As the Draft approaches, the smokescreens multiply, and even concern the players announced in the second round. Latest example: that of Chris Livingstonwhose selection range is quite wide in the second round after a discreet “freshman” season with Kentucky (6.3 points and 4.2 rebounds on average/game).
A disappointing campaign on an individual basis, of course, but to be put into perspective as the collective context of the past season in Kentucky was not favorable to its highlighting. Because the fact remains that the native of Akron, like LeBron James, was a big name in his age group (#16 of the class of 2022), and has good potential. He may not be ready for the NBA right now, but seems to be betting on the long term in the Big League.
Because this Friday, Shams Charania, from The Athletic, has indeed reported that the now former Wildcats winger had canceled the seven “workouts” he was still scheduled to participate in by June 22. A rather surprising information concerning a player who waited for the May 31 deadline to confirm his entry into the Draft, as his projection was vague and uncertain. Inevitably, this suggests that the 19-year-old may have received a promise of selection from a team, thus canceling the rest of his “workouts”.
Remember that Chris Livingston is signed to Klutch Sports, Rich Paul’s agency. An agency which has surely voluntarily disclosed this information, no doubt to put “pressure” on other teams who would consider recruiting Chris Livingston in the second round, and thus increase his rating. A textbook case.
Regarding the teams with which Chris Livingston carried out a “workout” before canceling all the others, we know that it is Hawks (#46 in the second round), Pacers (#32 and #55 in the second round) and of the Lakers (#47). Three teams positioned in the same area of the second round, the one that corresponds to the player’s projection. The most “intriguing” being obviously the interest of the Los Angeles club, well known for its links with Klutch Sports…
