NBA Draft Insider

Selected No. 21 by the Oklahoma City Thunder (traded to New Orleans)

College: Iowa State
Birthday: 10/9/87
NBA Position: PF
Class: Junior
Ht: 6-10
Wt: 230
Hometown: Palmdale, CA
High School: Brewster Academy
NBA Comparison: Zach Randolph

Strengths: Scoring machine with an arsenal of moves and options offensively. Workhorse, averages 34 MPG and over 31 MPG for his career. Scoring and percentages are down this season because he routinely sees double teams every night. Nearly averaged a double double last season. Big time mismatch and can create his shot nearly anywhere on the court. Good perimeter game but will not be able to take Small Forwards off the dribble in the NBA as of right now. Good post game with a few nice moves and is still learning about the post. Prefers playing on the perimeter. Extended his range this season, knocking down 35% 3PT and 75% FT. Decent shooting stroke average recognition off the double team. Nice turnaround jumper off the block. Very long and athletic. Good soft hands. Very good shot when he squares his feet and is not contested. Runs well.

Weaknesses: Lazy on defense but most offensive powerhouses are. Game has not developed as much as people wanted it to since last season. Expected to dominate this season after last season’s incredible performance but has failed to meet expectations. To his credit, his teammates are not helping much. Passive at times and tends to defer to inferior teammates. Needs to develop a more competitive streak. Older as a 22 year old, limiting his potential. Struggles making contested shots. Not very aggressive and only an average rebounder. Struggles with decision making off the double team but does try to make the right pass.

Matt Anaya – 2/13/2010