Fansided

Incoming college basketball recruits who could be 2020 NBA Draft lottery picks

By Evan Kurland

MARIETTA, GA - MARCH 25: James Wiseman attends the 2019 Powerade Jam Fest on March 25, 2019 in Marietta, Georgia. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images for Powerade)
MARIETTA, GA - MARCH 25: James Wiseman attends the 2019 Powerade Jam Fest on March 25, 2019 in Marietta, Georgia. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images for Powerade) /
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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – APRIL 20: Tyrese Maxey #3 drives against Rocket Watts #1 during the Jordan Brand Classic boys high school all-star basketball game at T-Mobile Arena on April 20, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – APRIL 20: Tyrese Maxey #3 drives against Rocket Watts #1 during the Jordan Brand Classic boys high school all-star basketball game at T-Mobile Arena on April 20, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

12. Tyrese Maxey, Kentucky

Current Strengths: A threat to score from the moment he steps onto the basketball court. Possess deep range and a solid ability to score both off the bounce or catch. Three level scorer potential. Is unique with his ability to play the 1 or 2 (6’3″), an ideal combo guard with great athleticism and has the ability to blow-by his man. Will enhance half-court spacing with his perimeter range. Good ball-handling but will need to tighten against better competition. Shows competitiveness and desire that should make him a plus defender and rebounder. Maxey is stepping into a great situation at Kentucky where he won’t have to step in as the primary guard and can ease his way into taking turns running an offense while being a threat as an off-ball guard at the same time. Definitely expect an impressive season in Lexington.

Room for growth: Maxey is one of the most well-rounded freshman prospects that will be eligible for the 2020 NBA Draft. He will need to add strength and improve his ball-handling. Most importantly, Maxey will need to show that he can balance his playmaking with immense scoring prowess. Facilitating and setting up his Wildcats teammates will be a must watch heading into next season.