Nick Richards
Updated as of 11/21/2020, scouting report written by Alan Lu.
2020 rankings were finalized on 11/17/20.
Height: 6-11
Weight: 235
College: Kentucky
Classification: Junior
Birthdate: 11/29/1997
2020 Top 100 Prospect Rank: 50
Projected Draft Range: 2nd Round to Undrafted
2020 NBA Draft: Round 2, Pick 42 by the New Orleans Pelicans
(Rights traded to the Charlotte Hornets)
Pros:
Strong finisher around the basket
Decent low post scorer
Excels at scoring on the move
Adequate mid-range shooter
Good rebounder
Decent defensive player
Very good shot blocker
Solid athlete
Solid motor
Very good size to play inside
Cons:
Must improve his face-up game
Must expand upon his low post moves
Can play too wildly on offense
Can be too passive on offense
Needs to improve his playmaking skills
Can be undisciplined defensively, which can lead to fouls
Can be too inconsistent in games
Summary:
Nick Richards is an athletic, energetic big man that can score in the post, rebound and block shots, and he had a very good junior season. He will need to improve his jump shot and playmaking skills, but his ability to score, rebound, and defend in the paint could enable him to be a second round pick in 2020.
Links:
Courier Journal’s Article on Richards Returning
Games Scouted:
12/16/17 Kentucky vs. Virginia Tech
11/5/19 Kentucky vs. Michigan State
1/25/20 Kentucky vs. Texas Tech
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