I have believed for four years that Wesley Matthews is the best basketball player in a comparison with Jerel McNeal and Dominic James. All three, of course, are outstanding athletes.
I have said since Matthews' freshman season that he was being held back and grossly underutilized under Coach Crean's crazy, chaotic, poorly planned offensive "system."
Thankfully, Coach Williams has brought in a different approach to coaching that finally allowed Matthews to show his stuff and confirm what many of us knew he could do.
Matthews and Lazar Hayward are the cream of this year's Marquette basketball crop.
That all said, I cannot decide how the NBA scouts and coaches are going to view Matthews, McNeal and James.
Of the three, Matthews is the most ready for the NBA. Then McNeal. Then James.
I know McNeal has won much applause and many accolades, but I think his kooky, herky-jerky, often-out-of-control play will hurt him in the draft.
I would not be surprised to see Matthews go ahead of McNeal come draft day.
Matthews also has better size for the NBA so I'd consider him a slightly higher pick than Jerel. (Also, this is due to Jerel's play slipping for a few weeks presumably causing his draft stock to fall)
Does anyone here follow the NBA scouting reports. Are all 3 pegged to be drafted?
Rel will go late first/early 2nd. Wes will go 2nd round sometime. DJ not likely, but should get a chance in the summer. 1st round is the key.
Hayward is a great college player but will go undrafted next year. He doesn't have the size or quickness.
Jerel and Wes had to boost their stock after yesterdays game......I still think they are 2nd rounders but will out perform expectations.