Mar 10, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Harry Giles (1) reacts during the second half of an ACC Conference Tournament game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
The Sacramento Kings acquired the No. 20 pick in a trade with the Trail Blazers and used it on Harry Giles from Duke. If healthy, he could be a steal down the line.
The Kings received the pick when they dealt the No. 10 pick for No. 15 and No. 20. They selected Justin Jackson from North Carolina with the No. 15 pick, and now Harry Giles at number No. 20 The duo joins fifth overall selection De’Aaron Fox as new Kings.
Giles once drew Kevin Garnett comparisons in high school, where he was the number one rated recruit in the class of 2016. He showed all the tools that an idealized power forward should have, a sure fire lottery pick. But there is good reasoning as to why Giles was available at the No. 20 selection: injuries.
He faced a major knee injury during the beginning of his senior high school season, however, and had another surgery prior to his only season at Duke. He returned to average 3.9 points and 3.8 rebounds in a reserve role before going pro. Giles was obviously a shell of his former self at Duke, and his continued rehabilitation will determine how successful his NBA career is.
If Giles regains his athleticism, he could still yet have All-Star potential. Even if he doesn’t regain his previous form, there are certain skills he could still bring. Giles projects as a solid rebounder, high energy big man who has good hands and instincts around the rim. He could become a solid pro without realizing his All-Star potential, which makes him a good bet in the late first. There will be no immediate pressure placed on Giles on this Kings team, which makes it a good fit for both ends.
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