Patrick Williams Emerging As Potential Top-4 Pick in Draft

Without a consensus first overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, there have been multiple shifts in draft predictions. The projected top-three picks isn’t even clear, with prospects like Anthony Edwards, James Wiseman and LaMelo Ball having plenty of detractors.

That’s one reason why former Florida State forward Patrick Williams has been a fast-riser on NBA Draft boards, even leapfrogging Florida State wing Devin Vassell in many mock drafts.

The Ringer’s Jonathan Tjarks reported that Williams has been rumored to go as high as fourth in the 2020 NBA Draft, a sentiment shared by ESPN’s Jonathan Givony (subscription required).

With Maccabi Tel Aviv’s Deni Avdija, Auburn’s Isaac Okoro, Dayton’s Obi Toppin and USC’s Onyeka Okongwu also in consideration as top-five picks, Williams may end up being selected between picks 5-10 rather than picks 1-5.

Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that despite being named to the ACC’s All-Rookie team and named as the conference’s Sixth Man of the Year, Williams had the least impressive statistical output of any of the aforementioned prospects. He averaged just 9.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.0 steal and 1.0 block per game in his sole collegiate season, shooting 45.9% from the field and 32.0% from 3-point range.

Williams’ game and his draft stock could have benefited from him staying at Florida State for at least one more season. However, in the age of one-and-dones, college players bolt to the NBA because they’re looking at the financial possibilities rather than their long-term success.

That said, the reason why Williams is becoming so highly regarded in draft circles is because he’s an exceptional athlete and versatile defender with the ability to knock down shots from outside.

Oh, and he’s only 19-years-old.

A fitting NBA comparison for Williams would be Thaddeus Young, who just wrapped up his 13th season in the league. Interestingly enough, Young currently plays for the Chicago Bulls, who have the fourth overall pick in the draft.