The Denver Nuggets have selected Zeke Nnaji from the University of Arizona with the No. 22 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft.
Nnaji played one season with the Wildcats, and averaged 16.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game. He’s a big athlete, checking in at 6’11” and 240 pounds. Nnaji was one of the best players in the Pac-12, and rose up draft boards thanks to strong performances in offseason workouts.
Strengths
Motor. Nnaji is aggressive around the rim, using his length and athleticism to battle for rebounds. He fights and fights, playing through bigger players and around slower players. He is a reliable scorer inside the paint, always trying to dunk the ball.
Transition. Able to get down the court quickly and score, this is the best way for him to score. He’s able to find lanes, catch the ball, and score to help push the pace. Has an okay shot, there’s potential there.
Weaknesses
Defense. He’s not someone that can contain on the perimeter. He’s not fluid in his hips, and he’s slow to pivot to chase down guards. He wasn’t much of a shot blocker despite his size, and will need some work.
Fit
He’s going to be a backup big for the Nuggets, hopefully someone that can learn how to play alongside Nikola Jokic at some point. Not sure if he’s going to be a reliable center, and he’s too slow to play power forward. He rebounds the ball well, which is a trait the Nuggets like to look for, but not really sure where he fits in with this team if he can’t become a better rim protector.
Analysis
I don’t like the pick very much. I would have rather seen the Nuggets take Tyler Bey, RJ Hampton, or Xavier Tillman. I had Nnaji ranked No. 50 on my board.
