NBA Draft Combine: Key Insights a Week Out

The NBA Draft Combine is scheduled for May 11-18 in Chicago, with extensive coverage available on ESPN. This year, 75 players, featuring some of the most promising candidates for the upcoming draft, will participate in the event. Viewers can expect to see official physical assessments for each player along with their performances during the scrimmages—this marks one of the earliest opportunities to observe these athletes competing under NBA conditions.

It’s an excellent chance for players to significantly enhance their chances of being drafted higher. In previous years, we've witnessed numerous instances where participants improved their standing through exceptional performances here. Whether they perform remarkably during measurements or standout in athletic tests that scouts hadn't previously noted, these actions can elevate them up the draft lists. However, keep in mind that while the Combine offers opportunities to boost one's status, it equally holds potential risks that might adversely affect a player's draft position.

If a prospect who didn't receive extensive attention at the collegiate level or isn't coming from college plays at all, performing well in the scrimmages might significantly influence how scouts view their competitiveness against the broader pool of players.

Leonard Miller presented an intriguing scenario a few years ago post his time with the G League Ignite. As one of the youngest players eligible for the draft at that point, he exhibited considerable promise. However, during scrimmages, he struggled significantly, leading scouts to recommend postponing his move to the NBA until after another year of development. This turned out to be wise counsel as he got selected in the second round the subsequent year by the Minnesota Timberwolves.

We should not place excessive importance on these scrimmages or shooting exercises since they pale compared to a larger set of statistics, direct observation, and proven track records. These factors hold greater weight than just two contests held in what essentially feels like an informal NBA setting. Striking the right balance is crucial whenever you watch such matches.

When scouts observe these athletes during scrimmages, what they primarily seek is evidence of skills not yet demonstrated in collegiate play or international competitions. If a player who rarely attempted three-point shots in college suddenly performs well at the combine, making several successful attempts and appearing confident behind the arc, this newfound ability could significantly enhance their draft prospects and add an entirely new facet to their gameplay.

In these scrimmages, don’t expect the top prospects to play as most of them don’t want to risk an injury or risk affecting their draft stock. So, someone like Cooper Flagg has no business competing, but he will be forced to take part in the measurements and athletic drills due to NBA rules.

The upcoming week looks daunting for them since they'll face numerous media sessions along with interactions with various NBA teams and additional parties. Besides all the discussions, they've got plenty more commitments lined up as mentioned earlier. Adding to this schedule, the NBA Draft Lottery is set for next week too, making it quite an eventful period overall. All eyes should remain peeled for what promises to be a significant lead-up to the NBA Draft events.

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This piece was initially published on www.si.com/nba/draft as NBA Draft: NBA Draft Combine Less Than A Week Away .