Who Would You Prefer?
Marcus Smart is the safe pick of the two. He has the pedigree, proven background, the physical tools, and the basketball IQ to make for a long-term NBA point guard. If he becomes a starting point guard, he’ll be a nightmare for all opposing point guards that go up against him. He doesn’t need to change his physique, which comes naturally for him. Once the perimeter shot is developed, he’ll be a scary point guard for years to come.
Elfrid Payton is a more dynamic point guard, within the traditional point guard-sense. He’s a gifted playmaker, talented ballhawk, and has a quickness and speed edge over Smart. It may take him longer to mature his talent along with his athletic tools, but he may provide an upside higher than Marcus Smart.
It’s tough for me to choose. It may as well be a coin flip.