NBA Free Agency: David Nwaba could offer Bucks elite backcourt defense at low cost

Strengths

Considering his shooting limitations, it was going to take something special for Nwaba to make it to the NBA and have a chance of sticking, and up until this point his defense is providing him with that opportunity.

Standing at just 6’4″, Nwaba is smaller than the NBA’s average defensive stalwart capable of covering multiple positions, but he more than makes up for that with a wingspan that falls just half an inch short of 7’0″.

Coupled with his speed — both end to end and laterally — that length allows Nwaba to shadow elite guards across the court with high-pressure defense, affording them little space to move, while his 210lb frame and stout lower body then allows him to check bigger opponents either down low or body-to-body in transition.

The result is frequent strong contests that force opponents to settle for tough shots, but also more than his fair share of highlights in terms of steals and blocks, as LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo can both attest to.

Nwaba’s length also aids him on the glass where he’s an exceptional rebounder for his size. Last season, Nwaba averaged 7.1 rebounds per 36 minutes for the Bulls from the backcourt, fueled in large part by his impressive leaping ability. As was highlighted in a closer look at Nwaba’s positive influence from Blog A Bull post last December, it’s one of the most obvious examples of his impressive athleticism.

"“The very first element of Nwaba’s game that jumped off the screen at me was his ability to jump, land, restart his jump, and still get lift on his successive jump. That description doesn’t do justice to how valuable of a basketball skill this is, because it is this very trait that made Dennis Rodman the greatest rebounder of all time and prompted Phil Jackson to call Rodman, “the greatest athlete I ever coached.” It is a rare trait that serves as an amalgamation of terrific motor, limitless stamina, and superb athletic ability.”"

Nwaba’s offensive game is less limited than it is restricted by his lack of a jump shot. Nwaba is still capable offensively as he’s comfortable with the ball in his hands, quick enough to blow by opponents and has respectable playmaking instincts.

Part of the value in Nwaba’s offense comes from the fact he doesn’t push himself beyond his limits too. Sure, he’d be a better player if he could knock down threes consistently, but in his current form, Nwaba isn’t going to force himself into chucking up inefficient looks.

On the whole, Nwaba stands out for his versatility on both ends.