Kris Wilkes NBA Draft Scouting Report

Overview
A wiry athlete who runs the floor well and is excellent at scoring in transition and from mid range. A fundamentally sound all around player who shows good awareness and recognition, spaces the floor well and is a lethal scorer.

Strengths
Does a good job of attacking the paint and getting to the rim or drawing a foul. Has a quick first step and a knack for scoring in the lane from various angles. Keeps the defense honest with his outside shooting ability and uses the up-fake well to get the defender off his feet.

Has an overall high skill level and is an excellent ball handler and passer. Shows some point forward skills and can collapse the defense with the dribble and find the open man. Plays the game the right way and moves the ball well. Takes good shots and is an efficient scorer.

Is quick up and down the court and excels in an uptempo style of play. Changes ends in a hurry and is good at finishing on the fast break. Has the length and leaping ability to make plays above the rim. Does a really good job of crashing the offensive glass and getting second chance points.

Shows good hustle and plays with a lot of heart. Doesn’t take possessions off and shows a commitment to the defensive end. Has the length and enough strength to be a high level defender and one who can guard multiple positions.

Has a smooth release on his jumper and an advanced mid range game. Has a quick and compact overhead release and gets nice elevation on his shot. Is a very efficient shooter from the elbow and from 18 feet, and really knows how to find his shot. Shows the potential to become an excellent three point shooter with a shot that projects well.

Has an old school, fundamentally sound game and good work ethic. Seems to be destined for a long NBA career.

Weaknesses
Lacks upper body strength and overall strength. Could get pushed around on defense until he fills out his frame and gets stronger.

Is not yet a consistent enough threat from three point range.

Is a good but not great athlete by NBA standards. Doesn’t have great lateral quickness and is a bit stiff on the back peddle.

Comparisons
Reminds of Harrison Barnes with some Rudy Gay mixed in.
Kris Middleton

Projection:  mid to late first round pick in the 2019 NBA Draft