Cameron Payne – G, Murray State
Size: 6-foot-2, 185 pounds
2014-15 sophomore stats: 20.2 points, 3.7 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 1.9 steals, 0.5 blocks, 2.5 turnovers in 32.2 minutes (35 games).
Why he fits
A passer, scorer and capable defender, Payne addresses a handful of the Sacramento Kings’ needs. Despite dressing for a small D-I school, the 20-year-old caught national scouts’ attentions by carrying the offense and rarely taking his foot off the pedal. Payne was responsible for almost all of Murray State’s highlights on the break and showed no qualms pulling up for a floater or jumper when passing windows were too small.
The Kings should love Payne’s skills in transition, but he’s also a lethal pick-and-roll operator. Throw in his shooting range and promising perimeter defense and you have a ball handler who can play alongside or eventually supplant Darren Collison.
Why he doesn’t fit
Payne arouses physical, mechanical and mental concerns.
At his current weight, NBA opposition will attack him with no remorse. Conversely, Payne shies away from contact on drives. The Tennessee native is lanky enough to grab steals and produce blocks, but his speed and agility is pedestrian for his position. Sometimes Payne brought a lackadaisical approach to defense, and the floor leader’s shot selection is questionable despite his unselfishness.
At sixth overall, Payne is a reach for the Kings. How Sacramento values Collison and Ray McCallum factors into their decision to spend a lottery pick on an obscure talent. With Collison and McCallum signed at reasonable salaries, the Kings may feel pressed to fill other holes and minimize risk.
Likelihood he’s available
Expected. It would be a shock to see Payne go in the top five considering the presence of elite point prospects D’Angelo Russell and Emmanuel Mudiay, as well as a crop of generational big men. Of course, if the Kings feel lucky they could always trade down a slot or two.
Player comparison
Brandon Jennings
DraftExpress video breakdown
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