Here’s an early look at five of the top prospects expected to be eligible for the 2015 NBA Draft.
- Emmanuel Mudiay PG, Congo
Emmanuel Mudiay is a John Wall clone as he is an explosive athlete who can’t shoot. Mudiay has some character concerns as he didn’t have the grades to play for Larry Brown at SMU, but he has the most talent of anybody in the class. He has a 6’7 brother and a 6’10 father so look for him to add a few more inches to his already impressive 6’5 200 pound frame. He also has a 6’8 wingspan which should allow him to be a plus defender in the league. Mudiay has a little Dwayne Wade in him, but that is very unlikely. Mudiay’s spot in the draft will be based on how he responds to playing in China.
NBA Comparison: John Wall
- Jahlil Okafor C, Duke
Jahlil Okafor is the most skilled big man in the draft and the most skilled to come through in a long time. In an age where most big men rely on their athelticsm to score, Okafor uses a vast array of post moves to get his buckets. He is an average athlete but he understands the game and that is what makes him effective. His time with Coach K will be interested as this is the first time Coach K has a skilled scorer in the post since Shelden Williams. If Coach K can get Okafor enough shots, there is a chance that he may be the number one overall pick.
NBA Comparison: 2011-’12 Andrew Bynum
- Caris LeVert SG, Michigan
This may seem like a reach but LeVert is a combo guard who can shoot the ball and play lockdown defense. LeVert can also handle the ball for extended periods of time, this is valuable as versatility is becoming more and more valuable in the NBA. LeVert will have his chance to prove himself as a leader this year, after playing with NBA studs Trey Burke, Tim Hardaway jr., Glenn Robinson, Mitch McGary, and Nik Stauskas. If LeVert can shoulder the load and lead the Wolverines deep into the tournament, LeVert can expect to be a high lottery pick.
NBA Comparison: Poor man’s Joe Johnson
- Karl Towns PF, Kentucky
Karl Towns is possibly the most intriguing player in the entire crop of college basketball players. Towns has the shooting prowess to step out and shoot the 3, the athletically ability dunk between his legs, the length to block shots with easy, and the touch tothrow a lob to one of his teams. On top of all of this, Towns will see only about 20-25 minutes a game due to John Calipari’s platoon system. Towns will share the court with 5 other possible NBA players, but he will shine out above them all. He is a great blend of size and skill and he has played great competition while playing with the Domincan Republic national team. Look for Towns to be at the center of controversy at the end of the season when they are picking All-American teams. Towns won’t have the pure numbers that most All-Americans have, but he will be one of the best in college basketball next year.
NBA Comparison: Rasheed Wallace
- Stanley Johnson, SF Arizona
Stanley Johnson is a 6’7 245 pound behemoth who is a tenacious wing defender and devastating slasher. Johnson has the ability to guard shooting guards and small forwards on defense, something that Sean Miller will love. Johnson has a ferocious and intense work ethic, something that is very recognizable in his game. In fact, Johnson played against LeBron James at James’ skill camp this summer and Johnson talked trash right to the James’. Johnson is a confident player, but he has no confidence in his jump shot, something that needs a ton of work. If Johnson can figure out his shot, defenses will be in a world of hurt when they see Arizona on the schedule.
NBA Comparison: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist
Thank you for reading. Please take a moment to follow me on twitter – @CMurrayLWOS. Support LWOS by following us on Twitter – @LastWordOnSport and @LWOSworld – and “liking” our Facebook page.
For the latest in sports injury news, check out our friends at Sports Injury Alert.
Have you tuned into Last Word On Sports Radio? LWOS is pleased to bring you 24/7 sports radio to your PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone. What are you waiting for?
Main Photo
