2012 NBA Draft Profile: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist

– great size for the small forward position
– 6’10” wingspan
– elite defender who is good/big/long/athletic enough to guard multiple positions in the NBA
– relentless driver who is terrific at getting to the hoop and finishing
– extremely hardworking, intense player
– always gives 100% effort on both ends of the floor
– big game experience
– terrific rebounder for his position
– is a great scorer in transition which should translate well to the pros

The Bad:

– poor outside shooter – will need to improve his shooting range to keep NBA defenders honest
– still extremely young (won’t turn 19 until September) so might not be ready to contribute immediately
– needs to work on his ball-handling
– probably doesn’t project to be a “superstar”

NBA Comparison:

Andrei Iguodala/Gerald Wallace – both in terms of playing style (do-it-all) and level of play (All-Star)

The Skinny:

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is probably the player who did the most to improve his draft stock this season (at least among the elite prospects).  He now has a legitimate shot at being the second name called by David Stern in June.  While he might not project to be a NBA superstar, he does look like an All-Star level player and a mainstay on the NBA’s All-Defensive Team.

For more NBA draft player profiles, visit our 2012 NBA Draft Consensus Mock Draft