NBA Draft Scouting Report: Xavier's Desmond Claude
Desmond Claude
Wing | Xavier
Height: 6'6” | Weight: 205 lbs
2024 Draft Age: 21.06
Sam Greene/The Enquirer-USA TODAY NETWORK
Prospect Profile
Claude has proven to be a legitimate sophomore breakout player. Coming off of a Big East All-Freshman Team nod last season, he was a prospect that entered his sophomore season with quite a bit of momentum. He hit the ground running in year two, notching 25 points and three assists while hitting two of his four triples in the season opener.
Claude will have every opportunity to take that next step and continue this success in the current season, especially given the elevated role. Xavier graduated quite a few perimeter players, clearing the way for him to be a focal point of the offense. In fact, they graduated four of their top five scorers from last season's team - three of which play exclusively on the perimeter - which opens the door for Claude to show his true talent.
At 6-foot-6 he offers some versatility with his matchups while having great hands, playing with his chest on drives, showing good ball screen navigation and some of the best off the ball screen navigation you will watch.
The defensive upside of Claude could make the difference in his draft positioning, especially if the offense remains highly productive. He can play a similar role that Colby Jones did last season after being selected in the early part of the second round in the 2023 NBA Draft. A similar type of player on the defensive end, Claude is versatile enough to guard at least three positions effectively.
Again, the defensive side of the ball isn't a concern for Claude. What he must answer - and many signs point to him doing so - this season is what he brings on the offensive end. He shot 29% from beyond the 3-point line last year but that number was 38% in his final 13 games when you could see him getting more comfortable. He combines all of this with an ability to run the show and consistently throw the perfect on time and on target passes to open teammates. The ability to score, which has improved this season, along with shooting splits will be the swing factors for Claude. Not only is there shooting upside, but Clause is also a solid passer for his size on the wing.
A major intrigue is that if these shooting numbers are real he can provide value playing off the ball while also possessing plenty of on the ball juice with his wiggle and change of pace when attacking defenses.
A former four-star recruit, Claude has always possessed the size and skillset to play at the NBA level dating back to his late high school days.
Highlights
Draft Projection
Second-Round Pick in 2024 NBA Draft.
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