Guards
Collin Sexton, PG Alabama (6-3, 190) Age: 18
Sexton is a scoring first guard with tremendous physical gifts. He is a highly competitive player on both ends of the court but has some rougher edges that do need smoothing out, which he will look to achieve in his likely one year at Alabama. The favorite at this point to be the first guard drafted, but not in the conversation for the top overall pick at this point, though that would definitely change with a big season.
Bruce Brown, PG/SG Miami (6-5, 190) Age: 21
Brown is combo/playmaking guard that radiates bounce and energy on his aggressive drives to the basket. He might not be a pure shooter or prototypical lead guard, but his ability to get the basket and make plays is a highly coveted skill in the NBA.
Shake Milton, PG/SG SMU (6-6, 205) Age: 21
One of the more underrated players in the college basketball the last two seasons, Shake Milton can play multiple positions, on or off the ball, shoot, pass, and defend. He might not be a potential star, but as a third guard type, there is a lot to like about Milton.
Trevon Duval, PG Duke (6-3, 186) Age: 19
At this point Duval is all athleticism, so it is a good thing that he is so explosive in the open floor and hard to stay in front of in the half court. This athletic ability, plus very long arms, also give him tremendous defensive potential. Skill-wise, he has a long way to go as a shooter, decision maker, and passer, however the upside here is tremendous, but so is the downside.
Lonnie Walker, SG Miami (6-4, 192) Age: 18
Walker is a very good athlete that can get to the rim and shoot from range, but as with most Freshman his decision making and overall offensive game needs polish. He has the skills, now he just needs to think the game as well as he plays it.
Troy Brown, SG Oregon (6-7, 215) Age: 18
Brown isn't a super athlete like a lot of the other players on this list, but he is versatile and intelligent. He can pass, plays defense, and has a good jumper, though he needs more consistent in this area. Not being an upper-echelon will defender will always be a issue, but his smarts makes up for that and more, the line is just a finer one to walk.
De'Anthony Melton, (6-4, 190) PG/SG USC Age: 19
Melton is a versatile player that is one piece away from breaking into top end consideration. He is one of the best, most impactful defensive players in the draft (averaging 1.9 steals and 1 block a game for a guard is special) as well as an unselfish passer and competent scorer. What he needs to improve is his three point shot, without that he is a potential backup, with it he could be monster.
Tyus Battle, SG Syracuse (6-6, 205) Age: 20
Similar to Brown, Tyus Battle is a versatile player both offensively and defensively but without special physical tools. In a bigger role this season the hope will be that he can stand out more as a scorer than he has in the past.
Forwards/Wings
Michael Porter Jr, SF/PF Missouri (6-10, 215) Age: 19
Last spring, Porter was considered by many to be the favorite for the number one pick, but with Marvin Bagley reclassifying and Luka Doncic breaking out over the summer, things are little more up in the air. Porter is a super skilled wing with a ton of offensive upside, will he dominate at Missouri like his talent suggests he should? If he does there is a good chance he is the top overall pick even still.
Luka Doncic, SG/SF Real Madrid (6-7, 185) Age: 18
Doncic confirmed this summer what watchers of Real Madrid have known for a long time: this kid is the real deal and a potential number 1 pick and star in the NBA. Despite being only 18 years old, Doncic more than held his own in Eurobasket and the ACB. He is a tremendously gifted pass and playmaker, he's skilled and can shoot. Are NBA teams willing to take an intentional player at #1 again? Time will tell.
Miles Bridges, SF/PF Michigan State (6-7, 225) Age: 19
Bridges could have been a lottery pick last year, but he surprisingly returned for his Sophomore season, with National Player of the Year type expectations. Bridges is a super athletic dunk machine with a good overall all around game. There is some question if Bridges shooting was for real last season, and his mechanics are not ideal, so that is definitely something to monitor.
Mikal Bridges, SF Villanova (6-6, 210) Age: 21
The other M. Bridges, don't sell Mikal short. He is a super athletic wing with long arms that filled the stat sheet nightly for Villanova and was a super efficient scorer. He'll take on a bigger role at Nova this season and could be in for a huge year.
Justin Jackson, SF/PF Maryland (6-7, 225) Age: 20
Jackson tested the waters up to the deadline last season, but decided instead to return for another season at Maryland. Jackson is a physically imposing combo forward with a sweet outside stroke, though he'll need to round out the rest of his game to project as more than a role player.
Dzanan Musa, SF Cedevita (6-9, 195) Age: 18
Musa is a tall wing from Bosnia and Herzegovina who plays in the Croatian ABA. He is good handling the ball and shooting from the outside, though he needs to improve inside the arc and defensively, which might be difficult consider his physical limitations.
Hamadou Diallo, SG/SF Kentucky (6-5, 198) Age: 19
Diallo blew up the combine last year with a 44.5 vertical leap, but decided to return to Kentucky, where he never actually played a game last season. Diallo is every bit that level of athlete and uses it to attack the basket, rebound, and defend. However, to reach his fairly high ceiling, Diallo need to become a more consistent shooter.
Rodion Kuracs, SF/PF Barcelona (6-8, 190) Age: 19
Kuracs is a skilled wing from Latvia that's a good passer, shooter, and ball handler with the physical skills to create inside and outside the arc. He hasn't played against the best competition, so there might be some growth necessary before he is physically ready to compete.
Isaac Bonga, PG/SG/SF Frankfurt (6-9, 172) Age: 17
The craze to find the next "Greek Freak" has died down, but Isaac Bonga is in that mold. The German international plays in the Bundesliga in Germany. Bonga is super skinny, not a super athlete, and needs to work on his jumper, but you can't teach his natural point guard skills at 6-9+.
Arnoldas Kulboka, SF Bamberg (6-10, 206) Age: 19
Kulboka, a native of Lithuania, is a forward that plays for Bamberg in the Bundisliga, though he is on loan in the Italian Serie A. Kulboka is a well-rounded scorer that can attack the basket and shoot from range. He needs to get much stronger and more consistent, but there is a lot to like in his game.
Killian Tillie, SF/PF Gonzaga (6-10, 200) Age: 19
Tillie hopes to follow in the footsteps of Domantas Sabonis and Zach Collins as Gonzaga big men to get drafted in the lottery. The French native Tillie might be the best of the bunch, he barely played last season but showed a big skill level for his size. How he does with a bigger role will determine where he ends up being draft.
Bigs
Marvin Bagley, PF/C Duke (6-11, 234) Age: 18
Considered by many to be the best prospect in High School basketball, Bagley surprisingly reclassified to the class of 17, so as to be eligible to be drafted a year earlier. Bagley is a big time athlete who plays way above the rim but also has a lot perimeter skills as well. A big year could easily lock him into the top overall spot in the draft.
DeAndre Ayton, C Arizona (7-1, 250) Age: 19
Other players might be considered better prospects in the draft than Ayton, but no one can touch him for talent. He can be an incredibly dominant force on the floor, using his stupid long arms and athletic ability the score from every area of the floor, including from beyond the arc. The problem is Ayton can dominate, but only when he wants to. He needs to play with a consistent effort to reach his potential, which is best player in the NBA high.
Mohamed Bamba, PF/C Texas (6-11, 225) Age: 19
In another draft, Bamba would be an solid top big man, but in the this draft he is a strong third, which is saying something considering Bamba has a 7-9 wingspan and can shoot threes. Though not considered a strong contender for the top overall pick, Bamba could definitely vault into that conversation with a big year.
Robert Williams, PF/C Texas A&M (6-10, 241) Age: 20
Williams was a potential lottery pick who decided to return for another year. Williams is a tremendous shot blocker with big defensive upside who is also developing outside touch as well. He looks like he'll be a lottery pick this year as well and could be in the top ten if his jumper develops more. Williams has a lot in common with Myles Turner.
Jaren Jackson, PF/C Michigan State (6-11, 242) Age: 18
Jackson is another potential lottery big man, a center with defensive upside and an offensive game that is at least intriguing. If Jackson can be more consistent and polish out his offense, he could be a high lottery pick, if not he might be coming back for another year.
Wendell Carter, PF/C Duke (6-10, 259) Age: 18
Carter was all set to be the big man on campus for Duke, but after Marvin Bagley reclassified, his playing time will be uncertain. He isn't a super athlete and doesn't stand out particularly in any area, however through smarts and skill he is effective. How much he plays at Duke may determine how interested teams are, though he has a long track record and would likely be a lottery pick even with a small role.
Chimezie Metu, C USC (6-11, 225) Age: 20
Metu has grown a lot in the last two years and will look to continue on that development curve in his Junior season for a very talented USC team. Metu has physical gifts and production, he just needs to polish out his game.
Mitchell Robinson, PF/C N/A (7-1, 233) Age: 19
Robinson was going to attend Western Kentucky but decided to drop out and prepare exclusively for the draft, a path more prospect should take. Robinson needs to grow and develop as a player but he's got really excellent physical tools. There will be mystery surrounding him but there shouldn't be, he is a high upside project that needs time to develop but has a lot of potential.
Nick Richards, PF/C Kentucky (6-11, 240) Age: 19
Like Robinson, Nick Richards has size, length, and athletic ability but is limited skill-wise at this point. How he develops offensively will be what to watch with him.
Austin Wiley, C Auburn (6-11, 260) Age: 18
Wiley also needs to get better offensively, and he has a massive frame that can be a problem defensively and on the glass, though he lacks the raw athletic ability of Richards and Robinson.
Brandon McCoy, C UNLV (7-1, 250) Age: 19
McCoy is, you guessed it, a physical marvel who needs to get better on offense. Any of these four could breakout and be lottery type picks.
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
Monday, October 16, 2017
Saturday, October 14, 2017
Top 12 Rookies: Preseason Edition
This list is based on three things: 1. current production, 2. role 3. long term outlook; in that order. All of these players are good and where they are ranked has nothing to do with whether I think they are "good" or not, it is simply an attempt at a snapshot of where they rookies stand right now.
01. Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers
Simmons hasn't blown the doors off statically but it is obvious watching him that he is a step ahead of the rest of the rookies (and with good reason, Simmons has had a year more of adjustment) both physically and mentally. The defense and shooting concerns remain and likely will for a while, but Simmons ability to handle the ball, pass, rebound, and get to the basket at a legit power forward's size is beyond impressive, a kind of player that is fun to watch and hard to defend.
Preseason Stats
5 GP, 22.8 mpg, 11.4 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 5.4 apg, 1.4 spg, 0.8 bpg, 2 tpg, .489 FG%, 0-3 3P, .409 FT%
02. Dennis Smith Jr, North Carolina State
Like Simmons, Dennis Smith Jr. pops off the screen with an athletic ability that stands out even among NBA players. More importantly, he seems to be working well with the Mavs veteran laden roster already, a relationship that goes ways. With the decision to start Dirk Nowitzki at center, the Mavericks will have at least three capable shooters on the floor with Smith (four when Seth Curry returns) which is more than enough space for Smith to jet into the paint. Like with all rookies (even those with a good rep) defense will be a work in progress, but Smith has the look of a top level playmaker in a perfect situation. Smith rolled his ankle in the Mavs last preseason game, but appears to have escaped without serious injury.
Preseason Stats
6 GP, 19.1 mpg, 10.8 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 4 apg,0.3 bpg, 1.3 spg, 2.3 tpg, .416 FG% .451 3P%, .635 FT%
03. Lonzo Ball, Los Angeles Lakers
Ball has only appeared in two games this preseason nursing afear of De'Aaron Fox hurt ankle, however when on the floor Ball has looked exactly as advertised, pushing the tempo and showing off his tremendous vision. It's hard to judge based on two games, so the jury is still out on how well his funky jumper will work in an NBA setting or if he will be able to run a halfcourt offense well, two of the main wrinkles Ball will have to smooth out if he wishes to reach his ceiling as a prospect.
Preseason Stats
2 GP, 28.5 mpg, 6.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 6 apg, 1.5 spg, 0.5 bpg, 2.5 tpg, .333 FG%, .250 3P%, 1-1 FT
04. Donovan Mitchell, Utah Jazz
After an explosive summer league, Mitchell has continued that into the preseason, popping off the screen in a similar way to Simmons and Smith Jr. What is most important to Mitchell's development is a disappointing one for the Jazz and NBA fans: Dante Exum might miss the entire season with a shoulder injury. This thrusts Mitchell into a bigger role as perhaps the first guard off the bench, playing both guards spots. If Mitchell gets minutes at point guard, it may be rocky at first but in the long term may really help his development.
Preseason Stats
3 GP, 27.3 mpg, 17 ppg, 3 rpg, 2.6 apg, 0.6 spg, 2.6 tpg, .410 FG%, .250 3P%, .875 FT%
05. Josh Jackson, Phoenix Suns
Despite being (apparently) the most sought after player in the 2017 draft, Josh Jackson has flown under the radar this preseason, going about his business out in Arizona. So far, Jackson appears to be exactly the same player he's always been: playing hard (occasionally too hard, he needs to be smart AND active), attacking the basket and, despite how ugly his jumper it looks, it keeps going in. He's even been making his free throws at a respectable rate! Through sheer effort, Jackson stuffs the stat sheet, however he still tries to do too much on both ends, resulting in turnover and unnecessary fouls. A key for the Suns will be getting Jackson to play under control, but without sacrificing the energy that makes him such a good player.
4 GP, 28.5 mpg, 15.3 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.3 spg, 1 bpg, 5 tpg, .470 FG%, .461 3P%, .777 FT%
06. Malik Monk, Charlotte Hornets
Injuries to Nic Batum and Michael Carter-Williams has opened up a bigger role for Monk, a door he has stepped through with abandon so far in the preseason. Monk is and likely always will be a streaky gunner, who will light it up one night and be unable to do anything the next, though he will still keep trying. Until he can become a more consistent scorer, Monk will need to add additional value through playmaking, which he has actually shown a little bit of this preseason, running at least a rudimentary side pick-and-roll well enough. Also encouraging for Monk, and something that could be key for him become a more stable option, he has been getting the foul line a little more often than he did in college.
Preseason Stats
5 GP, 28.2 mpg, 15.6 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 2.4 apg, 0.2 spg, 0.8 tpg, .356 FG% .325 3P%, .764 FT%
07. De'Aaron Fox, Sacramento Kings
A back injury has limited Fox's minutes a bit so far this preseason, but two things have been abundantly clear: Fox is the backup as of now but his quickness is translating well to the NBA. The Kings somewhat confusingly brought in George Hill to the be the starting point guard while relegating Fox to a bunch role. At least at the start of the season, this is the case. Hill could share the backcourt with Fox, but the Kings also have a bunch of young shooting guards they want to play, limiting Fox's minute to purely backup point guard. Perhaps, as the season spirals away from the Kings, Fox will be able to play more, but right now his options seem limited. When he has played Fox looks like he'll be able to break down defenses from day one and his floater/in between game looks as good as ever. There are still the worries about his shooting and whether he plays with enough force to be the kind of finisher and defender you'd hope for, though his ability to pressure ball handlers is exciting.
Preseason Stats
3 GP, 16.6 mpg, 10.3 ppg, 1 rpg, 2.6 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.3 bpg, 0.6 tpg, .520 FG%, 1-1 3P, .714 FT%
08. Jonathan Isaac, Orlando Magic
Isaac has been good, in his own way, coming off the bench for the Magic so far this preseason. He looks pretty comfortable and natural despite his massive height for a forward and his ability to be a game changing defender is evident. He's still adjusting when it comes to offense and it will remain to be seen if he can expand his game beyond role player status. Isaac appears to be in a solid role off the bench for the Magic, but without the potential for more unless there is a injury to the starters.
Preseason Stats
6 GP, 22.8 mpg, 7.3 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 0.8 apg, 0.8 spg, 1.3 bpg, 1.5 tpg, .395 FG%, .200 3P%, .538 FT%
09. Kyle Kuzma, Los Angeles Lakers
Kuzma has been lighting it up throughout the preseason, as he did in the summer league as well. Despite being a late first round pick, Kuzma has shown enough to speculate on how he projects into the season. Kuzma is a good playmaker and shooter, there isn't ton of question that he can be a positive offensive player, the real question is where does he play? Kuzma is frankly bad at the big man things at this point (0 blocks in 167 preseason minutes), but he may be too slow footed to defend wings. This season will be key to see where he fits, but he doesn't really have much of a role right now. At power forward, the Lakers have Julius Randle and Larry Nance Jr while at small forward they have Brandon Ingram and Luol Deng, both of whom can play at the 4 as well. Are the Lakers willing to bench the highly paid Deng to play Kuzma? Time will tell.
Preseason Stats
6 GP, 27.8 mpg, 17.3 ppg, 4 rpg, 1.8 apg, 0.6 spg, 1.6 tpg, .513 FG% .242% 3P%, .785 FT%
10. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
We knew that Tatum would have a reduced role compared to the other top rookies, the question is whether or not Tatum's tough shot/iso heavy style of offense will translate to efficient scoring in the NBA. So far, not so good. Obviously he is adjusting and it is very early but Tatum has struggled to score and to do so efficiently, most distressingly he has only taken five foul shots in 101 minutes. It will be interesting to monitor how Tatum scores this year. He is definitely talented, but there is nothing "easy" about his offense.
Preseason Stats
4 GP, 25.3 mpg, 8.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 2 apg, 0.5 bpg, 1 spg, 1.3 tpg, .371 FG%, .333 3P%, .600 FT%
11. Lauri Markkanen, Chicago Bulls
Injury has limited Markkanen's ability to get on the court this season, but when he has played you can see the potential offensive ceiling. Markkanen's jumper is a thing of beauty, basically unstoppable and perfect for pick-and-pop. He's also a better, more mobile athlete than he ever gets credit for, particularly running in transition. His defense will be an area to monitor this season and whether or not he can carve out a bigger role.
Preseason Stats
3 GP, 24.6 mpg, 11.6 ppg, 5 rpg, 1.3 apg, 0.3 spg, 0.3 bpg, 1 tpg, .400 FG%, .388 3P%, 4-5 FT
12. Markelle Fultz, Philadelphia 76ers
Fultz was the best prospect in the draft and would be tops of this list if we're talking long term and overall talent. However, Fultz has attempted to re-work his jumpshot and basically can't shoot anymore, which is very troubling considering one of his biggest strengths was his ability to create mid-range jumpers as well as threaten from three. By this time next year, Fultz will most likely be one of the two or three best players on this list, but right now it is hard to be optimistic about his right now.
Preseason Stats
2 GP, 23.5 mpg, 8 ppg, 2 rpg, 2.5 apg, 0.5 spg, 2.5 tpg, .291 FG%, 0-3 3P 3-5 FT
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
01. Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers
Simmons hasn't blown the doors off statically but it is obvious watching him that he is a step ahead of the rest of the rookies (and with good reason, Simmons has had a year more of adjustment) both physically and mentally. The defense and shooting concerns remain and likely will for a while, but Simmons ability to handle the ball, pass, rebound, and get to the basket at a legit power forward's size is beyond impressive, a kind of player that is fun to watch and hard to defend.
Preseason Stats
5 GP, 22.8 mpg, 11.4 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 5.4 apg, 1.4 spg, 0.8 bpg, 2 tpg, .489 FG%, 0-3 3P, .409 FT%
02. Dennis Smith Jr, North Carolina State
Like Simmons, Dennis Smith Jr. pops off the screen with an athletic ability that stands out even among NBA players. More importantly, he seems to be working well with the Mavs veteran laden roster already, a relationship that goes ways. With the decision to start Dirk Nowitzki at center, the Mavericks will have at least three capable shooters on the floor with Smith (four when Seth Curry returns) which is more than enough space for Smith to jet into the paint. Like with all rookies (even those with a good rep) defense will be a work in progress, but Smith has the look of a top level playmaker in a perfect situation. Smith rolled his ankle in the Mavs last preseason game, but appears to have escaped without serious injury.
Preseason Stats
6 GP, 19.1 mpg, 10.8 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 4 apg,0.3 bpg, 1.3 spg, 2.3 tpg, .416 FG% .451 3P%, .635 FT%
03. Lonzo Ball, Los Angeles Lakers
Ball has only appeared in two games this preseason nursing a
Preseason Stats
2 GP, 28.5 mpg, 6.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 6 apg, 1.5 spg, 0.5 bpg, 2.5 tpg, .333 FG%, .250 3P%, 1-1 FT
04. Donovan Mitchell, Utah Jazz
After an explosive summer league, Mitchell has continued that into the preseason, popping off the screen in a similar way to Simmons and Smith Jr. What is most important to Mitchell's development is a disappointing one for the Jazz and NBA fans: Dante Exum might miss the entire season with a shoulder injury. This thrusts Mitchell into a bigger role as perhaps the first guard off the bench, playing both guards spots. If Mitchell gets minutes at point guard, it may be rocky at first but in the long term may really help his development.
Preseason Stats
3 GP, 27.3 mpg, 17 ppg, 3 rpg, 2.6 apg, 0.6 spg, 2.6 tpg, .410 FG%, .250 3P%, .875 FT%
05. Josh Jackson, Phoenix Suns
Despite being (apparently) the most sought after player in the 2017 draft, Josh Jackson has flown under the radar this preseason, going about his business out in Arizona. So far, Jackson appears to be exactly the same player he's always been: playing hard (occasionally too hard, he needs to be smart AND active), attacking the basket and, despite how ugly his jumper it looks, it keeps going in. He's even been making his free throws at a respectable rate! Through sheer effort, Jackson stuffs the stat sheet, however he still tries to do too much on both ends, resulting in turnover and unnecessary fouls. A key for the Suns will be getting Jackson to play under control, but without sacrificing the energy that makes him such a good player.
4 GP, 28.5 mpg, 15.3 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.3 spg, 1 bpg, 5 tpg, .470 FG%, .461 3P%, .777 FT%
06. Malik Monk, Charlotte Hornets
Injuries to Nic Batum and Michael Carter-Williams has opened up a bigger role for Monk, a door he has stepped through with abandon so far in the preseason. Monk is and likely always will be a streaky gunner, who will light it up one night and be unable to do anything the next, though he will still keep trying. Until he can become a more consistent scorer, Monk will need to add additional value through playmaking, which he has actually shown a little bit of this preseason, running at least a rudimentary side pick-and-roll well enough. Also encouraging for Monk, and something that could be key for him become a more stable option, he has been getting the foul line a little more often than he did in college.
Preseason Stats
5 GP, 28.2 mpg, 15.6 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 2.4 apg, 0.2 spg, 0.8 tpg, .356 FG% .325 3P%, .764 FT%
07. De'Aaron Fox, Sacramento Kings
A back injury has limited Fox's minutes a bit so far this preseason, but two things have been abundantly clear: Fox is the backup as of now but his quickness is translating well to the NBA. The Kings somewhat confusingly brought in George Hill to the be the starting point guard while relegating Fox to a bunch role. At least at the start of the season, this is the case. Hill could share the backcourt with Fox, but the Kings also have a bunch of young shooting guards they want to play, limiting Fox's minute to purely backup point guard. Perhaps, as the season spirals away from the Kings, Fox will be able to play more, but right now his options seem limited. When he has played Fox looks like he'll be able to break down defenses from day one and his floater/in between game looks as good as ever. There are still the worries about his shooting and whether he plays with enough force to be the kind of finisher and defender you'd hope for, though his ability to pressure ball handlers is exciting.
Preseason Stats
3 GP, 16.6 mpg, 10.3 ppg, 1 rpg, 2.6 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.3 bpg, 0.6 tpg, .520 FG%, 1-1 3P, .714 FT%
08. Jonathan Isaac, Orlando Magic
Isaac has been good, in his own way, coming off the bench for the Magic so far this preseason. He looks pretty comfortable and natural despite his massive height for a forward and his ability to be a game changing defender is evident. He's still adjusting when it comes to offense and it will remain to be seen if he can expand his game beyond role player status. Isaac appears to be in a solid role off the bench for the Magic, but without the potential for more unless there is a injury to the starters.
Preseason Stats
6 GP, 22.8 mpg, 7.3 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 0.8 apg, 0.8 spg, 1.3 bpg, 1.5 tpg, .395 FG%, .200 3P%, .538 FT%
09. Kyle Kuzma, Los Angeles Lakers
Kuzma has been lighting it up throughout the preseason, as he did in the summer league as well. Despite being a late first round pick, Kuzma has shown enough to speculate on how he projects into the season. Kuzma is a good playmaker and shooter, there isn't ton of question that he can be a positive offensive player, the real question is where does he play? Kuzma is frankly bad at the big man things at this point (0 blocks in 167 preseason minutes), but he may be too slow footed to defend wings. This season will be key to see where he fits, but he doesn't really have much of a role right now. At power forward, the Lakers have Julius Randle and Larry Nance Jr while at small forward they have Brandon Ingram and Luol Deng, both of whom can play at the 4 as well. Are the Lakers willing to bench the highly paid Deng to play Kuzma? Time will tell.
Preseason Stats
6 GP, 27.8 mpg, 17.3 ppg, 4 rpg, 1.8 apg, 0.6 spg, 1.6 tpg, .513 FG% .242% 3P%, .785 FT%
10. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
We knew that Tatum would have a reduced role compared to the other top rookies, the question is whether or not Tatum's tough shot/iso heavy style of offense will translate to efficient scoring in the NBA. So far, not so good. Obviously he is adjusting and it is very early but Tatum has struggled to score and to do so efficiently, most distressingly he has only taken five foul shots in 101 minutes. It will be interesting to monitor how Tatum scores this year. He is definitely talented, but there is nothing "easy" about his offense.
Preseason Stats
4 GP, 25.3 mpg, 8.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 2 apg, 0.5 bpg, 1 spg, 1.3 tpg, .371 FG%, .333 3P%, .600 FT%
11. Lauri Markkanen, Chicago Bulls
Injury has limited Markkanen's ability to get on the court this season, but when he has played you can see the potential offensive ceiling. Markkanen's jumper is a thing of beauty, basically unstoppable and perfect for pick-and-pop. He's also a better, more mobile athlete than he ever gets credit for, particularly running in transition. His defense will be an area to monitor this season and whether or not he can carve out a bigger role.
Preseason Stats
3 GP, 24.6 mpg, 11.6 ppg, 5 rpg, 1.3 apg, 0.3 spg, 0.3 bpg, 1 tpg, .400 FG%, .388 3P%, 4-5 FT
12. Markelle Fultz, Philadelphia 76ers
Fultz was the best prospect in the draft and would be tops of this list if we're talking long term and overall talent. However, Fultz has attempted to re-work his jumpshot and basically can't shoot anymore, which is very troubling considering one of his biggest strengths was his ability to create mid-range jumpers as well as threaten from three. By this time next year, Fultz will most likely be one of the two or three best players on this list, but right now it is hard to be optimistic about his right now.
Preseason Stats
2 GP, 23.5 mpg, 8 ppg, 2 rpg, 2.5 apg, 0.5 spg, 2.5 tpg, .291 FG%, 0-3 3P 3-5 FT
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Fantasy NBA: 5 Potential Draft Bargains
Early round picks have all the excitement, but nailing picks in the later rounds can be just as important to winning your fantasy league:
Dewayne Dedmon, C, Atlanta Hawks
Any one who has done a fantasy draft this year knows that rebounds and blocks are difficult to come by, and centers really dry up quickly. Enter Dewayne Dedmon, who has two things going for him: first, he is one of two true centers on the Atlanta Hawks roster and second, he isn't Miles Plumlee. Dedmon seems like a good candidate to soak up a lot of minutes, where the hope is he can give you rebounds and blocks. Dedmon's per 36 minute stats are excellent 10.5 points, 13.4 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, so the hope is that if he gets starters minutes in Atlanta, he will produce around that level. This is not a sexy pick, and Dedmon doesn't have much upside to speak of but he's a step above the rebound/block specialist that really just helps you in one area.
Skal Labissiere, PF/C Sacramento Kings
This one you might require some patience, or maybe if the league is shallow enough you just book mark him in your waiver-wire, but by seasons end there is a good chance that Skal Labissiere will be producing big time for your team. Skal is the most talented big man on the Kings roster, and though it might take some time, he should be playing starters minutes at one of the big man spots for the Kings. The reason he might not get the minutes load he should is that Kings head coach Dave Joerger has been reunited with Zach Randolph and, like any head coach, he wants to win games, which means he will likely lean on his vets more than a rebuilding team probably should (for the same reason, De'Aaron Fox isn't a higher pick) but once it is clear that the Kings are going to lose no matter how they play (and that Randolph should be a starter at this point) Skal will be the one to benefit. Look for him to produce points, rebounds, good percentages, and some blocks as well.
Jeremy Lin, PG/SG Brooklyn Nets
Lin always seems to be pushed out of real life basketball teams for one reason or another, which leads him to be undervalued in fantasy as well. The Nets acquired D'Angelo Russell in the offseason, intending to build around him, which immediately led to a perceived downgrade in Lin's value. Not so fast my friend! True, Lin as lead perimeter dog is a thing of the past, but the Nets play at an absurd pace, tops in the NBA last season, which means plenty of opportunities for both Lin and Russell, not to mention the fact that Brook Lopez and his 29.2% usage rate are now gone or the fact that those two are the only proven guards on the roster, or the fact that Russell is the better shooter, which means it will make more sense for Lin to have the ball more often. Per 36 last season, Lin averaged 21.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 7.5 assists, and 1.7 steals. If Lin proves he is healthy and can handle a 30 minute load, you could get a starting point guard (minus threes, but seriously everyone shoots 3s now) for a backup price.
Eric Gordon, SG Houston Rockets
Gordon was a top 10 shooting guard option last year, finishing fourth in the NBA with 246 three pointers (the three players ahead of him are all first three round picks), and yet ESPN has him ranked as their 20th overall shooting guard, behind an injured Zach LaVine among others (this does include players that also play other positions, but still). Gordon's injury history certainly plays a part in that but now that he is away from the New OrleansSaints Pelicans questionable training staff, that isn't as big of a concern. It is also easy to see how Gordon could be better this year than last: it's his second year in the system, Lou Williams isn't around to steal second unit shots any more and, he'll pretty much always be sharing the floor with either James Harden or Chris Paul, two of the best passer in the league who will also draw a ton of attention. Gordon is the Rockets third best player and will be on the floor in crunch time as well. If you find yourself low on threes, don't be afraid to pull the trigger on this gunner.
Kent Bazemore, SG/SF Atlanta Hawks
After receiving a big contract, Kent Bazemore Bazed-Less and was considered a disappointment, though it was really only his field goal percentage (.409%) that let fantasy teams down in the aggregate; anyone expecting super-star production was going to be let down no matte what Bazemore did. Just as the real life Bazemore is a glue guy, that is his role for your team, giving you a little bit of everything: least season he averaged 11 points, 1.3 threes, 3.2 rebounds, 2.4 assists 1.2 steals, 0.7 blocks. Nothing that stands out, but nothing that hurt you either while the 0.7 blocks is great from a shooting guard. Now take into account that Bazemore did that in just 26.9 minutes a game. That Hawks teams was a playoff team with multiple offensive weapons. Now, Bazemore might be the best player on the whole team! Expect his minutes to go up and his all around production to be close to his per 36 numbers. Tyler Johnson all falls into the catagory, a guard that provides you with rebounds and blocks at a higher number than you'd expect without killing you in other areas. Every little bit counts.
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Dewayne Dedmon, C, Atlanta Hawks
Any one who has done a fantasy draft this year knows that rebounds and blocks are difficult to come by, and centers really dry up quickly. Enter Dewayne Dedmon, who has two things going for him: first, he is one of two true centers on the Atlanta Hawks roster and second, he isn't Miles Plumlee. Dedmon seems like a good candidate to soak up a lot of minutes, where the hope is he can give you rebounds and blocks. Dedmon's per 36 minute stats are excellent 10.5 points, 13.4 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, so the hope is that if he gets starters minutes in Atlanta, he will produce around that level. This is not a sexy pick, and Dedmon doesn't have much upside to speak of but he's a step above the rebound/block specialist that really just helps you in one area.
Skal Labissiere, PF/C Sacramento Kings
This one you might require some patience, or maybe if the league is shallow enough you just book mark him in your waiver-wire, but by seasons end there is a good chance that Skal Labissiere will be producing big time for your team. Skal is the most talented big man on the Kings roster, and though it might take some time, he should be playing starters minutes at one of the big man spots for the Kings. The reason he might not get the minutes load he should is that Kings head coach Dave Joerger has been reunited with Zach Randolph and, like any head coach, he wants to win games, which means he will likely lean on his vets more than a rebuilding team probably should (for the same reason, De'Aaron Fox isn't a higher pick) but once it is clear that the Kings are going to lose no matter how they play (and that Randolph should be a starter at this point) Skal will be the one to benefit. Look for him to produce points, rebounds, good percentages, and some blocks as well.
Jeremy Lin, PG/SG Brooklyn Nets
Lin always seems to be pushed out of real life basketball teams for one reason or another, which leads him to be undervalued in fantasy as well. The Nets acquired D'Angelo Russell in the offseason, intending to build around him, which immediately led to a perceived downgrade in Lin's value. Not so fast my friend! True, Lin as lead perimeter dog is a thing of the past, but the Nets play at an absurd pace, tops in the NBA last season, which means plenty of opportunities for both Lin and Russell, not to mention the fact that Brook Lopez and his 29.2% usage rate are now gone or the fact that those two are the only proven guards on the roster, or the fact that Russell is the better shooter, which means it will make more sense for Lin to have the ball more often. Per 36 last season, Lin averaged 21.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 7.5 assists, and 1.7 steals. If Lin proves he is healthy and can handle a 30 minute load, you could get a starting point guard (minus threes, but seriously everyone shoots 3s now) for a backup price.
Eric Gordon, SG Houston Rockets
Gordon was a top 10 shooting guard option last year, finishing fourth in the NBA with 246 three pointers (the three players ahead of him are all first three round picks), and yet ESPN has him ranked as their 20th overall shooting guard, behind an injured Zach LaVine among others (this does include players that also play other positions, but still). Gordon's injury history certainly plays a part in that but now that he is away from the New Orleans
Kent Bazemore, SG/SF Atlanta Hawks
After receiving a big contract, Kent Bazemore Bazed-Less and was considered a disappointment, though it was really only his field goal percentage (.409%) that let fantasy teams down in the aggregate; anyone expecting super-star production was going to be let down no matte what Bazemore did. Just as the real life Bazemore is a glue guy, that is his role for your team, giving you a little bit of everything: least season he averaged 11 points, 1.3 threes, 3.2 rebounds, 2.4 assists 1.2 steals, 0.7 blocks. Nothing that stands out, but nothing that hurt you either while the 0.7 blocks is great from a shooting guard. Now take into account that Bazemore did that in just 26.9 minutes a game. That Hawks teams was a playoff team with multiple offensive weapons. Now, Bazemore might be the best player on the whole team! Expect his minutes to go up and his all around production to be close to his per 36 numbers. Tyler Johnson all falls into the catagory, a guard that provides you with rebounds and blocks at a higher number than you'd expect without killing you in other areas. Every little bit counts.
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
Sunday, October 8, 2017
Five Breakout NBA players in 2017-18
After an offseason full of player movement, the start of the season means new opportunities for many players across the league. These five players not only have bigger roles waiting for them, but also the skills to take advantage and break out.
Rodney Hood, Utah Jazz
This is the obvious one, Rodney Hood is sure to be all over breakout/most important player lists this preseason; it's clear that Hood needs to take a step forward for the Jazz to return to the playoffs. With Gordon Heyward gone, Hood is Utah's top remaining perimeter scorer and will be there go-to scoring option. It is important to note that Utah's egalitarian offense system won't feature a lot of iso situations, but no offense can rely completely on ball+player movement, there will plenty of times that individual shot creation will be required and Hood will probably lead the team in such opportunities. He won't replace Heyward 1-to-1, the Jazz will count on Ricky Rubio's passing, a Derrick Favors/Alec Burks health bounce-back, and rookie Donovan Mitchell to fill the void, but Hood will be the biggest piece in a group effort. For and foremost, health will be crucial for Hood, who has two seasons playing less than 60 games sandwiched between a nearly complete season of 79 games. Assuming health, Hood will need to not only sustain what he has been good at in the past but also develop his game to become more of a primary offensive option. Hood's strengths are obvious, he is a very good shooter from deep (.371 from three point range) and at 6-8 he has no trouble getting his shot off, while his patience running pick-and-roll allows him to be effective off the dribble without the burst normally associated with such actions. Where Hood needs to get better is inside the arc; his career fee throw rate (.196) and 2-point percentage are (.458) are well below average. Lacking that burst, Hood will need to hone his craft, using his size to finish over shorter players and become more active off the ball, getting easy shots at the basket via cuts and backscreens. Playing with more than willing passers like Rubio and Joe Ingles should allow Hood to get some easier looks, particularly on the break. Utah isn't a very fast-paced team (though that might change with Rubio) by Gordon Heyward excelled at leaking out ahead of the pack, something Hood should attempt to emulate. It's not that Hood is a lazy player by any means, but he can be somewhat low energy and not assertive hunting his own shot, which is exactly what the Jazz need of him. Also, in a contract year, Hood could really help his own financial situation with a big year, or tank it with a bad one.
Marcus Smart, Boston Celtics
The Celtics traded away their two top perimeter defenders and replaced them with a decidedly bad defender (Kyrie Irving), an okay one (Marcus Morris) and a very good one (Gordon Heyward). Heyward and Morris should at least hold serve replacing Jae Crowder but Avery Bradley is a different story. Irving will slot into Isaiah Thomas' role as resident defensive sieve but without Bradley there to match-up on the opposing point guard, that duty will fall in crucial moments on Marcus Smart, who is up to the task on that end of the floor. Whether or not he can replace Bradley's offensive contributions is more of an open question. Smart's size, strength, and tenacity make him one of best, most versatile defender in the league, able to battle bigger players in the post while pestering on the perimeter with quick feet and hands. Despite his willingness to fire away 4+ three-pointers a game, Smart is a terrible three-point shooter (.291 career) and his .422 percentage on two-point shots is just as putrid (compare that with Avery Bradley's .390 and .504 marks, respectively, last season). At this point, defenses have little to fear by leaving him wide open outside the arc, something that will really hurt the Celtics in crunch time, which is exactly when they will need him on the floor. So how can he be successful? In his prime, Tony Allen couldn't shoot and would routinely flub wide-open layups, yet was a successful player for years. Obviously being one of the best perimeter defenders in NBA history helped (Smart is excellent but he isn't quite Allen's level) but that didn't sort out his offense. On that end, Allen was always hunting for easy shots for himself, crashing the glass, sprinting in transition, and was such a threat to cut to the basket that defenses had to pay attention to him even if he wasn't going to shoot. That's the template use for his success, work as hard off the ball offensively as he does on defense. And Smart, while still a really bad shooter, can get hot at times which means that he can take a three from time to time, when wide open, he just shouldn't be so shot happy from there. Like Hood, Smart is also in a contract year and has some financial incentive to be better than he has been.
Allen Crabbe, Brooklyn Nets
With Portland, Crabbe played a crucial role in the Blazers offensive when he was on the floor, spacing the floor for Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, courtesy of a .444 shooting percentage from behind the arc. In Brooklyn, Crabbe will be performing a similar task for D'Angelo Russell and Jeremy Lin. However, Russell and Lin are lower usage players than Lillard and McCollum, which should give Crabbe a chance to take even more three than the 3.8 he attempted per game last season. 73 players attemped more threes than Crabbe last season. As a member of the Nets last season, Bojan Bogdanovic attempted 5 threes a game, if Crabbe takes that many or more a game (last season he was at 3.8) and continues to make 40%+ from three, a breakout offensive performance is very possible. Brooklyn took the third most threes last season (more than Golden State believe it or not) and will look to shoot even more this season, a plan that suits Crabbe just fine. The other factor here is that Brooklyn has every incentive to play Crabbe starters minutes, as they just used much of their copious cap space in order to acquire him, and had attempted to get him in the past. More opportunities is often all that it takes for a NBA player to have breakout campaign.
Jerami Grant, Oklahoma City
As of now, the Thunder's backup center is Dakari Johnson, who might not even make the roster. Unless the Thunder find a veteran big man, they'll have to find someone to backup Steven Adams. While a 6-8, 210 pound forward like Jerami Grant might not seem like the prime option, but Grant's defensive potential as someone who can switch and block shots, is actually ideal for playing center in the modern NBA, especially against backup centers who aren't going to kill him in the post. In less advantageous matchups, say against a lumbering post scorer like Jahlil Okafor, Grant would be just as much of a matchup problem because of his ability to make straight line drives and passably shoot from three, skills that will play up as a center. Last season, Grant made .371 of his 144 three-point attempts, something he will look to keep up in his first full year with the Thunder, if not at that level at least at a passable 33-35%, which would be very good if he is playing at center. Likewise, Grant isn't a superb driver but is quick for his size and is a vicious finisher when he gets to the rim. As a backup center, playing with some combination of Russell Westbrook, Paul George, and Carmelo Anthony, Grant will be asked to space the floor, attack closeouts, and finish lobs, all things he has shown the ability to do in the past. Defensively, Grant is one of the elite shot blockers in the NBA, finishing 11th in the NBA in block percentage (The Greek Freak is the only non-center ahead of him) so Grant has part of the big man skills down pat, though he will drastically need to improve as a rebounder in order to make it work at center. His 7.4 defensive rebound would rank second to last season among centers, besting only 35 year old, ground-bound Boris Diaw. Part of that poor number is the amount of time Grant spent playing small forward (and playing with high level rebounders that grabbed the boards instead) but no doubt he must improve to at least league average on the glass, an accomplishment that seems possible given his length and leaping ability. If Grant can stay a solid shooter and top level defender, while also improving his rebounding, a breakthrough to becoming one of the better backups in the NBA is definitely possible.
Norman Powell, Toronto Raptors
The Raptors roster has changed quite a bit over that last year, with players coming and going. Of the top ten per game minute getters last season, half of them are gone and their replacements are mostly unproven players. On the wing, the Raptors have presumed starters DeMar DeRozan and CJ Miles, then injured rookie OG Anunoby, still raw Bruno Caboclo, and multiple time castoff KJ McDaniels. These are the players Norman Powell is competing with for minutes. In fact it can be argued that Powell is the second best wing on the roster, ahead of Miles. Assuming there are 96 minutes available on the wing, DeRozan will take about 36 of them, leaving 60 minutes to be divided up among the rest. Whether it be from 25 to 30 minutes a game, Powell is sure to see a boost in minutes from the 18 a game he averaged last season. And honestly, as far as talent is concerned, playing time may be all that Powell needs to break out. Despite being relatively short for a wing, Powell is strongly built and has long arms to challenge bigger, stronger players defensively. Offensively, his jumper could stand to be more consistent, he is somewhat streaky, but where Powell stands out is his ability to beat defenders off the dribble and make plays going towards the basket. Powell took 41% of his shots withing 0-3 feet of the basket and made an excellent .606% of those shots. Given his ability defensively and a solid outside stroke, Powell should be the first player off the bench in Toronto, if not the starter by season's end.
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
Rodney Hood, Utah Jazz
This is the obvious one, Rodney Hood is sure to be all over breakout/most important player lists this preseason; it's clear that Hood needs to take a step forward for the Jazz to return to the playoffs. With Gordon Heyward gone, Hood is Utah's top remaining perimeter scorer and will be there go-to scoring option. It is important to note that Utah's egalitarian offense system won't feature a lot of iso situations, but no offense can rely completely on ball+player movement, there will plenty of times that individual shot creation will be required and Hood will probably lead the team in such opportunities. He won't replace Heyward 1-to-1, the Jazz will count on Ricky Rubio's passing, a Derrick Favors/Alec Burks health bounce-back, and rookie Donovan Mitchell to fill the void, but Hood will be the biggest piece in a group effort. For and foremost, health will be crucial for Hood, who has two seasons playing less than 60 games sandwiched between a nearly complete season of 79 games. Assuming health, Hood will need to not only sustain what he has been good at in the past but also develop his game to become more of a primary offensive option. Hood's strengths are obvious, he is a very good shooter from deep (.371 from three point range) and at 6-8 he has no trouble getting his shot off, while his patience running pick-and-roll allows him to be effective off the dribble without the burst normally associated with such actions. Where Hood needs to get better is inside the arc; his career fee throw rate (.196) and 2-point percentage are (.458) are well below average. Lacking that burst, Hood will need to hone his craft, using his size to finish over shorter players and become more active off the ball, getting easy shots at the basket via cuts and backscreens. Playing with more than willing passers like Rubio and Joe Ingles should allow Hood to get some easier looks, particularly on the break. Utah isn't a very fast-paced team (though that might change with Rubio) by Gordon Heyward excelled at leaking out ahead of the pack, something Hood should attempt to emulate. It's not that Hood is a lazy player by any means, but he can be somewhat low energy and not assertive hunting his own shot, which is exactly what the Jazz need of him. Also, in a contract year, Hood could really help his own financial situation with a big year, or tank it with a bad one.
Marcus Smart, Boston Celtics
The Celtics traded away their two top perimeter defenders and replaced them with a decidedly bad defender (Kyrie Irving), an okay one (Marcus Morris) and a very good one (Gordon Heyward). Heyward and Morris should at least hold serve replacing Jae Crowder but Avery Bradley is a different story. Irving will slot into Isaiah Thomas' role as resident defensive sieve but without Bradley there to match-up on the opposing point guard, that duty will fall in crucial moments on Marcus Smart, who is up to the task on that end of the floor. Whether or not he can replace Bradley's offensive contributions is more of an open question. Smart's size, strength, and tenacity make him one of best, most versatile defender in the league, able to battle bigger players in the post while pestering on the perimeter with quick feet and hands. Despite his willingness to fire away 4+ three-pointers a game, Smart is a terrible three-point shooter (.291 career) and his .422 percentage on two-point shots is just as putrid (compare that with Avery Bradley's .390 and .504 marks, respectively, last season). At this point, defenses have little to fear by leaving him wide open outside the arc, something that will really hurt the Celtics in crunch time, which is exactly when they will need him on the floor. So how can he be successful? In his prime, Tony Allen couldn't shoot and would routinely flub wide-open layups, yet was a successful player for years. Obviously being one of the best perimeter defenders in NBA history helped (Smart is excellent but he isn't quite Allen's level) but that didn't sort out his offense. On that end, Allen was always hunting for easy shots for himself, crashing the glass, sprinting in transition, and was such a threat to cut to the basket that defenses had to pay attention to him even if he wasn't going to shoot. That's the template use for his success, work as hard off the ball offensively as he does on defense. And Smart, while still a really bad shooter, can get hot at times which means that he can take a three from time to time, when wide open, he just shouldn't be so shot happy from there. Like Hood, Smart is also in a contract year and has some financial incentive to be better than he has been.
Allen Crabbe, Brooklyn Nets
With Portland, Crabbe played a crucial role in the Blazers offensive when he was on the floor, spacing the floor for Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, courtesy of a .444 shooting percentage from behind the arc. In Brooklyn, Crabbe will be performing a similar task for D'Angelo Russell and Jeremy Lin. However, Russell and Lin are lower usage players than Lillard and McCollum, which should give Crabbe a chance to take even more three than the 3.8 he attempted per game last season. 73 players attemped more threes than Crabbe last season. As a member of the Nets last season, Bojan Bogdanovic attempted 5 threes a game, if Crabbe takes that many or more a game (last season he was at 3.8) and continues to make 40%+ from three, a breakout offensive performance is very possible. Brooklyn took the third most threes last season (more than Golden State believe it or not) and will look to shoot even more this season, a plan that suits Crabbe just fine. The other factor here is that Brooklyn has every incentive to play Crabbe starters minutes, as they just used much of their copious cap space in order to acquire him, and had attempted to get him in the past. More opportunities is often all that it takes for a NBA player to have breakout campaign.
Jerami Grant, Oklahoma City
As of now, the Thunder's backup center is Dakari Johnson, who might not even make the roster. Unless the Thunder find a veteran big man, they'll have to find someone to backup Steven Adams. While a 6-8, 210 pound forward like Jerami Grant might not seem like the prime option, but Grant's defensive potential as someone who can switch and block shots, is actually ideal for playing center in the modern NBA, especially against backup centers who aren't going to kill him in the post. In less advantageous matchups, say against a lumbering post scorer like Jahlil Okafor, Grant would be just as much of a matchup problem because of his ability to make straight line drives and passably shoot from three, skills that will play up as a center. Last season, Grant made .371 of his 144 three-point attempts, something he will look to keep up in his first full year with the Thunder, if not at that level at least at a passable 33-35%, which would be very good if he is playing at center. Likewise, Grant isn't a superb driver but is quick for his size and is a vicious finisher when he gets to the rim. As a backup center, playing with some combination of Russell Westbrook, Paul George, and Carmelo Anthony, Grant will be asked to space the floor, attack closeouts, and finish lobs, all things he has shown the ability to do in the past. Defensively, Grant is one of the elite shot blockers in the NBA, finishing 11th in the NBA in block percentage (The Greek Freak is the only non-center ahead of him) so Grant has part of the big man skills down pat, though he will drastically need to improve as a rebounder in order to make it work at center. His 7.4 defensive rebound would rank second to last season among centers, besting only 35 year old, ground-bound Boris Diaw. Part of that poor number is the amount of time Grant spent playing small forward (and playing with high level rebounders that grabbed the boards instead) but no doubt he must improve to at least league average on the glass, an accomplishment that seems possible given his length and leaping ability. If Grant can stay a solid shooter and top level defender, while also improving his rebounding, a breakthrough to becoming one of the better backups in the NBA is definitely possible.
Norman Powell, Toronto Raptors
The Raptors roster has changed quite a bit over that last year, with players coming and going. Of the top ten per game minute getters last season, half of them are gone and their replacements are mostly unproven players. On the wing, the Raptors have presumed starters DeMar DeRozan and CJ Miles, then injured rookie OG Anunoby, still raw Bruno Caboclo, and multiple time castoff KJ McDaniels. These are the players Norman Powell is competing with for minutes. In fact it can be argued that Powell is the second best wing on the roster, ahead of Miles. Assuming there are 96 minutes available on the wing, DeRozan will take about 36 of them, leaving 60 minutes to be divided up among the rest. Whether it be from 25 to 30 minutes a game, Powell is sure to see a boost in minutes from the 18 a game he averaged last season. And honestly, as far as talent is concerned, playing time may be all that Powell needs to break out. Despite being relatively short for a wing, Powell is strongly built and has long arms to challenge bigger, stronger players defensively. Offensively, his jumper could stand to be more consistent, he is somewhat streaky, but where Powell stands out is his ability to beat defenders off the dribble and make plays going towards the basket. Powell took 41% of his shots withing 0-3 feet of the basket and made an excellent .606% of those shots. Given his ability defensively and a solid outside stroke, Powell should be the first player off the bench in Toronto, if not the starter by season's end.
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
Sunday, October 1, 2017
2017-18 NBA Predictions
Eastern Conference Regular Season
01.Cleveland Cavaliers
02. Boston Celtics
03. Washington Wizards
04. Toronto Raptors
05. Miami Heat
06. Milwaukee Bucks
07. Charlotte Hornets
08. Detroit Pistons
09. Philadelphia 76ers
10. Indiana Pacers
11. Orlando Magic
12. Atlanta Hawks
13. New York Knicks
14. Brooklyn Nets
15. Chicago Bulls
Eastern Conference Playoffs
#1 Cavs beat #8 Pistons
#2 Celtics beat #7 Hornets
#3 Wizards beat #6 Bucks
#5 Heat beat #4 Raptors
#3 Wizards beat #2 Celtics
#1 Cavs beat #5 Heat
#1 Cavs beat #3 Wizards
Western Conference Regular Season
01. Golden State Warriors
02. Houston Rockets
03. Oklahoma City Thunder
04. San Antonio Spurs
05. Minnesota Timberwolves
06. Los Angeles Clippers
07. Denver Nuggets
08. Utah Jazz
09. Portland Trail Blazers
10. New Orleans Pelicans
11. Memphis Grizzlies
12. Dallas Mavericks
13. Los Angeles Lakers
14. Sacramento Kings
15. Phoenix Suns
Western Conference Playoffs
#1 Warriors beat #8 Jazz
#2 Rockets beat #7 Nuggets
#3 Thunder beat #6 Clippers
#5 Timberwolves beat #4 Spurs
#1 Warriors beat #5 Timberwolves
#3 Thunder beat #2 Rockets
#1 Warriors beat #3 Thunder
NBA Finals
Warriors beat Cavaliers
NBA Awards
MVP: Steph Curry, Golden State
Defensive Player of the Year: Rudy Gobert, C Utah
Rookie of the Year: Ben Simmons, PF Philadelphia
Sixth Man of the Year: Andre Igoudala
Coach of the Year: Tom Thibodeau, Minnesota
Most Improved Player: Rodney Hood, SG Utah
East All-Stars
G: John Wall, Washington
G: Kyrie Irving, Boston
F: LeBron James, Cleveland
F: Gordon Heyward, Boston
F: Giannis Antetekoumpo, Milwaukee
Bench 1: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia
Bench 2: Kyle Lowry, Toronto
Bench 3: DeMar DeRozan, Toronto
Bench 4: Kemba Walker, Charlotte
Bench 5: Kevin Love, Cleveland
Bench 6: Myles Turner, Indiana
Bench 7: Bradley Beal, Washington
West All-Stars
G: Steph Curry, Golden State
G: James Harden, Houston
F: Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City
F: Kawhi Leornard, San Antonio
F: Anthony Davis, New Orleans
Bench 1: Paul George, Oklahoma City
Bench 2: Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City
Bench 3: Chris Paul, Houston
Bench 4: Jimmy Butler, Minnesota
Bench 5: Draymond Green, Golden State
Bench 6: Blake Griffin, Los Angeles
Bench 7: Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota
All-NBA First Team
G: James Harden, Houston
G: Steph Curry, Golden State
F: LeBron James, Cleveland
F: Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio
C: Rudy Gobert, Utah
All-NBA Second Team
G: Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City
G: Chris Paul, Houston
F: Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City
F: Giannis Antetekoumpo, Milwaukee
C: Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota
All-NBA Third Team
G: John Wall, Washington
G: Jimmy Butler, Minnesota
F: Anthony Davis, New Orleans
F: Draymond Green, Golden State
C: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia
All-Defensive First Team
G: Patrick Beverly, Los Angeles
G: Jimmy Butler, Minnesota
F: Draymond Green, Golden State
F: Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio
C: Rudy Gobert, Utah
All-Defensive Second Team
G: Danny Green, San Antonio
G: Chris Paul, Houston
F: Paul George, Oklahoma City
F: Derrick Favors, Utah
C: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia
All-Rookie First Team
Ben Simmons, Philadelphia
Lonzo Ball, Los Angeles
Dennis Smith Jr, Dallas
Josh Jackson, Phoenix
Markelle Fultz, Philadelphia
All-Rookie Second Team
Jonathan Isaac, Orlando
Lauri Markkanen, Chicago
Donovan Mitchell, Utah
De'Aaron Fox, Sacramento
Jayson Tatum, Boston
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
01.Cleveland Cavaliers
02. Boston Celtics
03. Washington Wizards
04. Toronto Raptors
05. Miami Heat
06. Milwaukee Bucks
07. Charlotte Hornets
08. Detroit Pistons
09. Philadelphia 76ers
10. Indiana Pacers
11. Orlando Magic
12. Atlanta Hawks
13. New York Knicks
14. Brooklyn Nets
15. Chicago Bulls
Eastern Conference Playoffs
#1 Cavs beat #8 Pistons
#2 Celtics beat #7 Hornets
#3 Wizards beat #6 Bucks
#5 Heat beat #4 Raptors
#3 Wizards beat #2 Celtics
#1 Cavs beat #5 Heat
#1 Cavs beat #3 Wizards
Western Conference Regular Season
01. Golden State Warriors
02. Houston Rockets
03. Oklahoma City Thunder
04. San Antonio Spurs
05. Minnesota Timberwolves
06. Los Angeles Clippers
07. Denver Nuggets
08. Utah Jazz
09. Portland Trail Blazers
10. New Orleans Pelicans
11. Memphis Grizzlies
12. Dallas Mavericks
13. Los Angeles Lakers
14. Sacramento Kings
15. Phoenix Suns
Western Conference Playoffs
#1 Warriors beat #8 Jazz
#2 Rockets beat #7 Nuggets
#3 Thunder beat #6 Clippers
#5 Timberwolves beat #4 Spurs
#1 Warriors beat #5 Timberwolves
#3 Thunder beat #2 Rockets
#1 Warriors beat #3 Thunder
NBA Finals
Warriors beat Cavaliers
NBA Awards
MVP: Steph Curry, Golden State
Defensive Player of the Year: Rudy Gobert, C Utah
Rookie of the Year: Ben Simmons, PF Philadelphia
Sixth Man of the Year: Andre Igoudala
Coach of the Year: Tom Thibodeau, Minnesota
Most Improved Player: Rodney Hood, SG Utah
East All-Stars
G: John Wall, Washington
G: Kyrie Irving, Boston
F: LeBron James, Cleveland
F: Gordon Heyward, Boston
F: Giannis Antetekoumpo, Milwaukee
Bench 1: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia
Bench 2: Kyle Lowry, Toronto
Bench 3: DeMar DeRozan, Toronto
Bench 4: Kemba Walker, Charlotte
Bench 5: Kevin Love, Cleveland
Bench 6: Myles Turner, Indiana
Bench 7: Bradley Beal, Washington
West All-Stars
G: Steph Curry, Golden State
G: James Harden, Houston
F: Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City
F: Kawhi Leornard, San Antonio
F: Anthony Davis, New Orleans
Bench 1: Paul George, Oklahoma City
Bench 2: Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City
Bench 3: Chris Paul, Houston
Bench 4: Jimmy Butler, Minnesota
Bench 5: Draymond Green, Golden State
Bench 6: Blake Griffin, Los Angeles
Bench 7: Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota
All-NBA First Team
G: James Harden, Houston
G: Steph Curry, Golden State
F: LeBron James, Cleveland
F: Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio
C: Rudy Gobert, Utah
All-NBA Second Team
G: Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City
G: Chris Paul, Houston
F: Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City
F: Giannis Antetekoumpo, Milwaukee
C: Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota
All-NBA Third Team
G: John Wall, Washington
G: Jimmy Butler, Minnesota
F: Anthony Davis, New Orleans
F: Draymond Green, Golden State
C: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia
All-Defensive First Team
G: Patrick Beverly, Los Angeles
G: Jimmy Butler, Minnesota
F: Draymond Green, Golden State
F: Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio
C: Rudy Gobert, Utah
All-Defensive Second Team
G: Danny Green, San Antonio
G: Chris Paul, Houston
F: Paul George, Oklahoma City
F: Derrick Favors, Utah
C: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia
All-Rookie First Team
Ben Simmons, Philadelphia
Lonzo Ball, Los Angeles
Dennis Smith Jr, Dallas
Josh Jackson, Phoenix
Markelle Fultz, Philadelphia
All-Rookie Second Team
Jonathan Isaac, Orlando
Lauri Markkanen, Chicago
Donovan Mitchell, Utah
De'Aaron Fox, Sacramento
Jayson Tatum, Boston
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