Denver Nuggets: 3 sharpshooters to target in the 2020 NBA Draft

Desmond Bane (TCU)

TCU’s Desmond Bane, a 6’6″ guard, is a proven shooter who should be available when the Nuggets are on the clock. After four seasons with the Horned Frogs, Bane finished his career with a 3-point percentage of 43.3, only shooting below 42.0% from three as a freshman (when he knocked down 38.0% of his shots from long-distance).

He’s not just an elite shooter though he’s shown a pronounced ability to make shots off-the-dribble, off relocations, off screens and on catch-and-shoot opportunities. Bane is also an ambidextrous finisher who can finish through contact and with soft finishes around the rim.

A two-time All-Big 12 selection, Bane had career averages of 12.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 0.9 steals per game. He averaged 16.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.5 steals per game in his senior season, shooting 44.2% from 3-point range on 6.5 attempts per game.

While prospects who have graduated aren’t usually as valued by teams in the NBA Draft, with them tending to prioritize youth and potential, Bane’s extensive college career has allowed him to enter the league with both experience and awareness that younger players may not have.

Although he’s not a great athlete, Bane is a high IQ player on both offense and defense. He doesn’t force shots, reads and manipulates the defense well and has a great feel for passing. Defensively, he doesn’t hesitate to communicate. He plays intelligent pick-and-roll, positional and team defense, and he has a high motor to boot.

At only 21-years-old, so he should be able to have a long NBA career with his three-point prowess and basketball IQ.