Hardwood Houdini Draft Profiles
Justin Patton: Creighton, C
Height: 7’0″
Weight: 230 pounds
Age: 19
Click the name for up to date stats: Justin Patton
Strengths
Size/Athleticism:
Patton is a legit 7-footer and is a great athlete for his size. He moves extremely well. You don’t find many 7-footers that are also very athletic. His athleticism is seen on both ends of the floor, and in particular, gives him a great advantage on the defensive end.
Offensive Potential:
Patton’s offensive potential is off the charts. He is shooting an absurd 70.0% percent from the field this season. He is slowly extending his perimeter game, and this will keep improving. He has made 6 of his 12 3-point attempts this year. Although this is a small sample size, not many 7-footers are shooting the 3 in college basketball. He is getting better and better in the post, showing more and more potential to be an effective low post scorer. If he continues to improve on his perimeter shooting, I see him becoming a Myles Turner type of player.
Defensive Potential:
Just like on the offensive end, Patton has tremendous defensive potential as well. He averages just under 2 blocks a game (1.8), and has a chance to be a true rim protector at the next level. He moves his feet really well for his size. Again, I see similarities to Turner on this end as well.
Weaknesses
Frame:
Patton doesn’t have an NBA ready frame yet for the NBA. He was a late bloomer in high school, redshirted last season, and is now starting to build up his body. Once he adds some more muscle, he will be able to add more physicality to his game. If not, he will have trouble getting consistent playing time.
Free Throw Shooting:
Patton is an abysmal free throw shooter at 52.2%. This can be a weakness for many 7-footers in the NBA. Improving his free throw shooting will allow him to still be effective offensively if he gets fouled in the paint. He is not as talented as Andre Drummond, so it won’t be a weakness that is overlooked by NBA coached.
Overview
Patton keeps on rising and rising on draft boards. His upside is huge, and his potential on both ends of the court is extremely high. With how the NBA is today, if he can continue to expand his shooting range, he can become an extremely effective starting center in the NBA. He still needs to improve his frame, considering his size and height, as well as his free throw shooting, Overall, Patton is an extremely exciting prospect and I see him being a late lottery draft pick.