2010 NBA Draft Scouting Report: Deon Thompson

Written by Paul Banks of NBC Chicago and the Washington Times, and David Kay of the The Sports Bank.
Send Paul an e-mail here: paulb05 AT hotmail DOT com.
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2010 NBA Draft Scouting Report: Deon Thompson


Position: Power Forward

Size: 6-8, 245

School: North Carolina, Power Forward


Strengths:
  • Good mid-range game, turnaround jumper
  • High release on his jumper makes it tough for defenders to block
  • Uses his length to make up for his lack of ideal height
  • Strong rebounder
  • Defends well on the perimeter
  • Good athlete who runs the floor well
  • Does a nice job of finding the open spot on the floor and establishing position on the block
  • Decent shot blocker
  • Brings a great energy to the floor



    Weaknesses:
  • Undersized for an NBA power forward
  • Not a great ball-handler
  • Lacks a great deal of explosiveness

    Summary: With Tyler Hansbrough, Ty Lawson and Wayne Ellington in the league, Thompson has emerged from the shadows to become a major contributor for the Heels. His lack of ideal athleticism and size for an NBA power forward will keep him out of the first round, but any team needing some toughness and energy off the bench should be on Thompson’s heels in the second round.

    Player Comparison: Juwan Howard Howard has been known more for his physicality and mid-range game than being able to put the ball on the floor. Thompson is in a similar mold in that he operates best around 12-15 feet from the basket. Thompson won’t have the success that Howard did early in his career, but should find a fit as a role player coming off the bench.



    RELATED LINKS:


    2010 NBA Mock Draft


    2010 NBA Draft Prospect Rankings


    2010 NBA Draft Scouting Reports








    Written by Paul Banks of NBC Chicago and 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: [email protected]




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