2012 NBA Draft Scouting Report: Dion Waiters

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Written by Paul Banks of the Washington Times, and David Kay of the The Sports Bank.
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2012 NBA Draft Scouting Report: Dion Waiters

Position: Shooting Guard

Size: 6-4, 215

School: Syracuse, Sophomore

Strengths:

Athleticism

Attacking the basket

Very effective in one-on-one iso situations

Physical, strong build helps him on the drive

Capable three-point shooter

Can play either guard position

Especially dangerous in transition

Creative finisher around the hoop

Explosive at the rim

Reading and jumping passing lanes

Weaknesses:

Plays exclusively zone at Syracuse, so will have to prove himself as a man-to-man defender

Shot selection

Forces the issue too often

Inconsistent outside shooter

Summary: After a disappointing freshman season, Waiters has developed into one of the top sixth men in college basketball. If he turns pro after this year, he would likely be a top-20 pick, but might be better served returning for his junior season and further establishing himself in a starting role with a chance at becoming a lottery pick in 2013.

Player Comparison: Rodney Stuckey. Like Stuckey, Waiters is a combo guard whose best role would be playing the two than running the point, but is capable doing either. Both players rely on their strength and physicality to get buckets in the lane, and can also shoot the three ball.

RELATED LINKS:

2012 NBA Mock Draft

2013 NBA Mock Draft

2012 NBA Draft Prospect Rankings

2012 NBA Draft Scouting Reports