NBA Draft 2019: Analyzing under the radar mid-major basketball selections
By Zac Voynow
Jalen McDaniels, San Diego State
The Charlotte Hornets selected Jalen McDaniels 52nd overall.
McDaniels is a 6’9″ small forward with a great variety of skills. He’s long, lanky, and possesses great athleticism on both ends of the floor. McDaniels came into a zone, leading the SDSU gritty offense. His offensive game is close to second to none in this draft. He has a limitless range from beyond the arch, he has a very nice handle with the basketball, and he has the ability to finish inside among the trees thanks to his tall frame.
McDaniels is a good defender as well. He has great footwork, which makes him stand out on both ends of the floor. Due to his frame and footwork, he’s a stellar isolation defender, but he also can hold his own inside. He’s a bit more physical than his 192-pounds would suggest.
Overall, McDaniels is a stellar two-way wing who excels on the offensive end of the floor. He could end up being a steal in the draft, and an immediate impact player in the NBA.