Overview: A small, but quick point guard who has a solid offensive repertoire. Very short by NBA standards. Makes an impact by doing some of the things that you would expect from a shooting guard. Has tremendous quickness, but doesnt have good vertical explosiveness, which makes his lack of height even more pronounced. Had a very impressive final two seasons at Nebraska. Has bounced around the League, but is the type of player that can be an offensive weapon in almost any setting. Won an NBA Championship with the Lakers in 2001. Lacks the physical skills to take over a game. Can be counted on for consistent contributions off the bench, and always posts a solid assist to turnover ratio.
Offense: Doesnt have ideal measurable traits, but has an advanced offensive game that isnt limited by his size. Gets most of his points as a jump shooter off of pick and roll and spot up opportunities, both of which let him utilize his most effective weapon: his mid-range jump shot. Forces his defender to respect his speed and give him a cushion with his first step. Often utilizes his quickness as an opportunity to create space for his jumper off the dribble. Lack of size makes it hard for him to finish at the rim when defenders collapse around him. Looks to find some kind of peripheral contact when driving in an attempt to get to the line where he shoots an extremely high percentage. Does a solid job of getting by his man, but shoots from the outside nearly three times more than he shoots around the rim. Has NBA three-point range. Isnt as efficient from the outside as he is from the midrange. Displays the decision-making that is expected from a seasoned veteran. Doesnt do a spectacular job of getting his teammates involved. Makes smart passes within the flow of his teams half-court offense.
Defense: Lack of size hurts his ability to contest the shots of taller players. Quickness allows him to relentlessly hawk the ball. Doesnt have a great wingspan, which makes it hard for him to get into passing lanes. Doesnt create turnovers on the whole. Below average size makes it hard for him to defend anything other than point guards. Cant contest shots when recovering. Keeps everything in front of him, which is a good strategy for a player of his speed. Isnt an impact defensive player, but doesnt give up anything easy.
Comments