Blake Griffin - NBA Draft Prospects

Numbers: 14.7 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 1.8 apg, 2.3 t/o's, 57% FG, 59% FT

About Him: Blake Griffin is an outstanding athlete with all the physical tools needed to be a very good post in the NBA. He is 6'10", and a strong 240lb, which is impressive for someone who is just 19 years old. He has big hands, great length and outstanding athleticism, and a terrific motor on the offensive end. He is able to score in a variety of ways with his back to the basket, using a series of jump hooks, turn arounds, and drop step moves. His foot work is pretty polished for someone his age, and he can score using finesse or power moves equally well. He has a little Antawn Jamison in him, scoring from awkward positions under the basket with a variety of scoop shots. His face up game is less polished. His handle is not very good yet, although once in a while he will pull out a behind the back or between the legs move. His jump shot could also use a little work. His form isn't terrible, he just is inconsistent outside of about 10-12 feet, and he shoots only 59% from the free throw line. On the boards he is an animal, using his long arms and aggressiveness to go for everything within his reach. Defensively, he is inconsistent. He does not give the same effort he does on the offensive end or on the glass, letting opposing players establish position too easily and giving up space on the catch. He also is not as good of a shot blocker as you would expect from someone with his size, length and athleticism.

Comparisons: Carlos Boozer, shorter Amare Stoudamire

Bottom Line: Griffin probably would have been a lottery pick if he came out this year, but by returning, he has almost guaranteed himself a spot in the top 5 in the 2009 draft.