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This Malachi Richardson NBA Draft profile dives into the strengths and weaknesses of the shooting guard/small forward.
Malachi Richardson – SHOOTING GUARD – 6’6” 200 LBS, SYRACUSE, 20 YEARS OLD
Malachi Richardson is a shooting guard/small forward who played one season for Syracuse University. Simmons is expected to be a late first round pick in the NBA draft.
Strengths
Richardson raised his stock in Syracuse’s improbable NCAA tournament run. In particular, Richardson keyed the comeback for the Orange in the game against Virginia that raised eyebrows nationally. Richardson has a 7 foot wingspan that is the longest of players projected at his position. He is very athletic and can create a shot off the dribble. Richardson has a high release point which will help when playing NBA’s taller guards. Richardson’s length may serve him well as a defender.
Weaknesses
Richardson is known as a streaky scorer. Thus, at times, Richardson will appear to be a great shooter, but not always consistently. Richardson is not the best ball handler and may run into trouble in the NBA with the quicker guards.
NBA Potential
Richardson projects to either be a productive bench player and even a 6th-man. Richardson may end up a stellar defender and occasional spot up shooter.
NBA Player Comparison
Richardson compares to a Shaun Livingston or J.R. Smith type of player. A long, lanky player with a streaky shot.
