[jwplayer uloPlAaR]
In the Los Angeles Times’ mock draft published Friday, the Oklahoma City Thunder snagged a point guard who some are looking at as a lottery option.
The Thunder took point guard R.J. Hampton, who played for the New Zealand Breakers last season.
Hampton, who was one of the top high school players in his class, went overseas instead of college. While that play didn’t do much for his stock — he ranges anywhere from a lottery to late-first round — some see starter potential in him.
The LA Times wrote:
“The Thunder’s rebuild appears to be fully on, so why not grab a combo guard with room to grow?”
Hampton is athletic and has a solid feel for the game already, showing good vision and passing abilities. Hampton’s shooting was not good, but video looks like his offseason training with former NBA sharpshooter Mike Miller has been paying off. As The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie pointed out, his mechanics are looking a lot better than they did in New Zealand, when he released from practically the left side of his face.
Listed at 6-foot-5, Hampton projects as a guard who can play off-ball and on. He looks like he could be an interesting fit with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
With that said, it’s unlikely that Hampton is still around for the Thunder with the 25th pick. He has been a riser in mock drafts over the last couple months, often landing in the 15 to 20 range. Oklahoma City may have to move up if they are truly interested in landing the guard.
The 2020 NBA draft will take place on Nov. 18.
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