By Josh Cohen
March 1, 2017
Deeper Post Position
Nikola Vucevic has outstanding footwork, a terrific baseline hook shot and unpredictable movements on the low block. He tends to throw opponents off balance. Without a second big man on the floor with him, Vucevic has more space to utilize these strengths. Without abandoning his pick-and-pop game, Vucevic is able to mix it up more and increase the number of touches he gets in the post.
More Passing Out of Post
Vucevic’s court vision and instincts are underrated. He’s a very unselfish player and he has a very high basketball IQ. By getting more touches on the low block, Vucevic is able to command double teams and kick the ball out to open shooters on the perimeter.
Less Rushed Defensive Possessions
The Magic will play faster and be an up-tempo team. So, when any of the other four players on the floor push the pace, Vucevic can stay back and man the paint. For instance, if the Magic come up with a steal and start a 3-on-2 fast break, Vucevic doesn’t have to run back on offense and instead he can prepare for the next defensive possession.
More Rebounding Chances
While his rebounding numbers have been superb all season, Vucevic will likely be even more active on the glass now. For one, there won’t be a second big man out there that also pursues missed shots. Second, Vucevic will more regularly be positioned down low. He will be the only rim protector out there and he will be less responsible for contesting shooters on the perimeter.
Stretch 5 Potential
While establishing low post position is his first priority, there will be times when the Magic will want to completely space the floor. In high screen action with Elfrid Payton, for instance, when Vucevic sets the pick and Payton attacks the paint, Vucevic can pop back behind the 3-point line and have Payton kick it out to him when the defense collapses. Vucevic has worked hard on his outside shot and now without another big man that can shoot threes, this may be a time when the Magic will need him to knock down more shots from long distance.