2019 NBA Draft: Nassir Little looks to bring versatility to the Trail Blazers
By Alec Lasley
Defensive Fit
There is no question that Little’s frame makes him an ideal candidate for a defensive stopper.
With a 7-foot-1 wingspan and at 224 pounds, Little’s measurements, combined with his 6-foot-6 frame give him great versatility to guard multiple positions.
One part of his game that wasn’t able to be hidden last season, with Carolina’s lack of a shot blocker, is his ability to stay in front of some opponents. Though he does have decent side-to-side agility, he let too many players have nearly straight line drives to the basket.
With the Trail Blazers, however, they have multiple shot blockers with Enes Kanter, Jusuf Nurkic, Meyers Leonard, and Zach Collins that can hide Little’s struggles.
Despite not always making the right read, his toughness and length will make up for it around the paint.
Though the NBA is a switch-heavy league on ball screens, Little will most likely be matched up against more frontcourt players than guards allowing him to excel with his athleticism and versatility.
Little’s defensive ability and potential will buy him time as he works to get adjusted on his offensive game.