Second Round Gems to Look Out for
When comes to the second round of the NBA draft the name value or attention dies down a bit when comes to scouting and teams becoming contenders the second round is where teams make their money.
Examples of second-round success include Draymond Green, Nikola Jokic, Khris Middleton, etc. So when it comes to the second round here are names you may need to keep an eye on.
Andrew Nembhard
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As one of the leading guards out of Gonzaga, Andrew Nembhard was a prospect who could have returned for another year but thanks to his performance in the NBA draft combine scrimmages (26 points, 11 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block) Newbhard began to skyrocket draft boards. So if a team is in need of a floor general and playmaker Andrew Nembhard is a name to watch.
Jaylin Williams
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In terms of young and raw talent with potential, there are three names that stick out the first is Jaylin Williams a forward/center out of Arkansas. Who was another potential player who could’ve returned to the Razorbacks, however, due to his length, toughness, and run in the NCAA tournament posting four double-doubles and a positive plus/minus ratio. Jaylin decided to stay in the draft even though he was an inconsistent shooter and not the best in rim protection.
Peyton Watson and Caleb Houston
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I paired these two prospects as second-round gems because of their similarities of being lengthy one-and-done freshmen who have the athleticism and versatility that can translate to the NBA but offensively there are questions that need to be answered. Depending on the right situation and coaching either athlete can make big strides in the summer league or regular season.
Christian Koloko
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As a big man who can rotate as a power forward or center, Christian Koloko out of Arizona is a big man I like in this draft and potentially a second-round gem because of his length, defensive abilities, rim protection, and high field goal percentage near the rim likely similar to a Rudy Gobert due to his high efficiency.
Potential Undrafted Gems
Scotty Pippen Jr.
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As the son of the NBA legend Scottie Pippen, Scotty will have the pressure to live up to his dad’s name however due to his experience in college, strong mentality, high IQ, and playmaking abilities. I believe Scotty Pippen Jr in the right system can be a valuable role player off the bench.
Johnny Juzang
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After an NCAA tournament run to remember, Johnny Juzang tested the NBA draft last year and decided to return to UCLA. However, what sounded like a great idea somewhat turned unsuccessful as UCLA would bow out in the sweet 16 as Johnny Juzang season spent his time injured and at times inconsistent. Luckily based on the workouts and his potential Juzang can be a hidden gem if placed in a system that utilizes his offensive strengths and improves his defense.
Jules Bernard
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With the option to return to UCLA for one more year, Jules Bernard made the decision to stay in this draft betting on himself and his skillset. However, for the former UCLA wing with some inconsistencies and shot selection, Jules Bernard may be a diamond in the rough because of what he showcased this season as a primary ball-handler, 3-and-D, and shooter (41% FG, 33% from three, and 81% from the free-throw line).
Honorable Mention
Kenneth Lofton Jr (PF, Louisiana Tech), Isaiah Mobley (PF, USC), and Kofi Cockburn (C, Illinois)
