OKC Thunder NBA draft profile: Scottie Barnes – point forward potential

Scottie Barnes strengths and weaknesses

Strengths:

In years past Scottie Barnes would be the prototypical player Sam Presti would have at the top of his list.  An elite defender with a 7’3″ wingspan, a standing reach of 9′, and large hands that are drawing comparisons to Kawhi Leonard.

His ascent with Florida State was quick this season as he was coming off the bench but became so intrinsic to the Seminoles success he moved into the starting rotation.

His defense was the main factor but his ability to run the offense was another key factor In the modern era of basketball point forwards are always appealing and Barnes is well on his way to checking that box.

Although he’s only 19 his body is already NBA ready (6’9″, 225 pounds). His strength, speed, and quick decision-making mean he’s capable of guarding one through five.

Adding to the allure is his work ethic and motor coupled with an engaging personality.

Weaknesses:

Barnes has all the skills to develop into a premier point forward but is limited to mid-court shots and drives for the moment.

Those limitations are almost solely based on his shot as he struggles from the perimeter. A harbinger for how a young player’s perimeter shot will develop is often linked to free throw efficiency. In Scottie’s case, his 62.1 free throw percentage doesn’t offer optimism for a quick fix.

That said, he put on an impressive show at the Combine, and when buzz begins to build around a player like Barnes who has specific weaknesses the belief is teams feel the pros outweigh the cons. Moreover, they likely see what needs to be tweaked in his mechanics.