I think Balkman has decent form on his 3s. I think in the long run (unless he dramatically works on his game + is given the role to be more of a scorer), he could be one of those guys who's either around the basket finishing/getting putbacks or camping out at the 3 point line shooting open 3s - kind of like an expansion of Bruce Bowen's offense. Usually guys who don't start out as shooter/scorers don't learn the skill of shooting off the dribble overnight.

The uncontested 3pt jumper from the corner can be developed, imo. If he could get that % up into the mid-30s, we'll have what we need from him to be a starter.

If there's anyone we should be comparing Balkman to, it's Lee. They're both combo-forwards w/ high basketball IQs, though Lee's bias is to play more of the 4, while athletically, Balkman physically is more suited to play the 3 (and some 2).

Posted by efw:

Posted by technomaster:

Well, a subtle difference is that Balkman seems to react very instinctively on both ends of the floor. The ball is in and out of his hands quickly... and he's constantly moving.

Maybe it's part of the system in Orlando, but Ariza has a tendency to look like he's thinking when the balls in his hands and holds on to the ball a little longer (well, yeah, he looking for the open man)... and there are times when he's just standing there.

Ariza might be a slightly better athlete and has put up pretty good stats, but it sure seems like Balkman has "it" - innate basketball IQ. He seems like a natural out there.

i agree with you. While it's obvious he has a lot of work to do, his instincts are spot on. Even when he's flailing around helter-skelter, he still looks in control. Part of that is being extremely athletic, but I think he understands defense in a way most players don't.

I don't think he'll ever become a great shooter-most players by his stage of the game have some semblance of a shot. But as long as he can occasionally hit a 15 footer to keep defenses honest, that's all I need to see. Hopefully we'll get a 2 guard who can handle the scoring duties.