Golden State Warriors select Troy Brown Jr. in 2018 FanSided Mock Draft
So…why pick Brown over Alkins?
Actually, in hindsight, this was ultimately a tough decision.
Like Alkins, Brown is well-known for his wing defense. The main differences between the two is Alkins is a much better spot-up shooter and has a larger frame, while Brown projects as a secondary playmaker and a skilled slasher.
In addition, I think it’s entirely possible Alkins can slip into the early-second round, where the Warriors would be more than willing to buy a pick for the sole purpose of adding him. If Brown slips all the way to 28, I don’t see how the Dubs can pass up the opportunity.
While it’s true the Warriors need more floor spacing in the second unit, what really sold me on Brown was his versatility.
As a freshman, Brown averaged 11.3 points, 6.2 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.6 steals in 31.2 minutes per game. He shot 44.4 percent from the field and 74.3 percent from the free throw line, but only 29.1 percent from behind the arc (110 three-point attempts).
By comparison, Alkins averaged 13.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.2 steals in 31.4 minutes as a sophomore, shooting 43.2 percent from the field, 35.9 percent from long range (92 three-point attempts) and 72.4 percent from the charity stripe.
As much as I love Alkins’ motor and energy, I think the Warriors get enough of that with Draymond Green. What the Dubs really need is a guy who’s going to effectively fill in when veterans like Shaun Livingston or Andre Iguodala are out of commission.