NBA Draft 2018: 5 potential sleepers to watch

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - MAY 06: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz reacts to his basket in the second half during Game Four of Round Two of the 2018 NBA Playoffs against the Houston Rockets at Vivint Smart Home Arena on May 6, 2018 in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Rockets beat the Jazz 100-87. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images) /

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COLLEGE STATION, TX – JANUARY 08: The Aggie bench reacts to Texas A&M Aggies forward Robert Williams’ (44) huge second half slam dunk during the SEC Men’s basketball game between the Missouri Tigers and Texas A&M Aggies on February 8, 2017, at Reed Arena in College Station, Texas. (Photo by Ken Murray/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

4. Robert Williams III

Robert Williams return for his sophomore season appears to be one of the cases that negatively impacted a player. The big man tested the waters last season before returning for another year at Texas A&M to find his draft stock far too close to what it is this year. His talent level is top 10 but off the court concerns may be causing him to slide down draft boards.

NBA teams marvel at his freakish athletic ability, 7-foot-4 wingspan, and NBA-ready build. His speed, size, and vertical leap combination manufactures a fearless rim protector on and off the ball. Additionally, he snatches rebounds at the peak in dominant fashion youthfully available for a second and third bound if necessary. Williams accomplishes all of this while staying disciplined and not fouling. This allows him to switch on defense and effectively defend the pick-and-roll.

Williams plays above the rim but has the start of a more developed offensive game. A hook shot with soft touch is a good start. Poor shooting numbers both seasons at A&M begs the question whether he will be able to develop a shot. At times, his shot selection challenges his offensive BBIQ. That being said, his rim running ability pressures the defense and creates opportunities in transition.

A player who takes care of the ball overall, most of his turnovers stem from lazy decisions passing. An inconsistent motor haunts Williams particularly off-ball where his dynamic athleticism has allowed him to survive thus far.

Drafting Williams undoubtedly holds risk but the talent is undeniably there. From a talent perspective, Williams is a steal at the end of the lottery. A team comfortable with Williams may sit incredibly happy this time next year if the risk pans out.

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