Monday, December 31, 2007

Danny Green - NBA Draft Prospects


Numbers: 11.5 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 2 apg, 1.2 spg, 1.2 bpg, 47% FG, 87% FT, 37% 3's

About Him: Danny Green is one of those players that does everything well. Offensively, the strongest part of his game is his perimeter shot, which is a huge improvement over last year for him. He shot 37% from deep, taking more than 3.5 per game. He has a bit of an awkward looking release, he kind of pushes it from his chest, but its a consistent and quick release, which is just as important as form. He is not quite as good at shooting off the dribble, but he is still effective. He is not just a one-dimensional player either - he uses a pump fake very well to get defenders in the air, and usually takes a quick pull-up and a floater, which he is pretty good at making. He is not an overly athletic or explosive player, but plays within that offensively. He scored 11.5 ppg in just over 22 mpg, so he is a pretty solid offensive player all around. But that is not what is going to get him into the NBA. He is a great defender. At 6'6", 215lb, he has great size for an NBA wing and a frame (broad shoulders, long arms) that is ideal. He really likes to get up into the man he is guarding, and forces a lot of turnovers that way. He does not have great lateral quickness, but is extremely fundamentally sound. He always seems to be in good position, and takes great angles when he goes for a steal or a block. He is a very tough guy with a nose for contact and is willing to give up his body - whether that means taking a charge, diving for a loose ball, etc.

Comparisons: Bruce Bowen, Trenton Hassell

Bottom Line: Green is not talented or athletically gifted enough to be a star at the next level, but teams are always looking for a glue guy - someone who will lock his man down, won't turn the ball over, and brings unselfishness to the table. He might sneak into the first round if he wows at the draft camp and workouts, but is likely a second round pick this year. Still, look for him to have a nice NBA career, whenever it starts.

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