NBA Position: SG

General Information: 19 year old freshman, played at Kentucky. From Kitchner, Ontario, Canada.

Measurables: 6'4.25", 207 pounds, 6'6.5" wingspan, 8'1" standing reach

2014-15 Season Statistics: 20.2 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG, 2.3 TOPG (35.2 minutes per contest) -€” 45.5% FG, 78.3% FT, 40.8% 3P, 62.1% TSP

Summary:

Jamal Murray is multi-talented shooter with a lightning-quick release; over half of his shots were three pointers, and he knocked down 40.8% of them while also showing some decent skills on the drive and a willingness to be the secondary ball-handler and play-maker. He's an inconsistent defender, but his competitive approach, sweet shooting stroke and solid decision making will make his transition into the NBA easier than most shooters.

Offensive Breakdown:

Murray's greatest strength is his outside shooting. On the biggest stage in college basketball, Murray consistently provided Kentucky with a big-time shot maker; 3.1 three pointers per game on 40.8% shooting. Over half his shot attempts on the season were from distance (he took 7.7 threes a game), and his offense stayed exceptionally consistent throughout the year. He's got a very quick, smooth rhythm in his shooting, moved well without the ball to create openings, and showed an ability to hit in transition and on the catch-and-shoot.

While he's not the quickest nor the most explosive player, Murray's athleticism is overlooked (at the combine he posted a max vertical of 39' -€” also, check out this dunk). He's a decent slasher and was a good threat on the pick-and-roll, with a decent collection of moves. This will work less at the NBA level, but he'll be a threat in transition and on the attack.

Defensive Breakdown:

Murray's inconsistencies on defense are his biggest knock, but he's shown more effort than he is credited for. He won't have to be hidden on an NBA defense, and with proper coaching this won't be a major long-term problem. He will be position-locked to guarding other twos, as he lack of height and quickness will keep him from guarding a majority of NBA points and forwards. He doesn't have the length nor the quick first step to become a lock-down defender, but he's a smart, aware player who got better as the year went on.

Intangibles:

He also uses Wesley Matthew's bow-and-arrow celebration after a three pointer, which is the coolest damn celebration in the sport and no one will convince me otherwise.

Fit with Sacramento:

As always, check out the DraftExpress breakdowns;