VITALS: 6-7, 185, Western Carolina OVERVIEW: Martin ranked second in the nation in scoring at 24.9 points per game at Western Carolina this past season. He was the focal point of an offense designed for him and shot just under 34 percent from the arc. Because of his impressive numbers, Martin will get a look from the NBA. It should be a short one once NBA teams realize how limited his skills are. LIKELY DRAFT POSITION: Late first or early second round. Boston (24, 25), Miami (19) and Seattle (35) are interested. Martin's decision to skip Chicago in favor of holding a private workout in the Windy City likely hurt his stock. The workout did nothing to raise his value, while an impressive performance at the camp could have moved him up to the middle of the first round. COMPARATIVE UPSIDE: Richard Hamilton COMPARATIVE DOWNSIDE: Tamar Slay ROLE PROJECTION: Reserve, future spot starter POSITIVES: Martin's outstanding height at the 2-guard makes him an intriguing prospect. At 6-7, he should be able to get off his shot in the NBA, and his athleticism will help him in that regard as well. He has a solid first step and is an even better leaper. Martin was a big-time scorer in college and has to potential to be one in the NBA. SHORTCOMINGS: Martin was considered a weak defender even when he was in college, so he could get killed in the NBA. He needs to improve defensively, and adding strength to his skinny body will be key. Martin is also only an average long-range shooter, which is worrisome because most of the shots at the next level will be from the perimeter. WHAT THEY'RE SAYING: "My decision to remain in the draft was a simple one. The only criticism that I received from NBA executives that could not be addressed by a good work ethic - such as getting stronger or shooting better - was their fear that I did not prove myself against great competition every night out. I'm a legitimate 6-7 1/2 with shoes, scoring points against much smaller guards. Next year at this time, I'd be hearing the same criticisms. Even if I improved in every facet of my game, there would still be that cloud of inferior competition." - Martin on why he did not return for his senior season.
