An NBA scout for an Eastern Conference team raved about Kansas freshman shooting guard Darryn Peterson in remarks relayed by ESPN’s Jeremy Woo and Jeff Borzello, saying he is “so cold and collected and poised and consistent.”
“I thought he was pretty impressive [against Missouri],” the scout said. “I think he tried hard to fit in and not be disruptive. Maybe [he] should have been even more assertive.
“To me he’s No. 1 and I don’t know what scenario [the others] can get to that would have me bump [him down]. He’s so cold and collected and poised and consistent. Even Darryn’s tough nights to me are incredibly productive.”
Peterson has played just four games this season after missing seven contests with a hamstring injury. However, his impact is undeniable, averaging 19.3 points on 52.8 percent shooting (42.3 percent from three), 3.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.3 steals in 26.3 minutes per game. Jonathan Wasserman of Bleacher Report has Peterson first overall in his latest mock draft and even provided a pro comparison to Minnesota Timberwolves superstar Anthony Edwards.
Peterson returned from that aforementioned seven-game absence on Dec. 7 in an 80-60 win over Missouri, scoring 17 points in 23 minutes.
Unfortunately, Peterson then dealt with quad cramping late in Kansas’ 77-76 win over NC State on Saturday and had to leave the game, per KU head coach Bill Self to reporters. He scored 17 points in 31 minutes before his exit.
Hopefully Peterson is able to move past the ailment quickly, enjoy good health for the remainder of the season and showcase the potential that has scouts raving about his play.
“He has the most complete offensive game of anybody in college,” a college coach who scouted Kansas told ESPN. “When you combine the variety of shotmaking, the deep 3-point shooting potential, his ability to play ball in hand, I think he’s a guy that’s reminiscent of some of the great young players in recent memory, the last 15-20 years.”
Peterson’s next chance to play will be Tuesday evening at home against Towson. Self told reporters Monday that he didn’t know if Peterson would be able to play.