The Golden Choice, Part 7: Who will the Warriors draft in 2018?

This weekend, three potential Warriors square off in the Final Four. Devonte’ Graham of Kansas is one of them.

By Charlie Stanton Mar 30, 2018, 5:00pm PDT

The Final Four

Without Kentucky or Duke, this year’s Final Four isn’t exactly bursting with NBA talent — that’s okay.

Three of the teams (sorry Sister Jean, Loyola’s lovable squad is unlikely to produce any NBA talent) each have a player who could fit with the future Golden State Warriors.

This season, I’ve profiled Michigan’s Moritz Wagner, a 6’11’’ forward who runs the court with ease and stretches the floor with his nasty three-point range. He remains at the top of the Golden Choice rankings. Paired with Jordan Bell, the two big men could be deadly.

Villanova’s Jalen Brunson is the second-best prospect on Villanova (see top-10 pick Mikal Bridges) but he’s perhaps the Player of the Year in college hoops. His steady leadership and offensive ability while limiting turnovers will make him an immediate asset on NBA teams. Brunson is currently third on my list of potential draft picks.

Devonte’ Graham, Kansas’ All-American point guard, and irreplaceable foundation of the Jayhawks, is another player who could fall to the Warriors should they decide to draft a point guard. He is the reason why Kansas made the Final Four.

The pros and cons of Devonte’ Graham

Graham can score from anywhere on the floor. Of all the players featured on the Golden Choice, he might possess the highest scoring upside. Graham is also a talented playmaker who can also rebound the ball given his slight 6’2’’ frame. Additionally, Graham is an NBA-ready backup point guard. He’s 23 years old and can immediately contribute to an NBA team. For some squads this is a drawback; for win-now teams like the Warriors, it’s a perk.

What makes Graham a slightly problematic pick for the Warriors is that his primary weakness resembles the Warriors’ struggles. His carelessness with the ball can lead to turnovers. For this reason, I still have Jalen Brunson above Graham in the draft rankings. Brunson doesn’t turn the ball over. Graham also picks up quick fouls when his focus diminishes. And while he’s a prolific scorer, he is also a streaky shooter. On a nightly basis his contributions can undulate.

Below are highlights from one of Graham’s best games this season.