Why Willie Cauley-Stein deserves another shot at the NBA

By Arslan Saleem March 28, 2024 10:58

Willie Cauley-Stein has had an eventful journey in the NBA after being selected as the 6th overall pick by the Sacramento Kings in the 2015 NBA Draft.

Cauley-Stein has shown flashes of potential but has struggled to find consistency. Despite this, there are compelling reasons why Cauley-Stein deserves another opportunity in the NBA.

Athleticism and Defensive Versatility

Cauley-Stein possesses remarkable athleticism and defensive versatility that make him a valuable asset for any NBA team.

Standing at 7 feet tall with a 7'3" wingspan, he has the physical tools to protect the rim, switch onto smaller players, and disrupt passing lanes.

His ability to guard multiple positions is a coveted skill in the modern NBA, where teams prioritize defensive flexibility.

His stature rivals the likes of Victor Wembanyama and other budding big men, but Cauley-Stein's lack of floor spacing ability and mobility is magnified, especially against fast and bouncy teams.

Rim Running and Pick-and-Roll Ability

One of Cauley-Stein's strengths lies in his proficiency as a rim runner and pick-and-roll finisher. His athleticism allows him to excel in these aspects of the game, providing a reliable option for guards to feed him the ball near the basket. His ability to finish above the rim and convert lobs into points makes him a valuable offensive weapon, especially in an era where pick-and-roll plays are a staple of many NBA offenses.

Rebounding Prowess

Another aspect of Cauley-Stein's game that makes him deserving of another opportunity is his rebounding prowess.

Despite his lean frame, he has shown an ability to compete on the glass, averaging respectable rebounding numbers throughout his career.

His tenacity on the boards and willingness to battle for position make him a valuable asset for any team looking to improve their rebounding.

Potential for Offensive Development

While Cauley-Stein's offensive game is predominantly based on his athleticism and finishing ability, there is still untapped potential for development.

With the right coaching and system, he could improve his post moves, mid-range shooting, and passing, evolving into a more well-rounded offensive player. Basically, the entire offensive package a big needs to be competitive in today's NBA.

Previous Impact and Room for Growth

Despite facing challenges in finding a consistent role in the NBA, Cauley-Stein has shown glimpses of his impact on the court.

During his time with the Sacramento Kings and the Golden State Warriors, he has displayed moments of defensive prowess and offensive efficiency.

With the right opportunity and the right environment, Cauley-Stein has the potential to further develop his game and make a significant impact for a team looking to bolster its frontcourt.

Willie Cauley-Stein's combination of athleticism, defensive versatility, rebounding prowess, and untapped offensive potential makes him a player worthy of another opportunity in the NBA.

He has the potential to thrive and make a meaningful contribution to a team's success if he's willing to work on his game holistically.

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