NBA Draft Sleepers in 2008

Chris Douglas-Roberts, Memphis
It’s difficult to figure out why Chris Douglas-Roberts isn’t a higher ranked prospect. As it stands, he appears to be headed to the late first round. However, as a player, he has shown few weaknesses during his college days. He’s a shooting guard who shoots a high percentage, plays adequate defense and simply just knows how to score. Perhaps his lack of world-class athleticism and speed is hurting his stock. That said, whoever picks CDR will be very glad they did.

Richard Hendrix, Alabama
It seems like every year, a couple quality bigmen fall to the second round of the draft. In the 2008 NBA Draft, the second round steal appears to be Richard Hendrix. Hendrix is a brute who can rebound, block a few shots and use his strength to score around the basket. The only knock on him is he’s a bit undersized for the power forward position. However, in the second round, Hendrix is a definite sleeper who will end up better than many first round picks.

George Hill, IUPUI
Point guard is a weak spot in this draft, especially in the second round. George Hill comes from a small school and doesn’t have a lot of experience against top-flight competition, but he has been very impressive during individual workouts. He’s a bit of a risk but his offensive stats were fantastic in college and there’s a chance he can transition those numbers to the NBA.

Pat Calathes, St. Joseph’s
While Pat Calathes definitely lacks athleticism, he has everything else to be a very good role player in the NBA. At 6-foot-10, Calathes has the ability to play out on the wing. He can shoot, pass, handle the ball and is a smart defender. Calathes doesn’t have a high ceiling as a player but he’s a guy who could become a jack of all trades on the NBA level.

Will Pat Calathes shine in the NBA?

Photo: Newscom