Golden State Warriors 2015 NBA Draft Preview

R.J. Hunter

Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Age: 21

Height: 6’6

Weight: 185 lbs.

Wingspan: 6’10

2014-15 Stats: 34 GP, 37.2 MPG, 19.5 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 3.5 APG, 2.1 SPG, 1.0 BPG, 2.2 TOV, 2.4 FPG, 39.3 FG%, 49.0 2FG%, 29.8 3FG%, 88.7 FT%, 26.0 PER

For shooters awaiting to be drafted, the ceiling is the sky, and the floor is six feet deep. On one end is Stephen Curry, who’s obviously changed the NBA and has players like Hunter comparing themselves to him; on the other end is basically any shooter that’s been drafted by the Sacramento Kings (e.g. Jimmer Fredette, Ben McLemore, Nik Stauskas aka “Shoots Like Steph, Big Like Klay”).

With reports surfacing that the Warriors could be looking to move up in the draft, their target is likely to be Hunter, whose draft stock has been fluctuating all over first round mock drafts. To be honest, there isn’t much of a consensus on Hunter, who was once projected to go as low as 30 to the Warriors but now finds himself going as high as 17.

While Hunter’s 29.8 percent from behind the arc this past season may not look impressive, Hunter’s shot repertoire — whether he’s shooting off the dribble, on a spot-up or coming off a screen — is shown to be rather versatile (much like Klay Thompson coming out of Washington State).

Hunter is also a developing half court defender, using his length to his advantage while also showing great instincts on that end of the floor. In addition, he’s an able passer that’s always willing to get his teammates involved.

He may be a bit streaky at times with his one-motion shot and may have some trouble dealing with contact, but his incredible upside as a 3-and-D wingman could be worth the risk.

Next: R. Vaughn