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NBA Draft 2017 Prospect Watch: Luke Kennard

By Lukas Harkins

Dec 10, 2016; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) points toward a teammate during a game against the UNLV Runnin' Rebels at T-Mobile Arena. Duke won the game 94-45. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 10, 2016; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) points toward a teammate during a game against the UNLV Runnin' Rebels at T-Mobile Arena. Duke won the game 94-45. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

Strengths

The biggest strength in Luke Kennard’s game is definitely his shooting. Thanks to teams like the Golden State Warriors, the NBA is transitioning towards much more three-point shooting. With that being said, every team can use another shooter, even if that shooter comes off the bench. In college, Kennard shot 43.8 percent from three, a rate that can hopefully translate well to the NBA.

Due to his ability to shoot the three and get to the free throw line, Kennard ended his sophomore campaign with a true shooting percentage at 63.0 percent, which ranks second among guards expected to be drafted this June. Lonzo Ball is the only prospect who had a higher percentage (67.3 percent).

Not only does Kennard knock down his open three-pointers, but he does a great job in pull-up situations and reading when to take jump shots in the pick-and-roll. Although his 6’6″ frame and skill-set lends itself to playing the shooting guard, Kennard’s decisionmaking leaves potential for him to play as a combo guard, spending some possessions at the point.

Kennard’s 2.5 assists per game hardly tell the tale of his passing ability. Although Kennard lacks a great wingspan, his height allows him to see over a lot of defenders. Even with a 24 percent usage percentage, Kennard only committed 1.6 turnovers per game during his sophomore season. He takes care of the ball well and seems to always make the right pass.

In addition to spot-up shooting and passing, Kennard has incredible footwork for a guard. He does not possess the athleticism a lot of guards have in the NBA, but he is crafty in getting to his spot and finding room to get his shot off. He uses a wide array of moves, including a nifty up-and-under to score while working in one-on-one situations. And despite not being an incredibly good scorer around the rim, he finishes well with either hand when in the paint.

On the whole, Kennard is a versatile offensive scorer with the way that he spreads the floor and can play within a team offense. Kennard does not need to have the ball in his hands to make an impact, but when he does, he can either score on his own or find the open man for a better shot.

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