2018 NBA Mock Draft: Collin Sexton could break open the New York Knicks’ ceiling
player. 156. . G/F. Arizona. Rawle Alkins. 23
Alkins has become one of the top prospects in the country this year since returning from injury for Arizona, playing his role perfectly next to the program’s leaders, Deandre Ayton and Allonzo Trier.
The sophomore hasn’t taken more than 14 shots all season, even sinking down to just six attempts on Jan. 13 against Oregon. It hasn’t stopped him from making an impact as a scorer. Alkins has increased his free throw rate by 20 percent while becoming a more efficient free-throw shooter. In addition, he has maintained his 3-point efficiency while taking more shots from distance. He’s giving the Wildcats the quietest 15 points per game you’ve ever seen.
Defense is where Alkins makes his mark as a prospect, though. He’s huge for a wing, and will be able to bully players throughout his career. Something to watch as a counterpoint: Arizona’s defense has been slightly worse with Alkins on the court this season, according to Basketball-Reference.
If he can make 3s at the next level, he makes sense as someone who could play with LeBron James and Kevin Love.