Milwaukee Bucks: 5 realistic targets with the No. 31 pick

Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images
Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 6
Next
Milwaukee Bucks, NBA draft Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images
Milwaukee Bucks, NBA draft Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images /

Milwaukee Bucks: 5 realistic targets with the No. 31 pick – Quentin Grimes

One target for the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2021 NBA Draft could be junior Quentin Grimes out of the University of Houston. Grimes, a 6’5″ sharp-shooting wing, averaged 17.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.4 steals per game on 40.6 percent field goals and 40.3 percent from 3-point land for the Cougars last season in which they made a triumphant Final Four run.

Growing up, Grimes was a very hyped prospect out of high school, was an All-American, and committed to the Kansas Jayhawks under Bill Self before transferring to Houston, where his development took shape under coach Kelvin Sampson for two years. Leading the Cougars with a more advanced role and increased maturity was a productive sight that has ultimately uplifted his draft stock.

Grimes also had an impressive showing at the NBA Combine and as a result, he’s projected to be drafted anywhere from the mid-20’s to early 30’s. He’s certainly capable of earning an immediate rotational role, and could be an ideal fit to complement the core and schemes of the Bucks.

Primarily, the 21-year-old is an excellent 3-point shooter, whether it’s off the dribble or catch and shoot, and stands out as an intelligent defender that can guard other wings or guards at a high level. He had a true shooting percentage of 55.8 percent and was one of only three D1 players to make 100 or more 3-pointers last season. In addition, he’s got high-end instincts, awareness, athleticism, and quick hands and feet that propel his impact on the defensive end.

A notable weakness of Grimes has been his ball handling ability, especially with his off-hand as many defenders will strategically force him left, and needs improvement with the pick and roll. However, with his efficient 3-point shooting, reliability as a perimeter defender, high character, and winning mentality, Quentin Grimes could be a strong fit within Milwaukee’s system and a realistic target for them with the 31st pick.