2023 NBA Draft Live Tracker: Grading every pick made
2023 NBA Draft grade: No. 23 pick Kris Murray, Portland Trail Blazers
Pick Analysis. F. 23. 34. Scouting Report. Iowa. Kris Murray. player
Grade: A-
The Blazers go with an older, experienced prospect with their second first-round pick as a potential complement to Damian Lillard. In theory, the Blazers want to contend; Murray’s twin brother, Keegan, was a starter for the postseason-bound Kings last season.
Kris doesn’t match Keegan’s dynamism offensively, but he’s a big wing who can splash 3s and make quick decisions within the flow of the offense. Portland has a potential hole at the power forward spot with Jerami Grant entering free agency.
Murray approaches the game the right way and has plenty of winning habits. His skill set should complement Portland’s gaggle of explosive downhill athletes and creators.
From our NBA Draft Big Board:
"Another twin, for good measure. Kris Murray will undoubtedly draw comparisons to his brother Keegan, the No. 4 pick in last year’s class. Those comparisons are, of course, mostly surface-level (quite literally). That said, the twins should join each other at the professional level next season thanks to Kris’s blend of size and shooting, as well as his ability to drive the lane with long strides, precise footwork, and feather-soft touch."