By Hocine LOUKKAF ON 11/25/2020
Not being drafted may be a disappoinment but it’s no the end of he road as illustrated by the role of Duncan Robinson or Kendrick Nunn for the Heat. Let’s take a look at those who may become solid NBA players down the road.
Devon Dotson (6-0 PG Kansas) signed by Chicago
A dominant player in one of the top teams in the country, Dotson slipped mainly due to his lack of outside shooting and rawness. Yet, his athleticism and overall toughness were enough to convince Chicago to sign him a two-way contract.
Killian Tillie (6-10 PF Gonzaga) signed by Memphis
Bothered by many injuries during his college career, Tillie has developed as a stretch four with 41% 3pt on almost 4 attempts per game last year. He’s not the toughest inside player but could get minutes with the Grizzlies if he stays healthy.
Abdoulaye N’Doye (6-6 PG/SG Cholet FRA)
Maybe the most underrated undrafted player, Ndoye has no particular red flag as a 6-6 do-it-all guard with the ability to defend at least three spots. If he can use a year or two to refine his handling and shooting, he will for sure interest many teams.
Mamadi Diakite (6-9 PF Virginia)
The perfect bench player, Diakite brings athleticism, defense, winning attitude and improved shooting at the four spot. His lack of size and age may have cost him a second round selection.
Ashton Hagans (6-3 PG Kentucky) signed by Minnesota
A throwback type of player, Hagans has improved between his freshman and sophomore year with more than 6as per game. He still needs to add a consistent shot and cut down his turnovers to be an efficient 3rd or back up PG in the short term.
Paul Eboua (6-8 PF/SF Pesaro ITA)
Your typical athletic combo forward a la Anunoby or Ojeleye, Eboua has been more efficient despite jumping from 2nd division to the top league in Italia. His outside shot is the main weakness that may have prevented him from getting picked.
Karim Mane (6-5 PG/SG Vanier College CAN)
An athletic combo guard with a big wingspan, Mane hasn’t been tested at the senior/collegiate level and played in a pretty low league in Canada. Yet, his profile and room to improve can make him a future nice player in the league if he follows the good path.
Tyshon Alexander (6-4 SG Creighton) signed by Phoenix
A 40% shooter on more than 6 attempts, Alexander has adequate size to find a spot as a shooting specialist. It will be hard in the stacked Phoenix roster as he’s quite undimensional and may lack athleticism but he may find a team that gives him an opportunity.
Nathan Knight (6-10 C/PF William and Mary) signed by Atlanta
Knight has emerged as one of the most efficient big men in the country with 20pts 10rbds 1.5bl and the potential to somewhat stretch the floor. He still has a lot of things to work on, mainly his agility and leaping ability to be a solid rotational player in the league.
Omer Yurtseven (7-0 C Georgetown) signed by OKC
Despite his lack of athleticism and the way small ball is trending, the Hoya is a legit 7 footer with good hands and stretch five potential. A solid guy to bring from the bench.