Here is NBA Draft Junkies’ Rafael Barlowe’s video analysis of Lakers’ rookie Talen Horton-Tucker, who’s spent most of the season playing with the Lakers’ G-League South Bay Lakers but may get some minutes in the upcoming scrimmages and seeding games in Orlando. As usual, Rafael has an excellent grasp of THT’s strengths and weaknesses. Based on what we’ve seen from Talen’s G-League performance, Rafael’s assessment was spot on.
STRENGTHS
- Strong, physically imposing guard with a muscular frame but with light feet, fluidity and agility
- Reportedly has a 7’1″ wingspan
- Advanced shifty ball handler; Very good at changing pace and directions
- Good court vision and feel for the game
- Versatility; Has the unique frame and skill set that allows him to play 1-4
- Has a flare and flash to his game with his ball handling and passing
- Can post smaller guards; Good footwork in the post
- Good rebounder from guard spot
- Defensively versatility
- Love reverse layups and using the rim to avoid shot blockers
WEAKNESSES
- NBA fit. Would thrive in the right situation but could be lost in the wrong situation
- Lacks athleticism, pop, burst and explosion
- Below the rim finisher and misses a lot of layups
- Not an efficient shooter from the field, 3 point line or free throw line
- Tendency to play out of control
- Picks up offensive fouls when trying to bully/over power his way to the rim
- Must add a floater to his game (ex. Jalen Brunson)
Great job on THT, Rafaeil. I thought your strengths and weaknesses list were exactly what the Lakers found during his first year playing with the South Bay Lakers. Biggest issue is obviously his lack of experience being only 19 years old. With that 7′ 1″ reach and Kawhi sized hands, Talen has potential to be an elite two-way player. Word from the Lakers is he may see some action in the upcoming scrimmages and seeding games. That would be fun to see. Lots of Lakers fans have been begging for him to get a chance and he’s been a human highlight reel for the South Bay Lakers.