2023 NBA Mock Draft 8.0: Spurs win Wembanyama sweepstakes

The Pacers form the foundation of a defensive superteam with Myles Turner and Taylor Hendricks in the frontcourt. Hendricks has been steadily rising up draft boards all season; the Pacers have struggled to find the right blend of skill and versatility at the 4-spot.

Hendricks can’t really create his own offense: he’s stiff off the dribble with limited court vision and a distinct lack of scoring craft. What he does well is everything else. Hendricks is a hyper-versatile defender, capable of switching onto the perimeter to contain guards or getting dirty in the post. He’s the draft’s best roamer, wandering away from non-shooters to protect the rim from the weak side or disrupt passing lanes.

On the offensive end, the Pacers don’t need Hendricks to create his own looks. Tyrese Halliburton was second in the NBA in assists per game last season; he’s arguably the best set-up man alive. Plus, Bennedict Mathurin figures to assume expanded offensive duties as a slasher and secondary creator in year two.

Hendricks is there to shoot 3s, and shoot 3s he will. Hendricks shot just shy of 40 percent from deep on healthy volume at UCF. He’s one of the best spot-up shooters on the board, making him the archetypal 3-and-D wing every team covets (he toes the line between wing and big). Myles Turner can also shoot, allowing the Pacers to go five-out with Haliburton and Mathurin running the show.

Check out our full scouting report on Taylor Hendricks.