New Orleans Pelicans: 3 players to watch in the 2020 NBA Draft

1. A Shot creator – Tyrese Maxey, Kentucky

Playing mostly off the ball for the Kentucky Wildcats in 2019, Tyrese Maxey didn’t get a ton of opportunities to show his ability to create his own shot. When he did, he took advantage.

Showing scoring instincts in pick-and-roll situations, Maxey manipulated the ball screen well for the Wildcats, getting to the basket and scoring with a layup or an easy floater over the defense on a regular basis. In those situations, he’s a more than capable passer as well.

Not only does Maxey thrive in the pick-and-roll, he can score from everywhere in any way a team needs him to. In transition, catch and shoot, through contact, etc. No matter the circumstance, Maxey can score, and that includes in the clutch.

The first game of the season for the Wildcats was a touted No. 1 vs. No. 2 matchup with the Michigan State Spartans. Holding a 62-60 lead with one minute remaining in the contest, Maxey launched a three-pointer from behind the arc and buried it. Talk about ice water in the veins.

With that confidence, Maxey can get reckless at times, taking ill-advised shots and becoming too selfish. Which explains his poor 29 percent shooting mark from the 3-point line (along with a low release point).  In a positive light, much is to be learned and much experience is to be gained for the Kentucky product, adding to his upside value.