I wanted us to draft Ezeli, but after watching Melo in summer league, I can see why we drafted him. That being said it remains to be seen how he pans out, as with all players. Many thought Avery Bradley was a lock for being out of the league before the end of his rookie deal...
What I like about Melo thus far:
1. Size and length - NBA level
2. Strength and weight - Also NBA level - He's not a twig and with NBA level weight training he could become a very physically strong interior presence.
3. Foot and hand speed - he's no Rondo but he's pretty good laterally and up and down the court for a guy his size.
4. Good passer and I agree his offense could be better eventually than many might think.
5. One of his best strength to me as a rim protector is his ability to get off the ground quickly multiple times around the rim to affect shots. He gathers and gets up pretty quickly for a guy his size. He's going to challenge a lot of shots that way.
If he can show significant improvement over the next 2-3 years at the following three things, we could end up "loving" this pick:
1. Foot work and post defense
2. Boxing out
3. Where to be on D
I remain cautiously optimistic with a positive outlook.
