NBA Draft Prospect Nerlens Noel
Center – 6’11 – Kentucky
The best shot blocker to come along in years, Noel will have to battle back from a knee injury to reach his full potential.
Pros
Has great length and timing, and is an elite shot blocker. Has uncanny ability to defend the rim, making him a unique defensive prospect. Very quick and agile player who runs the floor well and can cover wide areas of the court in a hurry.
Has great leaping ability and explosiveness and gets way above the rim for dunks. Rebounds the ball well on both ends and has the ability to control the lane; rebounding, blocking shots and playing great D.
Has come a long way offensively and shows signs of expanding the range on his jumper and developing some post moves (but has a long way to go). Uses his quickness well when facing up to the basket and shows good potential off the dribble. Willing passer with a solid head on his shoulders and good attitude on the court.
Cons
At this point, Noel still has a limited offensive game and a lot of work to do to become a complete basketball player. Jump shot needs a lot of work but he understands his limits and doesn’t force things on offensive.
Still very skinny and light and it might be a number of years before he adds the muscle and weight to reach his potential. Recovering from torn ACL.
Projection: Top 5 pick in the 2013 NBA Draft