HH Draft Profile: Luke Kennard
By Alex Eddy
Hardwood Houdini Draft Profiles
Luke Kennard: Duke, SG
Height: 6’6″
Weight: 202 pounds
Age: 20
Click on the name for up to date stats: Luke Kennard
Strengths
Shooting:
Kennard is arguably the best pure shooter out of all the prospects. He is shooting a crazy 45.9% from the 3-point range this year. He is making over 2 3-pointers a game. When Kennard catches fire like he did in a win over Wake Forest, he is absolutely lethal and unstoppable. Next thing you know he won’t miss a shot and will go 10-10 from the field in the second half. The lefty sharpshooter has one of the sweetest strokes we have seen in quite sometime.
Overall Offensive Game:
Primarily just a standstill shooter last year, Kennard has completely revamped his offensive game at all levels. Not only has he improved his outside shooting, but he has improved in other areas as well. Being such a shooting threat, Kennard utilizes pump fakes more and can get to the basket off the dribble. He can also utilize his pump fakes to get an easier mid-range jump shot.
Additionally, he can now create opportunities for teammates. He sees the floor much better this year, and has improved as a playmaker. Kennard’s improvement from his freshman year reminds me a lot of Nik Stauskas when he improved from his freshman year to his sophomore year at Michigan. Stauskas improved his all-around offensive game his sophomore season and ended up winning Big Ten player of the year honors. Both players improved their primary offensive strength (shooting), while also improving in other offensive areas.
Weaknesses
Athleticism:
Kennard is not a terrific athlete for the shooting guard position. There are many perimeter prospects that are better athletes. This can hurt him when driving to the lane and when covering more athletic wing players. Kennard doesn’t have a very physical body/frame either.
Defense:
Kennard’s weakest part of his overall game is his defense. Kennard often struggles to move his feet consistently on defense, which can lead to unnecessary fouls. As mentioned, his lack of athleticism also hurts him in this regard. He has trouble sticking with the more athletic and physical shooting guards or small forwards.
Overview
Kennard is one of the most improved players in the country. With Duke’s loaded recruiting class, no one expected Kennard to make this massive leap in his game. He is extremely special when talking about his shooting ability. His lack of athleticism and defensive potential will be knocks on his game, but people will fall in love with his offensive game. I see Kennard being a late first round draft selection.