Draft Profile: Sizing Up Emmanuel Mudiay

Weaknesses: 1. Perimeter Shooting 2. Turnover Problem  3. Effort on Defensive End

1. Perimeter Shooting

He is not a consistent shooter and doesn’t have much range. He also struggles from the free throw line as he only shoots 58% from the charity stripe. His free throw mechanics need some work as he pushes the free throw, causing an arc-less shot. In catch and shoot situations, he isn’t confident and would rather go to the rim. When he does shoot off the catch, he has the same problem as he does on his free throw, which is the lack of arc. When he is off the dribble he leaves a lot of shots short, and will become more dangerous once he is able to hit the jumper when the defender goes under the screen.

2. Turnover Problem

He has all of the necessary skills to be a great point guard, and although he doesn’t have a high turnover rate, the ones he does turnover are avoidable. When he tries to force the issue of passing is when his turnovers occur. He likes to try to thread the needle on some passes, and throws careless passes at times, but lets keep in mind, he is only 19 and there is room (and time) for improvement.

3. Effort on Defensive End

Mudiay must stay focused on defense. It’s visible that he gets lost on defense from time-to-time, leading him in some sticky situations. He does take plays off on defense where less athletic players will go around him, which is something that shouldn’t happen. He will also be caught ball watching which has led to his man getting the offensive rebound. The good news is that these defensive problems can be fixed with a little effort and focus.

Mudiay is an athletic prospect who has a sky-high ceiling. At the number two pick, I’m not sure he is what the Lakers need. Especially because they already have Jordan Clarkson, who is coming off an impressive rookie season. And with more talks of the Lakers acquiring Rajon Rondo, Mudiay looks to contradict this acquisition and could prove to be a wasted pick. At the same time his athleticism has drawn comparisons to John Wall. The NBA is a point guard driven league, and if the Lakers feel that Mudiay can compete with the likes of Wall, Westbrook and Rose then he may become a strong contender.

What do you think about him? Let me know!

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