AJ Dybantsa has Nets fans buzzing about possibly going to Brooklyn. But another Cougars star is worth watching for the later rounds.
The Brooklyn Nets could become convinced to add a BYU standout.
AJ Dybantsa, however, isn't the lone Cougars standout who could land here via the 2026 NBA Draft.
NetsRoundtable continues to sort through potential draft selections ahead of the June event. Dybantsa is a popular choice, especially if the Nets land at No. 1. But other names like Brayden Burries of Arizona, Cameron Boozer of Duke, plus Darius Acuff of Arkansas are potential options already.
But the second round prospects can't be ignored either. Which is why Richie Saunders of BYU enters the picture here. Time to see how he fits Brooklyn.
Catch-and-Shoot Prowess
Saunders' strength on the hardwood is catching and shooting.
He brings a strong flick of the wrist and doesn't hesitate to release the ball the moment he's got a three-point opportunity. Head coach Jordi Fernandez likely will love that element of him.
Saunders presents consistency from the perimeter too, shooting higher than 36% in the last three seasons from long range.
He's also fresh off delivering a career-high in points per game.
High IQ Attacker
Saunders isn't just a long range marksman.
He's intelligent enough in knowing when to attack the lane. Saunders penetrates when he sees a hole open on the court.
Saunders can even switch to his off-hand when it looks like he can't get a layup off with his right hand.
He's an effective attacker when he's got space.
Does he Excel Against Multiple Defenses?
Saunders noticeably performs better when there's a solo defender.
He rarely faces double teams. Obviously Dybantsa drawing attention helps Saunders' side.
But he looks like he excels more against man-on-man defenses and not zone. Plus a majority of his baskets came without facing a double team, or even drawing contact.
He runs the risk of becoming more reliant on the three-pointer at the next level. Saunders does attack in transition too, but he's not the quickest to the basket especially compared to Dybantsa.
Still, he could take advantage of spacing provided by Michael Porter Jr., Egor Demin and Nolan Traore here.
Areas of Concern
Saunders looks like he lacks multiple post moves.
He thrives better with floor spacing including when he cuts inside. But he's not someone who'll destroy man defenses on a blow-by to the basket, drawing immediate concerns about his fit here.
We also must mention this other pre-draft dilemma: The health of his right knee following his torn ACL. Scouts will wonder if he'll be fully healthy for NBA Summer League and then the regular season.
Saunders also is limited on the defensive side. He must turn to instincts to make up for his lack of size when defending ball handlers by himself. He's not much of a defensive stopper on the court, though.
Are Nets a Fit?
Lack of consistent defense drops his stock all the way to the second round. That and his age, as Saunders will be 25.
But he looks like more of a sixth man option for future teams like Brooklyn. He can improve the bench scoring here.
Fernandez, though, may become convinced that he's got a deep lineup of reserves already with Josh Minott, Tyson Etienne and Drake Powell all coming back. Saunders may not have room here.
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