Yesterday I released Part Two of my Bulls Top 10 Most Likey Draft Picks list for 2017. The name at #1 on that list probably surprised some Bulls fans. But Duke’s sophomore shooting guard Luke Kennard has been flying up draft boards left and right. Somebody commented on my column saying that Kennard would be a nice second round pick. Clearly they haven’t been paying attention.
Luke Kennard: Too Good & Already Gone?
What looked to be a great opportunity to steal a much-needed shooter for Fred Hoiberg’s backcourt is becoming an unrealistic hope. According to ESPN’s Chad Ford – who just released his latest NBA draft column – general managers and scouts across the league are falling in love with Luke. Some are saying he’s a lock to go inside the top ten.
Take a look at these comments about Kennard by NBA general managers:
“There’s no way he gets to us,” one GM in the late lottery said. “I don’t think there’s any way he’s out of the top 10. We think he’s the best shooter in the draft. We think he’s tough. He’s more athletic than you think. He really thinks the game. He’s the most underrated guy in this draft.”
“The best shooter in the draft.” Based on the film I’ve watched, I tend to agree. The Bulls desperately need a guard who can knock down shots from all over the floor, including three point range. Unfortunately, every other NBA team wants shooters too.
“He’s ranked ahead of Malik Monk on our board,” another GM said. “He’s not as athletic, but he has a much more versatile game and he’s less streaky. Monk will be great. An instant scorer coming off the bench. But we think Kennard could be a full-time starter in the league.”
One GM has Kennard ranked AHEAD of Malik Monk. According to one of Ford’s sources, the Knicks are “seriously considering” taking Kennard at #8.
Here I thought the Bulls might be able to steal this guy that they desperately need. But apparently the secret on Kennard is out. In addition to the Bulls, he’s worked out for the Lakers, Knicks, Pistons, Heat and Pacers. He still has workouts scheduled with Orlando, Dallas and Charlotte. Seven of those eight teams – assuming no trades – will pick before Chicago.
