As the #2 recruit in the class of 2016, Harry Giles came to Duke with high expectations. Injuries never let the freshman forward to live up to the hype that surrounded him, but that hasn’t stopped Giles, who averaged 3.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 11 minutes per game, from declaring for the 2017 NBA Draft.
"I'm thankful for the opportunity. I'm thankful for the memories. I'll be part of the Duke family forever." ????????????#TheBrotherhood pic.twitter.com/nc6402193D
— Duke Basketball (@DukeMBB) March 28, 2017
When he made his commitment to Duke, Giles was considered a one-and-done player. But a somewhat disappointing season had many wondering if he would return for one more year in hopes of improving his draft stock with a healthier and more productive sophomore campaign.
I don’t think there’s a right or wrong answer here. In high school, Harry showed flashes that had coaches and scouts swooning over him. They haven’t forgotten and the chance that he could return to that form is enough for someone to take a risk on him.
NBADraft.net has Giles going as high as 13th. That’s lottery money. Who knows what could happen next season, he could ball out and be the #1 pick in 2018 or, God forbid, hurt himself again and not even get drafted. The risk isn’t worth it. Secure the bag.