Rasheer fleming, selected first in the second round of the NBA Draft, has been voted the top prospect by readers, securing 42% of the vote. This selection comes as a surprise to some, as Fleming was drafted after two peers who finished behind him in this poll.
fleming possesses an extraordinary physical profile, standing nearly 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot-5 wingspan and reportedly weighing over 230 pounds. his game is characterized by strong shooting ability and innate defensive skills,suggesting the potential for a long NBA career if his growth progresses as hoped.
During the Summer League, Fleming averaged 7.3 points per game, shooting 36% from three-point range on 3.7 attempts per game. He also demonstrated defensive versatility, recording 1.7 steals per game for the Summer Suns. While Summer League performance should be viewed with caution, Fleming’s potential could make him a meaningful draft steal.
cedric Coward, a personal pick for the author, was a notable riser in draft evaluations leading up to the draft. the 6-foot-6 wing also boasts a 7-foot-5 wingspan and has shown efficient shooting in limited opportunities. Such wings with shooting capabilities are considered rare commodities in the draft.
Coward,the no. 11 overall pick, was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies, a team that also features perimeter player Jaylen Wells. Notably, Coward is the highest-drafted player directly from a mid-major school as Obi Toppin (No. 8) and is narrowly ahead of Johnny Juzang (No. 12).
Coward is expected to have a clear path to playing time in his rookie season with the Grizzlies.
Another standout rookie from the draft class, Clifford, impressed during Summer League play. He averaged 15 points, 6.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.5 blocks, with shooting splits of 49% from the field, 46% from three-point range, and 62% from the free-throw line on significant volume.
Clifford’s performance, reminiscent of a seasoned college player, suggests he is ready for NBA action. His scoring versatility and defensive impact on the perimeter could earn him consistent minutes with the Sacramento Kings.
Despite a challenging Summer League, the potential of Shulga remains high. During his five-year college career, Shulga shot 39% from beyond the arc on high volume in his final three seasons. His struggles in Las Vegas are likely temporary.
Shulga was drafted by the Boston Celtics, a team with a proven track record of identifying and developing shooting talent late in the draft.