NBA Draft 2017 Prospect Watch: Ike Anigbogu
By Adam Coffman
Fit with the Bucks
With John Hammond gone as general manager, we really have no idea the trends that will emerge from the new regime, but if the Bucks are to continue their ways of selecting youthful talent with lengthy wingspans, Anigbogu would certainly be a typical pick.
The Bucks’ center position is still rather crowded, what with Greg Monroe and Spencer Hawes’ statuses up in the air, John Henson under contract for another three seasons, and Thon Maker needing an increased minutes load to further his development.
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However, Anigbogu revealed in a workout interview that the Bucks had already explained his potential role to him, saying he “felt comfortable”.
The progressions of Maker and Anigbogu wouldn’t necessarily have to clash should they wind up together. In an ideal scenario, the UCLA product would fill a smaller role, likely off the bench, while Maker is utilized as a more diverse weapon.
Where Maker might struggle with his slender stature in dealing with bigger centers, Anigbogu could step in and provide support. They could even share the floor in bigger lineups with Maker at power forward, a position he played occasionally last year.
Looking past the center position, Anigbogu seems to be a good fit next to Jabari Parker, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and the rest of the Bucks, serving as a workhorse on both ends of the floor and fixing their mistakes on defense.
Next: NBA Draft 2017 Prospect Watch: Bronson Koenig
As far as draft position goes, Anigbogu looks to slot in right around where the Bucks will pick, although as we saw last year, anything can happen come draft night.