Michigan Basketball Position Preview: Guards

Feb 17, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines guard Spike Albrecht (2) moves the ball defended past Michigan State Spartans guard Lourawls Nairn Jr. (11) in the first half at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

2014 Stats:

Albrecht has to be my favorite player to watch. He’s the only player on the roster under 6-foot, and that means he’s got to be unconventional about the way he attacks things.

It seemed like at least once a game we would see a beautiful dime from Albrecht, most of the time coming from the baseline under the rim.

He’s quick, shifty and has a very recognizable style of play.

Along with his great vision, Albrecht is a reliable shot. He’s never shot worse than 40 percent from the field, though his numbers from behind the arc have regressed each season.

Is Albrecht capable of being a Derrick Walton Jr.-type guard: a player who can orchestrate everything and still be a threat himself? I think we saw glimpses of that last season, but it would be hard to deny that he’s better suited as a compliment, rather than the main attraction.

While Michigan does variably get strong boosts with Albrecht on the floor, I don’t see him starting regularly ahead of or alongside Walton, although I do foresee those two on the court together a lot. We saw some of that last season, and I really liked it.

As always, Albrecht’s going to be a fun player to watch; we shouldn’t forget to enjoy his final season.

Next: Muhammad-Ali Abdur-Rahkman

Mar 12, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Michigan Wolverines guard Muhammad-Ali Abdur-Rahkman (12) reacts after making a basket against the Illinois Fighting Illini during the first half in the second round of the Big Ten Conference Tournament at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

2014 Stats:

I’ve missed spelling that name this offseason.

You definitely knew you were watching a freshman last season, but Abdur-Rahkman really grew into himself as the season progressed.

He reminded me a lot of a younger LeVert, only not as lengthy. He found ways to get to the rim and finish creatively, either around or overtop the defender. He’s added 10 pounds this offseason, so that part of his game could really start to take off.

One part of Abdur-Rahkman’s game I really want to see develop is his ball-handling. He looked a little out of control sometimes and played too loosely with the ball in his hands.

I’d also like to see him become a better distributor, but I’m just getting nitpicky now.

Next: Andrew Dakich