Pelicans Rumors: Two Big XII prospects eyed for 2nd round of NBA Draft

Dedric Lawson: Wing, Kansas, Junior

When you think of Big XII Basketball, you think Kansas, Baylor, and Texas. The Pelicans are in need of wing players who could get a bucket and defend the ball well. Dedric Lawson had a statline of 19/10/1 on 49% shooting, which was really good for the Jayhawks’ wing.

His tape shows a very strong ability to score in the paint and low post, grab rebounds on both ends of the court, and defend on a good level. He has a good feel on the defensive end with 1.3 steals and 1.1 blocks per game with highlight blocks that make you think of LeBron in Game 7 of the 2016 Finals; coming out of nowhere and swatting the ball against the backboard.

Being a junior coming into the NBA, he has a smart feel for the game that gives him an edge on the court. He takes smart shots more than airing it out, albeit a little reckless on offense. The biggest knock against him is a weak jumper that will need to improve. He is an average athlete that will probably get pushed around by more athletic and bigger players.

Watching his tape, I see a poor man’s Draymond Green without the attitude. He puts in effort down low, is an above average rebounder, and a strong defensive presence that will provide an anchor for a second unit. Ranking #44 in the ESPN top NBA prospects, Lawson could be an option at #39 overall for the Pelicans.