NBA Draft 2016: 5 players the Utah Jazz need to target

4. Malachi Richardson, SG, Syracuse

Richardson had an explosive first season for Syracuse last year, leading some to believe that he may actually be the best shooting guard in this year’s draft.  At 6’6”, Richardson has the size to compete at the next level and is fresh off an impressive showing at the combine.  A pure scorer, he will instantly be someone who can come in and give good minutes off the bench.

The Jazz are in need of some help in the backcourt, and Richardson is the kind of player that can give them help now.  He is a bit older than most prospects, as he will turn 21 during his rookie season, giving him a slight edge in maturity.  Richardson also has the ball-handling skills to succeed at the next level, giving him an overall offensive game that is tough to match in this draft.

Last season, Richardson averaged 13.4 points per game for the Orange, while chipping in 3.4 rebounds and 2.1 assists.  He shot 35% from the three-point line, while leading Syracuse to a surprising appearance in the Final Four.

Headed into the draft, some mocks have him falling out of the first round, while others have him on the fringe of the Lottery, which is where I have him.  He is the kind of player that could help offensively tomorrow, and the Jazz need that kind of scorer on their roster.

He will need to improve his decision-making if he is going to be consistent at the next level, which he will be able to do with time.

Next: No. 3 Malik Beasley