Hendrik Drescher

Hendrik Drescher, 6-9, PF/C, Alba Berlin, 2000

Strengths
-Strong at 6'9”, 247 pounds.
-Fairly light on his feet for his size. Can get up and down.
-Stretch big potential. Shoots a really easy ball with simple mechanics. 5-of-10 from three in L'Hospitalet.
-Threat as a pick and roll dive man. Plays mostly below the rim but has soft hands and welcomes contact.
-Can score on the block with basic jump hooks. Will throw his weight around. Makes an effort to go to his left hand on the interior.
-Although it doesn't always show up in the boxscore, he has a nice feel for the game. Knows when to DHO or quick swing and follow for a screen. Will use his body to clear out driving lanes for his teammates. Capable short roll passer and post facilitator.
-Competes on the glass. Nose for the ball. 10.2 rebounds per 40 minutes. Tips the ball to himself and teammates.
-Can develop into a solid hedge defender with improved technique. Solid feet in small spaces.

Weaknesses
-A bit undersized for a center prospect at 6'9” (more of a five on both ends). Average length. Frame that could thicken up in time if he doesn't stay in shape.
-Moves well, but not a great leaper. Plays mostly below the rim. Relies on strength. Lack of pop and elite length limits him a bit as a rim protector.
-Can pass, but his decision making can improve. Gets a little turnover prone at times. Forces the issue. Awareness of time and score can get better. 0.9 assists and 7.4 turnovers per 40 minutes.
-Not all that comfortable putting it down in a straight line when run off of his spots. Would rather go into immediate post ups/back downs.
-Still learning how to defend on the perimeter. Too upright, doesn't give himself enough room. Will likely never be a pick and roll switch defender – not all that rangy defensively, average length.
-Not going to provide much rim protection given his average height, length and leaping ability. Can improve his timing and awareness.

Outlook
After catching our eye at the U16s in Radom, Drescher put together a strong tournament in L'Hospitalet, averaging 22.2 points and 10.2 rebounds per 40 minutes on 51.7% from two and 50% from three. Drescher's NBA upside is a bit limited by his lack of elite size, length and athleticism at the five spot, but improving his perimeter skills on both ends will certainly help his chances. Drescher is a name to keep tabs on as players with his shooting stroke, scoring instincts and natural strength aren't all that easy to come by.

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