NBA Draft Scouting Report: Iowa's Kris Murray
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Kris Murray
Forward | Iowa
Height: 6'8” | Weight: 225 lbs
2023 Draft Age: 22.84
Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen/USA TODAY NETWORK
Prospect Profile
The twin brother of Sacramento Kings rookie Keegan Murray, Kris Murray is projected to follow in his footsteps and become a first-round draft pick. Going back to school for his junior season, Murray showed rapid development and rose up draft boards over the past few months just like his twin did a year ago.
After not playing much as a freshman at Iowa, Murray had a solid sophomore campaign. Known for being a 3-point shooter, he knocked down nearly 40% of his triples as a sophomore season. While his efficiency went down as a junior, he shot on much higher volume and got more attention from defenses. What's most impressive about Murray is that he shoots so well while standing at 6-foot-8 and is also solid on the defensive end.
At this point, it doesn't appear Murray has the same overall upside as his brother, but does project to be a quality role player at the NBA level. He's got great size for a 3-and-D wing and also has a ton of experience under his belt. The fact that he will be 23 at the start of the 2023-24 NBA season will limit his ceiling on draft night, but still could help a playoff team immediately.
Some prospects play the game in a way that doesn't truly allow them to flourish without opportunity, which is the case for Murray. In the past, he was often hidden by high level teammates, but was able to thrive as more of a primary option this season.
Combo forwards that are fundamentally sound are typically good rotation players at the next level. Murray has proven to be effective on the wing or as a stretch four and can also defend a variety of positions. He's a much improved rebounder and is actually an underrated playmaker.
As good as the shooting is for Murray, it does come in waves. Building on consistency as a shooter will be key in his development moving forward. During the pre-draft process, he will have plenty of opportunity to showcase the upside from beyond the arc.
After entering the 2022 NBA Draft without representation, Murray made a smart move by going back to play one more college season. His stock has definitely increased and he is now ready to make the jump to the next level.
One question for Murray entering year three at the college level was his free throw shooting, which was much improved and also helps make his case as a shooter at the next level. He also got better at creating contact and getting to the line while also nearly doubling his assist numbers. All of these areas of improvement are why he now looks like a clear first-round selection in the 2023 NBA Draft.
Highlights
Draft Projection
Late First-Round Pick in 2023 NBA Draft.
2023 Big Board
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