Michigan Basketball: Tim Hardaway Jr. — NBA Draft — Overview
Posted at 7:00am — 6/22/2013
Michigan Basketball: Tim Hardaway Jr. — NBA Draft — Overview
Talk of Michigan wingman Tim Hardaway Jr. entering the NBA Draft has been like a yo-yo the last three years. As a freshman, some thought Hardaway would be one and done to the league. But during his freshman season, it became obvious that such a move was very premature. Before his sophomore season, many thought improved play would lead to an early draft entrance. This time some really bad play made the move less than a smart idea. In the summer before his junior season, Hardaway Junior and Trey Burke picked up the pace and improved greatly. The talk was split: go or stay and finish up at Michigan, perhaps enhancing the draft position even more in 2014.
The decision was made to leave, and it appears the choice was pretty one-sided. So, here is Hardaway waiting to see what slot yields his name.
Apr 8, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Michigan Wolverines guard Tim Hardaway Jr. (10) dunks against Louisville Cardinals center Gorgui Dieng (10) during the second half of the championship game in the 2013 NCAA mens Final Four at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY SportsTim Hardaway Junior certainly has come a long way since signing with Michigan as a skinny and then undersized wing player. Clearly Coach Beilein saw the upside that many others did not. Even though his stock rose in recruiting circles, Hardaway did not waver and stayed true to his commitment. He has gained size, weight, and offensive skill while at Michigan.
Hardaway is a small wingman at the NBA level, almost certainly playing a two guard and maybe a small three position. His primary strengths are athleticism and shooting. His rebounding has clearly improved from previous seasons. Hardaway can get up the floor on the fast break and cash in easy points. But, Hardaway still has not made an appearance on defensive all-star teams.
While shooting can be a strength, Hardaway Junior can throw up a long string of misses. He can be prone to firing when nothing is falling, not an unusual trait for a talented shooter.
Where Tim Junior will go in the draft is a tough call. The most likely slot is somewhere between the 20 and 40 picks. But always at the end of the first round to the middle of the second round there are clear differences in how teams evaluate and team need. A decision at this point of the draft is never easy, unless a premium player slides much further than anticipated.
His career at Michigan was noteworthy and the view here is that both Senior and Junior Hardaway must be greatly pleased with how the venture ended up.
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Written by GBMWolverine Staff — Doc4Blu
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