A two time All-Big 12 member, Derek Culver had a monster junior season. On the year, Culver averaged 14.3 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 1.1 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.8 BPG, and 2.2 TOPG on shooting splits of 48/0/62. Below is his full scouting report:
Name: Derek Culver
Height/Weight: 6’10/ 255
Wingspan/ standing reach: N/A
Hand size: N/A
Position: PF/C
College/ country: West Virginia
Tools: Finishing, rebounding
Pros:
- Elite rebounder
- Outstanding finisher at the rim
- Adequate lateral quickness
- Strong, NBA body
Cons:
- Lacks a jump shot
- Defensive intensity on the perimeter can be lackadaisical
- Must improve ball security
- Needs to improve perimeter game
- Can look for his own shot too much
Overall:
Derek Culver plays an old-school role as a post-oriented big man who makes a living as a rebounder and finisher at the rim. Without a reliable jumper or the ability to drive, Culver may struggle with spacing at the next level. As a big man with a post-oriented game and being, at best, a mild defender on the perimeter, it’s hard to project Culver into an easy role in the NBA. However, he is probably the best rebounder in the draft and one of the bigs with the best finishing touches at the rim. If Culver can improve his tendencies and learn to shoot, look for him to get a chance, after some likely run in the G League, as an energy big in the NBA.
Similar to: Ed Davis, Chuck Hayes
Projected draft range: Undrafted
Meets expectations if: Culver’s win outcome is making the league in any capacity. In this scenario, he would be an energy big off the bench that can win the rebounding battle against nearly anyone.
Unplayable if: Jump shooting never comes along, and tendencies (relying solely on post scoring & clogging the lane, as well as minimal effort defensively) don’t improve.
Exceeds expectations if: Jump shooting comes along or he adapts with NBA spacing. Rebounding translates cleanly and has a role as a well-rounded energy big.
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