#4 Corey Kispert – Forward – Gonzaga
Corey Kispert is the highest rated senior in this year’s draft class and for good reason. The 22 year-old wing is arguably one of the most NBA-ready shooters in this draft and is the epitome of a “3-and-D” type of guy.
This past year at Gonzaga, he was one of their leaders that took them all the way to the National Championship game, averaging 18.6 points, 5.0 rebounds and shooting 44% from three-point range. At the NBA-level, he is the type of guy that teams will look to for instant production off the bench from the perimeter.
Guys like Joe Harris and Danny Green are great comparisons for Corey Kispert not only because of the ability to shoot threes, but because of his ability to make a difference defensively as well. His 6’7”, 224 lbs build allows him to guard virtually any player out on the perimeter, which is why he is definitely an option for the Sacramento Kings with the 9th overall pick in the draft.
Who knows what the future holds for sharpshooter Buddy Hield on the wing and quite honestly, the Kings just need guys who can contribute on both ends of the floor. Kispert is not the best defender by any means, but he gets the job done and can play his role perfectly.
READ MORE: NBA Mock Draft 5.0: Post-Withdrawal Date Edition
The best part about adding Corey Kispert to this Kings roster is that it gives them another reliable player that they can count on. De’Aaron Fox, Tyrese Haliburton and maybe Harrison Barnes are the only players on this roster that you can say this about, which is why adding Kispert would be valuable.
In his rookie season, there is no reason why Kispert cannot be a guy that averages between 9-11 points per game, 3-4 rebounds per game and shoots upwards of 40% from deep. He may not be a facilitator or playmaker that is going to wow the fans with his insane athleticism, but you know what you are getting drafting Corey Kiseprt and that is three-point shooting.
READ MORE: NBA Mock Draft 5.0: Post-Withdrawal Date Edition
Sacramento shot 36.4% as a team from three-point land this past season, ranking them 16th in the league, which is why adding yet another perimeter-oriented threat could really help elevate them to being a better overall offensive team. Corey Kispert does not show the most upside out of other players that could be available at 9th overall, but he is a consistent, reliable shooter who will play his role perfectly in the NBA for many years to come.
