2017 NBA Mock Draft: The 76ers lock up a point guard

The Toronto Raptors’ experiment with DeMarre Carroll hasn’t exactly aged well and as Carroll inches into his 30s, it might be time for the front office there to start looking for a potential replacement. Barcelona wing Rodions Kurucs isn’t the same player as Carroll, but he does have the 3-and-D potential that is so attractive in wing prospects.

Kurucs is still developing his 3-point shot, but there are signs that it will come along. He made just over 31 percent of his 3-point attempts in Spain’s second division last season, but took a decent volume and has shot it better in international competitions. Developing that 3-point shot will be critical to Kurucs’ NBA success because while he has some creation ability, it’s far from elite. The 6-foot-8 wing can handle attacking in a straight line and will do well against rotating defenses at the next level.

The 19-year old has also shown a bit of promise on the defensive end particularly as a weak side rim protector. His length on the wing should be valuable in the NBA if he’s willing to embrace that particular role.

Kurucs also has the potential to be a draft-and-stash option who could developing overseas prior to joining the league.

Learn more about Rodions Kurucs at The Step Back.