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[QUOTE="jncuse, post: 5246695, member: 1969"]
I don't think that is accurate based on recent drafts.   Athleticism certainly matters, I 100% agree with that.

But being a one way offensive player. who is showing ineptness and/or effort issues on D at the prior level, is a ticket to getting heavily dinged by scouts well before draft night.    You will still get drafted, but your spot will be impacted.   Exceptions of course are made for those who are projected as very likely 1 or 2 options at the NBA level.

For those who are not projected as very likely 1 or 2 options, their D, and their versatility on D  is extremely important to their draft position at this point.   (of course they need to be projected as being competent shooters).

The #1 and #5 picks in the recent draft were picked mostly because of their projected defensive impact -- and their ability on D already.

The whole NBA focuses only on offence is no longer accurate in my view.   Yes its very hard to defend in the NBA because almost all players have learned to shoot somewhat effectively -- and if you can't shoot and start you are typically a great screener.   But teams now more than ever are trying to get the athlete, who they project can shoot and defend.
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