Los Angeles Lakers get high mark in complete 2017 NBA Draft first round grades
Power Forward/Small Forward. Denver Nuggets. TYLER LYDON. B+.
The 24th pick was featured in a trade with a pick from earlier in the draft. The Utah Jazz originally owned this draft pick, but they traded it, along with Trey Lyles, to the Denver Nuggets. The Jazz moved up to the 13th spot, where they selected Louisville guard, Donovan Mitchell. With the 24th pick, the Nuggets went to the opposite coast, selecting Syracuse forward, Tyler Lydon.
Lydon is an intriguing prospect. He has the size to be a prototypical stretch four, as he stands 6-feet-10 inches tall and strokes it from deep. But, unlike many shooters, Lydon is not one dimensional. He can put the ball on the floor to score and also has some explosive athleticism.
Lydon is a bouncy forward that can finish above the rim. He has also shown an ability to be a rim protector, as he played center in the Syracuse zone for stretches of his two seasons with the Orange. Lydon has the skill set and versatility to potentially play three positions in the NBA, which is good and bad.
The versatility is good, but Lydon has question marks wherever you put him. He tries defensively, but he lacks the athleticism necessary to stick with some small forwards on the perimeter. He will need to add some strength if he wants to bang inside with power forwards and centers.
But, if Lydon is knocking down shots, coaches will find a place for him on the court. His rebounding is strong, as Mike Malone should like having him in the fold. The Nuggets are very flush with young talent; Lydon and Lyles will only add to that.