#29 Brooklyn Nets: Chris McCullough

The Brooklyn Nets were rumored to be targeting a guard throughout the draft process, but decided to add another big man to their roster in Chris McCullough with the 29th pick.

McCullough, a 6’10” power forward out of Syracuse, is a tremendous athlete for his size who can run the floor with ease and could be a defensive force down the line as he continues to develop and add strength.

The Nets will need to be patient with McCullough, who is coming off an ACL tear last season. Luckily for McCullough, the Nets can bring him along slowly with centers Brook Lopez and Mason Plumlee already in place so he won’t be forced to contribute immediately and can develop comfortably to the NBA.

McCullough is still very thin for his size at only 200 pounds, so hitting the weight room will be a must for him early in his career to keep up with NBA big men. His athleticism, leaping ability, long reach and youth at only 20 years old could help him be a difference-maker at least defensively a couple years down the line.

McCullough made an impact early in the season for the Orange on defense, blocking 2.1 shots per game thanks to a terrific 7’3 wingspan and great quickness around the basket. McCullough also showed he has a developing offensive game averaging 9.3 points per game in limited action with strong overall activity around the basket. The Nets will grow to love McCullough’s aggressiveness as a rebounder, as he averaged 6.9 boards per game in his lone college season, especially as he adds strength to bang down low.

A Bronx native, McCullough should feel right at home in Brooklyn and has the potential to be a massive threat on defense thanks to his athleticism, length, shot-blocking ability and rebounding.