Khaman Maluach - Duke center - 18 y/o

Stats: 9 p/g, 7 r/g, 1.3 blk, 71% FG%

Measurables: 7'1" - 250 lbs - 7'6" wingspan

Maluach's physical dimensions are immediately noticeable. His 7'1" height, nearly 7'7" wingspan, and 9'8" standing reach make him a formidable presence in the paint on both ends of the floor. Maluach's rim-protecting potential is his calling card. He possesses strong defensive instincts and great timing. While his freshman year block numbers (1.3 BPG in 21.9 MPG, 2.5 per 40 minutes) weren't off the charts, his ability to disrupt drives, combined with his sheer size, points to high-level rim protection in the NBA. He's also a good help-side rim protector. For a player of his size, Maluach moves remarkably well. He slides his feet with impressive quickness for a 7-footer and isn't a complete liability when switched onto perimeter players. This mobility gives him an elite defensive ceiling. Offensively, he is primarily a finisher around the rim. He's an excellent pick-and-roll lob threat, catching everything thrown his way. He shot an impressive 80.6% at the rim at Duke and is a force on the offensive boards (16.5% offensive rebound rate). He consistently finishes with power and relies on his size and athleticism. While his jumper was low-volume at Duke, he shows 3-point potential down the line. Maluach is still very raw and has trouble creating his own shot outside of attempts at the rim. Despite his size, he needs to work on his rebounding, as he is prone to ball-watching. He lacks elite vertical pop, only testing with a 24-inch vert. Overall, having only picked up basketball at age 13, Maluach is still relatively new to the sport. While he's made rapid strides, his feel for the game, particularly defensive rotations and offensive positioning, still needs refinement.

NBA Comps: Rudy Gobert, taller Jarrett Allen, lankier DeAndre Hunter

Best Fits: Toronto, Chicago, Washington

Ceiling: All-Star

Floor: Rotation Big

Projected Draft Range: 6-12