Detroit Pistons: Is RJ Hampton worth the risk if they drop in draft lottery?

The pros

RJ Hampton’s potential as a scorer is undeniable. He is a dynamic slasher and dunker with explosive athleticism. In three seasons in high school, he averaged 23.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 3.5 steals as a freshman, 30.3 points, 8.8 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 4.4 steals and 2.5 blocks as a sophomore and 32.0 points, 9.7 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 3.9 steals as a junior.

Hampton’s basketball IQ is also high and he is quick to learn from his mistakes. He grew a lot overseas even if production did not indicate as much. At 6’5” and 185 lbs. he has the frame and the athleticism to develop as a defender and continued to average 1.1 steals per game against grown men in the NBL.

Any bet on Hampton is a bet on potential because he is still extremely raw as a prospect. Having only played in 15 games since his junior year of high school assessing Hampton is about looking at old film since the combine is not something he can excel at given the current situation in the world.

The flashes are there though. He is developing as a play-maker and passer and does often look to make his teammates better. He is smart of the ball and is always moving.