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R.J. Hunter: Phoenix Suns 2015 Draft Profile

By Gerald Bourguet

Jun. 5, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; 2015 NBA Draft prospect R.J. Hunter talks to the media at his Phoenix Suns draft workout. Mandatory Credit: Gerald Bourguet-Valley of the Suns
Jun. 5, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; 2015 NBA Draft prospect R.J. Hunter talks to the media at his Phoenix Suns draft workout. Mandatory Credit: Gerald Bourguet-Valley of the Suns /
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R.J. Hunter
Mar 21, 2015; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Georgia State Panthers guard R.J. Hunter (22) reacts with his father Panthers head coach Ron Hunter as he leaves the game against the Xavier Musketeers in the second half of a game in the third round of the 2015 NCAA Tournament at Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. Xavier defeated Georgia State, 75-67. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

Weaknesses

However, Hunter’s physical limitations could be what hold his NBA career back. At 6’6″ he’s got the size to play shooting guard, but he only weighs 185 pounds and will definitely need to bulk up unless he wants to get bullied by stronger wing players at the next level.

That’s not the only issue for Hunter on the defensive end, however. Even if he bulks up, there will be a major adjustment period for a guy who spent the majority of his college career playing for a team that frequently played zone. NBA defensive schemes are a lot trickier, especially for someone who will already need a bit of coaching up when it comes to man-to-man sets.

On offense, Hunter’s game may look fluid and smooth, but he’s not exactly explosive as an athlete either. He can create off the bounce, but lacks elite speed and when he gets to the rim, he has problems finishing over bigger, stronger rim protectors.

Finally, we should point out that as impressive as Hunter’s shooting mechanics are, they’re by no means a guarantee that he’ll become the next elite spot-up shooter. He has a pretty low release point on his shot, so even though his quick release helps make up for that and allows him to get off good looks, Hunter will need to prove he can consistently knock down threes to earn his keep.

Next: Potential Fit

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