Overview:Oversized, long wing player with a scoring mentality. Silky smooth and highly skilled offensively. One of the most highly touted high school players in his class, but never really lived up to his immense potential. Incredibly smooth and instinctive, but never really got the kind of coaching on the fundamentals that he needed. Drafted 6th overall by Atlanta in 2000. Was involved in a serious car accident in 2002 that may have contributed to his struggles. Spent time in Denver, and started off the 07/08 season in Italy with Benetton Treviso. Struggled badly there, and was promptly cut. Very talented from the perimeter, but falls in love with his shot far too much. Doesnt play much defense. Somewhat of a tweener. Attitude, body language often looks questionable. Strange fit on the Spurs.
Offense: Extremely skilled 6-9 small forward. Has excellent instincts offensively. Not surprising to see why he was drafted so high. Smooth and athletic. Can put the ball on the floor, pull-up off the dribble or knock down shots from behind the arc. Has nice mechanics, a super quick release and can get his shot off whenever he pleases at his height. Shot-selection is questionable at times, making him fairly streaky from game to game. Close to 50% of his attempts come from behind the 3-point line. Very skinny and not super explosive around the rim. Has a very quick first step, and is a solid ball-handler, but has a tendency to get himself in trouble putting the ball on the floor at his height. Can create his own shot from the perimeter regardless. Decision making is questionable at times, doesnt value the ball quite as much as you might hope. A super talent who never really put it all together.
Defense: Has great physical tools at the positionsize, tremendous length, athleticism, but is a mediocre defender at best on the perimeter. Lacks fundamentals, doesnt get into any type of real stance, and doesnt usually put in all that much effort. Doesnt fight through screens, lacks strength and will get posted up by stronger players on occasion. Can get his hands in the passing lanes. Just an average rebounder considering his tools.
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