The 2013 NBA Draft was full of surprises.Experts had Nerlens Noel practically locked in as the number one pick in every mock draft, but he fell down to the sixth spot. Anthony Bennett ended up being selected first overall; nobody saw that one coming.
So now that we know where each rookie will be playing next season, here are three who have a great chance to excel in their first NBA season.
Ben McLemore, SG, Sacramento Kings
The Kings didn’t think they’d have a chance to pick McLemore with the seventh overall pick, but somehow he fell into their laps.This is actually a great fit for both teams. The Kings needed a wing scorer to help take away double teams from DeMarcus Cousins, and Cousins needed a three-point shooter to be able to kick the ball out to when he gets double teamed.
McLemore is arguably the best shooter in this rookie class, and his offensive game should translate well to the NBA. He is a fluid athlete with a silky smooth jump shot, and look for him to play well as a rookie.
Tim Hardaway Jr., SG, New York Knicks
Hardaway Jr. proved this year at Michigan that he can be an effective offensive player without needing a lot of touches.This Knicks team desperately needs another scorer to take some of the offensive load of Carmelo Anthony’s shoulders, especially if J.R. Smith leaves in free agency. Hardaway Jr. is a nice compliment to Anthony, as he can spot up and knock down a three-pointer or take his man off the dribble and get into the lane.
I was surprised Hardaway Jr. fell to the Knicks at 24, but it ended up being a perfect fit for his skill set.
Trey Burke, PG, Utah Jazz
The Jazz and Trey Burke are a match made in heaven.The have plenty of bigs and like to run pick-and-rolls, but also need some scoring from their point guard as well. Burke excels in the pick-and-roll game, and his basketball IQ should shine in this system.
Give Burke and the young Jazz big men some time to develop some chemistry, and this young core could lead the Jazz back into the upper echelon of the Western Conference.
[tps_footer][Mike Lucas Sports][/tps_footer]
