OKC Thunder NBA draft profile: Jared Butler – microwave scoring guard

Jared Butler strengths and weaknesses

Strengths:

Butler witnessed his points, assists and 3-point shooting efficiency improve in each of his three seasons at Baylor. Comfortable in the role of running the point or shifting to primary scorer either creating his own shots or scoring by playing off the ball.

His offensive toolbox is full although he’s particularly deceptive in the pick and roll thanks to those playmaking and shooting skills.  The LA native can score from all three areas of the court, in a variety of ways including dribble drives, change of pace or hesitation moves, step-back shots or catch and shoot opportunities.

Playing on a squad known for their defense also paid dividends as Butler became a more dedicated defender.  A high I.Q. player his defensive ability is bolstered by great positioning, the quickness and instincts to jump into passing lanes creating steals and deflections, and great lateral movement to stay with his assigned player.

In his last season at Baylor he shot 41.6 percent from the perimeter on 6.2 attempts per game was his team’s top scorer and as the secondary playmaker dished 4.8 assists per game.

Weaknesses:

While he doesn’t shy away from contact his physical frame limits how effective he’ll be at the next level both in terms of scoring at the rim and defensively.

Has a tendency to fall in love with isolation ball or forcing shots that lead to turnovers (2.8 per game).

Despite a high I.Q. that he utilizes to great effect to generate steals it’s not as successful in helping him position for rebounding which consequently is a category that barely shifted in his three seasons at Baylor.

Butler’s lack of physicality and size will present issues in the pros whether it be on defense or scoring in the paint so he’ll need to hit the weight room. Moreover, although he’s crafty with the ball and was successful in college he’ll need to improve his speed to enhance his ability to play in transition.