Myles Turner – C, Texas
Size: 6-foot-11, 240 pounds
2014-15 freshman year stats: 10.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 0.3 steals, 2.6 blocks, 1.4 turnovers in 22.2 minutes (34 games).
Why he fits
Turner is a two-way center who would allow DeMarcus Cousins to slide over to exploit power forwards. The 19-year-old is an elite shot blocker and a productive rebounder, which would help ease the burden of responsibilities on Cousins.
On offense, Turner’s jumper is his bread and butter. The pivot demonstrated in college that he possesses the range to score from downtown, which is an absent skill in the Sacramento Kings’ frontcourt. Throw in his ability to run the floor and you have a skilled, young prospect whose game transitions well to the modern NBA.
Why he doesn’t fit
Aside from rim protection, Turner’s defense is pedestrian. He struggles to guard the pick-and-roll, and the native Texan is laterally too slow to keep up with perimeter shooters. His athleticism in general is nothing special.
Turner’s play style with the ball is a concern to scouts too. The towering figure settles for long looks fairly often, and his low-post scoring primarily consists of turnaround jumpers. Turner rarely attacks the basket, as he’s more of a finesse player.
He may have touch, but ball movement dies when the rock meets Turner, and the last thing Sacramento needs is another black hole.
One year out of high school, Turner will have to add upper body strength and expand his predictable offense. The Kings are in win-now mode and a project at center may not get the necessary care and attention.
Likelihood he’s available
Very good. The surplus of frontcourt talent in the draft pool, along with Turner’s limitations make him a reach in the top five.
Then again, the five clubs picking ahead of the Kings arrived in their current state in part to reckless draft decisions. Another year, another chance to stun the world.
Player comparison
Gorgui Dieng
DraftExpress video breakdown
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