The Chicago Bulls are in line to make their top draft pick with the fourth selection in the 2026 NBA Draft.
After Combine week in Illinois, the Bulls are still widely expected to take on the University of North Carolina star, Caleb Wilson, with the fourth pick.
When the incoming rookie met with reporters earlier this week, Wilson was asked about his personal opinion on a pro comparison for his game. The former Tar Heel went with Kawhi Leonard of the Los Angeles Clippers.
via APHoops on X: UNC’s Caleb Wilson on his NBA comparison: “I feel like I’m kinda similar to Kawhi [Leonard]. I feel like Kawhi’s a great player. Impact winning in so many different ways— where you can use me and plug me into any type of teams.”
Many scouting publications and mock drafts have offered Wilson some generous comparisons. While Leonard isn’t a popular one, Wilson has drawn some comparisons to notable players such as Kevin Garnett, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jermaine O’Neal, and Pascal Siakam.
Comparing The Numbers
Kawhi Leonard spent two seasons at San Diego State from 2009 to 2011. Over 70 games in the NCAA, Leonard averaged 14.1 points per game, shooting 44.9% from the field. Leonard struggled with his three-ball in college, making just 25.0% of his attempts.
Leonard led his conference in rebounds per game two years in a row. Over his college career, the forward came down with 10.2 boards per game.
Wilson spent just one season playing in the NBA. He started all 24 of his appearances. From the field, Wilson made 57.8% of his shots, and hit on 25.9% of his attempts from three. He averaged 19.8 points per game, along with 9.4 rebounds.
Leonard was a defensive standout in the NBA from the jump. He improved a ton on offense, becoming a quality long-range shooter (averaging 39.1% from three over 14 years). That will be a key area of improvement for Wilson at the next level.