Let's talk Thomas Bryant.
https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2022/9/13/23333034/thomas-bryant-anthony-davis-lakers-3-point-shooting-rim-protection-stretch-5-center-free-agencyMy initial impression: He's a long and somewhat skilled offensive finisher known for poor defense and a low bball IQ. He was available for the minimum and wasn't in Denver's playoff rotation for a reason.
BUT, I believe the real reason the Heat targeted Bryant was untapped upside.
Potential Strengths
- Scoring
- Spot up 3-point shooting (see article link above)
- Mid range shooting
- Rim finisher
- Capable as a rim protector (see article link above)
- Capable rebounder
Areas of Concern- Passing (he's a black hole)
- Team defense
- Perimeter defense
- BBIQ
- Health
- Athleticism
Fit with Miami
His clear fit with Miami is as a backup center allowing for another source of offensive finishing from the bench. In theory, this can even open up 5-out looks when he's in the game--as he seems to be a capable spot-up shooter. I'm concerned if the Heat try to have him replicate too much of what Bam does in our system as he doesn't seem to be a capable as a switching defender (or team defender) and he definitely lacks the chops to facilitate an offense. He's another big body, but can he defend in the Miami system? I expect him to get the best coaching and development of his career this offseason, but I think role will also be very important. Which leads to the things I'm most curious about.
Wild card elements
Can he play with Bam? At this point it seems like a stretch, but if Miami has a vision to limit his defensive role with an aim to keep him off the ball (on a corner shooter serving as help defense at the rim), then maybe he can serve the role filled by the likes of Robert Williams with Boston and Brook Lopez with Milwaukee. He has the wingspan and he doesn't seem as slow-footed as guys like Yurt and Meyers Leonard.
Will he do the dirty work? We need him to be a smart and effective screener, box out, and play the team game. Will he buy into that?
What do you all think? If anyone has more insight on his game, background, upside, role I'd love to hear it.
