My understanding is that Jonathan Kuminga can be a polarizing prospect. A lot of people really like his game – a lot of people really don’t understand why he is being regarded so highly.
NBA Mock Draft: Detroit Pistons take Jonathan Kuminga
Here’s my take: Kuminga is a big-framed, 6-foot-8 wing/forward that played against higher competition than the average NBA prospect. He has the frame to contest nearly everyone defensively (at least 1-4) with high-level athleticism.
No, the shooting was not there in the G-League – it simply wasn’t. There is no getting around that. But to act as though Kuminga does not have upside would be unequivocally wrong. He should be able to be a solid defender from the jump – as well as be a nice transition threat – all as a rookie.
For the Pistons – he makes a lot of sense. Detroit needs front court versatility, particularly on defense. It looks increasingly more likely that Sekou Doumbouya is not going to factor much into the future – but Saddiq Bey, Killian Hayes, and Isaiah Stewart all look to be good future role players.
Kuminga adds a lot of potential to that group – and if he hits his top-10-percent of outcomes, is going to be an All-Star.
Think of it this way – if Kuminga is able to offer any shooting at all, he’s what, a top-50 NBA player? And that’s good – that’s really good. That’s absolutely worth the fifth overall pick – and the questions surrounding Kuminga are not as mighty as a lot may perceive – especially contrasted against other prospects this year.