OKC Thunder: NBA Draft big board 2.0 – Top 30 prospects
By Rylan Stiles
Tyrese Haliburton, G, Iowa State, 6’5, 175 pounds, 20 years old
The Iowa State guard is the most pro-ready player in this year’s draft. The fact that his wingspan reaches 7’0, makes him a textbook off-ball defender that can play the passing lanes with the best of them.
While he does not have top-notch speed, Haliburton will quickly earn the trust of whichever coach he plays for. He will not blow past defenders but he has an incredible feel for the game. Included in these attributes are great ball-handling, fantastic court vision and he is an incredible passer.
No matter how funky it might look, Tyrese Haliburton is a brilliant off-ball shooter. Given his lack of speed with the ball, Haliburton will be a great secondary ball-handler thanks to that catch-and-shoot ability.
Instead of using his size to take on contact and finish through it, Haliburton would rather avoid it which ultimately makes his path to the rim and his layup more difficult.
The biggest problem that Haliburton will face at the next level is his defense. Despite possessing the size he does not have the speed to match up with the elite wings at this level.
He cannot maneuver through screens and is easy to blow past. Safe to say that will not fly at the next level.
His well-rounded game with elite playmaking and still high upside will make him a high pick when the NBA Draft takes place. Haliburton, who dealt with a knee injury this season, averaged 15 points, five rebounds, and six assists.