NBA Draft: Grading every first-round pick after rookie year

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MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – APRIL 04: Shaedon Sharpe #17 of the Portland Trail Blazers brings the ball up court during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on April 04, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images) /

7. Portland Trail Blazers – Shaedon Sharpe, Kentucky

Shaedon Sharpe was one of the biggest unknowns heading into the 2022 NBA Draft. He enrolled at Kentucky but never played a game, leaving only his high school and AAU tape to be evaluated ad nauseum. He checked in as high as two or three for some analysts, and outside the lottery altogether for others.

It made sense when the Portland Trail Blazers took him with the seventh pick, as they have been shooting-guard-whisperers over the past decade. Sharpe was no exception, showing some explosive potential during his rookie season. When it was clear the Blazers weren’t going to make the playoffs the team handed him the keys, and he was electric to watch running the show down the stretch. Over his final 10 games, he averaged 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds and 4.1 assists.

He’s still somewhat raw, so where he would land in a redraft is up in the air. His potential is immense, however, and what he has shown already is enough for him to be planted firmly in the top five. Another leap this season could see him push his way up even further; his talent level is that high.

Grade: B+

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