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Detroit Pistons 2020 NBA Draft Profile: R.J. Hampton

By Aaron Kellerstrass

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 30: RJ Hampton of the Breakers looks on during the round 9 NBL match between the New Zealand Breakers and the Illawarra Hawks at Spark Arena on November 30, 2019 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images)
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 30: RJ Hampton of the Breakers looks on during the round 9 NBL match between the New Zealand Breakers and the Illawarra Hawks at Spark Arena on November 30, 2019 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images) /
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R.J. Hampton, Detroit Pistons
ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA – NOVEMBER 24: Rj Hampton of the Breakers could be a fit for the Detroit Pistons (Photo by Mark Brake/Getty Images) /

R.J. Hampton’s Strengths

Hampton has the kind of size at 6-foot-5 that teams covet in the point guard position.

Guys like Lonzo Ball are showing that size matters when it comes to passing, as his height allows him to see the floor and make spectacular passes that smaller guards might not even see.

Hampton fits the Ball profile, as he is tall enough to see over smaller opponents and bully his way to the rim.

Getting to the rim and finishing are two of Hampton’s biggest strengths, as you can see here in highlights from one of his better games as a professional:

Hampton has the quickness and size to beat opponents off the dribble, finish with either hand and throw it down with authority, often looking like Ja Morant in the process.

He also profiles as a plus rebounder for his position, averaging 3.9 rebounds per game for the Breakers in only 20.6 minutes per game.

Hampton can play both on and off the ball and profiles as a playmaker more than a scorer, as he talks about here:

His speed and explosive athleticism should make him a tough cover in the open court, as well as in the pick-and-roll, where he can attack switches and get to the rim.

His size and length should allow him to defend both guard positions and would give the Pistons a lot of flexibility defensively, especially with defensive liability Luke Kennard on the floor.

He averaged 1.1 steals per game in a small sample size, but profiles as a guy who can get in passing lanes for deflections or steals and then get out on the break.

Related Story. Detroit Pistons 2020 Draft Profile: James Wiseman. light

Hampton also has something the Pistons may need more than anything: swagger.

Detroit currently lack an identity and need players who have the confidence to be leaders on the floor.

Let’s face it, the Pistons also need guys who can put people in the seats and an exciting, athletic point guard like Hampton could instantly be a fan favorite.

Hampton has the upside potential the Detroit Pistons are looking for, but also comes with some glaring weaknesses.