Keaton Waggler NBA Prospectus
Waggler is seen as a tier-2 prospect who projects a NBA top-10 draft pick in this year’s draft due to his elite shot-making, positional size, and versatility. Waggler is rated as the No. 5 prospect in the draft by ESPN, NBA Insider Marc Stein, and ClutchPoints. The 6-6 wing is also rated as the No. 6 prospect by Bleacher Report, while Sports Illustrated has him firmly in the top 10.
Waggler has just scratched the surface in his development. The 19-year-old can play 1-through-3 and possesses a good feel for the game. He is a good decision-maker who has shown the ability to create his own shot despite not having elite athletism. Defensively, he is long and active with outstanding instincts.
Waggler does need to add muscle to his frame. His lack of athleticism is a concern, and he is still developing as a playmaker.
“Wagler cemented his breakout season with a Final Four berth, as the primary driver of an elite Illinois offense that stalled out against an experienced UConn team. Although he had some ups and downs in the tournament, Wagler’s long-term upside was on full display,” Woo recently said. “Part of the appeal with Wagler at the next level is his ability to drive quality offense not only as a ball handler, but also as a tall perimeter player who can see over the defense and is constantly willing to make the next pass — a quality scouts loved about Tyrese Haliburton at Iowa State. Wagler’s ability to enhance lineups raises his NBA floor significantly, with his upside tied to how efficient and technical he can become as a lead guard.”
Waggler’s NBA comps: Luke Kennard, Kevin Huerter, and Bogdan Bogdanovic.
