NBA Draft: Taylor Hendricks’ Size and Versatility Makes Him an Intriguing Prospect

Oklahoma City needs to add length, which is exactly what UCF forward Taylor Hendricks provides.

One of the most under the radar lottery prospects Taylor Hendricks may have one of the top skillsets in the draft.

Hendricks, as a freshman at UCF, was a force to be reckoned with on the court. Known for his versatility and athleticism, he has been a key player for the Knights, averaging 15.1 points, seven rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game in the 2022-2023 season. His ability to score from beyond the arc, get to the basket, and defend multiple positions has caught the attention of NBA scouts and analysts alike.

Hendricks is a 6-foot-9 athletic length body who can stretch the floor and play, and most importantly defend, the three through the five. A player like him could greatly help the roster of the Thunder. Despite his young age being a one-and-some at UCF, Hendricks has a high basketball IQ on both ends of the floor and a high ceiling for room to grow.

He has shown the ability to create his own shot, finish at the rim, and make plays for his teammates. Defensively, his length and quickness allow him to guard multiple positions effectively, which would provide versatility to the Thunder's defensive schemes.

His ability to space the floor on the offensive end will fit well into a rotation that already has top notch weapons and would benefit from another threat on the floor who can’t be left open at any spot on the court.

Oklahoma City’s roster would greatly benefit from another high level defender, especially one in and around the paint. Hendricks could provide good depth and size at both the wing and paint position.

OKC’s biggest downfall was its lack of size and inability to consistently defend longer players. Hendrick’s long frame would help alleviate some of that struggle as he develops his game.

With his skillset, potential, and fit with the Thunder's needs, Hendricks is certainly one of the prospects to watch on draft night.

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