Chances are, you haven’t heard of Malachi Richardson. But if you have, it was likely because of his performance in the NCAA March Madness tournament.

Since then, Richardson’s draft stock has been on the rise both because of his performance in the tournament and his showing at the NBA Combine.

ESPN draft expert Chad Ford’s recent article on potential lottery prospects gave high praise for Richardson, going so far as to say he could see Richardson going somewhere between pick 12-20. Quite the rise for someone who was left out of many analysts mock drafts in the weeks leading into the combine.

Per the ESPN article:

“Why the sudden rise in his draft stock? His strong play in the NCAA tournament was some of it. But a lot had to do with the fact that scouts weren't really focusing on him. He wasn't considered a one-and-done, so the evaluation wasn't as intense as it was for other freshmen.”

“Once teams went back to the film, they loved what they saw. He's a big wing with a massive 7-foot wingspan. He's very athletic (he measured a 38-inch vertical) as well.”

“Most importantly, he's one of the few guys in this draft with the size, speed and skills to get his own shot. Not only does he have a quick first step that allows him to blow by defenders, but he's also got deep range on his jump shot. He only shot 35 percent from 3, but scouts attribute the so-so shooting numbers to shot selection more than shooting form.”

“’He can really shoot the basketball,’ one GM said. “He just took a lot of bad shots. He's wild. His decision making still isn't there, but the talent level and physical tools to get it done are there. I think he's got some star potential.”

“While not every team sees it (a few still have him in the 30s), it looks more and more like his range is somewhere between No. 12 and No. 20. In other words, right now we have him at his floor. Look for a big bump in our next Big Board on Monday.”

The NBA Draft will take place on June 23. Richardson has already told teams he intends to stay in the draft, a big decision considering 57 other players have already withdrawn.

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