NBA Comparison: Adam Haluska

Strengths: Excellent athlete who posted the best or tied-for-the-best numbers at the combine in the standing vert, max vert, lane agility drill, and 3/4 court sprint.  His 44-inch max vertical was, in fact, one of the best max vets in the history of the combine (but it was likely actually a 40′ inch vert, and his 37′ inch standing likely 33′ as he measured with a 4 inches taller standing reach in PIT than in Chicago, and his standing reach and other measurements, height and wingspan just do not add up)  … Sharpshooter who connected on 42% of his threes (which he took a lot of) last season.  Has a picture-perfect form.  One of the best shooters in this draft … Was sort of an elite role player in college, which will allow him to potentially make a very smooth transition to being a solid role player in the NBA.  Did a lot of little things at a high level … Smart basketball player, whether it’s helping the offensive flow on offense or always being well-positioned on defense … Crafty scorer who uses his leaping ability and solid length to finish at the rim … Really good rebounding guard. Very good leaper with great instincts for meeting the ball in the air.  Averaged over 7 rebounds per game last season … Smart and willing passer and cutter who really helps keep the offense flowing … Scrappy player who positions himself well on D and gets a lot of interceptions while still playing sound, fundamental defense…Solid wingspan (6’9") and strong frame also help to make him a decent perimeter defender … Understandably good dunker who finishes well in transition … Had a good showing at the Portsmouth Invitational, doing a lot of quintessential role player things while shooting the ball well and getting a fair helping of points …

Weaknesses: Potential liability on defense, as he lacks the lateral quickness to do a great job at defending shooting guards but certainly doesn’t have the size to play small forward … Not a particularly threatening scorer in iso situations.  Not much of a ballhandler … Didn’t standout in terms of production in college so he may not be able to make much of an impact in the pros … Has repeatedly stated his commitment to his basketball career, but there may still be concerns about how his baseball career may take precedence …

Notes: Named third team all-ACC last season … Excellent baseball player who was drafted by the Orioles in the 4th round in 2014.  Great all-around athlete who succeeds at everything he does …

Overall: Connaughton will never be a star in the NBA, but his combination of athleticism and perimeter shooting will make him a tantalizing prospect in the second round.  He’s got a good feel for the game, as well, and could make a name for himself as a good spot-up shooter who has the adde bonus of being a great rebounder and transition finisher…

Jacob Stallard 6/24/15

August 9, 2011