NBA Draft 2017 Prospect Watch: Justin Patton
Fit in Milwaukee
On the whole, Patton fits the mold of a lot of the Bucks’ most recent draft selections. He is big, long, athletic, and has incredible potential. However, if the team is committed to a lineup featuring Khris Middleton, Jabari Parker, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Thon Maker, it would be interesting to see whether they would want another big man in the first round.
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Still, if Milwaukee wants another project with the potential to be an elite two-way player in the post, Patton could be that guy. I will admit, seeing a frontcourt duo of Thon Maker and Justin Patton could be very scary in a couple of years. Both of those guys would be able to defend at the rim, stretch the floor with a three-pointer, and could run the floor with Giannis and Jabari.
As long as Patton maintains a strong work ethic and is willing to work to maximize his potential, Patton would be a nice fit for the Milwaukee Bucks. With Greg Monroe potentially testing free agency this summer, creating that rotation of Thon and Patton would be a look towards the future as the team continues their run at the playoffs year in and year out.
For draft position, Patton would likely need to slide a tad in order to reach the Bucks. As of right now, the Bucks are likely to select somewhere around 20th overall.
Next: NBA Draft 2017 Prospect Watch: Harry Giles
With the way athletic big men have risen late in draft boards of the past few seasons, it would come at no surprise to see Patton go in the lottery. This would, of course, knock the Bucks out of contention unless they were willing to trade up.