7. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – PG
2018-19 Stats: 10.8 PTS, 48% FG, 2.8 REB, 3.3 AST, 1.2 STL, 0.5 BLK
Have you heard of this guy Clipper Nation? Shai Gilgeous-Alexander impressed all season, especially when he was the floor general for the LA Clippers in the first round of the playoffs versus the Warriors.
It’s clear he has the complete package to be a starting point guard in the league for years. His incredible length (6’6″ with a 6’11” wingspan) allows him to both defend and finish with relative ease. Shai could stand to put on a little more muscle this summer, but honestly, that’s probably his biggest concern.
Not known as a shooter when he came into the league, his shot developed over time which culminated in March when he shot a ridiculous 59.4% from deep. If he continues to work on that shot over the summer, he will become a multi-level scorer along with a very capable defender. Shai’s ceiling is out of this world and he appears ready to help lead a championship contender.
6. Wendell Carter Jr. – C
2018-19 Stats: 10.3 PTS, 49% FG, 7.0 REB, 1.8 AST, 0.6 STL, 1.3 BLK
Wendell Carter Jr. was the “other” Duke kid in this draft, and may not have had a statistically better season than Bagley, but in my opinion there is more potential here.
Carter only was able to play in 44 games with the Bulls before getting surgery on his thumb, but those games showed ability on both ends. He is a little undersized for a center, but an offseason workout regiment should allow him to bang in the paint more effectively.
The best sign for Chicago? Carter says he already sees the game slowing down.
"I learned (watching the rest of the season) the pace isn’t as fast as I thought it was. It looked a lot slower from outside. I feel like watching veteran players they know when and where to be positioned and calm. I was able to watch from the sidelines and be able to take in where I can fit in, how I can get my points and get everything I need to get to help my team."