NBA Draft: Jordan Hawkins Emerging as Immediate Contributor

Already one of the top sophomores in the country, Jordan Hawkins continues to get better with each passing game.

Already one of the top sophomores in the country, Connecticut guard Jordan Hawkins continues to get better with each passing game.

Averaging 16.2 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.3 rebounds on the season, Hawkins, a key contributor for the 20th-ranked Huskies, has gotten in more of a groove in the latter half of the season. In his last eight games, Hawkins is averaging 19.9 points while shooting 47 percent overall and 42 percent from beyond the arc on near 7.5 attempts.

Shooting 40 percent from three on over seven attempts per game throughout the season, he’s made a solid case as the best shooter in the country this season. Even more than the numbers, he passes the eye test. 

He can choose from a variety of complicated shot types. And while he’s best as a spot-up shooter, his footwork and quickness make him a lethal movement shooter capable of making some unteachable-type shots.

His combination of shooting, NBA-ready frame, feel and even experience, could make him and immediate contributor in big leagues.

There’s of course several improvement points for Hawkins to hit his ceiling. He’s shooting 55 percent around the rim, a number that could stand to improve along with the volume. And his defense will need to see constant improvement for him to be a plus in the NBA.

Right now, Hawkins is likely mocked as a late first round selection.

A potentially unpopular opinion: with a strong tournament performance and tweaking in key areas, Hawkins could emerge as a legitimate threat to contend for a 2023 lottery spot.

Should there be a late lottery team in desperate need of an injection of a solid floor and shooting, Hawkins could very well be the pick.

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