Pat Connaughton: Phoenix Suns 2015 Draft Profile

Overview

As the 2015 NBA Draft approaches, we’ll be taking a look at the top prospects in this year’s class to gain a sense of what the Phoenix Suns should do with their pick. Today, we’ll be taking a look at Pat Connaughton.

Most casual basketball fans might not know the name Pat Connaughton. Despite spending the last four years playing for Notre Dame, Connaughton was never an NCAA star was often overlooked on a team with the loaded Jerian Grant and Demetrius Jackson backcourt, but most Fighting Irish fans know how valuable he was during the team’s run to the Elite Eight this season.

Of course, anyone who paid attention to the 2015 NBA Draft Combine should remember Pat Connnaughton’s name after he posted the second-best vertical leap in draft combine history (44 inches).

As a 6’5″ small forward, Connaughton is a tad undersized for the next level, and his upside seems a bit more limited since he’s already 22 years old. But despite his lack of size, he’s an exceptional athlete who rebounded extremely well for his position, averaging 7.4 boards per game to lead the team.

Ranked 49th on ESPN’s Chad Ford’s Big Board and 53rd on DraftExpress, this second round prospect has the motor, shooting ability and athleticism to be worth a look as the draft winds down. The question is, should the Suns consider him with the 44th overall pick?

Next: Strengths