Grading Every Top 2017 NBA Draft Prospect in Each Key Category

It's report-card time for the top NCAA players expected to declare for the 2017 NBA draft. Each prospect was graded on four categories: skill level, use of tools/athleticism, impact and intangibles/grasp.

Skill level represents how sharp and polished a prospect is with his dribble, passing, scoring and shooting. 

The tools/athleticism category weighs the effectiveness of each player's size, length, quickness, strength and leaping ability. 

Prospects' impact came down to their consistency and whether they helped move the needle in the right direction for their respective teams. 

For intangibles/grasp, we took into account the things stats can't measure, such as feel for the game, basketball IQ and effort.

Lauri Markkanen (Arizona, PF/C, Freshman)

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Skill level: A-

Lauri Markkanen has captured scouts' attention with accurate shooting and a projectable stroke. He's cooled off lately but is still hitting 42.8 percent of his 4.5 three-point attempts per game. A pick-and-pop stretch 4 or 5, Markkanen has also shown some ball-handling skills and the ability to face up, create and release off the dribble. However, it's only led to 29 total assists through 31 games, and though he's a 15.2-points-per-game scorer, he hasn't shown many post moves.

Use of tools/athleticism: D

At 7'0", Markkanen's 7.5 rebounds and 0.5 blocks per game are "red flag" low, as they suggest limited upside. One general manager told Bleacher Report that he views Markkanen "as more of a role player, sixth man, scoring threat off the bench." The Finnish big struggles with physicality under the boards, doesn't offer rim protection and lacks explosiveness as a finisher. Given his size, mobility and athleticism, you'd think he'd shoot better than 52.8 percent inside the arc and be a stronger interior presence. 

Impact: A-

Until Allonzo Trier returned on January 21, Markkanen had emerged as the leading scorer for one of the top-ranked teams in college basketball. His presence alone opens up the floor, but his shot-making ability holds the most value. 

Intangibles/grasp: B+

Markkanen has produced at a high rate despite being used in just 22.5 percent of Arizona's possessions when on the floor. The big man has found ways to consistently score without needing isolation touches or dribbles. He plays with a cool demeanor but has shown he can turn the intensity and fire on once he gets going. 

De'Aaron Fox (Kentucky, PG, Freshman)

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Skill level: B

The big knock on De'Aaron Fox is shooting, a simple yet key skill that could wind up determining his NBA value. He's missed 45 of 57 three-point attempts and has shot 31.7 percent on two-point jumpers, numbers that bring down his skill grade to a B. However, his ball-handling and passing are strong, and those skills ultimately play a big role in Fox's ability to average 15.5 points and 5.0 assists. 

Use of athleticism/tools: A+

The fact that Fox has given Kentucky consistent scoring without a jumper is a tribute to his use of quickness and athleticism. He's elusive off the dribble and crafty at the rim, where he can finish from different angles and rise above traffic. Fox has racked up a tremendous 70 two-point field goals in transition, creating easy scoring chances before defenses can get set. Defensively, elite foot speed has made him a pest and difficult to shake. 

Impact: A+

The loss of Tyler Ulis hasn't hurt Kentucky. Credit Fox, who's given the team similar scoring and playmaking firepower, as well as a level head and steadiness from the lead guard position. He's finished above 45 percent shooting in 15 games and has only totaled four single-digit scoring performances.

Intangibles/grasp: A

Fox has successfully controlled the pace as Kentucky's lead ball-handler and decision-maker. Knowing when to attack, move the ball or set the table has jumped out as a key strength for a prospect who'll be handed the keys to an NBA franchise. 

Robert Williams (Texas A&M, PF, Freshman)

Skill level: C

Robert Williams should draw plenty of looks in this year's lottery, but not due to his skill level. He struggles to create his own shot and doesn't project as a face-up ball-handling option. Williams has shown some touch in the mid-range, but a 59 percent clip from the free-throw line and a 1-of-16 mark from behind the three-point arc suggests he still has a long way to go as a shooter. On occasion, we've seen him pound the ball down low and finish over his shoulder. Williams is also a promising passer, a skill aided by giant hands and unselfishness. 

Use of tools/athleticism: A+

Williams' 18.7 points, 12.7 rebounds and 3.9 blocks per 40 minutes can almost all be attributed to his 6'9", 237-pound frame, a giant 7'4" wingspan and high-end athleticism. He's a force around the basket, where he uses his length and leaping ability to finish, bring in loose balls and protect the rim. He's even blocked 11 three-pointers, a tribute to his foot speed and ability to cover ground. 

Impact: B+

For a player who's used in just 23.9 percent of Texas A&M possessions when on the floor, Williams has consistently made his presence felt coming off the bench. Despite having a limited skill level and playing just 25.5 minutes per game, he's finished with double-digit point totals 21 times through 30 games. On the other end, there are only 11 players in the county with a better defensive box plus/minus. 

Intangibles/grasp: B

Williams has generated NBA buzz all year and hasn't let it affect his playing style. He generates scoring opportunities by running hard, crashing the glass and staying active. Assuming he declares for the draft, he'll do so viewed as a blank canvas. Completely raw, Williams is still learning the game and its fundamentals. 

Jayson Tatum (Duke, SF, Freshman)

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Skill level: A

An advanced one-on-one scorer, Jayson Tatum has given Duke another go-to option in half-court situations. His handle and footwork fuel next-level shot-creating ability. Tatum, who averages 16.0 points on a roster loaded with upperclassmen, uses jab steps, pull-ups, step-backs and fallaways to create separation into jumpers. His shooting range needs work, but he's a capable shot-maker from everywhere, including behind the arc (1.5 threes per game). Offensively, his game mirrors many of today's scoring wings like Harrison Barnes, Rudy Gay and Jabari Parker. 

Use of tools/athleticism: B-

Tatum's frame (he's 6'8" with a 6'11" wingspan) aces the NBA eye test, but a lack of explosiveness holds him back. He's had trouble around the rim, particularly in transition, where he's only shot 54.8 percent. Despite frequently having a size or quickness advantage, he settles too often, having attempted more two-point jumpers (99) than shots at the rim (90). He has used his foot speed and length on defense to force turnovers and make plays on the ball (1.2 blocks, 1.3 steals), though. 

Impact: B+

Whether it was against Florida back on December 6 (22 points) or more recently against Virginia on February 15 (28 points), Tatum has shown he can take over once his confidence starts pumping. He's given Duke consistent production, but he's also had inefficient games. Tatum has the tendency to take hero shots or low-percentage ones in the mid-range. He's shot below 40 percent in 10 games this season. 

Intangibles/Grasp: B+

To Tatum's credit, he's done a nice job of adjusting his shot selection as the season has progressed. We've seen less ball-stopping and more opportunistic scoring. There aren't any questions concerning his character or drive. He should have the chance to further enhance his image during the predraft interview process. 

Malik Monk (Kentucky, SG, Freshman)

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Skill level: A-

A brilliant shot-maker, Malik Monk has already hit 92 threes through 31 games at a 40.9 percent clip. He's shown the ability to effortlessly create separation on his jumpers by elevating high into abrupt pull-ups or step-backs. With a knack for hitting contested shots, good defense isn't enough to stop Monk once he's found a rhythm. His handle is more under control in the open floor, where he loves the inside-out dribble on the fly. However, his handle isn't as effective in the tight spaces, which limits his playmaking potential (13.6 assist percentage) and ability to get to the basket once the game slows down (he's only taken 30 shots there in the half court all season).

Use of tools/athleticism: B+

Monk's tools for a future NBA 2-guard are underwhelming, but he's compensated in college with top-notch athleticism. One of the most explosive leapers in the country, Monk puts his bounce to use in transition. Of his made baskets at the rim, 70.8 percent have come within the first 10 seconds of the shot clock, but he's only made 21 shots at the rim in the half court. Despite all of that burst, he doesn't get to the basket often. Monk's defensive effort and alertness have been suspect at times as well, and his 3.2 rebounds per 40 minutes rank as one of the worst among NBA prospects. 

Impact: A+

Averaging 21.2 points, with games of 47 points (North Carolina, December 17), 34 points (Ole Miss, December 29), 37 points (overtime against Georgia, January 31) and 33 points (Florida, February 25), Monk has willed Kentucky to victories on more than one occasion. He's had a few off games as well, but overall, Monk's consistent volume production and efficiency (46.3 percent) have been highly impressive given his style of play.

Intangibles/grasp: B

Monk still has a lot to learn defensively and could stand to improve his shot selection. Even with his microwave scoring ability, he takes a lot of difficult jumpers and heat checks. Arguably one of the top five talents in the county, there are some habits NBA coaches will try to help Monk eliminate once he joins the Association.

Dennis Smith Jr. (North Carolina State, PG, Freshman)

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Skill level: A

From Dennis Smith Jr.'s handles to his passing and shot-making, ball skills represent a signature strength for the Wolfpack floor general. Averaging 18.5 points and 6.3 assists, with the ability to create, attack, pull up and see the floor, he's a multidimensional threat off the dribble. He's most effective distributing off ball screens and driving north and south, having made 97 shots at the rim and averaging 7.3 free-throw attempts per 40 minutes. But he's highly capable of catching fire around the perimeter, where he's hit 30 two-point jumpers and 55 threes at a 36.9 percent clip. Inconsistent shooting has been a negative, as has his 3.4 turnovers per game. 

Use of tools/athleticism: A-

Smith uses his quickness and shiftiness to shake defenders, split screens and break down defenses. Having converted 52 two-point field goals within the first 10 seconds of the shot clock, his speed and explosiveness show in transition. Smith's burst and ability to bounce off contract help fuel his strong free-throw rate. 

Impact: B

The highlight of Smith's season came in a win over Duke on January 23, when he took over in the second half. He's flashed the potential to carry a team and single-handedly punch holes through the opponent's defense. Unfortunately for Smith, his workload has looked too heavy at times. There have been games where he's struggled to make the right plays or register much of a positive impact, like during the Wolfpack's 51-point loss to North Carolina (January 8) and more recent losses to Louisville (January 29), Florida State (February 8), Virginia (February 25) and Clemson on Tuesday.

Intangibles/grasp: B-

Smith isn't to blame for North Carolina State's 15-17 record, but he didn't do the greatest job of selling himself as a future NBA leader. One executive questioned if he could lead, referring to him as "quiet and moody." Vulnerable to making the lazy play, taking the wild shot or getting caught flat-footed, Smith could stand to improve his overall concentration and decision-making. Still, he clearly knows the game.

Jonathan Isaac (Florida State, SF/PF, Freshman)

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Skill level: B+

Jonathan Isaac has a unique skill set for a 6'10" forward. His skill level isn't there yet, but frequent flashes suggest it could be after a few more years of reps and seasoning. A comfortable ball-handler, Isaac creates his own shot with line drives and pull-up jumpers. His mechanics look smooth, and though a 29-of-79 mark from three-point range doesn't jump out, his 80.6 percent free-throw clip does. While we've seen glimpses of mismatch scoring potential, he still lacks polish and doesn't offer much as a passer (1.6 assists per 40 minutes).  

Use of tools/athleticism: A-

Averaging 11.5 rebounds per 40 minutes while shooting 60.6 percent inside the arc, Isaac hasn't given scouts many reasons to question his skinny 210-pound frame. He's shown both fight and bounce around the basket. Isaac has also impressed on defense, using his length to block shots (2.3 per 40 minutes) and foot speed to contain smaller, faster guards away from the basket. 

Impact: B

For a non-playmaking scorer, nine single-digit scoring outings and just three 20-plus-point games bring down Isaac's impact grade. To his credit, he's only used in 20.9 percent of Florida State's possessions when on the floor. Still, you'd like to see him be more assertive (7.9 field-goal attempts per game). Over the past month, he's been held to two points against Miami (Saturday), eight points in a loss to Duke (February 28) and four points in a loss to Notre Dame (February 11). 

Intangibles/grasp: A-

Unselfish and efficient, Isaac has played the right way all season, taking shots the defense gives him. Rarely has he forced the issue. Extended minutes without a field-goal attempt haven't temped him to hunt. Isaac's coaches have raved about his coachability and team-first approach, and he's shown no signs of a motor that's vulnerable to fading. 

Josh Jackson (Kansas, SG/SF, Freshman)

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Skill level: B+

Josh Jackson has made notable strides since his junior year of high school, mostly to his handle, which has taken his playmaking to a new level. His 3.1 assists per game illuminate point-forward potential, as he's shown he can create off the dribble and pass on the move with both hands. Jackson also uses more advanced crossovers, stutter-steps and hesitation to beat his man and slice to the rim, where he's made 111 field goals, 65 of which have been unassisted.

He isn't as sharp around the perimeter, though, even if his 37.7 percent three-point mark looks respectable. Jackson has only made 29 triples through 31 games and shoots 55.9 percent from the free-throw line. Pull-up and step-back jumpers aren't reliable weapons in Jackson's arsenal, which could be attributed to a low release point that takes longer to get off. He brings more versatility than the other elite wings, but his scoring upside doesn't appear as high as Duke's Jayson Tatum's or Florida State's Jonathan Isaac. 

Use of tools/athleticism: A

An exciting athlete, Jackson puts heavy pressure on the defense with his quick first step and explosiveness around the basket. Averaging 6.8 free-throw attempts per 40 minutes, with 34 made field goals at the rim in transition, Jackson is at his best attacking. He's emerged as a plus-rebounder for a wing (9.4 per 40 minutes), and with tremendous lateral foot speed, he's flashed encouraging defensive potential and the versatility to guard multiple positions. 

Impact: A

Steady with big performances against winning programs like Duke (15 points on 7-of-9 shooting), Kentucky (20 points, 10 rebounds, three assists) and Baylor (23 points, 10 rebounds), Jackson has consistently been an impact player for Kansas. His 10.6 box plus/minus is the highest on Kansas.

Intangibles/Grasp: B+

Jackson plays with great energy and competitiveness and doesn't appear jealous when forced into a secondary role. He comes off as a high-motor player willing to defer. However, Jackson has let his emotions get the best of him at times. He's been called for silly fouls out of frustration—both personal and technical—at key moments. Otherwise, Jackson has a strong basketball IQ and leadership potential.

Lonzo Ball (UCLA, PG, Freshman)

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Skill level: B+

If we were grading passing ability on its own, Lonzo Ball would receive an A+. His 7.8 assists per game lead the country. It's not even just the spectacular vision—Ball delivers it using either hand off outlets, ball screens, skips or post entries. Knocking down 2.3 threes per game at a 42.4 percent clip, long-range shooting has been his most effective scoring skill. Despite his unorthodox mechanics, he's had success from deep, showing the ability and confidence to connect while under pressure. On the downside, he doesn't project as a takeover scorer, having only made 11 two-point jumpers all season and averaging 17 points per 40 minutes. Creating his own shot is not a strength.

Use of tools/athleticism: A-

Ball uses his size (6'6", 190 lbs) to his advantage, both as a shooter and distributor. He also taps into his bounce and coordination on off-ball finishes at the rim, where he's made 39 unassisted field goals and 78 percent of his total attempts. His first step isn't great, though, and neither is his last one around the basket off his own dribble. Ball only gets to the free-throw line 2.9 times in 35.0 minutes per game, and he has registered 17 unassisted field goals at the rim in the half court all season. Defensively, Ball's skinny frame can get caught up in screens. He does add value, though, with quick hands and instincts, which have translated to two steals per game and 24 blocks on the year.

Impact: A+

Ball has been the driving force behind UCLA's winning season, having helped change the team's identity with his unselfish play, quick decision-making and knack for running an offense. The Bruins, who ranked outside the top 50 in offensive efficiency last year, are now No. 2, per KenPom.com, and they're the country's No. 3 ranked team heading into postseason play. The NBA franchise that eventually selects Ball in the draft will likely have put more stock into his impact at UCLA than anything else on the scouting report. 

Intangibles/Grasp: A+

Coaches can't teach Ball's feel for the game. He seemingly always presses the right buttons, and on a handful of occasions this season, he's shown he can put a team on his back down the stretch and turn it on with clutch play after clutch play. Elite basketball IQ and leadership qualities should help diminish most of the concern tied to his limited scoring potential and explosiveness. 

Markelle Fultz (Washington, PG, Freshman)

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Skill level: A+

The only freshman in the last 25 years to average at least 20 points and five assists while shooting at least 40 percent from three, Markelle Fultz's skill level separates him. His size, length and explosiveness bode well for his transition to the NBA, but we see athletic 6'4" point guards every year. A crafty handle fuels both playmaking off the dribble and advanced shot creation with pull-ups and step-backs. Fultz taps into his high-level shot-making ability from all three levels and passing off pick-and-rolls and drives. It's not crazy to call Fultz the sharpest, most complete teenage point guard in college since Kyrie Irving.

Use of tools/athleticism: A

Fultz uses every inch to shoot over defenders and get shots off with ease. His athleticism and coordination show up on difficult finishes around the basket that call for midair adjusting and hang time. Fultz isn't perfect in the paint, though. Shooting 56.9 percent at the rim in the half court, he's struggled at times converting among the trees. Otherwise, quick feet, long arms and leaping ability can disrupt on defense, where he averages 1.6 steals and 1.2 blocks, more than twice as many as Arizona 7-footer Lauri Markkanen. Still, despite textbook defensive tools and speed, he showed plenty of room for improvement as a team defender.

Impact: B

Washington's 9-21 record represents a blemish on Fultz's resume, but not one NBA teams will put much stock in. He was incredibly productive in a high-usage role, yet he's been efficient throughout the season. Still, it would have been nice to see Fultz carry the Huskies to a few more wins, though without much support, it's reasonable to assume he never had a chance.

Intangibles/Grasp: B+

Fultz has remained poised throughout a tough year at Washington. At times, you'd almost like to see more emotion. His casual, laid-back approach for a projected NBA cornerstone could also turn some people off. However, there is a lot more to admire about Fultz's level head and quiet confidence. The fact that he's improved so dramatically over the past few years also reflects favorably on his work ethic and ability to recognize and correct mistakes. 

Stats accurate heading into Tuesday's games and are via RealGM.com, Hoop-Math.com and Sports Reference unless otherwise noted. All height and weight information via DraftExpress or school bios unless otherwise noted.

Jonathan Wasserman covers the NBA draft for Bleacher Report. Follow him on Twitter: @NBADraftWass