The NBA’s pre-draft camp changed its ways, trying to lure the big names. They succeeded. But it took away another chance for teams to watch the top players face off against each other in games. Sixty two players were invited, including locals Ty Lawson, Greivis Vasquez, Sam Young, Dante Cunningham and DaJuan Summers. It’s now more like an NFL combine, with drills and interviews with the teams.
If the Wizards keep the fifth overall pick, here are some players they’ll pay close attention to this week, with analysis from Ryan Blake, the assistant director of NBA scouting.
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Arizona forward Jordan Hill
“The guy rebounds, is athletic and he improved his energy and confidence. His skill level improved leaps and bounds. He has big hands and he’s becoming more fluid and is more decisive around the rim. He needs to improve his lack of post moves, but he has really good upside.”
Arizona State guard James Harden
“I really like Harden. So much is overblown about athleticism that someone who has basketball IQ and an ability to make others better is overridden. He’s not the greatest athlete in the world, but he can play. He’s like a Steve Nash, a guy who knows how to play. Harden will get better and better and become smarter and more valuable.
Connecticut center Hasheem Thabeet
“If you make a mistake make it big. He can dominate on the defensive end. Sure it ticks me off when he doesn’t rebound outside his area or he doesn’t get physical. But he’s only played six or seven years. You need to do more homework on him.”
Memphis guard Tyreke Evans
“Tyreke wasn’t sure of himself when he started off, but when he went to point guard — wow. He really made a difference. He’s not a great shooter, but he seemed to really progress in his role and could play two or three positions in our league.”
