What are people's opinions about Tyrese Maxey? I really think a guard is what we should be going for in this draft, someone to provide some punch behind Kemba and this draft seems strong in that area - I think we'll be able to pick up a good guard at 14. I think Wanamaker has given us great minutes but we could probably upgrade here. We need a bruising, banging center but I think one of our later picks can meet that need. And we have enough long, athletic wings in Tatum, Brown, and Langford. I love him but I think because of his size Waters will never be able to be a fixture in the NBA.
Anyway, I watched Maxey's shooting drill at the combine and the stroke looked great - the announcers were saying his release point in college was low but he's been working on it, and he was knocking them down all over the court. Watching him run he's clearly an athlete, and at 6'3 he's got size for the position. Was only a freshman last year, and Kentucky does tend to depress stats and usage because of all the talent. Lots of great players in the NBA now were kind of hidden away at Kentucky.
So what about Maxey?
I have long thought of Maxey as a strong candidate for the Cs to draft at #14. He fits the DA draft mold perfectly. Ainge typically targets high end high school recruits (hasn't drafted a player in the lottery ranked lower then a 90 by the ESPN 100), he usually looks past college 3pt shooting Smart, Brown, Rozier, and Langford). Likes guards with + length, and seems to prefer guys who project as + defenders.
I agree with you on who DA drafts.
How do feel that approach fits with BS system?
A few reporters/writers have come out and said it is the wrong approach as it hasn't work as well with the later picks. Lots of talk that if everyone is green-lit and positionless then DA needs to draft size and shooting not defense and quickness.
Without diving to deep into past picks it feels like DA is more willing to draft more NBA ready role player types with lower ceilings outside of the top 20 during the Stevens era.
Grant Williams #22 in 2019 (projected in predraft as a low ceiling high floor guy 3 year college player)
Carsen Edwards #33 in 2019 (elite shooting 3 year college player)
Semi Ojelye #37 2018 ( 3 year college player)
Ante Zizic #23 2017 (projected as a high end role player)
RJ Hunter #28 2016 ( 3 year college player who projected as an elite shooter)
With this sample size it seems fair to predict that top 20 DA focuses on higher ceiling prospects with elite highschool rankings and the tools to be starters or even allstars. Outside the top 20 the focus seems more on guys who are more project able as role players with a clear NBA skill.
Projecting that onto this draft
#14 should be a player like Hampton, Maxey , Green, or McDaniels.
#26/#30 should be Bane, Tillman, Azubuike, Riller, Tillie, Prichard or T Bey