2015 NBA Draft: Breaking down the Clippers’ top targets
By Tom West
Feb 18, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators forward Chris Walker (23) reacts after they beat the Vanderbilt Commodores at Stephen C. O
Power forward/Center Chris Walker of Florida
More than anything else, Walker’s combination of size, length and athleticism make him an intriguing prospect in the 2015 NBA draft. He only played 14.6 minutes per game last year to average 4.7 points, 3.5 assists and 1.2 blocks per game, but his limited numbers aren’t the be-all and end-all of his potential.
His 6’10” 220 lbs frame isn’t amazing, but the fact he has a 7’2″ wingspan and 37 inch vertical can make him an athletic terror.
In DraftExpress’ blocks per 40 minutes pace adjusted metric, Walker ranked 6th out of 100 top prospects. He can explode in front of the rim to reject opposing bigs with either hand, come over from the weak side with quick his reactions as a help defender, or put his speed and length to full effect by closing out shooters effectively as well.
However, even though Walker has great defensive upside, his offensive game is far from polished. His mid range game is inconsistent, he lacks anything more than the occasional hook shot or up-and-under move in the post, and he made just 38.6 percent of his free throws this year. And just to remind you, that’s even worse than DeAndre Jordan’s charity stripe performance.
The Clippers may need defense more than anything else, but when it comes to the 2015 NBA draft, they need to look past Walker and consider a more versatile and experienced talent instead.