2018 NBA Mock Draft: March is finally here

Bates-Diop could be to the Brooklyn Nets what Rondae Hollis-Jefferson never was.

While Hollis-Jefferson has become a useful player who is very fun to watch, he has not developed as a scorer or play-maker like many hoped. Instead, he is a swiss army knife in the mold of Draymond Green or James Johnson — someone who can attack defenses in a variety of ways and makes his teammates’ lives a lot easier.

Bates-Diop, however, scores in his sleep. On Feb. 24 against Indiana, the junior put in 24 points in a big win to secure the Buckeyes a first-round bye in the Big 10 tournament.  His usage is eight points higher than last season, and the team’s surprise surge during conference play this year wouldn’t have been possible without Bates-Diop taking on that scorer’s role.

In his third season, Bates-Diop has also become a much better rebounder, allowing coach Chris Holtmann to play him at the four more often. At that position, his smooth scoring game is more effective. It has been a great season for Bates-Diop, who would have an excellent environment in which to continue developing in Brooklyn.