FanPost

D League Options, and Does Anyone Watch?

While the Wizards season may be slowly unraveling, and some people turn their attention to trades and a potential lottery selection in June, I'd be interested to hear thoughts on players in the D League who could be future contributors.

I'm not looking for an immediate impact player here--just someone who fits our needs and may have an opportunity to develop in the next 1-2 seasons. Unfortunately, I don't see any of the D League games and can only evaluate these guys from a statistical perspective.

Here are some people who intrigue me with what they're producing in the League of Ridiculous Upside:

Raphial Putney - 6'10", 190 (you read that correctly)

Not exactly sure what to call him (PF? S4? C? S5?), but he checks a number of boxes for me. Leads the D League in BPG at 2.7 in just over 33 minutes. Shoots almost 39% from 3PT range (and not on such a small sample size--he has a ridiculously high arching shot that you should check out on YouTube). Can run the floor very well for a big man, often getting out in transition. Good rebounder with quick hands (averaging 1 steal per game). Of course, he's rail thin, and at 25 isn't as young as some other prospects. But he's got a great motor, is physical for his slight build, and has worked hard to improve a number of aspects of his game.

Ronald Roberts - 6'8", 225

A slightly undersized PF, Roberts has NBA level athleticism that's allowed him to average over 12 rebounds a game for the Raptors 905 squad. He also uses it to block shots (1.6 in 35 minutes a game), so he adds some rim protection as well. His efficiency is very high, largely owed to his prowess around the basket, and his FT% has improved to a respectable 71%. While he was recently named the #2 D League prospect, it's not likely he's going to help with anything but rebounding, finishing at the rim, and getting out in transition. His outside shot is a work in progress, at best, and non-existent behind the three point line.

Erick Green - 6'3", 185

A VT standout during his time at college, Green is one of the better combo guards and prolific scorers in the D League. He was recently ranked the #1 D League prospect, and with his shot making ability it's not hard to see why. He's averaging 24/4/4 on 53/47/86 splits--similar to Jarrell Eddie but with a higher usage rate, 3x as many assists and a half steal extra a game. While both Eddie and Green are VT products, Green fits a bit better in an off-the-bench, microwave role because of his ball handling and ability to get looks for himself. We're log jammed at the swingman role, but could use a Gary Neal replacement.

Would love for people to do more of these analyses and comment on those above. I'll try to get around to adding some more, but needed to take a break from some recent Wiz blowouts and look into the future.

This represents the view of the user who wrote the FanPost, and not the entire Bullets Forever community. We're a place of many opinions, not just one.