The NBA is the pinnacle of the basketball world; with players from all over the globe idolising players from the biggest teams in the world. European leagues are improving; especially the Spanish league, but they will likely never reach the same level as America’s elite competition.
The draft is something that not many Europeans are knowledgeable in since it isn’t a format that has been used within the common sports such as football and rugby. However, it is the best way for teams that finish towards the bottom of the league to have a fair chance of getting better players; in the form of best prospects from colleges all around the world. But which players could be moving to the NBA sooner rather than later?
Sekou Doumbouya
The talented French youngster has been a revelation for Limoges this season. He has appeared in 20 games and averaged 6.5 points and three rebounds per game. According to mock drafts; it could be expected that he will be among the top ten spots for the 2019 NBA Draft. He is an all-around talent, and his defensive ability to guard multiple positions is undoubtedly something that would catch the eye of NBA teams.
He will celebrate his 19th birthday two days before Christmas, and by that time he could be playing NBA basketball. It’s an exciting time to be following his career, and he has all the potential to be one of the best French exports in the NBA. Last year he won the best young player award for the second division in France. However, while he has all the potential and skill, one thing that could go against him is bad luck. He recently picked up a hand injury which could damage any hopes he has of being drafted in June. He could be an excellent addition to teams such as the Chicago Bulls and Orlando Magic to put them back among the contention in the basketball betting.
Luka Samanic
The Croatian teenager has enjoyed an excellent season after moving from Barcelona Lassa to Petrol Olimpija. He signed a multi-year deal with his new side after impressing in 22 fixtures for the Spanish outfit. In which, he averaged 5.3 points and 0.7 assists per game. Since his move to Slovenia, he has played a starring role. His size considering his age will be a crucial factor in any NBA side taking a chance on his. The 19-year-old is an imposing figure and will likely grow further.
He has often been compared to Kevin Durant and Kristaps Porzingis due to his playing style, and he can operate in a variety of positions. He has an excellent ability to facilitate offence from the block due to his brilliant vision. However, he will need to improve his defensive skills to make the transition to the next level.
Aleksandr Ershov
The Russian has only recently turned 18, which means he will be eligible for this year’s draft in New York. He has been a standout player in an outstanding CSKA junior team. He has posted double-digit points in nine fixtures this season in the Super League; which only highlights the offensive ability that he has. His standout game this season came against Lokomotiv when he recorded 34 points and ten rebounds. His highest scoring game came against Irkut, as he scored 24 points in a win for his team.
However, there are questions about his size. He is a smaller figure than most two guards, and that could be exploited in the big leagues. Meanwhile, there have been reports that he isn’t a team player and is reluctant to pass the ball at the best moment.
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