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Joe Smith

Drafted #1 in the 1995 NBA Draft by the Warriors
Height: 6'10" (208 cm)
Weight: 220 lbs (100 kg)
Position: PF
High School: Matthew Fontaine Maury High School (Virginia)
Hometown: Norfolk, VA
College: Maryland
Current Team:

Articles

NBA Scouting Reports, Central Division (Part One)

Matt Williams
Matt Williams
Apr 24, 2008, 01:07 am
Overview: A veteran post player who was brought in to provide offense around the rim. Smith has decent athleticism, but injuries have robbed him of his physical prowess. At this point, Smith can rely on his size and strength to make some plays, but is more of skill player than anything else. Used to be an absolute monster. Averaged a double-double in his only two seasons at Maryland, and even dominated games on the defensive end. Too athletic and well built to be stopped on that level. Won the ACC Player of the Year Award as a sophomore in 1995. Various setbacks never let him become the player many thought he could be, although he is very well thought of around the league at this point. His career has been shaped by injuries, but he is still a very good role player.

Offense: Gets half of his offense as the roll man in pick and rolls and posts ups with the rest of his touches coming off of cuts, offensive rebounds, and spot ups. Was brought in to provide additional inside scoring, but his best asset is his midrange jumper. Possesses textbook form, and is extremely consistent out to seventeen feet. Even capable of shooting off the dribble on occasion. Solid at finishing around the rim, but has a tough time absorbing contact when he lays the ball up with his left hand. Something of the ultimate offensive role player, finishing open opportunities, shooting a great percentage from the line, and being generally efficient overall.

Defense: Still athletic enough to be a good defender despite all the injuries. Does a good job of using his body down low, but has trouble when he’s matched up with taller post players. Doesn’t block shots like he used to, but he’s a significantly smarter player than he once was. Increased awareness hasn’t made him a dynamic help side defender. Good at boxing out and rebounding in his area. No longer prone to committing fouls when he’s beat.

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