Draft Controversy

As we approach the 2010 NBA Draft, things are beginning to heat up with the recent combine and group workouts. There is a consensus that this draft is very talented and much better than last year’s class. That statement shouldn’t be over looked, considering last year’s class wasn’t as bad as many projected.

John Wall is the head of this class and believed to be a lock for the number one pick that the Washington Wizards possess. While I’m a huge fan of Wall’s, he is not my favorite player in the draft. I have been telling people since last summer to watch out for Evan Turner and if you didn’t know who he was going into this past season, you definitely know who he is now. He is the complete package and to me, he is a better player than John Wall. I would never argue with anyone if they drafted John Wall number one because I recognize that he possesses the unique skills and athleticism needed to be a dominant franchise type player at probably the most important position (point guard) in the NBA right now. With all that being said, Turner may not be as physically appealing as Wall, but his statistics show he has plenty of game.

In his third season at Ohio State, Turner posted averages of 20 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. He displayed his versatility as he played point guard, shooting guard and both forward positions throughout the season. He is 6’7 and will be able to defend at least three positions at the next level. Evan’s game often draws comparisons to Brandon Roy. He has the ability to create his own shot whenever he’d like but most importantly, he creates shots and opportunities for his teammates.

At the recent draft combine, his wingspan only came out 6’8”, which is surprisingly small for someone of his height but looking at his average of nine 9 rebounds a game this year, his wingspan should not be a problem at the next level. In fact, Turner snagged at least 11 rebounds, 12 times this season, so rebounding should not be an issue no matter what position he is plays.

Although he is not known for his outside shooting, he has the range to shoot from anywhere on the court; literally anywhere, just ask Michigan, who Turner sent home with a last second shot from just across half court. Durability is not an issue, even though he did suffer a broken back mid way through the season that kept him sidelined for six games. If anything that should prove his toughness, commitment and value. With a broken back you expect someone to miss more than two and a half weeks of basketball. He also could have easily taken more time off to rest his body to make sure he was not risking anything that would scare NBA scouts, but instead he showed how much of a leader he is and how committed he was to his college team. Ohio State finished with eight losses this season and three of those eight came while Turner was injured. That is a testament to his value and what he brings to the table.

A trending topic during the scouting process is the evaluation of a prospects character. Evan Turner is a high character guy with zero off the court issues. Recently he was interviewed at the draft combine and his competitive nature came out as he respectfully gave his case for why he should be just as likely to be the number one pick as John Wall. There really isn’t much not to like about Evan Turner. He possesses the desire to win and be successful. Many would argue he is a valuable player but not a franchise player. I personally believe he is a franchise player but if he is not, he should be able to fill the Scottie Pippen role on a team.

Only time will tell here Turner lands, but ho ever selects him in the upcoming draft, will be investing in a gem.