New Orleans Pelicans record: 4-18

Pro Comparisons: Coby White, Jalen Brunson (bigger), James Harden

Dylan Harper has taken over this year’s draft discussion, which suddenly now revolves around the question of whether the 6’6″ scoring guard deserves No. 1 overall consideration.

At 18 years old against Notre Dame (36 points) and Alabama (37 points), he showcased what tanking NBA teams will be seeking: the ability to generate offense on demand, carry a lineup and takeover games with creation, shotmaking and improvisation.

Everything we saw at Don Bosco Prep, or for Team USA, or at the McDonalds Game and Jordan Brand Classic, has carried over to Rutgers and college basketball. He’s getting to his spots off change of speed and direction. He’s using his 6’6″ size to play through defenders. He’s hitting tough finishes and pull-ups.

Unsurprisingly, Harper remains wired to shoot before pass, although Rutgers needs him to look for his own offense. And he’s only 8-of-29 from three. But between how effective he’s been inside the arc, his advantageous frame for an NBA ball-handler, how dangerous he is off the dribble and all the intangibles and basketball genes he possesses, it’s nitpicking if you’re harping on the weaknesses this early.

He’s at least put pressure on Cooper Flagg in the No. 1 overall discussion.