As we enter the Final Four to conclude March Madness, many players have stepped up in big ways in front of NBA scouts to solidify themselves as possible important draft selections. Here are the four players that have improved their NBA Draft stock over the first four rounds.
Dalton Knecht, Tennessee
The outstanding Tennessee senior may have played his last collegiate game against Purdue. It is safe to say that he went out with a bang, scoring 37 points on 45% shooting. NBA teams find older players in college as an issue. Knecht has shown that his game and proves that his play style translates to the next big stage. Knecht has had such a strong senior season since transferring to Tennessee. He has been averaging 21.2 PPG and 4.9 RPG, and has used his skills effectively in March.
Not only did Knecht score 37 points against Purdue, but he put up 23 points against St. Peter’s, and 26 points against Creighton. Despite scouts concerns of not being a freshmen or sophomore with plenty of potential, Knecht has seemed to change the narrative as he finds himself as a projected lottery or possible top 10 pick. Due to the unfortunate loss against Purdue, Knecht will have to forgo his collegiate career while most likely turn pro in this years NBA draft.
Harrison Ingram, North Carolina
Another unfortunate end for the Tar Heels in March Madness, this time coming against the Crimson Tide. Despite the ending for North Carolina, it was an extremely successful season. Big thanks to the versatile wing from Stanford. Harrison Ingram has shown versatility to cover positions one through five on the defensive end, and has dynamic rebounding and shooting ability standing at 6’7. With this being said, Ingram can make his impact everywhere on the floor, even if his shot isn’t falling. The showcase of his finishing ability as well as his way of taking over the game was shown in high fashion, especially against Michigan State.
Many NBA teams are in desperate need of a wing player who can do a bit of everything. They should look no further than Ingram if he decides to declare for the draft. He is currently projected as a second round pick with superstar potential. Ingram could be the hidden gem for NBA teams.
Donovan Clingan, UConn
Through UConn’s first four games in the tournament, they have looked unstoppable. They find themselves in another Final Four looking to repeat and defend their title. The big man up front, Donovan Clingan, has had himself some big games in the tournament. You can contribute that to his scoring and rebounding ability. The 7’2 sophomore has had many problems with injuries, but is back healthy and has shown that he hasn’t taken a step back.
Clingan recorded eight blocks against Northwestern and five blocks against Illinois, courtesy of his long reach and great athleticism. He is great when he does not have the ball, as he gets himself open on offense and is a sneaky presence on defense. As UConn starts their Final Four run against Alabama, Clingan goes up against some elite scorers. He will need to be big on the defensive end against a high scoring team, and be the X-Factor for UConn. Overall, Clingan has the ideal size and movement for the modern NBA. If he finishes the tournament strong, it is possible we hear his name as a possible lottery pick this June.
Jared McCain, Duke
McCain has been one of the nations top freshmen during the regular season. Showing his crafty finishing and consistent shooting, and is a big reason Duke made it to the Elite Eight. Unfortunately, they fell short to the North Carolina State Wolfpack. McCain is an extremely safe pick for any team looking for a shooting guard with great size and great shooting. He is someone who likes the big moments with a competitive mindset. McCain had his shooting on full display against James Madison. Where he made eight three pointers on eleven shots which was good for 30 points, as well 32 points against the Wolfpack. Although McCain could return another year to improve his stock even more. He is projected as a fringe lottery pick, but would be a great addition to any team.
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