Alexander is a skilled shooter from the low post out to 18 ft, all kinds of jumpshots.. off the dribble, mid-post, wings, spotting up, turn arounds, bankers. Also isn't a bad passer and rebounder.
However he's probably not going to be a starter in the NBA unless it's as a small PF on a speed-ball team. His defensive quickness at the 3 and maybe not developing 3PT range being the issues, significant questions. His team defense seems like it'll be fine.
Even so, being a unique, big foward off the bench at a 6th man level of ability, is still turning out well. I'll gladly take a good bench player at #12 in this draft.
As were probably not going to get a star player, or that typical anchoring defensive big man. I don't think those expectations have been or are realistic.
dmj said:
Arthur's height is not as big of an issue as people think.
What matters for a big man like Arthur is his standing reach and his vertical. Arthur's standing reach is 8'11", which is as good as Al Horford's and about average for a PF.
Add to that his vertical leap (which I guarantee you is better than what was measured at the combine, no way he only jumps as high as Hawes) and you have a player who, like Tyrus Thomas, is able to play taller than his actual height.
Well said.
Arthur has multiple skills on offense inside and out (his passing is an overlooked, clear part of his game, not really good, but definitely decent), is a well-rounded, quality defensive player, and plays with energy. He'll become a better rebounder as he matures, as well as get better overall. He's played in big games and is a winner. I don't discount his work ethic at all, especially with the team to coach him along.
I think playing on a deep, long, athletic Kansas team from top to bottom and getting into foul trouble with regularity, effected his rebounding.
Having watched him consistently since 1/07, I don't see why he won't translate over to the NBA relatively well, as an above-average complementary PF, on defense and offense. In drafting him, he'd better areas we've been weak in, and he'd also be significantly compatible with Spencer in general. I'm not expecting him to be our long-term PF, maybe he would turn out like that, but rather a key part of this team's PF/C group for the future (as would be on other teams).
I'll very happily take Arthur at #12 in this draft.
I think in his prime years he'll make all-nba-2nd team defense, or at least be at that level.