CHICAGO — The NBA draft combine differs from the NFL draft combine in that not every player has to participate. Agents have the option to strategically choose what they want their player included in. The players projected at the top — Jabari Smith, Chet Holmgren, Paolo Banchero and Jaden Ivey — didn't participate in anything, including measurements or media availability.
There is still value in the weeklong event for NBA scouts and front office executives. Every year, a handful of players shoot up draft boards after a strong showing at the combine. Last year, it was Josh Primo, Bones Hyland and Quentin Grimes.