The Blue Devils’ defensive dynamo made ACC history with his elite rim protection and efficiency. Discover how this high-motor prospect could bolster Sacramento’s frontcourt depth and versatility.
NBA teams are beginning to schedule pre-draft workouts with all types of prospects, with the Sacramento Kings announcing their early candidates earlier this week.
Duke big man Maliq Brown was one of the six, hoping to join his plethora of fellow former Blue Devils in the NBA.
In this profile, I will cover Brown, who made ACC history last season.
First Ever
Brown, who excels as a rim protector, became the first player in ACC history to be named ACC Defensive Player of the Year and ACC Sixth Man of the Year.
The 6-foot-9 forward has the ability to impact shots at the rim and switch out onto smaller players and hold his own.
Brown also won the Lefty Driesell Award, given to the top defensive player in Division I college basketball by CollegeInsider.com.
High-Floor
Brown is a player that provides constant effort and energy, while always playing within himself.
Outside of his defensive prowess, Brown also ranked third in the country with a 76.5-percent two-point shooting percentage.
In his two seasons at Syracuse, Brown shot 69.8-percent overall, maintaining his efficiency with Duke.
At the recent NBA Draft Combine, Brown had a strong showing during the scrimmage, making all four of his shot attempts en route to a 12-point performance.
In 20 minutes, Brown added four rebounds, two blocks, and a steal, displaying his stat-stuffing nature.
Jumpshooting Mechanics
Brown made his lone 3-point attempt during the scrimmage, knocking down a confident deep ball from the right wing.
While Brown's 3-point shooting percentages don't scream consistency, he looks comfortable with his mechanics, releasing in one motion with a balanced base.
Brown's ability to knock down an open 3-pointer at the next level will dictate him staying on the floor.
Areas For Improvement
Outside of his 3-point shooting, Brown needs to improve at the charity stripe, shooting just 59.6-percent from the charity stripe in college.
While already being undersized, Brown doesn't get to the free-throw line much, but can't allow his struggles to become a liability.
Draft Projection
Brown is currently seen as a late-second round prospect who would become a high-priority UDFA if he doesn't hear his name called.
Are Kings a Fit?
Brown's defensive presence would be a big help for Sacramento, who is still looking for paint defense.
For a low price tag, Brown could give the Kings flexibility in the front court, allowing them to go small with the standout Blue Devil at the five or double-big with Brown at the four.
He would also allow the Kings to get serious about moving Domantas Sabonis, if they choose to do so.
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