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NBA Draft 2016: BTBP Big Board 1.0

By Adam McGee

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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4. Dragan Bender – Power Forward (Macabi Tel Aviv)

Words by Adam McGee

Bender’s 2015-16 season: 4.0 PPG, 1.8 RPG, 0.6 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 41.7% FG

There was always going to be a knock on effect of Kristaps Porzingis’ resounding success as an NBA rookie, and Bender could be exactly that. Not turning 19 until November, Bender is exceptionally young and has an incredibly high ceiling.

At 7’1″, and having shown himself as a capable shooter with range, Bender fits the mold for what many NBA execs see as the future of the power forward position. Although Bender’s stats won’t jump off the page for this season, the level he’s playing at with an elite club like Macabi Tel Aviv speaks volumes of his ability.

Bender is agile, and a willing playmaker which partnered with his incredible size makes him a nearly unique offensive option.

The reality is that if Bender gets drafted this year, there’s a very strong chance that he won’t be NBA ready in the manner that Porzingis was this year. His development will take further time and patience, but what a reward could be at the end of it for a team prepared to take on that task.

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