Acker

DURHAM, NC - DECEMBER 05: Duke Blue Devils forward Zion Williamson (1) during the 2nd half of the Duke Blue Devils game versus the Hartford Hawks on December 5th, 2018, at Cameron Indoor Stadium (Photo by Jaylynn Nash/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
DURHAM, NC - DECEMBER 05: Duke Blue Devils forward Zion Williamson (1) during the 2nd half of the Duke Blue Devils game versus the Hartford Hawks on December 5th, 2018, at Cameron Indoor Stadium (Photo by Jaylynn Nash/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images
Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images /

8. Bol Bol, Oregon

As someone not sold on Bol Bol, his stock is extremely difficult to measure. Due to his frame and skills, Bol seems like the type of player who will either hit and be a top player in the draft, or flunk and not provide substantial value for his team.

While Bol will make impressive blocks and plays that leave fans in awe, he will be exploited on defense in the NBA. He can be easily bullied by stronger players and has struggled reacting off the ball, showing low defensive IQ.

Even with his deficiencies, he is at times unguardable when his shot is falling. Shooting 52 percent from 3 is insane, especially when his release point is impossible for most players to contest. If he can just improve instincts defensively while being more physical on the glass, it will go miles to quiet his doubters and make him a top-five prospect.

7. Nassir Little, UNC

It’s hard to find a more disappointing season for player ranked within this big board than Nassir Little’s freshman season at UNC. Coming off the bench so far, he has failed to live up to even moderate expectations this season.

Little has showed failure get separation when going one-on-one, has seemed lost defensively, is playing a bunch of minutes out of position, and lacks a clear role. It was aggravating earlier in the year seeing him play the minutes he did, but he hasn’t improved enough to demand increased minutes until he learns more and starts to put everything together.

The season hasn’t gone well, but there are still months left and he has his past history in high school and showcases to look to. Even if he struggles for the rest of the season, Little may have done enough already to get drafted, but has a lot of work to do before he re-enters the conversation of elite prospects.

6. Kevin Porter Jr.,  USC

Kevin Porter Jr. has been one of the biggest risers over the first portion of the season, and is one of the most talented players in the country. He’s been injured over the past few weeks but still holds his spot near the middle of the lottery.

Porter is an explosive lefty who can put up points in a hurry and make the difficult, jaw-dropping shots. He’s James Harden-esque, because when he gets hot it becomes must-watch television, dazzling with impressive crossover moves and requiring little room to get a shot off.

It would be very beneficial for his stock to see Porter raise the level of his team’s play instead of showcasing his own individual talents. Improving his passing and free throw shooting will be huge, and could put him in the discussion of players with the highest ceiling.