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2018 NBA Draft: Gary Trent Jr. could be perimeter sniper OKC Thunder need

By Benjamin McCoy

DURHAM, NC - JANUARY 29: Gary Trent, Jr. #2 of the Duke Blue Devils reacts during a game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Cameron Indoor Stadium on January 29, 2018 in Durham, North Carolina. Duke won 88-66. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images)CHICAGO, IL - MAY 15: NBA Draft Prospect, Gary Trent Jr. poses for a portrait during the 2018 NBA Combine circuit on May 15, 2018 at the Intercontinental Hotel Magnificent Mile in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
DURHAM, NC - JANUARY 29: Gary Trent, Jr. #2 of the Duke Blue Devils reacts during a game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Cameron Indoor Stadium on January 29, 2018 in Durham, North Carolina. Duke won 88-66. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images)CHICAGO, IL - MAY 15: NBA Draft Prospect, Gary Trent Jr. poses for a portrait during the 2018 NBA Combine circuit on May 15, 2018 at the Intercontinental Hotel Magnificent Mile in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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NBA Draft Gary Trent Jr.,
OMAHA, NE – MARCH 25: Gary Trent Jr. #2 of the Duke Blue Devils is defended by Devonte’ Graham #4. During the second half in the 2018 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

Skills:

At almost 6’6 with nearly a 6’9 wingspan, Trent Jr. has the size to play and guard multiple positions. That is a skill which is becoming more and more valuable in today’s NBA.

This past season Trent played on a very talented Duke team expected to produce at least two lottery picks. Trent didn’t always have the opportunity to demonstrate his full arsenal of skills. But, what he did show off was impressive.

Trent is a knock-down three-point shooter with NBA range. Moreover, he has the ability to get his shot off in traffic averaging 6.5 attempts a game at 40.2%. He has a very balanced, consistent shooting motion with a high release point. Moreover, he is very capable coming off screens, setting his feet and getting off a quick shot. Therefore, his perimeter fundamentals and ability should translate well at the pro level.

Although he isn’t asked to be the primary ball handler, Trent is an underrated passer. Trent makes good use of jab steps and dribble moves to create space. These moves result in shots, getting to the rim, or finding the open man.

Trent is a high IQ player with all the physical tools to make it at the next level. While there are questions about his defensive capability, he is extremely coachable. Factoring in strong work ethic and a passion for the game it  should lead him to a successful NBA career.

Weaknesses:

Although Trent has the size and length to be a good defender at the next level doesn’t mean he will be a good defender. And, coming from Duke where they played mostly zone defense might make his transition to the pro game more difficult.

He tends to gamble too much for steals, often losing his man and allowing the offense an easy bucket. While some of the concerns about his athletic ability were put to bed at last months combine, he is going to need to work on his positioning and footwork if he wants to become a two-way player in the NBA.

Despite being a knock-down three-point shooter, his shot selection can be spotty at times shooting at the first sign of daylight and although he has shown the ability to pass, he doesn’t always capitalize on the opportunity. He also tends to settle for long two’s instead of putting the ball on the floor and using his athleticism to finish around the basket. All of that said he is still only 19 years old with enormous potential and all the tools to become a great basketball player.

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