Clippers NBA Draft Targets: Ranking top 5 wings to consider
By Tom West
3. Caris LeVert, PG/SG, Michigan
There’s a lot to like about Caris LeVert‘s game, especially for someone who’s widely projected to go at the very end of the first round. He simply screams versatility and fluidity, which places him firmly in the category of attractive wing prospects in this year’s draft.
As a 6’7″ combo guard with the ability to move to small forward in smaller lineups, LeVert has tremendous size and speed for some who can command the backcourt so effectively. That size doesn’t come with a cost to his agility and ball control either, seeing as his handle and quick feet are more than enough to apply to the next level. With that skill set coming from a 6’7″ player with a 6’10” wingspan, not to mention excellent shooting range, the diversity of LeVert should certainly catch the Clippers’ attention.
Whether he’s running the offense or simply driving and dishing to his teammates, LeVert was able to average 4.9 assists per game last season. And in terms of finding his own shot off the dribble, weaving past defenders to finish at the rim, or using his stellar 44.6 percent three-point shot, he can create for others or himself in ways that the Clippers’ bench could benefit from. For L.A., he seems most suited at the two, and maybe the three if he adds a little more strength.
However, past the clear talent and versatility, a history of injuries causes immediate concern that must be cleared up before the Clippers could draft him. Three foot injuries over the last threes years has held LeVert to only 33 games in the last two seasons and no workouts at this year’s combine, which sparks the worry of whether or not he could be plagued by such issues over his career in the NBA. This alone could encourage the Clippers to focus immediately on the next two players on this list.
All things considered, though, if LeVert’s feet injuries are cleared by doctors as ones that won’t cause long-term problems, he’s still worth looking at. He earns the 3rd spot on this list because of his obvious first-round talent and if his injuries are deemed OK going forward.
If he’s not worth a pick in the first round (depending on who the Clippers take at 25), then perhaps he could go at 33.
Next: The versatile playmaker