The only things we know for certain about tonight's NBA Draft is that we'll be tracking it pick-by-pick and that a high school player won't be selected. Greg Oden, a 7-footer from Indianapolis, would probably have been the No. 1 choice before new rules eliminated anybody younger than 19 and not at...[details]
Strengths: Aldridge possesses all the physical characteristics NBA GM's dream about in a big man. He has terrific size, long arms and all-star caliber athletic ability. Aldridge is a quick, fluid player who runs the floor extremely well for a big man. In today's NBA - where quickness and athleticism are more important than brute strength - he has the ability to play either the 4 or the 5 spot. Offensively, Aldridge is a talented, versatile big man who is also fundamentally sound. His arsenal in the post includes a jump-hook, a turnaround jump-shot, and an occasional sky-hook. He also has an effective jump-shot inside 18 feet, but has relied on that less over the past few years - a good strategy for a player his size. Defensively, Aldridge has quick feet and the coordination and reflexes to react to most situations. His length, leaping ability and basketball intelligence allow him to be effective in blocking shots, altering shots and rebounding.
Weaknesses: At age 20, Aldridge hasn't grown into his frame. He isn't strong enough to maximize his ability on both ends of the floor. Defensively - and when rebounding - he doesn't have the strength to fight off his man simply with his athleticism. Offensively, Aldridge doesn't even look for the ball on certain possessions. He is too passive at times considering his talent. He also needs to be more aggressive as a defender and rebounder. Many wonder if Aldridge is too nice for his own good. Some have gone as far as to call him''soft.''
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