| Tillman, Xavier | Michigan St. | 6'8" | 245 | C | yr. | Tillman has a feel for the game. He seems to be in the right place at the right time. He was the 2019-20 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. Tillman averaged 13.7 points and 10.3 rebounds per game but more impressively, he led the NCAA in box score plus/minus. He uses either hand well around the basket. He makes timely cuts. He is willing to do the work necessary to be an effective defender. The Spartans were 6.9 points per 100 possessions better defensively with Tillman on the floor. Tillman shot 69% FT (career), and he had more assists than turnovers. ...While we love the intangibles, Tillman can bring, we are concerned that his only OFFENSIVE position is Center due to his lack of skill from beyond the three point line (26% in 2019-20). At 6'8", 245 he will be undersized against almost every opponent. ...If he can become an adequate three-point shooter, we then think he can play FOUR. In that scenario, he can be very valuable. ...Tillman can clearly be in better shape. An NBA diet, coupled with the strength and conditioning coaches in the NBA should make Tillman lighter on his feet. ...We expect Tillman to be drafted in the mid-to-late second round. |
Our most sketchy advice: in 2009, the 26th pick was Taj Gibson. We advised, "draft Sam Young."
Our best advice: in 2012, the 26th pick was Miles Plumlee. We advised, "draft Draymond Green."