2017 NBA Mock Draft, Week 26: The Timberwolves’ young core improves
By Chris Stone
Jayson Tatum
SF, Duke
Draft status: In with an agent
With a couple of point guards available, there could be an argument for the Phoenix Suns taking either De’Aaron Fox or Dennis Smith Jr. here, but the biggest position of need in Phoenix is on the wing, which makes Duke’s Jayson Tatum an ideal fit. The 6-foot-8 swingman has potential as an offensive creator and would give the Suns some much needed scoring punch. It would also allow Marquese Chriss and Dragan Bender to continue their development in the frontcourt.
Tatum is an excellent scorer in isolation who attacks well out of the mid-post. He generated a slew of fouls in college and is comfortable — although not always accurate — shooting off the dribble. The risk is that Tatum will become an offensive blackhole, but if he can become a more willing passer, he could develop into the NBA’s most prized archetype: a primary creator on the wing.
Tatum also needs to add some accuracy to his 3-point shot, but his high free throw percentage suggests that should come with some additional repetitions. Moving his game outward and away from the less efficient mid-range will be key to opening up his scoring possibilities.