[KingslayerParticipant]

Long-time reader, first time poster.  I think KJ McDaniels is one of the most underrated players by draftniks and fans alike. History has taught us that the most a team can hope for in the back half of the first round is a complementary piece to a contending team.  Usually a solid bench player, but in some instances, an effective starter. I believe KJ can be that type of player. His game is remarkably similar to Shawn Marion.

His height and wingspan are about an inch shorter than the Matrix, and he’s definitely lighter, but has a great frame capable of adding easy muscle. He’s more of a wing forward while Marion excelled at either forward position in his prime (and still does). KJ is extremely athletic.  His combine leaps were less than elite, but he could have just had a bad day (it happens).  I’ll go with the game tape every time, and he is extremely explosive in game.  He also had the fastest ¾ court sprint at the combine, reflecting his open court speed and athleticism.  He uses that athleticism to impact the game just like Marion did in his prime, such as rebounding at a high rate, finishing at the rim, and being dynamite in transition. He’s also effective operating in the post. He’s very versatile, possessing a quick first step and showing flashes of shooting consistency from mid-range and deep.  He is not a great shooter, but was also forced into poor shot selection on a Clemson team with little offensive talent.  He still managed to score at high rate in a fairly efficient manner (57% TS%), despite the lack of talent around him.

Like the Matrix, KJ is also a uniquely impactful defensive player, winning DPOY in the ACC by using his versatility, lateral quickness and unbelievable playmaking to wreak havoc on the defensive end. It’s ridiculous that a 6’6 SF could approach 3 blocks/game.  I used to think the same thing about Marion racking up the steals, blocks and rebounds at 6’7.

KJ doesn’t need the ball to be effective, but can create a bit as needed. He’s definitely not adept at creating offense, with an average handle at best.  He also forced the issue with shot selection and drives to the rim, but these issues will be less of a problem with a reduced role in the NBA. He has little passing/playmaking impact, but Marion never really did either.

 

[KingslayerParticipant]

Like any rook, he’ll need to work hard and be coachable, but he looks like he can be the same type of super role player that Marion was in his prime. Perhaps not quite as effective, but he has a very similar game nonetheless. I think he’s well worth a first round pick, even in this historically deep draft.

[KingslayerParticipant]

Like any rook, he’ll need to work hard and be coachable, but he looks like he can be the same type of super role player that Marion was in his prime. Perhaps not quite as effective, but he has a very similar game nonetheless. I think he’s well worth a first round pick, even in this historically deep draft.

[barbabodomParticipant]

 If he had a consistent 3pt shot I would say he was a lock to be selected by Memphis.

[barbabodomParticipant]

 If he had a consistent 3pt shot I would say he was a lock to be selected by Memphis.

[burgessfourParticipant]

 I love him too and have been hoping for some time now that my Sixers get him @ 32.

[burgessfourParticipant]

 I love him too and have been hoping for some time now that my Sixers get him @ 32.

[Author]

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