Jan 10, 2015; Stillwater, OK, USA; Texas Longhorns forward
Myles Turner(52) gets Oklahoma State Cowboys forward/center Michael Cobbins (20) to jump on a pump fake during the second half at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Oklahoma State won 69-58. Mandatory Credit: Ray Carlin-USA TODAY Sports
Honorable Mention: Myles Turner, Texas Longhorns
NBA Comparison: Serge Ibaka, Oklahoma City Thunder
Position: Power Forward/Center
Age: 18
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’11.5″, 243 pounds, 7’4″
2014-15 Slash Line: .466/.302/.832
2014-15 Season Averages: 22.6 MPG, 11.2 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 1.3 ORPG, 2.6 BPG, 0.6 3PM
In terms of raw ability, there aren’t five players in this draft class who can realistically be placed above Myles Turner of the Texas Longhorns. Not only is he a potential defensive anchor, but he has 3-point range on his jumper and a 7’4″ wingspan.
Unfortunately, one word encompasses everything that’s caused Turner’s draft stock to drop: inconsistency.
Turner is an elite shot-blocker, a high-grade rebounder, a skilled offensive player and a transition menace. He’s also a player who, time-and-time again, has fallen apart offensively against Top 25 opponents.
If anyone can get the best out of a skilled big man, it’s the combination of Derek Fisher and Phil Jackson.
Turner could still go in the Top 5, but that depends heavily on his developing consistency and Texas making a deep NCAA Tournament run. At 17-11, it’s questionable that Texas and Turner will get the chance to make a run at all.
Depending on how declarations of intent go, Turner could be in play once the New York Knicks select a future franchise player.
Next: The Great Unknown