Draft Stock Trend: -3
Matt Hurt has gotten off to a disappointing start in his young college career. In fact, if this draft were not so top-heavy, he would likely be a lock to return to Druham for another year. Hurt’s averages of 9.6 points per game and 6.3 rebounds on 43 percent from the field and 37.5 percent from range are nothing to write home about, yet stretch forwards are always in high demand in today’s NBA.
The Jazz could certainly use some help at the 4, and shooting is an extreme necessity in making a postseason run. These factors added to Hurt’s somewhat-high ceiling make him an attractive pick for Utah. Do not be surprised if he snaps out of his early funk and increases his stock significantly. On the contrary, however, he is a candidate to do a second season and forgo his draft eligibility.
Draft Stock Trend: +/- 0
(Pick Via Indiana Pacers)
Adding to the list of underwhelming freshman performers, Scottie Lewis of Florida has not made the offensive strides that many hoped he would. Through 7 contests, Lewis is averaging 8.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.1 steals, and 1.6 blocks on 38 percent shooting from the field and 23.5 percent from deep.
His efficiency has been horrendous to this point, although he has the potential and time to turn it around. On the contrary, his defensive ability has not been as good as expected yet he remains one of the top defenders in his class.
As a contending team, the Bucks can afford to take a big swing on a high upside player such as Lewis. In addition, if Lewis were to pan out, the Bucks would come away with a very solid two-way player at a position of need. Even if he never does develop into an offensive threat, Lewis still can serve as a defensive presence for the contending Bucks.
Draft Stock Trend: -7
Kahlil Whitney, a five-star product out of Chicago, has been yet another disappointment in his freshman season in Lexington. In only 6 games, the young forward has recorded averages of 6.2 points and 2.7 rebounds on 42.4 percent from the field and 42.9 percent from the long ball.
Oddly enough, the Wildcats have used Whitney almost exclusively as a perimeter threat, although his jumper has historically been a weak point of his. However, he has actually been quite solid with regard to his efficiency from behind the arc.
Perhaps the reasoning for his poor statistical output is a misuse of his talents by John Calipari, which may be something that NBA scouts realize. Thus, an improved jumper on Whitney combined with his two-way abilities and athleticism will make him an enticing option for a team like Dallas in need of a small forward.
Draft Stock Trend: -5
(Pick Via Philadelphia 76ers)
As one of the few sophomores taken in this mock, Maryland’s Jalen Smith has made strides in his sophomore year that will likely lead to him becoming a first round selection in the 2020 NBA Draft. This year, Smith is averaging 14.4 points, 9.4 rebounds, 1 steal, and 2 blocks on 55% shooting from the field. His two-way ability is very intriguing, despite his lack of a three point shot.
Enter the Brooklyn Nets, who are in need of a true power forward. The team has been playing Taurean Prince at the four rather than his natural small forward position. Adding Smith would be greatly beneficial, as although he may not ever turn out to be a star in the NBA, he would provide solid support behind Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant.