NBA Draft 2014: Projecting The Top 10 Guard Prospects

Apr 7, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard/forward James Young (1) shoots against the Connecticut Huskies during the championship game of the Final Four in the 2014 NCAA Mens Division I Championship tournament at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

6. James Young- James Young can play either the shooting guard or small forward spot as he stands at 6’7″ with a seven-foot wingspan. Young has a smooth shooting stroke (35 percent on 3’s) and has a nice mid-range jumper. Young is a solid athlete and has a nice feel for the game. In order for Young to be a star player at the next level, he must become a more complete player as he only averaged 4.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game. Defensively, Young showed his moments as his length helps him bother the opposition. If Young improves at creating his own offense and his handle, he will be an excellent player.

NBA Comparison: Nick Young/Terrence Ross

5. Gary Harris- Arguably the most well-rounded shooting guard in the draft, Gary Harris can pass, shoot, handle, and defend well. The problem with Harris is that he is just a tad over 6’4″ and has a 6′-6′.5″ wingspan. Harris is strictly a jump-shooter but a better play-maker (2.7 apg) than other two-guards like James Young and P.J. Hairston. The question isn’t really if Harris will be good, it’s whether he can be great? Harris is a low-risk pick but the reward might not have the potential that Young or Zach LaVine possess. Expect Harris to be selected as high as No. 10 (Philadelphia) or No. 11 (Denver), as they both need a shooting guard.

NBA Comparison: Bradley Beal/Eric Gordon