2020 NBA Draft: Pelican Debrief Big Board 1.0
By Nick Alvarez
17. KIRA LEWIS JR. / GUARD / ALABAMA
Potentially the fastest player in this year’s draft, Kira Lewis Jr holds down the 17th spot. He’s a guard who can to the rim anytime he wants and mixes a variety of ball-handling moves to do so. He has an impressive shooting skillset as well when it comes to mid-range pull-ups, step-backs, and shot fakes. The key to Lewis’ development that will determine his roll in the NBA is if he can slow down and improve his defense and playmaking.
Pro Comparisons: Lou Williams, Darren Collison
16. JALEN SMITH / BIG / MARYLAND
A strong offensive game with the ability to be an inside-outside threat as big lands Jalen Smith as the 16th best prospect in the 2020 NBA Draft. Smith’s biggest strengths are his elite shooting for his 6’10” size. His game is mechanically smooth and his a quality scorer from the inside as well. Improving his defensive lapses will become the key to Smith reaching his potential as a valuable starter.
Pro Comparisons: Serge Ibaka minus defense, Jerami Grant, Myles Turner
15. PRECIOUS ACHUWIA / BIG / MEMPHIS
One of the best defenders in the class with strong offensive potential puts Precious Achuwia as the 15th ranked prospect in the 2020 NBA Draft. Achuwia is a physical forward who is capable of guarding every position on the floor and defends both the perimeter and interior well. Much of his offensive game is still very raw though. He has shown that he can scorer as a rim-runner but the key to him becoming a true force in the NBA will be for teams to continue improving his shot and post play.
Pro Comparisons: Draymond Green, Mo Harkless, Antoine Walker