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Bobby Portis – 6’11,” 245 lbs., Power Forward, University of Arkansas, 20 years old
Offensive Game – The University of Arkansas product has a solid mid-range game and has even added a decent 3-point jump shot to his repertoire. With great size and length, the power forward brings much that is desired. He has displayed his skill at driving to the basket and finishing plays through contact. Furthermore, he showcased that he is efficient at finishing at the rim with either hand. Another notable attribute of Portis is his superb timing and positioning. This alludes to his knack for getting a multitude of rebounds, especially on the offensive boards.
Defensive Game – His mobility for a big man is also impressive and this allows him to be a balanced defender. He has shown that he is capable of hustling back on defense, stepping up on shooters, and sticking with his defensive assignment. The big man’s activity on defense makes opposing teams force passes, make errors, and lead to steals and points off turnovers.
NBA potential – Portis has the optimal size and ideal body type for a player at the power forward position in the NBA. He has exhibited signs that he is capable on both ends of the floor, but despite this, there are still concerns and aspects of his game that need to be addressed. First, as good a shooter as he is, he cannot depend on just his jump shot as his primary means of scoring. He needs to greatly improve his presence down low and develop a steady offensive post game in order to be successful at the NBA level. At certain times when he is in the post, he looks a bit clumsy and awkward. Second, his post defense needs work. His is upside is limited due to his inability to consistently get blocks. He needs to prove that he can be a more reliable defensive anchor and provide more ways of contributing for his team.
NBA Player Comparison – Even though certain characteristics of his play need to be improved, Bobby Portis’ game is similar to that of Paul Millsap. Like Millsap, Portis has a smooth mid-range jumper and the ability to make shots from beyond the arc when given the chance. He is also an efficient finisher in the paint and workhorse on the glass. Portis could be a better shooter than Millsap, but there is still much for the young power forward to learn and polish up on. At this point, spectators can anticipate that Portis will be associated with the Atlanta Hawks big man and this is not a bad person to model his overall game after.
NBA Readiness – The NBA draft prospect can be expected to come off the bench and take some time adjusting to the faster pace of the league. As of right now, Portis is too raw to be particularly productive and effective. Once he gets his bearings and betters certain aspects of his game, such as his post offense and defense then he may be a valuable asset for the team that drafts him.
