NBA Draft 2017 Prospect Watch: John Collins
By Adam Coffman
Fit With the Bucks
As the Bucks are still without a general manager at the time of writing, we have no real way of knowing the direction the franchise will take in the draft. However, if Milwaukee defaults to precedent, Collins doesn’t fit the description of their prototypical rookie.
He’s not as long or potentially transcendent as past draftees, what with his shorter wingspan and lower perceived ceiling. However, Collins could still find a spot on the Bucks in the mold of one of their current players.
Greg Monroe reinvented himself into being a dynamic bench scorer this season, using 30 percent of his possessions in the post and putting up career-highs in field goal percentage and points per 36 minutes.
He often commanded the Bucks’ offense while Giannis Antetokounmpo was off the floor, leading an improved bench unit. It’s possible Collins could take over this role if Monroe leaves the team in the next couple years.
He moves quickly when he gets the ball on the block, which could keep opponents from doubling him if he plays next to a traditional center.
In the short term, Collins would need to contend with a crowded frontcourt, leaving little room for his own development. Of course, there’s a lot left to be shaken out regarding the status of Monroe, Spencer Hawes, and others, but the reality is that Antetokounmpo, Jabari Parker, and Mirza Teletovic would all be ahead of him on the depth chart.
Down the road, Thon Maker could make a good frontcourt mate for Collins as he can stretch the floor, switch on to guards, and protect the rim, making up for the latter’s deficiencies.
Next: NBA Draft 2017 Prospect Watch: Dennis Smith Jr.
John Collins could bring a lot to his new NBA team. Whether or not his skills will translate over to the modern league will likely determine whether or not the Milwaukee Bucks draft him.