2014 NBA Draft Rumors: Shabazz Napier’s stock is rising
Connecticut Huskies’ guard Shabazz Napier is having a run reminiscent of his former teammate Kemba Walker’s run in 2011 when the Huskies last won the national title.
Napier has scored 24, 25, 19 and 25 points in the Huskies’ four tournament games.
According to ESPN’s Chad Ford, Napier’s stock is rising.
"Good question. He’s been, arguably, the best player in the NCAA tournament to date. He’s hit clutch shot after clutch shot for UConn, has a sick handle and has willed UConn to the Final Four. But again, do you take four games and let that tell his story, or do you look at his four year career at UConn? Napier has gotten better. Much better. He’s having a terrific senior season. But there are still legit questions about his position in the pros (he’s more of a two guard at heart), his lack of size and lack of elite athletic ability, and his penchant, for much of his career at UConn, for playing selfishly. With that said, NBA scouts love winners and Napier has been carrying this team on his back at the right time. His stock has improved to the point that I think some teams would take him in the late first round. But I’m concerned they’re overvaluing this run."
Napier averaged 18.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 1.7 steals per game this season.
Draft Express ranks Napier as the 56th best prospect.