One of the more challenging aspects of being a first round draftee in the NBA is that you generally have a complete lack of control as to where you will play throughout the duration of your rookie scale deal. Some first year players find themselves in the ideal situation, and their development is hastened as a result. But there are other draftees who are not so lucky for one reason or another, and they begin their careers at a slight disadvantage.
These reasons can include being blocked on the depth chart by already established players, ending up in a system that is a poor fit for a player’s skillset, or even landing smack in the middle of a toxic locker room situation, which can certainly act as a demotivating factor that early in a professional career. There are also some players, who, based on their draft position, are weighted down with unrealistic expectations that they will single-handedly elevate their new clubs into the company of the league’s elite during their rookie seasons.
This brings me to today’s topic: Which 2015 NBA first round draft pick is entering the most difficult situation, and why?
Take to the comments section below to share your thoughts and opinions on which 2015 NBA Draft pick’s professional career will have the roughest beginning, and why you believe that to be the case. We look forward to what you have to say.
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Bobby Portis is buried. Some team looking to rebuild could really use McDermott and Portis. They’re expendable to the Bulls. Get a guard. I’d be trying to get Marcus Smart from the guard rich Celtics.
Expectations are too high for D’Angelo Russell.
Portis was the first guy who came to mind for me too. If McDermott didn’t get any time, I don’t see how he is going to.
he’s certainly not in the worst situation, but rozier is buried on the celtics depth chart. if c’s intend to keep him, i’d assume they’d be looking to shop avery. smart, IT, and rozier would be a solid guard trio
Yeah, I think the Celtics see Rozier as someone who’ll have an impact down the road but won’t contribute much immediately.
I’d have to say Porzingis. There will be enormous pressure on him in New York to be productive immediately and justify Phil Jackson’s faith in him.