1. LaMelo Ball, G, Illawarra
Draft projection: Top 3 pick
There’s no question that LaMelo Ball is arguably the biggest risk out of the 2020 NBA Draft. Well, actually, let me rephrase that. LaMelo Ball is the biggest high-risk, high-rewards prospect. Because he’s going to be drafted so high, and because he has one of the highest ceilings in this draft, he’s going to be considered high risk.
However, for most teams, the reward will outweigh the risk. For teams that are looking for a player that they can insert and play right away, perhaps Ball might not be the pick. For those teams – which are probably mostly those picking at the top of the draft – that is looking for a potential superstar and franchise play, Ball could be the play.
At 6-foot-8, he’s a big guard that can play either the point guard or shooting guard position. There are questions surrounding his shooting consistencies and shot selection, but it’s tough to gauge any player that is coming from overseas. Especially one that played in the NBL.
Nevertheless, LaMelo Ball is an interesting prospect and could end up being the best player from this draft class. That alone could be enough for teams to take a shot on him with the No. 1 overall pick.