Flashing Offensive Versatility
The NBA has reached an age where organizations and fans are mesmerized by “unicorns” or versatile big men. Unicorns are players with natural post player or throwback post player height that can handle, shoot, pass, etc.
Even though I think the term unicorn is used extremely loosely in today’s NBA, I wouldn’t say Deandre Ayton is a unicorn, however he does flash offensive versatility. In particularly with his three-point jump shot. Ayton shot 34 percent from beyond the arc attempting one per game. Even though these numbers aren’t crazy efficient and a small sample size, it’s a good sign for the future. Here’s Ayton shooting off a pick and pop with Allonzo Trier.
That’s about where Ayton’s comfort level lies right now as a stand still jump shooter from deep.
The second clip, is a behind the back move from Ayton against Alabama. Ayton unleashes this dribble move against Alabama center Daniel Giddens. It’s astonishing to see Ayton have the confidence to do this move, and the fact he does it efficiently, in such a tight space, and being able to draw a foul should leave you in awe.
This kind of move is nice to look at, but do not expect Ayton to come even close to handling the ball at the next level. However, this is encouraging sign to Ayton eventually, and maybe becoming a player that can attack a closeout every once in awhile if his jumpshot and handle continue to improve.