2017 NBA Draft Big Board: Top 10 ceiling and floor rankings; Top 50 overall rankings

Feb 4, 2017; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) dribbles against UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) during the first half at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 4, 2017; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) dribbles against UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) during the first half at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 11
Next
Mar 23, 2017; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Josh Jackson (11) reacts with guard Frank Mason III (0) during the second half against the Purdue Boilermakers in the semifinals of the midwest Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Sprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 23, 2017; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Josh Jackson (11) reacts with guard Frank Mason III (0) during the second half against the Purdue Boilermakers in the semifinals of the midwest Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Sprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Josh Jackson, F, Kansas

Josh Jackson’s elite athleticism and defensive skills make him a safe prospect, but he also has a ton of upside. If Jackson becomes a consistent shooter, he’ll likely be the best prospect in this year’s draft.

He was a decent shooter in college, but his shot mechanics are terrible and need to be changed. Jackson is an excellent playmaker as a small forward. If he learns how to shoot off the dribble, he’ll become one of the few elite 2-way point forwards in the NBA. There isn’t a position that is more coveted in today’s NBA.

4. Dennis Smith Jr., G, NC State

Dennis Smith Jr. had a disappointing year at North Carolina State, but it’s not all on him. He’s still an elite talent and should be a lottery pick. Smith has some bust potential, but I’d bet on him becoming a solid player due to his athleticism and scoring prowess.

He didn’t look like a great passer in college, but he didn’t have a good supporting cast. If Smith improves his playmaking abilities and works hard on the defensive end of the floor, he should become a star.