Lazar Hayward has 50-50 chances on NBA draft
Lazar Hayward has a concrete size and strength for a small forward but lacks quickness, stiff on the open floor, and without an explosive leaping ability--Hayward definitely needs to prove NBA scouts that he has still more to offer as a player.
Despite of his lack of athleticism, Hayward is a kind of player that approaches the game on both ends of the floor. He is confident, hard-nosed and firm; his offensive game has run on a consistent basis in the majority of his career.
He might not be as efficient as he was in the past; but he had shown immediate efforts to improve every aspect of his game. It just speaks of his great work ethic. Almost half of Hayward’s offense came from jump shots. Although his field goal percentage has gone down in the previous season; he is still considered as one good perimeter shooter.
He has been good at converting shots with no coverage. Hayward has also the ability to pick out openings and has great court sense which is an advantage to his teammates on the wings. Adding up to his merits is his being a good post up shooter. Making up for his lack of leaping ability, this player from New York makes use of his body in attacking the baseline off the dribble, and protecting the ball when he jumps to score.
His abilities to shoot, face up and play hard around the basket can make him as a good role-player. Taking care of these minor duties such as getting the ball most of the time and playing good defense, there is no denying that Hayward can definitely play a balancing role to his other teammates.
Despite being Marquette’s top scorer, his poor ball handing skills and shot creating became a huge problem in his possible entry to the next level. His dedication and defensive ability cannot be questioned; yet, his true potential as an NBA prospect is the one questionable.
With his body frame, defending and scoring became an easier job for him; as he can do a great job in boxing out his defenders, and converting out of this situation. Yet, behind all these skills is his lack of lateral quickness. His inability to deny dribble penetration will be one great aspect of his game that scouts will be scoring against him.
Hayward will be soon playing in the Portsmouth Invitational. Should he play good defense against tougher athletes in this league, his chances to be eyed by NBA scouts will broaden.
Indeed, NBA scouts may still be undecided whether to pick him or not; but one thing is for sure, with his physical abilities and great work ethic, teams may be thinking hard of their decision.
Lazar Hayward is also known for his good instincts, great touch, completely knows and understands his capabilities and his great body control which is his best asset. He also has a concrete frame, good wingspan and plays smart defense.
While he has certain assets that will boost his chances in the NBA draft, he also has liabilities that can bring him down if not addressed properly. He must improve in the following areas that include his athleticism, ability to take jump shots off the dribble, and sluggishness in guarding more athletic guards.
With all these in mind of NBA scouts and coaches, Lazar Hayward will have a hard time penetrating into the league. But as they say, anything can happen as long as the person has the will to make it happen. With the case of Hayward, he must still continue to prove that he has still more to offer.
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