[jwplayer aiYrGXt7]
Former Penn State forward Lamar Stevens will reportedly interview with the Golden State Warriors on Thursday, according to Bryan Kalbrosky of the USA TODAY Sports Media Group.
Stevens is projected to be selected with the 56th overall pick in the latest 2020 Rookie Wire NBA Mock Draft after a strong four-year career with the Nittany Lions. He averaged 17.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.2 blocks and 1.1 steals in 31 games played last season.
The 6-foot-8 forward has been touted as a strong frontcourt player given his ability to finish and work in pick-and-roll situations. Stevens has been compared to Jae Crowder given his ability to play and guard multiple positions.
The Golden State Warriors will interview Lamar Stevens this afternoon, per multiple sources. The four-year starter for @PennStateMBB is an athletic forward who is receiving comparisons to Jae Crowder.
Interview with @LamarStevens11: https://t.co/St1jRXB5vf #ClimbWithUs đŚ pic.twitter.com/XUosg5au5a
— Bryan Kalbrosky (@BryanKalbrosky) October 8, 2020
The Warriors hold the second, 48th and 51st picks in the NBA Draft, respectively. The team has been rumored to being interested in trading the second pick but they could look to target Stevens in the second round or as an undrafted player.
With a huge payroll expected for next season, the Warriors will need to continue to target cheaper players that can contribute, and adding a prospect through the draft would be a great way to do that. Stevens could help provide the Warriors with additional scoring off the bench in the frontcourt.
The NBA Draft Combine kicked off last week and will be conducted in phases both in team markets and virtually. Prospects will undergo physical testing this month at the NBA team facility nearest to their home or interim residence.
The NBA Draft is scheduled to take place on Nov. 18.
[lawrence-related id=23187,23181,23016]
[vertical-gallery id=14282]