NBA Draft 2019: 3 Prospects Who Could Be Available For The 8th Pick
By Chris Kern
De’Andre Hunter
De’Andre Hunter might be the most NBA ready guy who could be available at this spot. He has the size and strength to battle with pro players and if he’s able to knock down three-point shots then he could be a valuable three-and-D player right away.
He had a solid freshman season in a reserve role and has really taken it to another level this season. His ability to impact the game in so many ways is a big reason why Virginia was able to win the title. They had other good players such as Kyle Guy and Ty Jerome, but Hunter was the x-factor.
This season Hunter averaged 15.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2 assists per game. His shooting percentages were good as well as he knocked down 52% of his shots, 44% of his three-pointers, and 78% of his free-throws.
That three-point percentage is very good for him as he already has the tools defensively, but if he can knock down those shots consistently he could be a special player. His ability to defend will make him a good role player right away, but if he can continue to improve offensively then he has a chance to become a star.
He showed off some of that star potential in their championship game win over Texas Tech as he completely dominated the matchup with potential top-five pick Jarrett Culver. In that game, Hunter finished with 27 points and 9 rebounds while helping hold Culver to just 15 points on 5-22 shooting.
When you’re scouting draft prospects how guys perform in big games should mean more. Hunter was fantastic in this game as he was also extremely clutch as he knocked down a corner three-pointer which would force overtime.
His ability to impact the game in so many ways is why he is going to be a top 10 pick. The way he played in the national championship could raise his stock enough that he isn’t available for Memphis here, but if he is, they will strongly consider him.
They’ll have to figure out how to fit him in with guys such as Kyle Anderson and Chandler Parsons on the roster, but they need guys who fit into the culture they’re trying to build. It’s about building for the long-term, not putting together the best possible team next season.