Earl Clark - NBA Draft Prospects

Numbers: 11.1 ppg, 8.1 rpg, 1.0spg, 1.7 bpg, 2.3 t/o's, 48% FG, 65% FT, 23% 3's

About Him: Earl Clark is another one of those combo forwards that can play the three and the four that every NBA team is looking for right now. Clark is still pretty raw offensively. His ball-handling skills are pretty good for a 6'9" player when he is going straight ahead, but he still struggles when he is forced to change directions with the bounce. His footwork in the paint is not yet where it needs to be (part of the reason he turns the ball over as much as he does is he is good for a travelling call a game) but he already has great instincts down low and a nice touch, which is a good sign for him developing. Clark has phenomenal physical tools. His arms stretch forever, he is very explosive, he can run the floor like someone six inches shorter, and his is very quick and mobile. His is probably going to be a very good defender in the NBA because he can get out and cover a wing or a guard, especially on a pick and roll, and his reach will cause havoc. His athleticism allows him to be a great finisher at the rim. Unlike many of the other combo forward prospects, Clark is strong. He is not NBA strong yet, but he has broad shoulders and the kind of frame that can hold a lot of muscle. He is a very good rebounder on both ends, and has the potential to be a great shot blocker for his size, although his timing and anticipation is not great.

Comparisons: Danny Granger, Tim Thomas

Bottom Line: Clark probably made the right decision. He was going to be a mid-to-late first round pick this year, but by returning and improving his jump shot and handle, he could shoot up to the lottery, and will probably be projected as high as top 5.