4. Patrick McCaw
UNLV’s Patrick McCaw has been all over draft boards throughout this scouting season. Some view him as an mid-second round pick, while others see him being a late first round pick. Regardless of those predictions, McCaw’s skills mirror that of the 3-and-D wings that are so valued in today’s NBA (think, Klay Thompson).
At 6-7, McCaw has the height and length to play either wing spot. His versatility is not just in positions played, it also comes in pure ability as well. McCaw is a terrific play maker with great all-around skills from the wing, averaging 14.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. McCaw also shot 37% from 3 and has a developing jumper to add to his arsenal. But, McCaw’s talent mostly stands out on the defensive side of the ball. A lockdown defender, McCaw averaged 2.5 steals per game and terrorized opposing wings with his 6-10 wingspan. For a Hawks team that is hurting for wing depth, McCaw could step in and be a very valuable rotational player right away.
The biggest knocks on McCaw relate to his weight. At only 180 pounds, McCaw needs to add muscle to live up to his elite defensive potential and to be able to push around NBA wing players. Also, added weight will allow him to drive more effectively and finish in the paint. An improved slashing game would give McCaw a very dangerous offensive repertoire.
McCaw would be a fairly safe add to a Hawks wing rotation that could use a little punch. With elite defensive upside, a good outside shot and a developing body, McCaw could be a very good wing in Atlanta’s system. Joining a great defensive team that loves to shoot from deep, just like him. Following the “Spurs East” model, McCaw resembles a championship piece from that very franchise.
Comparison: Danny Green