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

Trevon Duval, Duke

Trevon Duval is perhaps the prospect most similar to a young Westbrook. Unlike Westbrook, Duval was a top-10 high school recruit, but his strengths and weaknesses are eerily similar. His last game – the Elite Eight – showed off what he can do when he is motivated to score. Duval often got space and a full head of steam going towards the basket. His wingspan is estimated at 6’10” and he used it to finish against Kansas with an array of scoop layups. Duval had 20 points on 56.3% shooting but also finished with almost as many assists (6) as turnovers (4).

Westbrook finished with a 20% 3-point attempt rate over his two years at UCLA. Duval had a 30.9% 3-point attempt rate this season, which was more of a sign of the times than anything. He was a 29% 3-point shooter and his outside game did little to open up the lane for him.

Because of defenses sagging so far off of him, Duval attempted a paltry 2.4 free throws per game. He shot an abysmal 59.6% from the free throw line. His issues with his shooting form will need to be ironed out for Duval to reach his maximum potential. At the NBA level, Duval has the speed and athleticism to hang.

Trevon Duval did not have the green light to take ownership of the Duke offense in his freshman season. And because of this, it is not likely he is drafted in the first round of the NBA draft, if at all. But with the floor-spacing provided at the professional level, Duval will surely be able to increase his free throw attempt rate.