Saddiq Bey, Villanova
There are many reasons to be intrigued by Villanova’s sophomore forward Saddiq Bey. Some going as far as to say the 20 year old is “the most underrated player” in this upcoming class, Bey has simply been a revelation for the Big East powerhouse throughout the 2019-20 season.
Leading them to a 24-7 record by season’s end, the forward had accumulated averages of 16.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists and just shy of a steal per game on 48 percent shooting from the field and a whopping 45 percent shooting from beyond the arc (on 5.6 attempts per game).
Offensively Bey showed a wide range of ways in which he can buy a basket, whether it be on a slam when darting to the rim or when spotting up for a shot, where he finished within the 98th percentile nationally. His three point stroke, alone, would certainly help the Boston Celtics’ second unit — rank 27th in the league in 3-point percentage — and his ability to move without the ball and find room for a catch-and-shoot opportunity would gel quite nicely with Brad Stevens’ free flowing offense.
Unlike some prospects, however, adding someone of his offensive skill set would not, in turn, infringe upon the unit’s defensive prowess but, rather, add to it.
Widely renowned as the team’s best defender this season, Bey guided the Wildcats to ranking 36th nationally and second in the Big East in adjusted defensive efficiency. At 6-8, 216 pounds he holds the build of a player who can guard either the two or three with ease while also boasting the quickness, allusiveness and speed to keep up with quicker guards.
Position versatility, long range shooting stroke and defensive efficiency are just a few reasons as to why the Boston Celtics could be enticed to draft Saddiq Bey with one of their three selections.