It seems like everyone has nothing but positive things to say about former Iowa Hawkeye and now No. 4 overall draft pick Keegan Murray of the Sacramento Kings.
Why not, right? After all, Murray just ironed down the NBA 2K23 Summer League’s Most Valuable Player award. In his four games in the NBA 2K23 Summer League, Murray averaged 23.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.3 steals. Murray also shot 50% from the field, and an impressive 40% from 3-point range.
Naturally, his performances picked up plenty of buzz from onlookers across social media. His summer has also caught the attention of a former longtime NBA scout as well.
Michael VandeGarde, who spent 18 years with the Philadelphia 76ers, caught up with Rutgers Wire to discuss where players landed in the 2022 NBA draft.
“I like where Keegan Murray landed. He is a great fit for the Kings although I would have swung for the superstar talent of Ivey. I like how he will fit into the new culture of the Kings. He will do well there,” VandeGarde said.
VandeGarde now works with CoachTube, a digital platform that provides online sports coaching and training from former college and professional coaches as well as players. He elaborated on his thoughts on Murray joining the Kings.
“The Kings need a multi-versatile offensive player who can score with some size next to (Domantas) Sabonis. I like De’Aaron Fox and Davion Mitchell and Sabonis. He should fit right in with that young core. He is an elite worker and has improved immensely in the last few years. He has to continue that trajectory for his first few years in the NBA. I like the direction of the Kings since Monte McNair took over,” VandeGarde said.
Again, it’s more of the rave reviews we’ve seen and heard so far with Murray. Equally important, it seems like Murray is really satisfied with where he’s wound up.
“I, fortunately, in a positive way, fell to the Kings and it’s been a blessing for me. And I’ve just been blessed to be in this position. I think this is one of the best organizations I could have been a part of for my rookie year,” Murray said.
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