A defensive-minded player to consider.
In today’s world, we use the term “dog” for somebody who’s gritty, plays with tenacity, and makes winning plays. If there’s anybody in this draft class that can replicate that at at high level, it’s Devin Carter.
The 6-foot-2 guard from Providence is the type of hard worker that anybody would want on their team because he’s good at all the small things that make a big difference on the court. The main thing when talking about Carter is how much of a pest he is on the defensive side of the ball.
Carter’s point-of-attack defense gave guards plenty of problems during his collegiate career, and, due to his frame, mechanics, and discipline, he was able to be effective. Another thing that makes Carter’s defense stand out and his ability to handle switches well. Though he may not be the tallest, he plays big and can get under the skin of players who have a clear size advantage over him.
Playing bigger than he also translates to his rebounding, as he grabbed 8.7 per game last season.
Not only is Carter known for his point of attack defense, but he thrives as an off-ball threat too. If Carter ever wanted to play safety in another life he could, because his instincts to jump in front of passing lanes is as good as you’ll see from any player in the draft class.
On offense, Carter shows his grit by being able to make plays at the rim. When going downhill, there’s a good chance he’ll finish, as he shot over 60% in that area. Besides going to the rim, his catch-and-shoot numbers are solid as well, hitting 40% from the perimeter. All of Carter’s offensive numbers improved from his second season to his third season, with the biggest jump coming from his three-ball. If he can stay above 35%, he’ll stay on the court during important moments of big games.
Though Carter may have solid numbers in the catch-and-shoot, his mechanics need a little work. His release has sort of a hitch in it, and if that’s fixed, he may be even more effective from the perimeter.
Providence didn’t put Carter in many situations where he had to run the show, which means his playmaking is not up to par. Carter showed the ability to be able to run the pick-and-roll, but when he was doubled or saw several defenders crowding him, it turned into either a bad pass or a turnover. Carter may be much more suitable as an off-ball player early in his career, and he may be able to grow into more of a player that you can put the ball in his hands at the end of games.
For now, Carter is doing all the things that you’d want a player to do while they’re on the court, and his play style is something that every team is looking for. It was recently reported by Kevin O’Connor that Carter had received a promise from a team picking in the lottery, so it will be interesting to see which team decides to take a chance on the guard. Just remember, whoever takes him is getting the “dog” we all wish we had.