MIP 99: Post Lottery Temperature Check

As we work through the combine and into individual workouts, we are taking an MIP temperature check at some of the most interesting players to watch in our ranking.

If you are interested in taking a deeper dive into individual prospects, take a look at our scouting section here!

Players to Watch:

#32 Terquavion Smith: Smith has become the name coming out of the NBA combine. The NC State guard dominated every aspect of the workouts and has seemingly positioned himself as a first round pick after being a fringe second round pick (at best) heading into the events. Smith, by all accounts, dominated the one on ones, shot the lights out in the the three point drill and continued to impress in 5 on 5’s. In my opinion, Smith was going back to NC State prior to the combine explosion but could easily be a surprise name in the first round. He may even find himself getting consistent minutes in an NBA rotation depending on where he is drafted. It isn’t too hard to imagine him being an impact player off the bench with his offensive gifts. A “microwave” scorer who has good size and vision to go along with his dynamic ability on the offensive end of the floor should be able to help any organizations second unit right away. These gifts are going to prevent him from being drafted any lower than the top of the second round. I wouldn’t be surprised if a team falls in love with him during individual team workouts and takes a chance by selecting him in the first, regardless, Smith is a major name to watch. Originally Ranked: N/A (+86)

#57 Jared Rhoden: Rhoden is coming off a senior season that ended in a place that left more to be desired. After having a strong regular season, even though his scoring was a bit up and down,  Rhoden missed the mark in both the Big East and NCAA tournament. Coming into the pre-draft process it was all but assumed the former Pirate would end up struggling to gain real NBA eyes even with his invitation to the G-League combine. However, an extremely strong performance ended with an invitation to the NBA combine which then translated into over ten team workouts. Rhoden has decided to control his own destiny and, as we always say, in a league that is starved for wing talent that can guard multiple positions he fits the need. Even if teams believe he can be secured after the draft the Seton Hall standout has at the very least elevated his stock enough to secure a two-way contract. Rolling the dice on him with a late second round pick doesn’t seem to be out of the question at this point in the process. Originally ranked: #104 (+47)