Age: 19 (7/12/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’6″, 180 pounds, 6’11.5″
Slash Line: .485/.404/.817
Season Averages: 33.7 MPG, 14.4 PPG, 5.1 APG, 4.1 RPG, 1.6 SPG, 0.6 3PM
Kentucky Wildcats star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has the court vision and passing ability to be a point guard. Thus, one could realistically question why he’d be listed amongst the combo guards when his position could be defined at the next level.
A shot-creating guard with elite size and length for both the 1 and the 2, however, the New York Knicks could create a fascinating backcourt with he and Frank Ntilikina.
In contrast to the other prospects on this list, Gilgeous-Alexander is a combo guard based on versatility and not necessity. He stands at 6’6″ with a near 7’0″ wingspan, as well as a tight handle and the ability to both score and facilitate.
Gilgeous-Alexander will need to add significant muscle to his frame, but he has a high basketball IQ and the foundation to develop into one of the most skilled players in the NBA.
Gilgeous-Alexander has an underwhelming first step, inconsistent form on his jump shot, and a thin frame that will be exploited on defense. Yet, he managed to shoot .485/.404/.817, average 5.1 assists per game, and dominate the clutch for Kentucky.
That’s a direct result of his ability to pick his spots, play to his strengths, and mask his weaknesses as he works to address them.
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If the New York Knicks believe in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s work ethic, he could be worth selecting in the first round of the 2018 NBA Draft.