Strengths
Physique
At roughly 7’1 with a 7’5″ wingspan, Ayton is build like the big man you’ve always wanted your team to draft. He was limited as a power forward, where his size advantage seemed exaggerated. At center, he’ll face guys closer to his size, but most people won’t be as nimble as he is.
This is a guy who is going to be physically imposing when he reaches his prime. Give him his full rookie contract with NBA trainers, nutritionists and watch him go. If he works hard and is dedicated, he’s going to be a monster.
.@DeandreAyton took #Pac12Hoops by storm and slam dunks into the No. 4 spot for best @pac12 scholar-athlete of the year.
— Pac-12 Network (@Pac12Network) June 18, 2018
Watch #12Best Student-Athletes now: https://t.co/ZhZuI5ezsa pic.twitter.com/5VzLX8GE0i
Athleticism
He pairs his size with incredibly quick and soft feet, and elite athleticism. Comparing his feet to Joel Embiid would be a mistake, but that’s the general premise. It’s amazing how quickly he can turn and explode, a true unique pairing.
A lot of guys come at Ayton’s size, but not his athletic package. Aytpn is going to be a terror in the pick-and-roll with a great ball handler. In addition to finishing lobs, his athleticism will help him get more rebounds and be a big man who can thrive in the open court. Ayton is not the type of big to sit back when his team gets a steal. He’s out and running with his teammates.
Shooting potential
He’s no sniper and only shot 34 percent from 3, but Ayton has shooting upside. His 3-point range may take some time, but at Arizona he was already super confident to pull the trigger when he had an opening. Look in the clip below how he goes straight into his shot.
From last night: DeAndre Ayton grabs the rebound and hits the jumper on the other end. 28 points, 18 rebounds, and 4 blocks. 11-15 FG, 5-5 FT. pic.twitter.com/yH4rkZyCHi
— Nick Neppach ☕️ (@NickNeppach) February 25, 2018
Getting to 3-point range is key for Ayton to match his ceiling. We’ve seen how that’s taken Joel Embiid and Karl-Anthony Towns‘ games to the next level.
Passing potential
Always enjoy watching Deandre Ayton (@APlayersProgram) in the post because he can attack in so many ways. Here, as he displays well, he’s a willing playmaker. Quickly recognizes double team and finds open man on perimeter. pic.twitter.com/oQ9Vj8UxrC
— Luka (@preptopros) June 14, 2018
Look at the clip above and you see how Ayton can change the game with his passing. Similar to the great all-around bigs, he can be most deadly out of double-teams. As his offensive game expands, he’s going to be a handful. Ayton needs to be able to make teams pay for doubling him and avoid throwing up long jumpers or trying to do too much.
This is a step that Embiid took just a year ago. The Sixers star is developing into one of the league’s best passers with less than two full years under his belt. While Ayton doesn’t have Embiid’s elite IQ, there’s no reason he can’t become a weapon whipping the ball around.