A way-too-early look at the 2018 NBA Draft

Marvin Bagley III, Duke

The Duke Blue Devils’ Marvin Bagley III will likely be the best player on the best men’s team in the NCAA this coming season.

His biggest question mark is his shooting ability. But even without a consistent three-pointer, Bagley is an adept shot creator and finisher in isolation because of his athletic ability. His speed, fluidity and body control make him a terror in the open court too.

While he is anything but scrawny in comparison to his peers, he will need to fill out more to maintain that scoring ability at the next level. Adding strength and improving his shot would make him almost unstoppable attacking off the catch and punishing smaller defenders.

He is a (nearly) 7-footer with a wing’s skill set. Bagley will benefit from plenty of mismatches on offense and, with his wingspan and quick feet, has plenty of defensive potential. He has already produced highlight reels of emphatic blocked shots that show his anticipation and skill as a help defender. Bagley can also switch on pick-and-rolls and guard multiple positions.

His playmaking ability is also intriguing. He already excels at finishing out of the pick and roll, but with his ball-handling and passing ability, he could potentially run it well if he gets the chance to do so at Duke.

As he continues to develop and diversify his game, Bagley is on his way to becoming a bona fide star.