7. Franz Wagner, F, Michigan
Measurables: 6-foot-9, 220 pounds, 6-foot-8 wingspan
Class: Sophomore
Age: 19
Mike’s Ranking: 9
Evan’s Ranking: 7
Franz Wagner could have one of the highest floors in this class and should be at the very least a serviceable starter for whatever franchise drafts him. Some may say his limited upside as a primary scoring option and shot-creator at the next level could warrant him being left out of the top 10, but I personally just don’t buy it.
There’s a very valid case that can be made that Wagner is the best perimeter defender in this draft, he oozes NBA All-Defensive team and has the ability to guard four different positions. He’s got the lateral quickness to stay with guards, the size to defend forwards, and a desire to play defense that frankly, not many players have.
Wagner’s range defensively is unreal, he’s got an endless motor, and routinely makes help-side blocks look easy. His game reminds me of a bulkier, less athletic version of former NBA All-Star forward Andrei Kirilenko.
Wagner’s scoring potential could be capped by his lack of elite physical tools and mainly consistent handling ability, but he’s an adequate playmaker who can be a secondary creator at times and can shoot the three-ball with efficiency.
At worst, I see Wagner as being a rotational three-and-d wing who will be a valuable piece in creating a winning culture for wherever he ends up in the league.