Darius Acuff NBA Draft Prop
Acuff was tremendous during his freshman season at Arkansas, averaging 23.5 points, 6.4 assists and 3.1 rebounds, while shooting 44% from deep. He’s one of the best freshman guards to play under John Calipari, which is saying something. We saw Acuff display an insane offensive ceiling as the season progressed, including an insane 49-point outburst in a double overtime game at Alabma.
Acuff went on to average 30.3 points in the SEC Tournament and 29.3 points in the NCAA Tournament. He brings elite scoring ability, while playing the role of a true point guard with good size. Acuff’s range in this draft seems to be in the No. 5-7 range, with strong links to the Sacramento Kings at No. 7 overall. So the question becomes, will he still be available?
I say he will not. Many have the Los Angeles Clippers passing on Acuff at No. 5 due to concerns over a smaller backcourt with Darius Garland. Then the Nets selecting Mikel Brown at No. 6 overall becoming a consensus. I wouldn’t be surprised if either of the Clippers or Nets actually have Acuff ranked higher on their board than Brown or Keaton Wagler.
There’s also the possibility of a trade. The Kings could be pressured into moving up a spot or two to select Acuff if they are in love with him as a prospect. Not to mention, if another team wants to attempt to jump Sacramento and select Acuff. Just because a “bigger guard” might be the better fit for the Clippers or Nets, does not mean they will pass on Acuff.
I still believe Acuff lands in the top-six picks on Tuesday night’s NBA Draft.
NBA Draft Pick: Draft Position – Darius Acuff UNDER 6.5 (-155)
