NBA Combine 2016: Players Who Will Help Themselves in 5-on-5 Scrimmages

Although it is sometimes an afterthought for both players and teams, the five-on-five scrimmages at the NBA combine can be valuable for a number of prospects.

The projected top players in each class will usually limit themselves to just the athletic testing and medicals. Potential No. 1 overall pick Ben Simmons won’t even do this much after declining his invite to the combine.

However, the scrimmages are a way for fringe players to showcase their skills in a game atmosphere and possibly move up draft boards. Terry Rozier and Larry Nance Jr. both ended up being taken in the first round a year ago after participating in the five-on-five battles, while a handful of players became second-round selections instead of possibly missing out altogether.

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While the full list of participants isn’t yet available, here is a look at some players who will benefit from competing in the upcoming scrimmages in Chicago.

Malcolm Brogdon, SF, Virginia

The ACC Player of the Year was one of the best two-way players in all of college basketball last season. Malcolm Brogdon averaged 18.2 points per game (19.9 in conference play) while showcasing the ability to create his own shot inside or out.

Meanwhile, he was an excellent on-ball defender who could match up against smaller guards as well as bigger forwards. With his length and instincts, he should be able to defend the 1 through 3 spots in the NBA.

When most people think of a “scrimmage,” they usually think of a relaxed atmosphere. However, Brogdon will likely keep the intensity up in order to prove himself as a stud defender who can guard anyone at the next level. If he knocks down a few jumpers as well, it will be icing on the cake.

He might not have the upside of some other perimeter players in this class, but he will show he is worthy of a first-round pick.

Melo Trimble, PG, Maryland

The combine might not be a great situation for Melo Trimble to boost his stock. He isn’t tall or long enough to stand out in measurements, while his performance in the athletic tests isn’t going to turn any heads.

Still, Trimble will be best in the game-like atmosphere of the five-on-five scrimmages.

The sophomore …

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