OKC Thunder rook gains peer respect, plus 3 takeaways from NBA survey

Sleepers in the open:

Although Diallo could surprise by becoming a regular in the rotation he’s not expected to be among the leaders of the rookie class. There are however, a few rooks who’ll end up surprising before the season finishes. Even among the top lottery picks there are component’s to the rookies games not yet unleashed. That’s because colleges are even more strict with role definition. Specifically the big schools like Kentucky, Duke, Kansas and North Carolina for example tend to follow a specific system.

Heading into the draft and at Vegas Summer League there was evidence several of the big men already have NBA 3-point range and others were working on their shots. Footage of Mo Bamba, Wendell Carter and Jaren Jackson all shooting 3-pointers was driving social media.

As far as Luka Doncic it seems the survey didn’t pay him enough credit. Here’s a kid whose played with pros – we’re talking men, not young peers. TI’s prospect preview by Noah Schulte notes Doncic’s accomplishments and they speak volumes:

"At 19 he became the youngest MVP in Euroleague history (which is no small feat). In last summer’s EuroBasket, he and Goran Dragic led Slovenia to a gold medal. At this event, Luka Doncic earned All-Tournament team honors. And, he’s received accolades nearly every year of his career as a professional basketball player."

In fairness because Doncic played in Europe not everyone (including his peers) are as familiar with his capabilities. But, expect him to showcase a full set of assets. And, let’s just say I won’t be surprised if he – rather than Trae Young is the rookie playmaker garnering more love by year’s end.

Likewise, it’s hard not to be impressed by Jaren Jackson Jr’s full game. JJ won’t turn 19 until September 15.  His upside is — how’s this for a technical term –scary good.  The treys he was hitting with ease in Utah and Vegas demonstrated just how versatile he is. Yet, that also isn’t shocking given he connected on 38.6 percent of his 96 attempts at Michigan State last season.

Prior to the draft I had Donte DiVincenzo as a player who would surprise, but he rose up from his projected late first round/early second round to go 17th after showing out at the combine. And my sleeper for the OKC Thunder to pursue (Omari Spellman) who was projected to go mid 40’s ended up sneaking into the first round as well.

Another rookie who’ll have fans and pundits talking is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who somehow is still flying under the radar. Among his myriad of talents are his defensive and playmaking abilities.  Combine those assets with his ability to score with ease due to his change of pace and lankiness and SGA could be contending for the top rookie prize.

It’s unlikely this draft class will showcase as much depth as 2017, but make no mistake they’ll be some major stars in the mix.