Los Angeles Clippers: Post-Combine 2018 NBA Draft big board
By Jason Reed
4. Zhaire Smith, SG, Texas Tech
Jonathan Wasserman Big Board ranking: 18
Jonathan Wasserman is not as high on Zhaire Smith as other big board rankings are. Smith possesses immense promise with his athleticism and bounce that can turn him into a Zach LaVine-esque shooting guard at the NBA level. He is a bit raw and he does struggle to create his own chances but Smith has the massive upside to counteract his negatives.
If the Los Angeles Clippers draft a playmaking guard with the 12th overall selection then selecting Smith would make sense. Smith would have a nice backcourt partner to develop alongside. If any coach is going to utilize Smith’s natural ability and athleticism to turn him into a better player, it is Doc Rivers.
Even if the Los Angeles Clippers do not draft a playmaking guard they still have the pieces in place to help Smith succeed. As a member of the second unit, Milos Teodosic would give Smith that playmaking leader he needs to maximize his progression in the NBA. As continues to succeed, the more comfortable he will get with his jump shot and chance creating abilities.
This pick would really come down to who is selected before Smith. If the Los Angeles Clippers do not have any other player they love, Smith is a reasonable pick to make with back-to-back selections due to his upside.
However, if there are two other players that the Clippers love more, Smith should fall down to the mid-first round, as he is gauged by Wasserman.