Ohio State’s all-time leading scorer brings elite efficiency and poise to the backcourt. Discover how this prolific playmaker could bolster Sacramento’s bench as a high-priority draft target.
With the first round of the NBA Draft less than 10 days away, we at KingsRoundtable will continue to highlight all types of prospects in this year's draft class.
Recently, we have showcased multiple second-round talents, including Marquette guard Chase Ross, Providence guard Jaylin Sellers, and Vanderbilt big man Jalen Washington.
In this profile, I will shine light on Ohio State guard Bruce Thornton, who leaves Columbus as the program's top point scorer in history.
High-Level Offense
Thornton never dipped below double-digit scoring averages in any of his years with Ohio State, increasing his production and efficiency year-in and year-out.
Last season, Thornton averaged 19.9 points per game, while shooting at ridiculous 55/40/83 shooting splits.
Thornton's 55.4 field-goal percentage (3rd in the Big Ten) really stands out, as guards typically don't display that level of efficiency.
In the second game of the season, Thornton scored a career-high 38 points against Purdue Fort Wayne, making 14-of-17 shot attempts, and a perfect 14-14 from 2-point range.
Later in the year, Thornton etched his name atop the Buckeyes' scoring list in dramatic fashion, dropping 25 points in a 91-78 victory over Indiana on senior night.
Pace and Space
Thornton plays at his pace, not allowing defenders to speed him up.
The 6-foot-2 combo guard does a great job of initiating first contact and knocking defenders off balance to open up lanes to the hoop.
Thornton can also knock down the 3-pointer in a variety of different ways, pulling up off the dribble, or spotting up for a rare catch-and-shoot opportunity.
Areas For Improvement
While a bit undersized, defense can be the question at times for Thornton.
At the next level, Thornton will be required to defend some of the most high-octane scorers in the NBA, which will be a tall task.
However, Thornton did show growth as a rebounder, recording over five boards per game, a career-best.
Draft Projection
Thornton is seen as a late-second round talent, likely landing within the back-10 picks of the draft.
In ESPN's post-combine mock, Thornton was picked with the No. 59 overall pick, joining the Minnesota Timberwolves.
On ESPN's big board, the 2,000+ point career scorer is the No. 52 prospect.
Are Kings a Fit?
Consistent scoring in the back court was hard to come by for Sacramento last season, and Thornton can certainly put the ball in the hoop.
Although the Kings' second round picks are likely too early for Thornton, he should be viewed as a high-priority UDFA target if he slips out of the top-60.
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