BTBP Mock NBA Draft: Editor’s Edition

Mar 7, 2014; Nashville, TN, USA; Murray State Racers guard Cameron Payne (1) brings the ball up court against the Eastern Kentucky Colonels during the second half in the semifinals of the Ohio Valley Conference basketball tournament at Nashville Memorial Auditorium. Eastern Kentucky won 86-83. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

What The Experts Say:

"He’s a very intelligent point guard who can impact the game by getting to the line, launching 3s and threading the needle with pinpoint passes to his teammates. – Chad Ford, ESPN"

What The Player Says:

"I’m the underdog. I’ve been overlooked. When people say these things, it’s nothing new. I’ve heard it all before. I’m just here to do my Cam Payne thing. – Cameron Payne"

What BTBP Says:

Payne is an interesting prospect coming out of a small school in the shape of Murray State. He doesn’t have any truly show-stopping skills, but his intelligence is doing enough to convince many scouts and draft experts that he could have a meaningful impact as a pro.

Fran Fraschilla of ESPN sees similarities between Payne and George Hill, and if that proves to be Payne’s best case scenario, there’d be little question over his value in the NBA.

Payne has a good pull up jump shot, is a smart playmaker, and although he won’t give the sort of reckless explosiveness that Russell Westbrook provides, he gives Billy Donovan a different look off the bench.

Rumors have suggested that Cameron Payne may already have a guarantee from the Thunder, but does he make sense for their roster?

Jerry Stephens of Thunderous Intentions thinks so:

"He has great vision on the floor, something that some would say has been lacking from point guards for OKC, including Westbrook, Augustin and the now-departed Reggie Jackson. The upside for Payne could be huge in the Association and he has the skills to possibly become a starter one day. But in terms of fit with the Thunder, I believe he would fit perfectly. He has everything that the team needs from a backup guard."

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