Golden State Warriors: 2014 NBA Draft Outlook

Prospect #1: Gary Harris (Michigan State)

Mar 6, 2014; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans guard Gary Harris (14) attempts three point basket against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the 2nd half of a game at Jack Breslin Student Events Center. MSU won 86-76. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Starting with Harris, he is a well-rounded, above average at just about everything type who could flourish on a team with as talented as a starting unit as the Warriors have. Coming from Tom Izzo’s system, Harris is praised for being a smart player who rarely makes bad decisions and who gives it all on the defensive end.

In terms of college stats and transitioning to the NBA, Harris reminds me of Bradley Beal, who was regarded as a great shooter during the draft because of his smooth stroke, but he did just shoot 33.9 percent from three-point range in his only season at Florida. Harris is the same way, knocking down 35.2 percent of his 3-pointers during his sophomore season (although he did make 41.1 percent of them his freshman season) because of his good-looking shot.

Harris is also a very capable on-ball defender with active hands, averaging nearly two steals per game last year. A few knocks on Harris’ game are he doesn’t create his own shot well and he measured a shade less than 6’3” without shoes at the combine. His lack of outstanding physical ability may make him a less effective defender at the next level, and it also may hinder any chances of him scoring at the rim. On the bright side, a certain small guard who had a prosperous career in the NBA happens to be the new Head Coach, so he may be able to teach Harris a thing or two about finding his niche in the league. A ceiling for Harris may be someone like Arron Afflalo and a floor of Randy Foye.