NBA Draft Profile: Will Barton
Will Barton – SG/SF 6’6, 174lbs.
Memphis
Will Barton can make a difference on the defensive end immediately in the NBA. The lanky guard has the wingspan, quickness and athleticism needed to defend opposing guards. The Baltimore native had drawn criticism for poor shot selection during his freshman season, but showed marked improvement as a sophomore, opting to attack the basket rather than settle for jump shots. Barton averaged 9.7 rebounds per 40 minutes, ranking first amongst wing prospects in this year’s draft.
Barton will have to add bulk to his slight frame if he is to compete with physically imposing shooting guards. The guard also doesn’t have the explosiveness desired at the two position and fails to shoot the ball consistently. If Barton can grow into his large frame he can serve as a defensive stopper with offensive upside, two things many teams will look for on Draft night.
Draft Express’ Walker Beeken writes that “Barton has the size, length, and athleticism of a prototypical NBA wing, but at some point, he'll need to add some strength to his lanky frame if he's going to be able to compete against stronger, bulkier players at the NBA level.
