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Will Braden Smith get drafted? NBA Draft projection for Purdue's NCAA record holder reveals chances

Will Braden Smith get drafted? NBA Draft projection for Purdue's NCAA record holder reveals chances

Braden Smith finished his college basketball career with more assists than anyone in NCAA history.

That doesn't automatically point to NBA success for the Purdue Boilermakers legend, but that journey is set to start this week regardless of his chances.

The NBA Draft begins with the first round on Tuesday night, and the second round will be on Wednesday night.

Smith is in the draft class, so he'll be picked (or sign afterward) to begin his NBA career.

He's a fascinating name given his college accomplishments contrasting with his lack of size and athleticism.

Smith can play, but who will give him a chance, and when? Those are still big questions.

MORE: Why the Bucks traded Giannis to the Heat Will Braden Smith get drafted? It's likely that Smith is drafted at some point, but it's not for certain that he will go in the first round.

The latest mock draft from Sam Vecenie of The Athletic has Smith going with the No.

39 overall pick to the Houston Rockets -- that's a second-round selection.

ESPN's latest mock draft is along the same lines.

They've got Smith going with the 40th pick to the Boston Celtics.

MORE: Giannis legacy with the Bucks remains intact This means that those following Smith's path may not see him get picked on Tuesday night but instead could have to wait until the second round on Wednesday.

He's going to get an NBA chance, though.

His skillset is too impressive not to at least open the door for him.