2010 NBA Draft: Evan Turner (Possibly better than John Wall at the next level) and Hassan Whiteside (sleeper center)
by Jayd92009 on Feb 10, 2010 12:58 AM PST
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PrintI hope the Warriors get this kid if they don't get the #1 overall pick. Imagine Joe Johnson (though not quite as big in the frame yet) with better handles, great passing ability, great leadership, and solid defense. In addition, everything comes natural for this kid in scoring just like Johnson. He doesn't force any of his shots and is really efficient shooting a beastly .558%. This kid is AMAZING and very well maybe the best player in this 2010 NBA Draft. Not to take anything away from John Wall, who is still #1 based on athletic ability, size, talent, and potential on the next level, but as of now, Turner is the better player overall. I'm curious to see how scouts view Turner's potential and ceiling as Turner is a 21 year old as a junior in Ohio State, but Turner could immediately turn this franchise around. IF we do draft him, he could possibly play small forward for us or we could play him at shooting guard and trade Monta (not a big fan of that just yet since I believe Monta is still improving and can actually be a star and if he gets more help around him. One of the reasons is he can move extremely well without the ball and will take higher efficient shots by not being forced to shoot the ball as much). There is one problem however. If the draft order goes Nets, Timberwolves, Warriors, then the Timberwolves might pick Turner since they already have two good bigs in Al Jefferson and Kevin Love.
Now Before I finish, I would also like to briefly discuss a player who is 10,000 feet below the radar in Hassan Whiteside a 7' Center who has tremendous athletic ability, incredible shot blocking ability, and enormous potential. He plays in Marshall which is why no one really knows him, but I've been hearing reports that he could very well be in the top 3 of the lottery come draft time. This guy has been averaging 8.2 blocks and 15 rebounds and an adjusted per 40 minute pace which is amazing. He's a bit raw offensively, but he could definitely be the sleeper of the draft. I would seriously take a look at this kid come draft time and consider trading Biedrins if this guy has the ability to be a superstar center. Imagine if Randolph gets thicker and becomes a force alongside Whiteside. It could be the most deadly frontcourt duo in the entire NBA preventing anyone from scoring near the basket. Plus, the Warriors could trade Biedrins and could get a great player in return to bring back the Warriors to NBA relevancy.
This FanPost is a submission from a member of the mighty Golden State of Mind community. While we're all here to throw up that W, these words do not necessarily reflect the views of the GSoM Crew. Still, chances are the preceding post is Unstoppable Baby!
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Wrong
He’s now projected to come out, why would he stay? Go back to the great program of Marshall?
Rookie: "Why did you bench me?"
Nellie: "You're a rookie"
why would he stay?
I don’t know anything about this kid, but staying to polish your game, improve, and try to become “NBA ready” can seem like a worthwhile reason to me. If you aren’t ready for the league, you come in and sit on the bench, never get the ball on offense to work on your offensive game….does that really benefit you more than being the primary player on your team in college, where you get to play tons of minutes, you’re the focal point of the offense (both in games and in practice), and you get to just work on developing those skills a lot more in general (though against lesser competition)? Yeah, I could see why some people would think that’s a good decision.
by Missing Barry on Feb 10, 2010 9:09 AM PST up reply actions
Willie Warren has something to say...
Warriors, Stupidest franchise in the league.
I told Randolph that Bill Russell would tell him to keep that ball in play and start the break.
RANDOLPH: "I know. But sometimes, you gotta let ‘em know."
(MT)
Not trying to say it’s smart for every individual, just that there’s a reason it might make sense for some people.
by Missing Barry on Feb 10, 2010 1:30 PM PST up reply actions
Willie Warren has been dissapointing this year and is not the best 2 in the draft anymore
That goes to Bradley or Henry
Rookie: "Why did you bench me?"
Nellie: "You're a rookie"
I was looking at mock drafts and a lot of them had him going around #10 overall
This kid is a freak of nature, though. Athleticism is amazing and he’s a legit 7 footer. I definitely agree that he’s a sleeper; he could end up being a more athletic version of Andrew Bynum.
Formerly known as Five Ten Entertainment.
by Precise Films Productions on Feb 10, 2010 1:28 PM PST up reply actions
Or a healthier Knee'd version...
Has a massive 7’5.5" wingspan.
Warriors, Stupidest franchise in the league.
I told Randolph that Bill Russell would tell him to keep that ball in play and start the break.
RANDOLPH: "I know. But sometimes, you gotta let ‘em know."
(MT)
a more athletic version of Andrew Bynum.
/drool
I am skeptical of the warriors coaches being able to polish him offensively. He would be a nice consolation prize if we miss out on the big three though. I will be disappointed if we don’t get one of wall, turner, cousins, and hassan.
go rowand
by lincypoo i wuv u on Feb 10, 2010 7:47 PM PST up reply actions
I see a lot in the top 5
Depends on his workouts I think
Rookie: "Why did you bench me?"
Nellie: "You're a rookie"
Turner
He’s pretty good and is a top prospect, but I still don’t know about his potential. I’m not saying I wouldn’t draft him, but with that last sentence said, it’s unlikely that he will be better than Wall. I don’t fully know if his skills will translate into NBA skills, but he’s great to watch.
The Ultimate Opportunist
by Rated-R Superstar on Feb 10, 2010 6:37 AM PST reply actions
I think his will.
Watch some of his drives. He uses a bunch of hesitations, cross-overs, and spin moves. His handles are really good for a 6’7’’ wing. He plays defense, and this year he’s gone all “Gerald Wallace” on boards.
I like his potential very much, it’s just that Wall has more.
Warriors, Stupidest franchise in the league.
I told Randolph that Bill Russell would tell him to keep that ball in play and start the break.
RANDOLPH: "I know. But sometimes, you gotta let ‘em know."
(MT)
Potential
I still think Al-Farouq Aminu has more potential with Evan Turner ahead of Wesley Johnson since Johnson is so much older than most his peers.
The Ultimate Opportunist
by Rated-R Superstar on Feb 10, 2010 2:37 PM PST up reply actions
I can see the more potential part.
But for the Warriors, Turner is a dream like fit. He’s waaay more ready to produce than Aminu would imo. Plus, I can’t watch every Wake Forest game but, he looks like he’d play the 4 in the NBA. I don’t think he could come right in and play the 3 just like AR couldn’t.
Plus I don’t think Turner’s “lack of athleticism” is as alarming as it sounds. He’s 6’7" with a rumored 6’11" wingspan, quick first step, solid handles, advanced moves, probably could play some 4 in Nellie’s offense, and be a solid distributor all wrapped up in one guy. If his draft measurements come across as at least above average, he’s a lock for #2.
Warriors, Stupidest franchise in the league.
I told Randolph that Bill Russell would tell him to keep that ball in play and start the break.
RANDOLPH: "I know. But sometimes, you gotta let ‘em know."
(MT)
Eh
I don’t think Turner is a great fit if he’s going to be here with Curry and Ellis. There’s not enough basketballs to go around, I think.
The Ultimate Opportunist
by Rated-R Superstar on Feb 10, 2010 3:48 PM PST up reply actions
this draft
this draft is not deep at all. However, i feel this draft could have 4-5 potential NBA STARS in wall, turner, cousins, johnson, and favors. It is almost a guarantee that wall and turner will be all stars within a few years into their career.
Johnson is not a star
He will be solid, Whiteside can be a star
Rookie: "Why did you bench me?"
Nellie: "You're a rookie"
This draft, thus far...
Looks 3 deep.
Tier 1
- John Wall
Tier 2
- Evan Turner
- DeMarcus Cousins
Tier 3
- Al Farouq Aminu
- Wesley Johnson
- Derrick Favors
Warriors, Stupidest franchise in the league.
I told Randolph that Bill Russell would tell him to keep that ball in play and start the break.
RANDOLPH: "I know. But sometimes, you gotta let ‘em know."
(MT)
I think Favors is tier 2.
You know I spit technique to the freshest freak
Gimme a call you will see results in just a week
With the soul of a LOST HAWK
Is there a heaven for a Rap Cat, let's talk
No
Whiteside is tier 2 and Aminu is maybe even tier 4
Rookie: "Why did you bench me?"
Nellie: "You're a rookie"
Yeah could be. I just think he should produce a little more if he’s stacked up next to Turner and Cousins. Cousins’ potential even outranks Favors’ imo. Cousins also dominated Favors in HS as well.
Aminu has massive POTENTIAL. That alone should get him drafted in the Top 10. Plus he made the right move to return and is putting up better numbers. I just don’t really see him dropping in GM’s eyes. Once he tests at the combine it’ll make a couple people drool.
Warriors, Stupidest franchise in the league.
I told Randolph that Bill Russell would tell him to keep that ball in play and start the break.
RANDOLPH: "I know. But sometimes, you gotta let ‘em know."
(MT)
I made a post like this and Caught alot of flack for it.But yes i agree with you 100%.We need Turner or Cousins.If we get the 2nd pick I say take Turner if we get the 3rd or 4th I say take Cousins and if were lucky enough to get the 1st pick id say Trade it to New Jersey for Courtney Lee and their 1st round pick.
We need Turner or Cousins.
We need a superstar.
by Missing Barry on Feb 10, 2010 9:09 AM PST up reply actions
Here's Dime Magazine's Draft Profile for Turner
Athleticism
The college game tends to make good athletes look like great athletes, and Turner has been a product of this. While he can dominate based on his athleticism for now, when he makes the transition to the League, he may not stand out as much athletically. He is still strong and quick for his size, but his jumping ability is not elite at the next level. It is also rare to see a player his size (6-7) with the great coordination that he possesses. At times, he has put Ohio State on his back (literally) and has shown that he can play the full forty minutes of a game with his great endurance.
Grade: B+
Fundamentals
If it weren’t for his lack of three-point accuracy, Turner would have the best fundamentals in college basketball. He can handle the ball like a point guard, post up like a power forward and drive like a wing player. His versatility allows him to play three positions and his killer instincts make him like the Kobe Bryant of the NCAA. Defensively, he can lock-down opponents with his sheer desire to dominate others. The guy is like a machine. (Seriously, have you heard him talk? He even sounds like a robot.)
Grade: A
NBA Readiness
There is no doubt that Turner can make a splash in his first season in the NBA. The question is whether he will be able to transition well. Take a look at Terrence Williams. Williams was a point-forward, similar to Turner. He also lacked three-point range, similar to Turner. Right now, Williams is struggling adjusting to the NBA game since he’s not capable of shooting consistently from the outside and does not have the ball in his hands at all times. Some worry that since Turner will not be handling the rock as often in the NBA – depending on what team he lands on – that his transition may not be as smooth.
Grade: B+
Potential
Take a look at the comparisons Turner has received. All of them are versatile players and capable of killing you when you are not paying attention. He is tough as nails. How many players do you know who could return from a broken back in four weeks? Turner has the potential to be a great player, maybe even franchise player. It will all depend on whether he lands with the right team that lets him be a ball dominant player, similar to Brandon Roy’s situation in Portland.
Grade: A+
Best Fit: Golden State Warriors*
Although one cannot be positive whether Monta Ellis will be moved before the trade deadline, it could possibly happen in the future. Don Nelson is obsessed with point-forwards and Turner would fulfill this desire if he comes on board. Stephen Curry has proved that he is a point guard, but ideally he could play both guard positions alongside Turner. It is also very realistic that the Warriors would be able to get Turner considering their record projects them to have the third pick in the NBA Draft right now.
Runner-Up: Minnesota Timberwolves
The Triangle Offense in Minnesota is still being constructed, and Turner would be a great piece for them to add. Their wing positions need help and anyone can be moved to build around Turner. If he were to play alongside Corey Brewer, that would be two lock-down wing defenders. The one issue: could Jonny Flynn and Evan Turner play on the court together? They are both ball-dominant players and may struggle to play in the triangle alongside one another. Would a Ricky Rubio call-up be necessary?
*I know that Austin Burton wrote an article two months ago about how Turner needs to report to the Indiana Pacers, but there is one problem – the guards in Indiana are not a great fit next to Turner. Look at all of the possibilities for a back-court: Turner and Mike Dunleavy/Brandon Rush/Dahntay Jones/Earl Watson. These are all strange fits next to Turner. However, if they could make a move for another good combo guard, this would be the best fit by far. Is Gilbert Arenas out of the question?
http://dimemag.com/2010/02/dime-nba-draft-profile-evan-turner/
Their potential section seems strange to me – in other places, they talk about struggles he might have at the NBA level, but they ignore them in “potential” to give him an A+? They also give the highest grade to a guy who’s success they say depends on what team he ends up on? Guys with the highest potential (superstar potential – the Lebrons, Howards, etc), if they live up to it, it doesn’t matter what situation they go to. They’re franchise defining players.
by Missing Barry on Feb 10, 2010 9:12 AM PST up reply actions
Blockquote...
Next time you post a big quote like this please use the blockquote function. I know you made it clear that you were quoting, but it helps if you use that feature.
"I could be chasing an untamed ornithoid without cause."
It will all depend on whether he lands with the right team that lets him be a ball dominant player, similar to Brandon Roy’s situation in Portland.
So basically… Not the Warriors.
by samuraaaaiiiiiii on Feb 10, 2010 11:17 AM PST up reply actions
Vertical jump
Is an overrated measurement.
Warriors, Stupidest franchise in the league.
I told Randolph that Bill Russell would tell him to keep that ball in play and start the break.
RANDOLPH: "I know. But sometimes, you gotta let ‘em know."
(MT)
Well, overrated is pretty subjective, but I do think it’s useful. It’s useful as one of a number of pieces of athletic tests that should be evaluated against your previous opinions to see if they match up. Kind of the way the NFL tends to do things now a days – they evaluate prospects on film, then at the combine they check out what their 40 time and vertical jump and 3 cone drill and such say about them to see if it matches their film evaluation, if it doesn’t, they go back and watch again to try to figure out if the kid really has the “game speed” or if maybe their initial evaluation was off. Likewise, I think vertical jump, along with things like the sprint and agility drills they do at the combine (I’d like to see a broad jump included too), should be used in that fashion for NBA prospects, too. You evaluate them on film/in person, form an expected range you think they should test in, and if they don’t, go back and reevaluate to see whether your first evaluation was off or they’re just a “workout warrior”…..so I dunno where that fits into the “overrated/underrated” spectrum, but that’s my opinion on it’s usefulness and the best way to use it.
by Missing Barry on Feb 10, 2010 1:37 PM PST up reply actions
But in football...
Measurements and times matter more for certain positions like wide receiver, DB, running back. But I’d trust my eyes more than numbers with DT’s, and OL prospects.
I think on fan forums and draft sites, they overrate the vertical jump test. Skills are just as important as the physical part. Plus I don’t think GM’s just look at max vert #’s.
Warriors, Stupidest franchise in the league.
I told Randolph that Bill Russell would tell him to keep that ball in play and start the break.
RANDOLPH: "I know. But sometimes, you gotta let ‘em know."
(MT)
The whole point is athleticism is very important for any of those guys – whether they’re football players or basketball players, but a test like vertical jump isn’t a very good measure of a players overall athleticism, so that’s why you watch them, use the tests you have to see if it agrees with your assessment, and then go back if it doesn’t. It’s all part of the process of figuring out exactly how athletic a guy is.
by Missing Barry on Feb 10, 2010 4:09 PM PST up reply actions
vertical jump is a pretty good measurement of athelticism becuase
it largely measures their fast twitch muscle fiber and equates that into a number that can used to compare against. It doesn’t how ever gauge cordination which is the other half. But fast twitch muscle fiber is largely responsible for atheleticism as it relates to most people definition of “atheletic”. Some people are more naturally gifted with fast twitch and therefore have great abilities and that does often translate to on the court production.
The problem is different people have different forms of athleticism – JRich, for instance, could jump as well as anyone off two feet, but couldn’t do it off one foot, wasn’t as quick as his jumping ability suggests, had questionable lateral quickness, didn’t have the athleticism to get up in traffic while cutting….basically, there are a lot of aspects to athleticism, jumping, quickness, speed, lateral quickness, smoothnees/coordination, “loose hips” as they’d say in football, length, strength, agility, change of direction and center of gravity……athleticism includes lots of different physical attributes, and looking at vertical jump is just one of many. Plus when you’re only doing it a few times in one day, you’d expect some amount of sample error, maybe it’s just not a good day for a certain guy, or he didn’t eat a good breakfast, or any other factors that affect your results…..
So that’s why you should use it as a supplement to all the other evaluation you do, rather than as a be-all, end-all measure of a players athleticism.
by Missing Barry on Feb 10, 2010 6:06 PM PST up reply actions
At times, he has put Ohio State on his back (literally)
If that isn’t an injury concern I don’t know what is. No wonder he broke it.
go rowand
by lincypoo i wuv u on Feb 10, 2010 7:51 PM PST up reply actions
Turner would be great pick
But Wall is can’t miss star. Even if it is a position we got covered he is by far best player in draft. You don’t pass
Whiteside?
Mark my words, he will win DOP at least once. This guy is going to be really good. His potential is ridiculous.
Rookie: "Why did you bench me?"
Nellie: "You're a rookie"
we need more dop on this team
go rowand
by lincypoo i wuv u on Feb 10, 2010 7:54 PM PST up reply actions
Alternate plan here
If we dont get the #1 pick……we grab Turner 1rst round, Whiteside 2nd round
2nd back up plan…grab Cousins…
by Only In Fairfax on Feb 10, 2010 10:15 AM PST reply actions
The Warriors would let him bring the ball up the floor.This is the Team that let Anthony Randolph bring it up the court.
Right, we already have Anthoney Randolph
Randolph has shown potential to be the point forward Nelson wants. He has a good handle and is a good passer. He isn’t the best decision maker right now and he needs to spend a lot of time with Curry studying film.
Personally i think Wes Johnson maybe be the best fit for this team as it currently stands. He’s unstopable on a fast break, can shoot the 3 well, he’s a great rebounder, defender (steals + Blocks), and isn’t on-the-ball-dominate. I could be wrong but we don’t want another Sjax do we?
With Steph and Ellis, Randolph, all strong ball handlers, we don’t need another play maker do we? I personally like Johnsons game and think it will translate very well to the nba and again, seem to me to be the best player on the board for our team. We could use another excellent defender and rebounder. Nelly loves a guy that can stretch the floor and play in his “open offense”.
I’m not sure who is the better player between the two and i’d be glad to have either of these guys. I just think johnson is a better “fit” for us. I think it will take the draft combine to determine who is the BPA. I also really like Cousins game and would be happy with any one of these three guys.
reply fail
My post below is in response to Balance.
Warriors, Stupidest franchise in the league.
I told Randolph that Bill Russell would tell him to keep that ball in play and start the break.
RANDOLPH: "I know. But sometimes, you gotta let ‘em know."
(MT)
With Steph and Ellis, Randolph, all strong ball handlers, we don’t need another play maker do we?
Well, as of now, I would say Curry struggles to beat his man and break down the defense, and neither Ellis or Randolph are particularly strong ballhandlers in the present….yeah, we could use another playmaker.
by Missing Barry on Feb 10, 2010 1:38 PM PST up reply actions
yeah, we could use anotherplaymaker.
Fixed it. And said it. Monta is not a playmaker, he is a scorer. Curry is not yet effective as a playmaker because he cannot beat his man consistently.
Trust me, learning english isn’t a waste of time. It is actually sort of useful.
-randolphforpresident
by Dubs fan in Boston on Feb 10, 2010 1:48 PM PST up reply actions
The draft combine doesn’t really determine who the BPA is.
The season they produce does. The combine these days is little more than publicity, meeting ground for agents and execs, and to do the measurements.
Individual workouts, advanced scouting, and fit matter most when selecting a player imo.
In no way is Wesley Johnson “better” than Evan Turner. He’s more athletic, but that doesn’t make him a better player.
Warriors, Stupidest franchise in the league.
I told Randolph that Bill Russell would tell him to keep that ball in play and start the break.
RANDOLPH: "I know. But sometimes, you gotta let ‘em know."
(MT)
i didn't say...
the cmombine determines BPA but it certainly helps evaluate BPA and is a critical part in determining BPA. The head to head play, 3 on 3 drills, etc. Come on are you kidding me? The measurements? To say “it doesn’t relaly determine BPA” is foolish. Players will move up and down the board strictly due to the combine. Publicity is a factor in the NBA and does matter, as well as the players attitude. you may want to rethink your statement.
Team workouts are a pretty important part of the process, too….
by Missing Barry on Feb 10, 2010 6:08 PM PST up reply actions
Have you noticed how none of the top prospects really get involved in the competition part of the combine anymore. Players picked in the lottery do the drills and measurements part, but opt out of the 3-3 drills so that they can protect their draft position. They do go head to head in private workouts though.
What’s so foolish about saying the combine doesn’t determine the BPA? Scouts should ALREADY know who the BPA is if they did their HW during the season. The combine is like a reference sheet. The private workouts, tape, interviews, and team need all go into determining each team’s BPA.
Warriors, Stupidest franchise in the league.
I told Randolph that Bill Russell would tell him to keep that ball in play and start the break.
RANDOLPH: "I know. But sometimes, you gotta let ‘em know."
(MT)
Taking Evan Turner is just the kind of stupid thing the Warriors always do
So yes, go for it! Be consistent! Get the hyped guy who just recently broke his back (how long do you really think he will physically last in the NBA) and pass on DeMarcus Cousins, a first year starter on all but a handful of NBA teams. Yes do it! After all, it is the Warriors.
chronic
Do you want to add any actual analysis to your comment?
by Missing Barry on Feb 10, 2010 3:06 PM PST up reply actions
Really?
Cousins if anything is risky. Horrible attitude, hiatory of poor choices on and off the court and not the hardest of workers while some people call Turner a sure all star like Wall. Some say he’s even the 1b
Rookie: "Why did you bench me?"
Nellie: "You're a rookie"
When was the last time we took the hyped guy with a broken back?
There will be no extra point!
by Sleepy Freud on Feb 10, 2010 4:45 PM PST up reply actions
This is real easy...
if you get the number 1 pick, you take John Wall. Best prospect since Durant. Simple.
That said, we all know we ain’t getting the number 1 pick because we are the Warriors. I love Evan Turner, and I really would take Favors over Cousins. DC is a beast, but he is a massive headcase. We don’t need another one.
Marco Belinelli=Future Warrior Legend. 'Nuff Said.
by BeLEGENDelliAllDay on Feb 10, 2010 3:47 PM PST reply actions
keep in mind this about his attitude
often the guys with “attitudes” are the best players. Barkley had an attitude, kobe, even randolph. I’ll go so far as saying i’d prefer a guy with edge over one without. Jackson with out his attitude is a bench player. Sometimes what make a man great also ruins him. We want winners. I’m not saying i agree with jackson or the attitude i’m just saying it’s part of the game. I wished for years that Dampier had attitude. He could’ve been a beast with the right (or maybe “wrong”) mind set.
One more thing
Beidrins needs a little attitude himself. He plays too soft for my liking.
Not this type of attitude
More like Z Bo/ Derrick Coleman. His edge is punching guys in the face
Rookie: "Why did you bench me?"
Nellie: "You're a rookie"
The Only Problem i have with Cousins coming here is
I cant see him taking Nellie’s Harsh treatment of Rookie’s.Keith Smart could deal with Cousins but i cant see him being coached by Nellie for long before another PJ-Latrell situation happens.
Check out Hassan Whiteside's analysis
http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Hassan-Whiteside-5660/
An unheralded high school recruit coming off the bench at Marshall, Hassan Whiteside probably isn’t on the radar of many people yet, but as conference season approaches, that is likely to change. Whiteside already has one near triple-double under his belt, putting up a monstrous 14 point, 17 rebound, 9 block performance in just 29 minutes against Ohio, and he’s had a few other good games as well. He’s yet to play much noteworthy competition, but appears to have all the tools to replicate his performance against C-USA foes.
Standing 6’11 with excellent length and great athleticism, Whiteside is an extremely intriguing physical prospect, theoretically having the tools to effectively multiple positions at the next level. Since the first time we saw him a little over a year ago at a prep tournament, he’s added some weight to his frame, but still could stand to add significant lower and upper body strength in the near future, both of which could help his game substantially.
Offensively, Whiteside shows flashes of skills in multiple areas, but he is very unpolished in all of them, and is still pretty much a blank slate in terms of what type of offensive player he could become. He shows glimpses of a nice hook shot in the post, but lacks the footwork to get it off consistently. He can take his man off the dribble from 15 feet using his rangy steps in a straight line motion, but can’t do much else. He will occasionally knock down a spot-up 15 footer, but just as frequently will put up an air-ball. His disastrous 10-for-29 showing from the free throw line thus far is probably pretty good evidence as to where his jump shot is overall. The fact that he’s getting there so often in limited playing time is a very good sign for the future, though.
What Whiteside does do well on offense, though, is finishing off the ball and crashing the offensive glass, relying on his physical tools to do so. He’s a good finisher around the basket, but could be better if he had the upper body strength to finish through contact and the lower body strength to more easily power up without gathering himself. His ability to finish on finesse lay-ups could also be better, as his touch appears just adequate. One area where Whiteside doesn’t appear to be utilized much is finishing on pick-and-rolls. This is something his skill-set and physical attributes are perfect for, and is an area we hope to see more of in the future. Despite his limitations, Whiteside is already scoring at a very nice rate for a college freshman, and is doing so efficiently as well, shooting nearly 64% from the field.
Defensively, Whiteside has incredible potential, and is already a force in multiple ways. In addition to having excellent length and mobility, Whiteside possesses outstanding timing on his shot blocks, and does a pretty good job with making rotations from the weakside. He blocks shots in all situations, be it coming across the lane on a driver, in man-to-man situations in the post, or running out on the perimeter to swat down jumpers. He averages an astounding 8.2 blocks per-40 minutes pace adjusted, which ranks him 2nd overall amongst all NBA draft prospects in college basketball, behind only Jarvis Varnado, who will go down as one of the best shot-blockers in NCAA history.
Another strong aspect of Whiteside’s defensive game is his lateral quickness, being able to hold his own when switched onto perimeter players in pick-and-roll situations, while also having a pretty solid fundamental stance. His post defense is a bit lackluster, however, as he doesn’t utilize his length as well as he could, and he lacks the lower body strength to consistently hold his position.
As a rebounder, Whiteside has been extremely prolific thus far this season, averaging nearly 15-rebounds per-40 minutes pace adjusted, which ranks him amongst the NCAA leaders in our database in that category.
Looking forward, it’s way too early to come to any definitive conclusions about Whiteside’s game, but it’s clear that we are talking about an extremely intriguing long-term prospect. Matchups with North Carolina, West Virginia, and all of Conference USA loom on the horizon, which should give us plenty more instances to evaluate his game against worthy competition. He is definitely someone to keep on the radar from an NBA perspective, but how soon or to what degree is yet to be determined. It should be mentioned that he is about two years older than most players in his class, as he turns 21 in June.
by Jayd92009 on Feb 10, 2010 5:12 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
When was this updated?
His jumper is pretty darn good now. He can hit an 18 footer now easy. He hit a turnaround one not too long ago. Also he’s bigger than 6’11 now. Thats his HS measures. He’s closer to 7’1
Rookie: "Why did you bench me?"
Nellie: "You're a rookie"
Yes.
I believe this was updated December 10, and I do believe he is bigger than 6’11 also. Probably 7’0-7’1 ish.
The Ultimate Realistic Mock Draft
1A) Anthony Davis - RT Rutgers
1B) C.J. Spiller - RB/KR/PR Clemson
2) Kareem Jackson - CB Alabama
3) Demaryius Thomas - WR Georgia Tech
4) Mike Johnson - OG Alabama
5) Sean Canfield - QB Oregon State
6) Keaton Kristic - OLB Oregon State
7) Dexter Davis - OLB/DE Arizona State
That’s what the combine is for. Let’s hold off on the measurements until we get some exact numbers…
by Missing Barry on Feb 10, 2010 9:12 PM PST up reply actions
Do u see what Curry is doing right now and yall wanna trade him for Wall? Curry is only getting better.
Fascinating
Can Wall play Shooting guard?
The Ultimate Realistic Mock Draft
1A) Anthony Davis - RT Rutgers
1B) C.J. Spiller - RB/KR/PR Clemson
2) Kareem Jackson - CB Alabama
3) Demaryius Thomas - WR Georgia Tech
4) Mike Johnson - OG Alabama
5) Sean Canfield - QB Oregon State
6) Keaton Kristic - OLB Oregon State
7) Dexter Davis - OLB/DE Arizona State
I think he'd do better to have the ball in his hands
but he could probably guard SGs
by Reverend_Randy on Feb 11, 2010 12:00 AM PST up reply actions
Can you name one poster (let alone all of them) who suggested we trade Curry for Wall?
There will be no extra point!
by Sleepy Freud on Feb 10, 2010 8:58 PM PST up reply actions
Actually, a lot of people have suggested that we
build a three guard rotation.
by Reverend_Randy on Feb 11, 2010 12:01 AM PST up reply actions
No one has suggested that
Everyone has said:
PG: Wall
SG: Monta
with Curry and Morrow off the bench…not like we’re gunna have CJ after this season…we need 2 point guards and 2 SG’s…
You know I spit technique to the freshest freak
Gimme a call you will see results in just a week
With the soul of a LOST HAWK
Is there a heaven for a Rap Cat, let's talk
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