Beal is an undersized shooting guard that, despite experts raving about his shooting touch, didn't shoot all that well in his lone season in college. Still, when "Ray Allen meets Eric Gordon" is the description that Chad Ford gives him, I get excited. He is an able defender, strong, great rebounder for his position, and possesses the potential to be the scoring option that we so sorely need.
Despite shooting 44% from the field and 33% from three-point range last season, I've read and heard enough to be convinced that the kid is good shooter. One obscure stat that jumps out at me from his freshman year at Florida is that despite the undersized guard thing, he still managed to average 6.7 rebounds a game. That's a very good number for a shooting guard, much less a short one. We'll see in a couple of weeks how he actually measures out, but Beal mentioned in this DraftExpress.com interview of him before the 2011 McDonald's All-American Game that he was 6'4 1/2. I've viewed a number of draft profiles, particularly the ones at Draft Express and NBADraft.net, and I know the perceived strengths and weaknesses inside out. I just envision him fitting in perfectly with an improved John Wall.
If Beal is gone, what's the alternative?
- Michael Kidd-Gilchrist - I've read all about him too. He's universally described as a winner, an attack hound, just a boundless display of energy and intelligence at the small forward position. His lack of a consistent jumper is all that concerns me with him, PARTICULARLY considering that the Wizards possess an incredible lack of perimeter shooting. Having said all of that, I would by no means be upset if he were the pick.
- Thomas Robinson - Beast mode I know, but not so sure how I feel about him coming home to play, and besides, UNLESS there's a trade in place, I just don't think our first pick should be used on a frontcourt player.
- Andre Drummond - An uber-athletic big with loads of potential, incredible physical gifts, raw offensive game, potential maturity issues, and concern about lack of commitment to the game? No, I didn't just describe JaVale McGee (to be fair, I don't doubt Pierre's commitment to the game), that's Andre Drummond. No thanks, I'm good.
- Harrison Barnes - I think he'll be a good pro. I think taking him with the third pick though would be a bit high, unless we...
- Trade Down - Depends on the offer, right? I mean if Portland wants to give up the 6 and 11 for the 3, do you say no? This is not a very likely scenario, but this draft is being considered a loaded one, and the #3 pick is a HUGE asset.
