Nik Stauskas
College: Michigan
Age: 20 years old
Height: 6’6″
Weight: 207 Lbs
Position: SG
NBA Comparison: J.J Redick
After reaching the title game in 2013, Trey Burke and Tim Hardaway Jr. left for the NBA and handed over the keys to the Mitch McGary, Glen Robinson III and Nik Stauskas.
While McGary only played 8 games in 2014 due to injury and Glen Robinson III showed little improvement from a season ago, Stauskas elevated his game to becoming a potential lottery pick on draft night.
Stauskas had a fantastic sophomore season averaging 17.5 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. Shooting 47% from the field in 2014; Stauskas led the Wolverines to a #2 seed in the NCAA tournament as the Wolverines made it back to the Elite 8. Although Stauskas 2014 tourney ended earlier than the previous season, he did finish his sophomore season being named to the Consensus All-America 2nd Team.
Strengths:
A career 44% shooter from 3 point land, Stauskas is known for being a terrific shooter who can get his shot up in a hurry, from any point on the floor.
If you’re not sold, have a look at his YouTube clip from 2013 where he hits 70/76 threes in the rain… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yuH5mqHKIUk
Once thought of a one dimensional scorer, Stauskas proved the naysayers wrong by showcasing his athleticism and ability to attack the rim this past season. Another skill that will translate well at the NBA level is his free throw shooting. In the Big Ten Conference last season, Stauskas finished first in free throws made and free throws attempted; shooting them at an 82% clip.
What doesn’t appear on a stat sheet is the fiery nature and leadership abilities Stauskas developed this past season. With the departures of Trey Burke, Tim Hardaway Jr. and without the injured Mitch McGary, Stauskas put the Wolverines on his back this past season leading them to first place in the Big Ten.
Weaknesses:
The knock on Stauskas is at the defensive end. In some circles, it has already been suggested that he may need to play point guard at the NBA level, as stronger shooting guards (i.e. Joe Johnson, Lance Stephenson) will expose him on most nights. However, if Stauskas decides to make the transition, I can’t see any scenario where Stauskas can successfully guard the likes of Russell Westbrook, Tony Parker, and Jeff Teague.
With quicker and more talented defenders awaiting Stauskas next season, teams will attempt to run Stauskas off the three point line and force him to put the ball on the floor. He will need to further develop the ability to create his own shot, and improve his movement without the basketball if he hopes to have success at the NBA level.
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