The 2020 NBA Draft has another declaration and this time it’s in the form of Syracuse forward Elijah Hughes. He could forgo his final year of eligibility but is leaving the door open to return to the Orange should the feedback not be what he wants. Hughes is in a weird position because of the Coronavirus Outbreak. It is unclear how good his feedback will be because of the questions about the NBA Combine happening this year.
Syracuse forward Elijah Hughes just declared for the NBA Draft. Hughes is planning to take the Draft process seriously, but leave the option open to returning to the team, a source tells @247Sports.
— Evan Daniels (@EvanDaniels) March 21, 2020
Elijah Hughes is talented and had a great year for Jim Boeheim and the Syracuse Orange. He averaged 19 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. He shot really well 42.6 percent and 34.1 percent from beyond the arc. His three years have marked massive improvements each year in his level of play. Hughes could provide solid bench depth for a team in the NBA.
Listed at 6’6″ and 215 pounds, Elijah Hughes has solid size for the NBA and has a solid style of play for the next level. The issue is that this year is unique because the NBA combine and in-person workouts may not happen. The feedback matters for a guy like Hughes and his decision to go pro or not. He is committed to taking the process seriously and good feedback will likely see him head to the NBA.
Syracuse will be disappointed to not have their talented forward back for his final season, but other players will need to step up. The ACC had a down year and it is expected to bounce back next year. Hughes could return, but could also provide impact at the next level. It is a tough call to make.
