John Havlicek (SF)

[Tel Aviv]

Name: John Havlicek
Position: SF
Height: 6'6
Weight: 205lbs
DOB: 4/8/1994

abcalegends.com/players/player765.htm

Pros: Coming into the league at only 19 years old John Havlicek plays at a position that is arguably the weakest in the league and therefore come draft day, a player with his upside will be highly coveted. Although he comes in raw he has the potential to become a very good player on both sides of the floor, especially defensively. Scouts are raving about the defensive potential that Havlicek has shown at such a young age and are predicting that he could turn into one of the best defenders in the league. Havlicek also has great stamina which helps him on both sides of the court. On the scoring end he has shown potential to score inside and shoot the three although he doesnt have the consistency at the moment.

Cons: Havlicek comes into the ABCA draft very raw and teams may have to wait a year or two to start seeing the production out of him. Some scouts are worried about Havlicek's passing, that is something that teams may need to work on if they draft him. Also another concern is his jump shooting ablity, although he shows promise of hitting the open three he hasnt shown any consistency with his midrage game.

Overall: At only 19 years of age John Havlicek looks to be a great prospect at a position of need for the majority of the teams in the league. Although you will probably have to wait a season or two to start seeing the production you would like, it will be worth the wait as he promises to be one of the best defensive players in the league.

Projection: Pick 3-4 

[London]

Name: John "Hondo" Havlicek
Pos: SF
Ht: 6'6
Wt: 205 lbs
DOB: 04/08/94

abcalegends.com/players/player765.htm

Pros: One of the biggest upsides to any rookie entering the league is their age. Double bonus points then for Hondo who will be 20 when he plays his first game. He is a well-rounded, two-way player who can be the leader for a team. He has some position versatility by being able to play either swing position as well as being able to guard a Point Guard in a pinch. Hell, he's probably just as suited to guard a Power Forward. One of the best parts of Havlicek is his motor. The guy can play all day. You might not need to worry about a back-up at whatever position you decide to play him at.

Cons: Well, the downside to extreme youth is that is usually comes in a little less developed and that would be the case with Havlicek. He might not contend for Rookie of the Year but he could be in the talks for the most impactful and dynamic player out of this draft class. There are certainly better rebounders from the Small Forward position but if you give up 1 or 2 there a game I think you'll be okay with everything else John gives back to your team.

Overall: He not only has the potential to be a great perimeter defender but also a pretty good post defender. You don't get that from a lot of people. He'll be able to score both inside and out. The big hang-up is the wait. How long until he is ready to contribute? Basically that's the only thing separating him from the Big 2. They're ready now but Hondo is 2 years younger. It really depends on how set-up your team is right now? Can you win with Oscar or West or would it benefit you to take another year in the lottery?

Projection: Pick 3

[Drew]

Name: John Havlicek
Position: SF
Height: 6'6
Weight: 205lbs
DOB: 4/8/1994
College: The Ohio State University

abcalegends.com/players/player765.htm

Pros: The key words when it comes to Havlicek's game is potential and versatility. At just 20 years of age, the potential for growth is nearly limitless. With virtually no weak points in his game, Havlicek will never be a liability when it comes to either end of the floor. Scoring ability, while still raw, is very promising both on the inside and the perimeter, particularly from beyond the arc. A small forward who can truly handle like a guard is certainly an exciting prospect for a number of teams, especially given the overall lack of depth at the 1 in the league. Defensively Havlicek is a very solid prospect both defending on ball and in the post. A bit of a hawk when it comes to the ball, steal and turnover causing production can be expected. Also stamina for days, a player who could very well play 40+ minutes right out the gate.

Cons: Havlicek is very raw despite the positive outlook for his career, whoever drafts him may have to wait a few seasons before seeing any of this come to fruition. Concerns about his size (or lack thereof) have been raised, with a 205 lb. frame being on the lighter side of Small Forwards in the league. Passing is a bit of a weak point, which is a shame given his excellent handling abilities. There are a number of things which Havlicek could be great at, but he could also end up only being average in these areas.

Overall: While some teams may be swayed to pick Lenny Wilkins due to their team's needs, I think that passing up Havlicek will be a decision that haunts any GM. We're looking at a prospect with the potential to become a premier perimeter defender, with the ability to score both inside and out. The sky really is the limit for Hondo, who has the potential to be a franchise player caliber cornerstone for the team who picks him up. Questions about his size and strength remain, but these are both things that can be shored up through a pro-caliber training regimen.

Projection: Pick 3