2014 NBA Combine: Lamar Patterson with chance to improve his Draft stock at event

As I wrote earlier, several of college basketball's stars aren't attending the NBA Combine this week since they really have little to gain. Pitt's Lamar Patterson, on the other hand, is a guy that can really help himself with a good showing. The interview portion is over and now, players get official measurements and get a chance to show off on the court.

If you remember back to last year, former Pitt center Steven Adams is one player who improved his stock with a good showing. Adams was a guarantee to be taken, but his play at the event really catapulted him into the Lottery. Patterson, of course, won't jump that high or likely even the first round, but he could assure himself of being taken. Right now, he's considered a fringe second-round pick.

Two of the best things Patterson could showcase would be a consistent jump shot and ball-handling skills. At 6'5", he's a little shorter than the ideal small forward in the NBA, so he needs to show some value as a guard. I'm convinced that Patterson has the talent to play at the next level but lots of guys do - at least as bench players. From now until the Draft, he's going to need to need to show his versatility and really give teams a reason to pick him.

He did just that this year in the ACC, but Pitt's early exit and, probably more importantly, some spotty performances early in games, hurt some. The spotlight is on Patterson now and here's his chance to prove he's worthy of a second-round pick.

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