Trying to figure out where each year’s draft is deepest will always be one of the most entertaining pre-Draft bits of coverage on a yearly basis. We debate who’s hot, who’s not, and who might not be getting enough attention, from a position perspective.
For the 2015 NBA Draft, power forwards haven’t always been the most highly regarded group, but they’re coming on strong as the process evolves.
1.) Karl-Anthony Towns
Some may think the Kentucky big man is a center, thus, not needing to be on this list. However, KAT has so much more in his game than he was allowed to show in Lexington, because of the personnel that John Calipari was working with for much of the season. What sets him apart is his ability to switch on so many screens defensively, score with his back to the basket, while also being able to step outside and knock down jumpers. If Tim Duncan is a power forward, then by golly so is Towns.
2.) Kristaps Porzingis
Porzingis is extremely fluid for his size, and does damage from various spots on the floor. He can play above the rim, shoot from the perimeter, and crash the offensive glass thanks to his superior coordination and basketball IQ. Defensively, he’s evolved as well, showing NBA GMs that he can be a true swing player at his height.
3.) Trey Lyles
Another skilled Kentucky player that didn’t get to show folks his entire skill set while in college, Lyles can make a living in the NBA with his ability to knock down shots, handle the ball, and distribute it to teammates. He’s not overly explosive, which can be cause for concern when considering the types of players he may have to defend, but his feel for the game should assist him as team defender under the right coach.
4.) Bobby Portis
Athletic, long, and ferocious, Portis is in a great position here. Since he will be drafted in the late Lottery, or even later, he’ll be heading to play for a franchise close enough to success that he won’t be counted on to be a major offensive contributor right away. This will allow him to come off the bench, catch and shoot, crash the boards, and provide energy plays as a rookie.
5.) Kevon Looney
Looney used to be billed as a bit of a small forward, but his freshman season at UCLA showed that he’s a true PF, just more active than some. Looney can make a living off of his impressive rebounding acumen, while developing his shot and body to withstand the rigors of battling in the paint with NBA bodies.
