7. Jordan Hawkins, UCONN
At the moment, Jordan Hawkins is probably a fringe first-round draft pick. However, through the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament, Hawkins has proven that he can certainly play a role for a team at the next level. Through the first weekend of the Tournament, Hawkins is 7-12 from 3-point range. He’s an absolute sniper from deep and may in fact be the best shooter in this draft class.
On the season, Hawkins has averaged 16 points and four rebounds on 38 percent shooting from deep (on nearly eight attempts per game). Hawkins will have to improve his lateral quickness and show a bit more overall athleticism if he wants to be a surefire first-round pick but he’s an interesting prospect to keep an eye on heading into the pre-draft process.
The sophomore guard has made quite the jump in progression from his freshman to sophomore season but I have an impression that he still has a ways to go before he solidifies himself to NBA scouts.
Perhaps another breakout performance in the Sweet 16 would be enough to move him substantially up NBA Draft boards. Who knows.