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Trae Young was the most electric and thrilling player in college basketball last season. He has drawn comparisons to Steph Curry, the best point-guard in the NBA for his uncanny shooting ability. Trae Young is one of the most polarizing players for many reasons.
Trae Young is the most gifted shooter in this draft class, without question. His offensive game is incredible, and Young is astonishing to watch. For Oklahoma, Trae Young averaged 27 points, eight assists, four rebounds, two steals, and five turnovers per game. The Sooners finished 18-14 with Young as their best player, losing to Rhode Island in the first round of the NCAA tournament.
The dynamic Young has many desirable traits. His shooting, as previously stated, is out of this world. It's incredible. Trae Young's passing is also very likable. He can also seem to create something out of nothing in almost any situation. But critics say his weak spots largely overshadow his strengths. Young's defense is horrendous and his athleticism isn't much better. All in all, it will be very interesting to see how Young fares on draft night.
Measurables:
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 180 lbs
DOB: September 19, 1998 (19 years old)
Strengths:
Trae Young has the ability to make shots from anywhere on the floor. His transition game is nothing short of spectacular. Young is advanced enough to use a pick-and-roll to his advantage and often pulls up for jumpers when the pick man creates enough space. Young also has the ability to use his body as a shield when scoring in the paint. He has a quick jump-shot and already has NBA range from three. Young's jumper is what makes him offensively. When he's making those deep shots, the whole offense flows through him. However, when he is not making shots, he could become a non-factor. His consistency needs work. Young controls all of his passes and dribbles with efficiency.
Weaknesses:
Trae Young needs work on his shot selection, he often vaults up shots when there is plenty of time left on the shot clock for a play. He is a bit undersized for a point-guard, at just 6'2" with a 6'2" wingspan. If Trae Young ever wants to be a starter in the NBA, he has to cut down the turnovers. In the NBA, the passing windows are tighter and Young averaged over five turnovers per game at Oklahoma. He is a horrid defender and does not put in much effort on that side of the floor. Young does not have an NBA body yet, and will likely not have the instant-impact fans will expect of him.
Summary:
Trae Young is one of the most exciting and controversial players this year. His offense is electric at times, and he can show superstar potential. But sometimes he shows the complete opposite. All in all, Young has the shot-making ability to be a sixth-man at the very least on the next level. He will have to show maturity in his shot selection and not go for the crowd-pleasing shot every other possession like he did at Oklahoma. When his shot isn't falling, he has to improve his passing to teammates instead of allowing the game to break him.
Ceiling: NBA Star/ Top 20 Player
Middle Ground: Above-Average Scorer/ DeAngelo Russell
Floor: Jimmer Fredette
Projected: Top Five Overall Pick
Grade: Top Ten Pick