Saturday, May 21, 2011

GAMBLE ON TYLER?

Two guys that impressed me coming out of the NBA Draft Combine were Tobias Harris and Jeremy Tyler. Harris is projected as high as #14, but Tyler is regarded by most as a 2nd round pick. He has a reputation for immaturity and under-achievement, but after listening to his interview, it seems like he may have shed that label and has learned to be more professional - either that or he's a good actor. Looks like he has the size we desperately need in the paint and has as much upside as anyone else in this draft.

Tyler looked pretty athletic in all the combine drills but needs to shed some fat (13.5%) and add muscle. He measured out to 6'10.5" with a freakish 7'5" wingspan, standing reach of 9'2.5".

If he's evolved into a coachable player, he could be worth a late lottery gamble in a weak draft like this.

As the #1 ranked sophomore back in 2008, Tyler averaged 18 points, 14.5 rebounds and 7.7 blocks while shooting 51 percent from the field. His failed experiment with playing overseas at such a young age stunted his development, but with the right coaching (Warrior Big Man coach, Robert Werdann was running the Combine drills) and support system he can become a force in the middle. He's got a long way to go, but it could pay dividends in a couple of years.



Related Articles
Marc Spears: Tyler says he’s grown from journey
Draft Express: Player Profile
ESPN: Draft Profile (Insider)

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