KENTAVIOUS CALDWELL-POPE
6-5, 205 lbs.
School: Georgia
Class: Sophomore
Selected by Detroit Pistons with 9th overall pick
STRENGTHS: Caldwell-Pope is a classic jump shooter who just so happens to have shocking athleticism that he breaks out once every so often. The 6-5 guard averaged 18.5 points per game last season and won the SEC Player of the Year award even though he played for an uninspiring Georgia team. He can score in a variety of ways, but most of his production comes from jump shots. He has in-the-gym range and can shoot off the dribble as well as he does off the catch. Caldwell-Pope was nothing if not consistent; he scored in double figures in every game this season for the Bulldogs and put up 20-plus points 11 times. His athleticism is shocking because his offensive game is so grounded and reliant on the jumper that you can’t believe it when he flies through the air and rejects somebody or throws down a ridiculous, jaw-dropping dunk where his kneecaps nearly touch the rim. (Seriously). Caldwell-Pope already has NBA range and could thrive in an offense where he can get open looks. He also ripped down 7.1 boards per game.
WEAKNESSES: He’s a volume shooter and only shot 43 percent this season (37% from behind the arc). He’s had some ugly games (5-18, 5-21, 5-15) and needs to learn better shot selection. He’s not a great passer and can have a one-track mind at times, which hurts him. Though his jumper has been money, it’s not a pure stroke. He should take the ball to the basket more often but settles for jumpers too much. He’s got the athleticism to be a slasher, but doesn’t seem confident enough in his quickness and ability to drive to the goal.
BOTTOM LINE: He’s got good enough size to get his shot off in the NBA, and a good enough shot to stick it. He’s athletic enough to defend at the next level and can have a high motor on defense. There are some issues with his game, like the fact that he relies on the jumper too much, but that could end up being just fine if he plays a role as a spot-shooter at the next level. He’s not as talented a scorer as Marshon Brooks, but that may be the best comparison for what Caldwell-Pope brings to the table at the next level.