NBA Draft 2018: Searching for the next Russell Westbrook this year

Zhaire Smith, Texas Tech

Zhaire Smith is about as bouncy as they come and it is not ridiculous to call him one of the most athletic players in Red Raiders history. At 6’5″, Smith has the size of a wing but played the four at times for Texas Tech due to his incredible hops. Smith wasn’t much of a rebounder- only 6.8 rebounds per 40 minutes -but he was able to frustrate a variety of players, forcing them into tough shots. His length makes him an ideal fit in today’s position-less game, especially if he can refine his 3-point shooting.

The Westbrook comparison works for Smith when you look at his 3-point shooting. He only attempted 38 3-pointers on the year but he has hit an impressive 44.7% of them. His shooting mechanics are a little unorthodox and that could become a bigger issue at the NBA-level. He shot 72.8% from the free throw line, so history indicates he can become a decent outside shooter.

Smith has averaged 16.0 pts, 6.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.6 steals and 1.4 blocks per 40 minutes this season. His block percentage of 4.4% is incredible for a guard and surely has NBA scouts intrigued. He has an offensive rebound percentage of 9.2%. This is also impressive and will help him stay effective on offense as he works out the kinks in his jumper. Smith has a free throw attempt rate of 46.5%, exactly 10.0% higher than that of Westbrook during his two years at UCLA. Smith may never be a high-usage player on offense but the rate at which he gets to the free throw line will boost his value.