Top five prospects for Cavs at fifth overall in the 2019 NBA Draft
By Corey Casey
#4: Kevin Porter Jr. – USC
Last year at USC Kevin Porter Jr. had an underwhelming season, as he averaged 9.5 points on 56.1% effective field goal shooting, to go with 4.0 rebounds per game. He did shoot 41.2% from three-point land as well (all per Sports Reference).
At first glance, his modest scoring and only starting in four games may not scream star power, but Porter is someone who has one of the most highest upsides in this class.
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He is an elite shot creator who can create space with ease with his explosion combined with his listed 6-foot-5-and-a-half, 213-pound frame (per Tankathon).
It doesn’t seem completely far-fetched for him to warrant some James Harden comparisons.
It’s an easy comparison to make when you consider Porter’s ability to create his own shot, as he has a lethal step back and can really shoot it from three-point range while having the strength to finish in the paint as well.
Though he is raw and would take some time to develop, with the Cavs where they are, they’re a team that can take their time with him. Porter’s season was cut short due to a combination of a reported thigh contusion and a suspension reportedly for “personal conduct issues,” (h/t 247 Sports’ Chris Trevino).
Porter would make a ton of sense with the Cavs needing more wings and the Cavs don’t really have anyone that can create their own shot in the half court all that well outside for the long-term outside of Collin Sexton.