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2018 NBA Mock Draft: Way too early edition

By Chris Stone

Jan 5, 2016; Providence, RI, USA; Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge (left) speaks to fans during the first half of a game between the Providence Friars and the Marquette Golden Eagles at Dunkin Donuts Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 5, 2016; Providence, RI, USA; Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge (left) speaks to fans during the first half of a game between the Providence Friars and the Marquette Golden Eagles at Dunkin Donuts Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 8, 2017; Coral Gables, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes guard Bruce Brown (11) dunks the ball past Virginia Tech Hokies guard Seth Allen (4) during the second half at Watsco Center. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 8, 2017; Coral Gables, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes guard Bruce Brown (11) dunks the ball past Virginia Tech Hokies guard Seth Allen (4) during the second half at Watsco Center. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /
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Bruce Brown

SG, Miami

Miami’s Bruce Brown would have been a potential first round pick had he entered the 2017 NBA Draft, but the rising sophomore made a quick decision to return to school without even testing the waters. Brown will now be in position to potential improve his ranking on draft boards with a good second season in Miami on a roster that projects to be better than the one the program fielded in 2016-17.

As a freshman, the former top 50 recruit delivered an all-around stat line, posting 14.9 points, 7.1 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.9 steals per 40 minutes on a 55.9 true shooting percentage. Brown is the type of two-way wing player that all NBA teams have grown to covet.

On offense, he’s at his best getting downhill towards the basket, using his strength and power to get into the lane. Wings who can create their own shot against moving defenses or close outs add another offensive dimension. However, for that attack to improve, Brown needs to develop his 3-point shooting as he made a rather average 34.7 percent of his attempts last season. There are some indicators — namely a solid 74.4 free throw percentage — that suggest he’ll be able to build on that number in time.

Defensively, Brown’s strength also plays a role in make him a versatile option. He rebounds the ball well, generates steals and should measure well at the Combine next year putting him in position to be a projectable NBA defender.