2018 Orlando Magic Draft Preview: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
By Jean Racine
Final Word
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a terrific NBA prospect with loads of potential. He proved the ability to score and run an offense at Kentucky.
His ceiling is James Harden because of his size, craftiness and ability to finish around the rim. Although, it is hard to see him ever averaging 30-plus points per game and winning a scoring title. His floor, on the other hand, is Elfrid Payton because of questions on whether he will be a good shooter in the NBA.
That wide range is part of what makes him intriguing and what makes him a risk still. He is certainly willing to put in the work and can produce at a fairly high level. But there remain questions whether he can put it all together.
He has the physical tools NBA teams surely like. The length and athleticism are strong. He is a hard worker on defense. That will be a good place to start.
Gilgeous-Alexander will have to prove he can play point guard full time and his shot is confident and consistent. From there, it remains to be seen whether all those skills will come together.
NBA representatives should bet on the development of Gilgeous-Alexander because he is a proven hard-worker. He worked his way into the starting lineup at Kentucky and became arguably the best player on the team.
Next: 2018 NBA Draft Preview: Who is Anfernee Simons
If he continues to develop his game and gain more confidence with his jumper, Gilgeous-Alexander will be an all-star and a transcendent player at the point guard position.