Inconsistent season doesn't dim promise of top French NBA prospect

Despite his potential, the 18-year-old has faced criticism this season. Through 33 games across all competitions, he has averaged 11.8 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 4.6 assists. However, he has struggled with efficiency, shooting just 40.9 percent from the field and 27.8 percent from three while committing 2.4 turnovers per game. Turnovers are expected for a young, high-volume playmaker, but offensive inconsistency — particularly his outside shooting — has been a concern.  

Still, scouts remain optimistic. His size, court vision and defensive tools make him one of the more promising lead guards in the draft. ESPN currently ranks him as the 15th-best prospect in the 2025 class, and most major draft boards project him as a lottery pick.  

Traore’s best performance this season came on Oct. 1, 2024, when he scored 27 points in a Champions League game against Kolossos Rodou BC. He shot 9-of-18 from the field, knocked down four three-pointers and added five assists and two steals. 

Lately, he has found his rhythm, scoring in double digits in four out of five games. During this stretch in late February and early March, he averaged 15.6 points and 4.2 assists while shooting an efficient 60.1 percent, relying primarily on inside scoring rather than the three-point shot.

As the NBA Draft approaches and scouting intensifies, Traore’s recent surge in form could solidify his standing as a first-round pick. His upside remains significant, and if he can improve his shooting consistency, he has the tools to develop into a high-level NBA floor general.