Looking at best, worst destinations for Cassius Winston in 2020 NBA Draft

The 2020 NBA Draft is approaching and despite the coronavirus pandemic, we need to start looking at prospects and where they might land. After the NBA Draft Lottery takes place, teams will know where they’re selecting in the first round. Even though we don’t know where each team will pick, there’s no reason we can’t start speculating where prospects will end up on draft night. In this segment, we’ll be looking at each top prospect and breaking down their best and worst possible destination in the 2020 NBA Draft.

Cassius Winston, PG, Michigan State

Best possible destination: Los Angeles Lakers

Winston was an excellent college player during his four years at Michigan State, but it’s hard to see him having a high ceiling as a pro. While Winston might not be a first-round pick, he can be a valuable contributor. Winston’s one of the best leaders in the draft, has a high basketball IQ, and can be lethal shooting the long ball. His 6’1” frame doesn’t have much length or explosiveness though, which can make him a liability on the defensive end.

Winston fits best on a team of veterans, and the Lakers could certainly make use of his skill set. While LeBron James will be the primary distributor, Anthony Davis is an elite pick-and-roll man, which Winston specializes in. He could also be a floor spacer that gets plenty of open shots thanks to the attention James and Davis attract from the defense. That would allow him to light it up from three. Winston has the ability to help lead a second unit, and his ball security could help him be more effective than Rajon Rondo and other options currently on the roster.

Worst possible destination: Houston Rockets

Winston’s greatest strength is his effectiveness as a pick-and-roll ball handler, but the Rockets would have no place for him in that capacity. James Harden and Russell Westbrook are depended on to be dynamic scoring guards while the rest of the offense primarily comes from 3-and-D players. According to NBA.com, only 10.3% of Houston’s plays have used a pick-and-roll ball handler in 2019-20. That’s the lowest mark in the league. Winston’s strengths would essentially be wiped out in this system.