Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Player Profile

Strengths

• Passing: All it takes is 5 minutes watching film and you can see just how much better he will make his teammates
• Creativity: gets to the rim in a Manu-esque way, incredibly shifty, elusive, eurosteps
• Handle: hesi-dribbles, deceleration, crossovers are all very effective
• PNR: Beast as manipulating screens and making a positive play, built for NBA
• Defensive Potential: Tall and long, should defend 1-3 well, quick feet with a wingspan that makes him a terror in passing lanes
• Shooting Potential: 40% on 3s on 57 attempts, Off-Ball ability!
• Can finish with either hand

Concerns

• At-Rim Finishing: lacks vertical burst, can he be efficient finishing over NBA bigs
• Weight: 180 lbs, only 3% body fat but not because it’s all muscle, will get bullied until he puts on weight
• Shooting: Trending up but, why did he only attempt 57 threes? Needs more reps/confidence
• Athleticism: Average athlete, not a major concern

Pro Comp

• Taller Rondo
• Shaun Livingston
• Skinny Denzel Valentine

Tier and Picks

• Tier 3
• Picks 10-14

Physical

• 6’6�?
• 180 lbs
• 6’ 11 ½ Wingspan

Outlook

Sleeper Alert!

Why did I ring the alarm? SGA possesses skills that I find particularly valuable for today’s NBA. Specifically, he is the slipperiest player in the draft; this dude can get to the rim at will with an array of hesi-moves, crossovers, euros and deceleration. When he is there, he can finish with either hand or find the open man. His combo of handle and vision make him the second best PnR player, behind Doncic. With an improving, albeit questionable jumper, SGA shows glimpses of shot-making as well. Defensively, he must put on weight; however, his length will create serious problems, plus he owns the foot-speed to stay with players 1-3. A tall point guard who can get to the hoop at will, has vision, and is developing a three? Sign me up. In order to improve his game, and draft stock, SGA must demonstrate more fluidity. This applies to his jumper and defensive footwork. Plus, his NBA career may depend on fit. Put this guy with another ball-handler and I am not sure he could be a starter. That being said, if SGA ends up as the second best point guard in this draft, do not be surprised. Expect the Clippers to look at him, as well as Cleveland and Charlotte if they both want to prepare for lives without their respective best players.

GIFS YOU MUST SEE!

1. Off-Ball Potential

2. Passing Vision: Uh, how did that pass get through…? Wizardry?

2018 NBA Draft Big Board