Dragan Bender, Maccabi Tel Aviv
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IffAjKkyPBE
Age: 18 years old Size: 7’1, 225 pounds
Last Season’s Stats: 2.1 points; 1.4 rebounds; 0.6 assists
Percentages: 33.3% from the field; 25% from three-point; 50% from the free throw line
The Croatian Dragan Bender has a skillset unlike any player in this draft. He brings solid handles, an ever-improving three-point shot and the ability to run the floor, all while being 7-foot-1 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan and elite foot quickness. That combo of length and quickness has led to the potential of him guarding 2-5.
His versatility is what is unmatched when discussing his ceiling. He can play either forward position and, depending on the lineup he is facing, he could even play small ball center. Add in a three-point shot, above average handles and his effortless playmaking ability and you have someone special. Dragan’s diversity has created the potential to play three different positions offensively and guard four different positions defensively.
Most importantly, his skillset is perfect for the Nuggets. Adding another playmaker and shooter to the frontcourt of Danilo Gallinari and Nikola Jokic creates an incredible amount of mismatches to exploit on the offensive end. It would also put four shooters around Emmanuel Mudiay and allow the Nuggets to switch everything on the defensive side of the ball. The same way Oklahoma City pushed the Warriors to game seven. Building a team around versatility, length and shooting is the way the NBA is headed and if the Nuggets somehow find themselves drafting Dragan Bender this year, they will be one massive step closer to that goal.
