James Young
Age: 18
Height: 6’7″
Weight: 213 pounds
Position: Shooting Guard
School: Kentucky
NBA Comparison: Arron Afflalo
Another one-and-done freshman prospect from Kentucky, James Young developed his reputation as mostly one-dimensional player with a great outside shot in his only year in college. Young isn’t tremendous at creating scoring opportunities, and like Arron Afflalo, is best used when others set him up for open shots.
Nonetheless, Young has arguably the best shooting stroke in this year’s draft class, and NBA teams are always looking for deadly shooters. Young is projected to be a mid-to-late lottery pick in the 2014 NBA Draft.
Strengths:
Young is a very dynamic scoring threat with a deadly jump shot. Can consistently hit from three point range. Great at shooting off the dribble and in traffic. Has a very quick release. Has the potential to develop into an elite defender with his tremendous length and seven foot wingspan. Great size for a shooting guard with his 6’7″, 213 lb. frame, and being only 18 years old, he could grow more. Great at drawing fouls and finishing through contact. Above average rebounder. Plays with good body language and energy. Well-rounded player in all skills necessary for his position.
Weaknesses:
Despite being good at just about everything, Young isn’t great at any particular thing. He is a very streaky shooter, and sometimes displays poor shot selection. Not a tremendous leaper, and he isn’t as quick as most shooting guards. Lacks the strength you would expect for a player with his frame. Ball handling needs improvement. His lack of driving ability renders him useless when his outside shot isn’t falling. Gambles too much on the defensive side of the ball. His lack of experience shows in his decision making, and he doesn’t appear to have an “elite” basketball IQ.
Verdict:
While James Young definitely is not ready to take on large role in the NBA right away, his unique skill set and rare shooting ability give him the potential to eventually become a big scorer in this league. Would be ideal for him to go somewhere where he can learn under a veteran shooting guard for a few seasons.
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Main Photo by Mark Zerof/USA Today Sports
