The New Orleans Pelicans selected Serbian baller Alen Smailagic as the 39th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft — and traded it to the Golden State Warriors.
Per Shams Charania of The Athletic:
Sources: New Orleans is selecting Alen Smailagic at No. 39 2019 NBA draft — and traded to Golden State.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 21, 2019
The 18-year-old Smailagic played for the Warriors' G League affiliate, the Santa Cruz Warriors, in the 2018-2019 season. In 47 games, the 6-foot-10 forward averaged 9.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.0 assist across 17.4 minutes.
Prior to the draft, there was already a strong belief that the Warriors would select Smailagic, noting that they are “really high on him.”
Don't be surprised if the Warriors use the No. 41 pick on 18-year-old Serbian big man Alen Smailagic, who spent this past season with the @GLeagueWarriors. Golden State is really high on him, and there was some concern that he wouldn't be available at No. 58.
— Connor Letourneau (@Con_Chron) June 20, 2019
Since last year, scouts have been eyeing Smailagic. Their main concern has always been the 18-year-old's lack of significant basketball experience. His only substantial action on the court was his time with the Serbian national team for the under-16 tourney in 2016. He was also included in the FIBA Euro Championship under-18 roster but did not play.
At face value, scouts saw a combination of size and latent basketball talent in Alen Smailagic. Given his youth, his game can still be fixed to meet modern day-NBA standards, particularly those which apply to a big man. The Warriors hope to cultivate and polish the skills of a big man who can dribble and shoot the ball efficiently like a guard.
Follow Us
Subscribe