Shake Milton, SMU
Big Board Rank: 35
Strengths: Milton is a 6-foot-6 combo guard with over a 7-foot wingspan. He can play the one and two at the next level, and has the length to guard one through 3’s.
Unlike most point guards in this class, Shake can create a lot of space for himself off the dribble. This allows him to get to the rim where he can finish through contact, and get to the foul line. Milton has doubled his free throw attempts from last year, attempting just under six a game.
Milton has also shown the ability to be a good 3-point shooter. This helps him tremendously off the ball. If Milton can knock down 3-point shots consistently he could become an off ball offensive threat at the next level. Milton would be able to attack closeouts and get to the rim with his speed and ball handling.
Milton’s length and athleticism will make him very valuable defensively. He will be able to guard three positions. His long arms can disrupt passing lanes and lead him to get steals. Lastly, Milton averages almost five rebounds a game, and is averaging almost seven rebounds in his last three games.
Weaknesses: Shake is now the guy for SMU and defenses are paying attention to him as the number one scoring option. The increase in defensive attention, along with the need for Shake to put up more shots, has led to Shake shooting career lows from the floor and 3-point line.
The inconsistent 3-point shooting from the increased defensive attention is the biggest concern. If Milton can’t knock down the 3-point shot consistently that will take away his value as a role player offensively. Which is what teams are hoping to get around the 30 range in the draft.
If Shake wants to be able to play the point guard at the next level he needs to tighten up on his handle. He also needs to make better decisions passing the ball. His turnovers are up this year averaging two and a half a game.
Lastly, the age is always a concern now a days. Being a junior right now, Milton is substantially older than all the freshman and teenage counterparts he is competing with for first round status. He will likely not make many improvements physically or athletically once he gets into the league because of his age.
Overall Outlook: Milton raises very few questions to why he can’t be a solid offensive role player off the bench. If he can consistently knock down his jump shot. That’s the big question, if teams buy into Milton’s jump shot he can be a guaranteed first rounder. However, if they don’t think his jumpshot will translate to the next level Milton might range closer to the middle second round when he hears his name called.