Zhaire Smith

NBA DRAFT SCOUTING REPORT

POSITION: SG SFFROM: Texas TechHT: 6-4WT: 195
BORN: 6/4/99YEAR: Fr.WING: 6-9 1/2REACH: 8-4

Draft Notes

Smith is a strong, quick and aggressive player who can really get after it on the defensive end. He’s got tremendous length and great defensive instincts and is showing potential as a spot up shooter.

Strengths

  • Athleticism through the roof
  • Length for size (+5 wingspan)
  • Powerfully built with good strength
  • Defensive instincts and effort
  • A very good shot blocker for a wing
  • Intangibles: energy, effort, coachability
  • Is always in the right position and really understands the game at a high level
  • A great offensive rebounder

Weaknesses

  • Shooting: not yet a great three point shooter or free throw shooter (although he’s showing rapid improvement)
  • Needs to polish his ball-handling ability and play-making skills
  • Doesn’t project as a number one option on offense

Comparisons

  • Reminds of K.J. McDaniels with his great defense and athleticism but has higher upside on the offensive end.
  • Sterling Brown 
  • A more athletic John Starks

Draft Projection

mid first to early second round pick