#10 Milwaukee Bucks: Thon Maker

With the 10th pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, the Milwaukee Bucks selected Thon Maker out of Athlete Institute.

Maker is one of the most intriguing players in this draft class. He is 7’1  and has as much raw potential as just about anyone in this class. It’s not clear how long it will take for Maker to adjust his game to the NBA, but that didn’t scare the Bucks away — a team that’s roster is built around length. Don’t forget, the Bucks selected Giannis Antetokounmpo in the 2013 Draft and there’s no debate that pick turned out to be a steal.

Maker needs to add some bulk to his frame and doesn’t have elite rebounding skills, which can be problematic for a player his size. However, he is a physical player who doesn’t back down and competes with a high motor. While Maker could someday become a uniquely lethal stretch power forward, his shot will need to improve significantly. He certainly has three-point range in his arsenal, but it’s not clear how long it will take before it is consistent enough to be a real asset for the Bucks.

Despite all of the short-term concerns, there’s little doubt that Maker has a ton of potential and upside. With an intriguing skill set and defensive versatility, he could be an interesting fit with the Bucks.