2020 NBA Draft: Desmond Bane is the ultimate draft sleeper
By Evan Wheeler
Defense
Two of the main concerns for analysts and scouts with Bane is his supposed lack of elite athleticism and his short arms. He only has a six-foot-five wingspan, but this lack of elite length doesn’t really seem to limit him in the area’s you would expect especially defensively. Bane’s not only one of the best shooters in this class, but he’s also one of the best defenders for my money.
I believe he’s got the size and strength to potentially defend three positions in the NBA. He’s not only a great on-ball defender and just a pest with the way he smothers opposing ball handlers, but Bane’s also a fantastic team defender.
His head is constantly on a swivel and unlike most young players Bane rarely, if ever gets caught watching the ball. He’s great at helping when he needs to, switches with ease and can be an anchor of a defense. Bane’s also got great hands and because he’s such a good help defender, it’s common to see him knock away the ball on drives when he’s coming over to help defensively.
This is what gives me so much faith in Bane’s chances to immediately help a franchise, but also have longevity in this league. He should be an upper echelon defender for the next decade or so.
