NBA evaluators wonder whether Koa Peat is ready for the next level

The Arizona Wildcats had one of the best seasons in school history last year, and freshman Koa Peat was a major reason why. While USA TODAY Sports' mock draft and others' prognostications have Peat slated as a late first-round NBA draft pick, some evaluators at the next level believe that Peat would greatly benefit from another year in Tucson.

ESPN draft analyst Jeremy Woo spoke about Peat's stock and potential as seen by NBA decision-makers.

“Peat opted to declare for the draft and has an opportunity to play his way up the boards with a strong predraft process. Some teams viewed him as an excellent candidate to return to school and improve his stock, an option that remains available to him," Woo wrote.

While Peat's 6-foot-8, 235-pound frame lends itself to an NBA-ready physique, his skill set gives other evaluators pause.

"Scouts view his perimeter shooting as a critical swing skill that will impact his career path, as he is not particularly effective scoring outside 15 feet at this stage of his career. But his strength and quickness relative to his size, coupled with a solid offensive feel and ability to guard the perimeter, give him a chance to find a niche in the right situation,” said Woo.

The next few weeks are huge for Peat, who will have an opportunity to work out amongst other NBA draft hopefuls.

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