Malik Newman
After a Final Four run with Kansas in which he was one of the major contributors to the team, shooting guard Malik Newman decided to enroll early in the NBA Draft.
Though there are certainly more heralded players that might have higher ceilings than Newman, he would make for an interesting selection in the second round for the Hawks if they were to somehow obtain another selection therein.
Newman was a rock-solid and extremely efficient scorer during his sophomore year, putting up 14.2 points per game on an excellent 60.6 true shooting percentage (including 41.5 percent from downtown).
Newman is also a smart player with great feel who rarely made mistakes at Kansas. His 1.7 turnovers per game was excellent, especially for a guard who showcased the ability serve as his team’s primary ballhandler at times (though Devonte’ Graham was the clear number-one option).
Though his upside might not pop as well as some of the more nuclear athletes in this class, Newman’s per-36 minute numbers (16.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists) bely a player who should be able to score efficiently in the NBA and contribute in multiple ways to winning basketball.
Despite coming in with little hype, Newman would make for an interesting selection for the Hawks if they were to nab another second rounder or if he were to go undrafted.