Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Ten 2nd round prospects who can make a difference

All these players are ranked outside the top 30 in Chad Ford's top 100. 5 forwards and 5 guards:

Forwards:
Trevor Booker PF, Clemson Sr. (6-7½, 236)
Trevor Booker is undersized height-wise, but he makes up for it with length (7-0 wingspan), athleticism (36 inch vertical), and strength (22 bench presses). Most of all though, he outworks other players, going 100 percent on every play. His offensive game is improving, and he can hit a mid-range jump shot and even handle the ball some. His best offense comes off the break or on the offensive glass. On defense, he's long and strong enough to hold his own, and has the hops to be a rebounding and shot blocking contributor. He also has a knack for dunking on people, always a plus.
Highlights

Keith Gallon PF, Oklahoma Fr. (6-9½, 302)
Keith Gallon has a interesting skill set for a guy his size, he can handle, pass, and has 3 point range. Plus, he's long, strong and has good footwork in the post. If he can toughen up some, he'll provide a great combination of low post scoring and rebounding with stretch abilities. As long as he stays in shape, he should be a player for someone.
Highlights

Ryan Richards PF/C, England (6-11¾, 230)
Ryan Richards isn't ready for the NBA quite yet, but his size and abilities speak to someone who could be very good down the line. He knows his best place is in the post, but can also step out and handle the ball. He's also developing a jumpshot. Once he learns how to play the game and harness his skills, he should be a solid starter for a team.
Highlights

Dexter Pittman C, Texas Sr. (6-11½, 303)
If Dexter Pittman can dedicate himself to staying in shape, he could be a star down the line. He's massive, long (7-6 wingspan) and very strong. Plus he's a better athlete than you think. If he gets position and catches the ball with his massive, soft hands, there's nothing you can do. He'll just finish. He's also a very good rebounder, especially offensively. If you don't believe how good this guy can be, just look at his stat line against a big, talented from North Carolina: 23 points (9-16 FG, 5-8 FT) 15 rebounds (3 defensive, 12 offensive) 2 blocks. All in 26 minutes!
Highlights

Gani Lawal PF, Georgia Tech Jr. (6-9, 233)
Gani Lawal is a lot like Trevor Booker. Not the tallest, but he's long, strong and athletic. Also, like Booker, he's got a non-stop motor and will hustle all game long. Not enough people understand the value of a 20 minute a night, hardworking big man that can come in, hold his own, and keep guys fresh. Lawal fits that mold.
Highlights

Guards:
Willie Warren PG/SG, Oklahoma So. (6-3¾, 208)
Willie Warren was a lottery pick last year, but had a rough season this year and has fallen possible out of the first round. To me, he's a kind of Mo Williams type point guard who'd play well off the ball and with it. He can spot up, or create off the dribble. He's also an underrated passer, though he'll never be a pure point. I like him as a scorer off the bench, or a starter along side a superstar that can handle the ball.
Highlights

Mikhail Torrance PG, Alabama Sr. (6-5, 209)
A point guard with great size, Mikhail Torrance isn't great at anything, but he does a little of everything. He can pass, score, shoot, and defend very well. He's an ideal backup point guard, especially for a team with a smaller starter, and can also play the 2 along side a point.
Highlights

Manny Harris SG, Michigan Jr. (6-5½, 185)
I don't understand how a guy as skilled as Manny Harris can be drafted outside the first round, but it's going to happen. Harris is a very good slasher, he can get to the rim and is a solid finisher. Shot selection is a concern, but he had to carry Michigan, so that shouldn't be a big concern. The only real concern is his jump shot, which needs work. Other than that he's a very good scorer and can create for teammates some too.
Highlights

Andy Rautins PG/SG, Syracuse. (6-5, 192 Sr)
Andy Rautins is viewed the typical "unathletic white player" who can't make it in the NBA. I disagree. The guy is an excellent shooter with a quick release and unlimited range. Plus he's got good size, can handle the ball and is unselfish and an excellent passer. As a shooter off the bench or a point guard in a triangle, it's hard to find many flaws. He's not as unathletic as you'd think and had the same agility score as Terrico White.
Highlights

Greivis Vasquez PG, Maryland St. (6-6½, 211)
Greivis Vasquez is reportedly killing it in NBA workouts, and I'm not surprised. The guys got major skills and a motor to match. He clearly loves basketball and will never give up the dream of the NBA. He's a big combo guard who can score, pass, and rebound. He's got very good court vision, and when he plays under control, can be very effective. Control his emotions will be important. Defense is his Achilles heel, he's not a great athlete and may struggle on D. However, he's a versatile offensive weapon and should be a contributor on whatever team takes him.
Highlights

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