Jerryd Bayless 2008 NBA Draft Profile

Jerryd Bayless had a great freshman season at the University of Arizona and is currently viewed as a lock for a top five pick in the 2008 NBA Draft. Bayless isn’t a flawless prospect but he has high potential and his skills are advanced for his age.

Bayless, who stands around 6-foot-3, is a combo guard who will likely play more point guard than shooting guard in the NBA. He’s not a true point guard but by all accounts he has the work ethic and the skills to make the transition to point guard.

Right now, Bayless’ ability to score the ball is his best asset. He’s not only good at shooting the outside shot and getting to the rim, he also is very good in the mid-range game. He can shoot off the dribble, which is becoming an increasingly rare attribute for young players.

A lot of 2008 NBA mock drafts have Bayless going fourth to the Seattle Supersonics. If he does go fourth, he’ll likely start at point guard for a good part of the season. He’ll also see time at shooting guard, especially if the Sonics keep both Earl Watson and Luke Ridnour.

Bayless was able to put up good stats as a freshman at Arizona and should be able to do the same in the NBA in his rookie year. With minutes, Bayless should be able to average between 12 to 15 points and 4 to 6 assists. He’ll likely be a sleeper heading into the 2008-09 fantasy basketball season but he could easily be one of the very best fantasy players from this rookie class.

Here is a Jerryd Bayless video that talks more about his abilities: