6 weeks and 20 games in, what players have gone under the radar for playing better or worse than most people realize?
For example, after bouncing around the league recently, Malik Beasley has been great for the Bucks averaging 12/5 and shooting 45% from 3 on 6.5 attempts per game. He’s held down that starting spot very well for them so far. Not bad for a guy who got pulled out of the rotation for the Lakers in the playoffs last season
Not a single person mentioned Jaime Jaquez Jr so far.
Pre-draft, the demerits against him were numerous. Too slow, not a great shooter, average athlete. Just a hustle guy with decent size and a strong basketball acumen.
He’s a solid 6th man who will likely be a starter by the end of this year. His basketball IQ is immense with constant motion, off-ball movement and smart passing. His passing is well above average for his position, he never forces shots, he can play 2-4, and he almost always makes the smart play. He could seamlessly fit into any rotation in the league.
In 26.7 minutes per game, he’s shooting 52% on 9.2 FGA. 39.3% from three on 3.1 attempts. TS 61%. 2.6 assists on 1.5 turnovers.