NBA Draft 2019 Prospect Watch: Darius Bazley

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 14: Darius Bazley poses for a portrait at the 2019 NBA Draft Combine on May 14, 2019 at the Chicago Hilton in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 14: Darius Bazley poses for a portrait at the 2019 NBA Draft Combine on May 14, 2019 at the Chicago Hilton in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)
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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – April 08: (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – April 08: (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)

Strengths

First and foremost, Bazley possesses great size (6’9″), physical tools (seven-foot wingspan) and athleticism to potentially play both forward spots.

Bazley’s mobility and length lends itself well to the defensive end and it’s all about the Ohio native building up his body to become a full-fledged versatile defender, especially inside the paint and protecting the rim.

Offensively, Bazley is plenty skilled with the ball in his hands and has no problem generating scoring opportunities for himself whether in the open floor or in halfcourt situations.

While his playmaking isn’t equally up to snuff compared to creating shots for himself off the dribble, Bazley does possess some vision and can see over the top of his opponents to make plays that aren’t capable without it.

Lastly, Bazley’s deft touch around the rim is a featured element in his skill set and his length helps him in converting contested, off balanced attempts within the restricted area.