It's crazy, but Connor Atchley was getting some late first round talk going into this season as a big who could shoot the three, block shots, pass well, etc. Well, he has absolutely murdered that projection. Texas would easily have another 2 or 3 wins if he hadn't been so worthless in so many games this year. It's like he's regressed tenfold.
AJ Abrams - will definitely not be drafted in the first round but will potentially be drafted in the second. I agree with a lot of people that he will make a summer league team and may be invited to training camp. If he makes it on a team, it will be as a roll player but will more likely end up in the D League or somewhere overseas. However, if AJ does make an NBA team, he will no longer be the focus of the defense and may see improved shooting statistics. Barnes does frequently praise AJ's defense but he is defending college guards, not NBA guards. TJ was actually a pretty good defender in college but his defense is frequently cited as a liability on his game. Damion James - will be drafted in the first round this year but may drop to the second if he stays in college another year without demonstrating marked improvement. Connor Atchley - has completely destroyed his chances of being drafted. Dexter Pittman - will be drafted next year in the second round at worst. If he can find a way to stay on the court (reduce fouls, increase cardiovascular ability), he will be lottery.
I agree with you all about Atchley taking a step back... he was looking wonderful last season. On ESPN, they were talking about how Conner had a real big setback this season because of several stressful situations within his family... does anyone know what this is about?
I remember that nbadraft.net had him at #28 when the season first started. He's been nothing short of terrible this season. Bricking wide-open threes, picking up stupid fouls, and never boxing his man out. I'm glad he's graduating.
