Max Lewis

Overview

Max Lewis is an explosive scoring wing with the potential to be a floor spacer.  He has above average athleticism but will need to add size to his frame.  The combination of his quick first step and three point shooting efficiency allows Lewis to both attack closeouts AND space the floor.  Solid shooting efficiency, which could have been even better if his shot selection was better.  Lewis will need to improve his decision making on offense to limit turnovers as well as his overall engagement on defense. Lewis has the athleticism and length to be a much better defender which should come with more accountability.  As his decision making improves, Lewis has the potential to run some limited primary action. 

NBA Skill: Dynamic wing scoring

Offense

Max Lewis is a prototypical Dynamic Scoring Wing.  He is an efficient shooter from 3 with a quick first step to blow by closeouts and finish at the rim.  He will dunk on you!!!   To be a more dynamic player Lewis will need to improve his shot creation otherwise he may be regulated to being a 3/D player.  For most of the season Lewis shot well over 40% from 3.  But his shot selection degraded his NBA value because he ended the season at 35% 3FG%).   Lewis rarely flows into the next action when the defense stops the initial action which leads to a lot of standing around.  Lewis can be single minded when attacking the rim.  Did not use his gravity well to set up teammates.

Lewis checks all the statistical boxes for scoring when compared to previously drafted wings.  In the NBA, he will need to adapt to being a second side role where he will need to knock down open shots.  Lewis has a good shooting stroke.  Improving his shot selection should improve his shooting efficiency.  He did not show much touch around the rim and with a slight frame he will need a menu of soft touch finishes if he is run off the three point line. 

Half of Lewis’ play types were the plays that most NBA teams run.  It is unlikely that he will have any post ups… Although has the shot mechanics and foot work to shoot well off pin downs, curls and flare screens. 

Assists and decision making

Despite his role for the Waves as the first option scorer, Lewis was above average in assists when compared to previously drafted NBA wings.  Decision making was still a question mark as his turnovers were well above the average.  Lewis tended to force passes but also overdribbled or attacked the rim without a plan.  Processing speed, thus decision making, should improve with experience because Lewis naturally plays fast. 

Rebounding and defense

Max Lewis was an indifferent rebounder and defender.  He did not pursue the ball which could have been due to Pepperdine’s defensive scheme.  All year, Lewis was susceptible to blow-bys, back doors or lost his man on relocations.  He just wasn’t as engaged to rebound or defend as will be required at the NBA level.  While Lewis did use his length and athleticism to protect the rim, he should be much better given his physical tools.  For now, Lewis’ offensive tools will be needed to secure his NBA minutes. 

Prediction: Late first round

Signature game: Pepperdine v Gonzaga