Fifteen years ago, the average NBA team had 10% fewer possessions per game and shot about half as many 3s. The shift toward what’s commonly known as the Pace & Space era has been gradual, though the cumulative effect is obvious. If you watched a game from the 90s … [Read more...]
Identifying Player Comps using Similarity Scores & Play Index Tools
I always enjoy thinking about player comps. I’ve included them in previous scouting entries, like my posts on underrated and overrated draft prospects and summer league players to watch. For prospects and young pros, a comp is really a form of projection that tends to focus on … [Read more...]
The Role of Analytics & Its Relationship with Scouting
From the GM’s perspective, analytics play an important role in player evaluation and roster construction. Whether you’re considering potential draft picks, free agent acquisitions, or trade options, the numbers help you identify your team needs and who might be able to fill … [Read more...]
Throwback Jersey Thursday: Measuring Greatness
What's the best measure of a player's performance? While some are content with conventional stats like points, rebounds, and field goal percentage, I believe the best gauge of a player's worth to a specific team comes from looking at the difference in how the team plays with the … [Read more...]
Throwback Jersey Thursday: The Hidden Value of Outside Shooting
We’ve reached a bit of a lull in the offseason. The summer leagues are over, just about all of the free agents are signed, and the Olympics haven’t even started yet. Rather than wallowing in the lack of competitive basketball games and breaking news, I’d like to take this … [Read more...]