School: Duke
Stats: 13.5 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 2 apg
Measurables: 6-10, 259 pounds pf
Classification: Freshman
Projected Draft Range: Top 10
Strengths:
- Athletically gifted
- Great second jump - Has good form on jumpshot
- Impressive length and standing reach
- Commands the post well
- Impressive strength
- Shoots well from spot up 3s
- Strong finisher at the rim
- Impressive handles for a big man
- Good rebounder
- Willing passer
- Blocks shots well
- Draws fouls well
Weaknesses:
- Needs better defensive instincts
- Has to improve foot work
- Needs to work on improving his speed up and down the court
- While improving, needs to work on free throws.
Summary: Wendall Carter Jr is a player who has improved quite a bit in this past few months through strengthening his body and methodically fixing weaknesses in his game and that is why he has sky-rocketed up draft boards into the top 10. While impressive offensively, its on defense where he remains with untapped potential after impressive showing at Duke on the boards and protecting the rim. Bottom line, he's a player that projects to high-end starter in the league or a fringe all-star.
NBA player floor: Jared Sullinger
NBA Player ceiling: Kevin Love
Looking at the Tape:
In this gif, you can see Carter back down against the tough defense and use his hook to make a tough shot over the defense which illustrates his ability to create offense in the post.
In this gif, you see Carter not only lack proper footwork on the defensive end, but it shows slow lateral movement and overall improvement needed in his defensive instincts.
Highlights: