2020 NBA draft profile: International prospect Deni Avdija

With the NBA draft in two weeks, let’s take a look at international prospect Deni Avdija- including his strengths and weaknesses.

Because this year’s NBA draft class doesn’t have a consensus No. 1 pick, there is less predictability in terms of how the draft will play out and the order in which top prospects like LaMelo Ball, Anthony Edwards, or James Wiseman will be selected. Deni Avdija is an international prospect that is projected to be a top-10 or even top-five draft pick in the upcoming NBA draft on November 18, but some mock drafts have him as high as No. 2.

At 19 years old, Deni Avdija already has an impressive international portfolio, having signed a six-year deal to play professionally for Maccabi Tel Aviv Sports Club in 2017 after playing for their youth team. Since then, he has won three consecutive Israeli League championships. This year, Deni was named MVP and was made All-Israeli League First Team.

Unlike many of the other prospects, Deni has more years of experience playing professionally, which could him less of a wild card in the eyes of coaches. Let’s take a look at his international statistics first before moving on to his strengths and weaknesses and finishing with his overall outlook in the NBA draft.

2020 NBA Draft Profile

Name: Deni Avdija

Height: 6’9″ (6’9″ wingspan)

Weight: 210 lbs

Position: Forward

College: International

NBA Comparison: Dario Šarić

2019-20 statistics from Israeli League and EuroLeague

9.0 PPG

4.7 RPG

2.0 APG

50.0 FG%

33.3 3P%

59.0 FT%

Deni Avdija’s strengths

Deni Avdija’s biggest strength is his versatility on the floor. He has much to offer on the offensive and defensive ends of the court and is correctly deemed a high-IQ basketball player. Deni is a great passer, but he can also get in the paint and score near the rim with great efficiency. His ball-handling skills are above average and it’s clear that he knows how to run an offense. Off the ball, Deni is improving as a cutter.

Avdija’s defensive abilities are another draw when compared to many of his peers. He knows what to look for and seems to possess good defensive instincts, helping him make steals. He also offers decent rim protection and rebounding for his position.

Due to Deni Avdija having played competitive basketball from a young age and professional basketball for more than 3 years already, he’s used to playing at a high level. Although the NBA will undoubtedly be a change, Deni’s experience will help make his transition into the league much easier.

Overall, Deni Avdija is a great playmaker that, like the others in the draft class, will most likely not be superstar material, will definitely be a valuable role-player whose versatility can help with whatever the team needs.