NBA Draft 2013: Nerlens Noel Player Profile

February 12, 2013; Gainesville, FL, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Nerlens Noel (3) against the Florida Gators during the first half at the Stephen C. O

Nerlens Noel is predicted by many to be the Cleveland Cavaliers number one pick in June.  At just 19 years old, Noel’s freshman season at Kentucky ended early when he tore his ACL in February, but all reports are indicating that he is slated to make a full recovery once next season starts.  Here is a look at his profile:

TEAM: KENTUCKY, FRESHMANPHYSICALSPOSITIONSRANKINGSH: 7′ 0″
W: 206 lbs
Bday: 04/10/1994
(19 Years Old)Current: C
NBA:   C
Possible: CPick: 1 in 2013 DraftExpress Mock Draft
Rank 1 in Top 100 in DraftExpress Prospects
Rank 1 in NCAA DraftExpress Freshmen

Pre-Draft Measurements

Strengths:  What makes Noel a big time NBA prospect is the same reason that he was a huge college prospect.  He is blessed with the physical make-up of a future NBA star.  Noel has a 7’4 wingspan, can run the floor like a guard, is very quick for a big man, and has unbelievable jumping ability.  With that size, athleticism, and talent, he is able to impact the game in a number of ways.

While Noel is limited offensively, he did show that he is very capable of being an effective roll man on pick and rolls.  He also has the ability to finish with both hands, something that is rare for such a young big man.

Noel is very active on defense, is a great shot-blocker, rebounder, and even averaged 2.5 steals per 40 minutes, which ranked him 1^st in NCAA centers last season.

 Weaknesses: Noel is still fairly raw as an offensive player.  He scored the bulk of his points at UK from hanging around the basket, and converting from another player’s penetration and pass, or put-backs from missed shots. He has no low post game, no jump shot, and not a good passer.

 NBA Potential: In a way, Noel’s scouting report is similar to last year’s first overall pick, fellow Kentucky Wildcat Anthony Davis.  Davis has the ability to impact a game on the defensive end with his length and athleticism, but is still fairly raw on the offensive end, even though his offensive game is better than Noel’s.  should he be able to stay healthy, Noel has the opportunity to be one of the most athletic centers to every play, and can immediately make an impact for the team who will eventually pick him.

http://youtu.be/7E3ZFRmXo08

Basic Per Game Statistics