Written by Paul Banks of the Washington Times, and David Kay of the The Sports Bank. Send Paul an e-mail here: paulb05 AT hotmail DOT com. All other e-mail, including advertising and link proposals, send to: wpc112@gmail.com
2012 NBA Draft Scouting Report: Jared Sullinger
Position: Power Forward
Size: 6-9, 265
School: Ohio State, Freshman
Strengths:
Very physical down low
Plethora of moves in the paint
Utilizes baby hook with either hand
Establishing position on the block
Embraces playing inside and doesn't try to be something he is not
NBA-ready build
Attacks the glass
Length helps offset his lack of great ups
Mobility; moves quicker than you would expect from a player his size
Range out to the three-point line
Weaknesses:
Needs to improve as a pick and roll defender
Athleticism
Explosiveness
Guarding quicker players on the perimeter
Summary: Sullinger surprised many by turning down a likely top five spot in the 2011 NBA Draft and choosing to return for his sophomore year. He is a beast down low and loves throwing his body around and being physical in the paint. The former two-time Mr. Ohio Basketball is not the greatest athlete in the world which might make his transition to the NBA a little more difficult, but he is still a lock to be a top-10 pick if he declares after his sophomore campaign.
Player Comparison: Elton Brand. Brand came into the league somewhat limited by his 6-9 height but made up for it with his ability to out-physical his opponents. That describes Sullinger perfectly. The Buckeye sophomore does not yet have the perimeter game that Brand did when he entered the league but should make a similar impact from the get-go.
Written by Paul Banks of the Washington Times, and David Kay of the The Sports Bank. Send Paul an e-mail here: paulb05 AT hotmail DOT com. All other e-mail, including advertising and link proposals, send to: wpc112@gmail.com