2020 NBA Draft Profile: PF/C Paul Reed
(DePaul, Junior)
- Height: 6’9
- Weight: 220lbs
- Wingspan: 7’2
- Age: 21
- ’19-20 Stats: 15.1 PPG, 10.7 RPG, 1.6 APG, 1.9 SPG, 2.6 BPG, 51% FG (56% true shooting), 30% 3P (1.8 attempts per), 73% FT
- Specialist Potential: Defensive playmaker, Rim protector, High-energy big
ESSENTIAL STRENGTHS
- Incredible defensive playmaker and event creator who can be an impact defender on a championship-caliber team. Possesses a lethal combination of size, athleticism, length, agility and activity that disrupts opposing offenses (1.9 spg, 2.6 bpg). An asset in any pick-and-roll coverage, provides the versatility to switch, drop, ice, etc.
- Evolving modern four man offensive tools. Shows enticing glimpses of advanced shot creation (euros, step-backs, pull-ups), ball handling, range-shooting and playmaking that can solidify him as a legitimate two-way player.
- Thrives in an uptempo, high-paced offense. Most of his points came in transition (95 points, followed by 71 points on offensive rebounds per Synergy) where he is a relentless floor runner and finisher with the ability to grab and go on direct lines to make a play.
- Outstanding, high-motor rebounder. Reed hunts rebounds in and out of his area on both ends of the floor, forcing opposing teams to put a body on him or they will regret it (3.3 offensive rebounds per game). His work on the offensive glass leads to easy second chance points for himself and valuable opportunities for his teammates. Even with a wiry frame, doesn’t hesitate to be physical and battle for rebounds in traffic.
https://twitter.com/DePaulHoops/status/1250535118852231169
IMPROVEMENT AREAS
Reliable jump-shooting. Reed is a 33 percent career three-pointer (103 3PA) and shot 33 percent (22-66) on jump-shots in the half-court this year. Despite a hitch in his shooting motion and inconsistent landing spots, there is legitimate shooting touch and room to grow with some mechanical adjustments.
Overall offensive skill level. Doesn’t have a truly polished skill, more tools than skills at this point in his development. However, there is reason is to believe in a continued positive skill trajectory due to Reed still getting comfortable in his body (a late high-school growth spurt saw Reed rise from 6’5 to 6’7, then to 6’9 while at DePaul), current level of production and having a father as a former European pro.
Strength. With a lean and rangy frame, Reed must continue to add muscle to his frame to finish through NBA-level contact along with gaining and maintaining positioning on both ends of the floor. Added strength would allow Reed to play more small-ball five, positioning him in more matchup-advantage situations to attack.
Consistent defensive effort. Isn’t always engaged in making quick rotations, possibly due to a combination of effort, fatigue and positioning. Can gamble a bit too much, putting him out of position and leading to easy baskets and fouls.
Offensive Role: Finisher, Lob-threat, Glass-crasher, Pick-and roll/pop man, Tertiary playmaker, Potential floor spacer/stretcher, Grab-and-go big
Defensive Role: Playmaker, Versatile switcher, Rim protector, Glass cleaner
Role Projection: Starter (ceiling), Rotation player (floor)
Foundational Projection: Core (ceiling), Support piece (floor)
Swing Factors: Floor spacing/stretching, Go to offensive moves
NBA Comp: Blend of Kevon Looney (UCLA) and a lower defensive impact version of Nerlens Noel (Kentucky)
CONCLUSION
Reed is an instant impact defender and rebounder with offensive upside thanks to his evolving ball skills and modern tools. Each year at DePaul, Reed made significant strides in skill level, production and confidence. Growth as an advanced shot creator and jump-shooter will ultimately dictate his potential. The versatile Reed should be considered in the mid-to-late first round.
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