I like James Nnaji. Reminds me a lot of Garuba but Garuba but with actual height to play center. I think he has Kevon Looney potential and would be a nice backup to Sengun.
When he’s engaged he’s a solid defender, lot of blocks and contests. It’s inconsistent but the defense is there when he wants. On tape he plays big. Manu-esque Scroll to defense or watch whole video
Like most young players, poor technique, has a tendency to over extend / over run plays but effort appears to be there in general. Shortest wingspan of all SG/PG expected to go in the 1st round, isn't the most "Explosive" athlete though adequate. Put him with the right coach and I think he could be an effective defender. He's a smart player who plays too fast on that end - needs to slow it down and stick to the fundamentals / execute the plan.
Better way of explaining his defense. I couldn’t put a finger on it. Plus 2 wingspan isn’t ideal but I think he makes plays defensively still.
One other prospect who looks like a massive steal is Dariq Whitehead. Seems like a better version of AJ Griffin who went 16th last year. Dude dealt with a foot surgery that didn't heal properly and a leg strain but otherwise has been reasonably healthy. There's a lot of prospects that look great in the 20s late teens range I'm ok trading back to get more picks. I think at least one of Brandin P, Schafino, Whitehead, Rupert, Maxwell Lewis and Nnaji gonna outperform their draft spots.
And he is REALLY mobile at that size too. Along with Lively the best rim runner/shot blockers in the draft imo. Something I really think we need on this roster, especially to balance Alpe out at the 5 and be able to give different looks. Actually not as big a reach as one might think (late riser). I saw him at #23 in two separate nocks a couple of days ago and just checking tonight I find him at: #21 https://nbadraftroom.com/p/2023-nba-mock-draft/ #24 https://www.tankathon.com/mock_draft #24 https://nbadraft.theringer.com/ There's a lot of 3 and d wings and scoring 2's I like in the #20 range, especially if we draft a point in Amen or A. Black at #4 but I just think a mobile, defensive, shot blocking, lob threat is something that would bring a lot of value to our roster, like Robert Williams does for the Celtics and I think Nnaji has a chance to be a good-great one. I have no problem with him at #20, especially if Ime signs off on him.
I think Rox would really benefit trading for another pick in this draft. 2024 is rumored to suck ass and we got KJ Martin whom we really shouldn't be paying 10M a year to pout on the bench. Rox should try to get as many late 20s pick as possible and get guys like Nnaji, Ryan Rupert, Hood Schifino, Brandin P etc At the very least these guys are gonna be solid role players on the cheap and who knows they might actually be stars down the road.
Agree with this re: Whitehead. I am a believer. If he is there at 20 (and looks a good chance according to mocks), just draft and be patient
