As we approach the midway point of the NBA season, it’s time to take a closer look at our rookie class. What did we expect from these young players, and how have they performed so far? Let’s break down the progress of Isaiah Collier, Kyle Filipowski, and Cody Williams.
Kyle Filipowski: A Pleasant Surprise
Starting with Kyle Filipowski, the 32nd pick of the draft, we anticipated an offensive-minded, versatile big man with good passing and floor-spacing abilities. What we’ve seen has largely met those expectations, with some pleasant surprises along the way.
Filipowski’s physical strength has been a standout attribute, allowing him to hold his ground against NBA competition right out of the gate. His passing and ball movement have been as special as anticipated, showcasing his versatility as an offensive player.
However, the transition hasn’t been without challenges. Filipowski’s go-to college move, a spin in the paint, hasn’t translated well to the NBA level. He’s been adapting by becoming more perimeter-based in recent games. Defensively, some of the weaknesses that likely contributed to his draft position are becoming more evident as the season progresses.
Isaiah Collier: Speed and Vision
Isaiah Collier, the 29th pick, has shown flashes of the explosive speed and power we expected. His ability to beat defenders off the dribble with a single step has translated well to the NBA level. What’s been particularly impressive is Collier’s court vision and ability to play with pace – aspects of his game that have exceeded expectations.
However, Collier’s shooting remains a concern. His misses can be extreme, though there are signs of improvement in his shot consistency. He’s also facing challenges finishing at the rim against NBA-level competition, an area where he’ll need to adapt and grow.
Cody Williams: Potential in the Raw
Cody Williams, our 10th pick, might seem like a disappointment on paper with his current shooting percentages. However, it’s important to remember that Williams is a raw talent with immense potential. His physical frame is still developing, which impacts his current performance.
Despite the challenges, the core skills that made Williams an exciting prospect are still evident. His one-foot jump, drive ability, and length show promise. The key for Williams will be physical development and learning to assert himself more on the court.
For more insights and a deeper dive into our rookie analysis, tune into the Locked On Jazz podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Jazz Podcast:
• Tankathon standings and implications for the Jazz
• Late-game analysis of Grizzlies, Rockets, and Timberwolves
• The impact of pick protection on team strategies
