Dallas Mavericks: 5 options for pick No. 37 in 2019 NBA Draft
2. Eric Paschall
A teammate of Jalen Brunson at Villanova, Eric Paschall should contribute right away. After spending his freshman year at Fordham, Paschall spent the next three years at Villanova, where he won a national championship in 2018. He stayed for the 2018-19, and proved to be a leader for a Wildcat squad that lost four of its five starters.
In his senior season, Paschall averaged 16.5 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game while shooting 44.7 percent from the field. He also shot 34.8 percent on 5.6 3-point attempts per game. He can create space for a jump shot and also find others for easy baskets.
The most concerning part of his game, however, is his jump shot form. Paschall’s legs go back awkwardly when he shoots 3s. AJ Iezzi of The Sixer Sense broke it down perfectly:
"“His legs flailing could hinder his balance, and makes shooting on the move incredibly hard. Paschall has outstanding upper body strength, so I doubt his lower body mechanics directly influence his release, but a more conventional ascent in his jump shot could make his adjustment to the NBA three-point line easier.”"
Furthermore, by spending all four years in college, Paschall is already very close to his ceiling. Still, he is a good all-around shooter, defender and playmaker.
At 6’8″ and 255 pounds, Paschall’s body is strong and NBA-ready, allowing him to finish through contact and be physical. He is mobile and able to get to his spots on offense. His ball-handling skills are impressive as well, as he can maneuver around the paint and get to the basket with ease.
Paschall can play with any lineup head coach Rick Carlisle opts to put on the floor. He could play the 4 alongside Kristaps Porzingis and could also potentially serve as a small-ball 5. If Paschall is available at the No. 37 pick, which he should be, the Mavericks should do the right thing and reunite him with Brunson.