WNBA Draft: Pick-by-pick analysis of the 2019 draft

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NEW YORK, NY – APRIL 10: Cristy Hedgpeth poses with Asia Durr after being drafted as the number two overall pick by the New York Liberty during the 2019 WNBA Draft on April 10, 2019 at Nike New York Headquarters in New York, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Steven Freeman/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. New York Liberty selected Asia Durr, 5’10 guard, Louisville

In Durr, the Liberty have that worthy perimeter playmaker to pair with Tina Charles, allowing Kia Nurse to play a three-and-D role and Brittany Boyd to distribute on one end and create turnovers at the other end. The presence of Nurse and Durr also guards against any injuries to Boyd, an unfortunately common occurence early in her career.

The level of player Durr is, how relentless she is at both ends, will fit nicely with what Katie Smith is looking to do. In particular, Durr excels in transition, another trait she shares with Nurse, making a pairing capable of both getting to the rim in those instances or pulling up and hitting threes.

A playmaker surrounded by shooters like Rebecca Allen and Amanda Zahui B. will also create more open threes for both of them. The Katie Smith vision for the Liberty just got a little clearer.

Incidentally, Han Xu is simply huge, and a real steal at 14 if she can play right away. Even Megan Huff in the third round has a chance to compete for a roster spot. The Liberty did well for themselves.

Our Erica Ayala has more from New York.

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