NBA Draft 2016: BTBP Big Board 1.0

Jun 25, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; General view of the full first round draft board at the conclusion of the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 25, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; General view of the full first round draft board at the conclusion of the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 23, 2016; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach John Calipari and guard Jamal Murray (23) look on during the game against the Vanderbilt Commodores at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated Vanderbilt 76-55. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 23, 2016; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach John Calipari and guard Jamal Murray (23) look on during the game against the Vanderbilt Commodores at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated Vanderbilt 76-55. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Jamal Murray – Point Guard (Kentucky)

Words by Jordan Treske

Murray’s 2015-16 season: 18.8 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG, 43.5% FG

If you’re looking for a guy who’s instant offense, that player is Jamal Murray. Murray’s scoring ability knows no bounds as he can fill it up from beyond the arc (he’s shooting 40 percent from deep) or finish at the rim (60 percent finishing around the basket).

Furthermore, Murray’s already an exceptional player in pick and roll situations. He’s only averaging 2.2 assists per game this season at Kentucky, but his ability to change speeds and passing instincts will be an instant benefit for any team that’s serious about selecting him this draft.

Athletically, however, Murray’s a work in progress. His limited explosiveness will be something he’ll have to overcome as he gets used to playing in the NBA and beyond.

Murray’s average athletic ability also affects his defense, which is his biggest weakness as a player.  Murray’s defensive awareness leaves a lot to be desired and he must improve in that area, especially if he’s matched up against players that are more athletic than him.

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