NBA Draft 2018 Prospect Watch: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
By Adam McGee
What the experts say
(as of 5/20/18)
ESPN (Jonathan Givony): 12th
The Ringer (Kevin O’Connor, Jonathan Tjarks, Danny Chau): 14th
Sporting News (Chris Stone): 12th
The Athletic (Sam Vecenie): 12th
The Stepien (Cole Zwicker): 14th
The Step Back (Brandon Kleen): 13th
Quotes:
Chris Stone of Sporting News sees potential for a steal in Gilgeous-Alexander, even if his ultimate ceiling likely hinges on him developing a steady jump shot.
"“Although he’s not an explosive vertical athlete, the 19-year-old’s hesitation moves and headiness allow him to create looks at the basket. If the jump shot develops into something more consistent, he could be a steal.”"
Jackson Hoy of The Stepien sees Gilgeous-Alexander as a prospect whose final landing spot on draft night will be dictated by fit, as his flaws may make him a non-option for certain teams:
"“Where he ends up will likely depend on a team’s trust in his ability to add value off the ball on offense, as teams may be reluctant to put him next to another ball-handler without assurance that he’ll be a reliable spot-up shooter. That said, he’s a promising developmental piece with the potential to be a dynamic two-way lead guard.”"