Every year, the NBA Draft brings us an influx of fresh new talent ready to help carry the league and usher in a new generation. Last year's class lacked excitement, and no potential franchise changer was at the top. This year is different.
While there may be no Victor Wembanyama-type prospect, as he's a once-in-a-generation type talent, there are still potential stars at the top of the draft. With the NBA's older statesmen—LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant—getting closer to retirement, the league needs guys to help carry the mantle.
The draft is still five months away, but several prospects have separated themselves from others. Let's dive into which prospects have All-Star potential.
3) Ace Bailey- Rutgers, Freshman, Forward
Arguably, the most athletic player in the draft is Rutger's 6'10 forward Ace Bailey, who has dazzled crowds with his electrifying scoring ability. The freshman forward is arguably the most athletic player in the draft, who's averaging 19.8 PPG on 47% from the field to pair with 7.9 rebounds per game. Scoring is his specialty.
The freshman forward has scored 30+ points twice this season, including a 39-point outing against Indiana on January 2, which was the most for a Rutgers freshman in Big Ten history. Despite Rutgers' mediocre record at 10-10.
That hasn't stopped Bailey from displaying flashes of brilliance of his illustrious talent. He has scored 20+ points on 50% from the field or better in nine games and is on pace for the highest freshman scoring average in Rutgers history.
Bailey is an elite three-level scorer who can score from all areas of the floor. Whether it's utilizing his explosive athleticism to finish over defenders at the rim, facing up in the midrange, or drilling one from deep, where he shoots 39% from beyond the arc.
Bailey has a small mixture of Tracy McGrady and current Hornets forward Brandon Miller in his game due to his elite scoring capabilities and explosive athleticism. He also has the potential to be a great defender with his great size and length, measuring with a seven-foot wingspan, who can guard multiple positions.
To become more multidimensional, Bailey will need to become a much better playmaker, averaging less than an assist per game. Still, with his scoring talent, athleticism, and physical tools, Bailey has everything you want in the modern-day NBA star wing.