Overview: One of the purest shooters in the history of the college game who is slowly carving out a niche in the NBA. Has been knocked for his lack of athleticism since his college days. Not very big or physical for his position either. Elite shooter. Has improved in other areas, but remains limited due to his lack of prototypical physical tools. Former McDonalds All-American. Had a simply tremendous four year career at Duke. Was a high level scorer from day one, but reached outstanding heights as a junior and really solidified his draft stock as a senior. Named the ACC Player of the Year in each of his final two seasons, winning most consensus national player of the year awards in his last season under Mike Krzyzewski. Set the NCAA record for career three-pointers made, showing an unparalleled level of confidence, consistency, and shooting touch. Garnered a selection in the lottery despite questions about his ability to translate his game to the next level. Hasnt proven to be the lights out NBA shooter than many had hoped he would become. Lack of efficiency inside the arc hurts him. Still a threat to spread the floor and has improved in small ways over his first few years.
Offense:Capable shooting specialist at this point, but not at the level that he once was. Gets almost half of his touches in catch and shoot situations, with jump shots accounting for virtually all of his offense. Very capable shooter when left open from the perimeter, but only a bit worse with a hand in his face. Always moving around the arc looking for daylight. Form still looks flawless. Not as dynamic on the move as he once was, having some issues hitting shots off balance against more athletic defenders. Inability to create ideal separation hurts him when he opts to pull up off the dribble too. Not a threat to do too much damage when he puts the ball on the floor, but has improved his ability to score around the rim since entering the League, though it doesnt always show in his stats. Awesome foul shooter, though he doesnt get to the line too often. Takes advantage of easy opportunities at the rim, having learned not to force things. Doesnt display the most impressive ball handling ability or passing, but isnt turnover prone either.
Defense: Had his moments in the 2009 playoffs by playing extremely active, but will remain a potentially exploitable match up since he has to play all-out to be effective. Lacks ideal lateral quickness and strength. Shows very good fundamentals and displays nice awareness off the ball. Doesnt possess the explosiveness or length to force many turnovers, but will get a hand up on shooters. Struggles in one-on-one situations, but works hard to fight through screens to stay with his man on the pick and roll. Will look to secure long rebounds. Not an ideal defensive option, though his effort level will help compensate for all of his shortcomings on a game-to-game basis.
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