While many scouts were impressed by Yang's offensive capabilities, the issue was and always will be his defense. If he is unplayable defensively (and he is) then the offense does not matter, barbeque chicken indeed....
This is from a scout who liked Yang, specifically offensively, but the concerns (many) were there for all to see...
Incredibly low floor on defense that can make or break his NBA future. Even in the CBA, can look like an easy target in the pick-and-roll. NBA teams will test him now and maybe always.
Below average physical tools despite his size and standing reach. Slow footspeed. No lift. Lacks a second jump. Rigid, inflexible hips. Plays with a high center of gravity. Cannot get low to or explode off the ground as a result.
Will have to prove that he can survive in ballscreens. Barbecue chicken in empty side or high pick-and-roll right now. Backline help at Qingdao was often very lacking, but not an excuse at all.
Can only open up his hips once, then leave his feet once. If he has to repeat either of those efforts, problems arise. Really lacks functionality and versatility guarding the pick-and-roll. Tape is worrying in the CBA, so concerns are amplified re: NBA.
Can’t add value on offense if he gets picked apart on defense. Offensive value is curtailed if he can’t stay on the floor, or can only play for very limited spurts.
Playoff projection is concerning because of his severe defensive limitations. At this point, resembles more of an 82-game than a 16-game player.
Might only be playable in Drop coverage. Needs to be insulated with length and size, plus on the clipboard. Cannot handle too much space. You don’t want to ask him to change directions often.
Drop simplifies his responsibilities and narrows down his radius of action. Needs to stay in front of the ball and keep his hands active. Better at doing this — also a more logical ask, in my opinion — but needs to do it more.
Struggles to decelerate and change speeds. Heavy feet, big body. Ballhandlers can just get lower than him and blaze past. You don’t want him guarding in space. Tougher competition in the NBA, obviously.
Cannot leave feet. If he does, he’s in trouble. No second jump or real recovery tools.
Athletic thresholds in the NBA are more demanding. Blocked a stepback three at the combine. Under control closeout to slide with drive and block at the rim. Interesting recent flashes in front of league decision-makers.
Will be surrounded with better size, athletes, and scheming in the NBA. Hope is that, plus being largely played in drop, can cover up his deficiencies enough for his brilliant offensive arsenal to shine. Maybe even needs to play with another big.
Yeah, the issue is, he would be playing with another drop big like Clingan is, that does not work.
