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Dwayne Bacon- 6’7″, Shooting Guard, Florida State University, 21 Years Old
Dwayne Bacon is a shooting guard out of Florida State University who is projected to be anywhere from a late-first, to mid-second round draft pick. In his sophomore season, Bacon averaged 17.2 points, and 4.2 rebounds, whilst shooting an efficient 45.2 % from the floor. During his sophomore season, Bacon was named to All-ACC second team for his impressive performances. Bacon was instrumental to FSU’s successful season, finishing second in the ACC, with a 26-9 record.
Strengths
Unlike fellow guard Malik Beasley, who was drafted by the Denver Nuggets last summer, Bacon knew that he needed another year to enhance his basketball repertoire. It seems that his extra year in college has paid off and Bacon has improved his game in most areas. An explosive guard, Bacon excels at attacking the basket. Finishing at the rim through traffic, Bacon uses his speed and agility to draw contact and get to the line frequently.
However, Bacon has most notably shown improvement in his shooting, especially from three-point range. During his freshman year, Bacon averaged 28.1% from behind the arc, but improved to 33.3% during his sophomore year. This improvement in his game allows Bacon to have an impact from virtually anywhere on the floor. Bacon has also developed into a complete defender during his collegiate career. His athleticism allows him to guard virtually anyone on the perimeter. Although Bacon plays most of his time at the two or the three, his ability to run the floor and comfort with the ball in his hands give him traits similar to that of a point guard.
Weaknesses
Despite his obvious talent, Bacon often lacks the ability to read the game and will need to improve his court vision to succeed at the next level. Movement off the ball is something Bacon will need to work on at the next level and he also has a tendency to play with only his self-interests. Despite his improved shooting, Bacon will have to develop a more competent mid-range jump shot, as well as improving his consistency from deep.
Perhaps the biggest concern for teams when choosing whether or not to draft Bacon, are his attitude problems. Make no mistake, Bacon certainly doesn’t have the worst attitude of any current college or NBA player, but he often comes across as over-confident, or sometimes ‘cocky’. This will likely be an issue for NBA teams and will likely impact his draft stock. However, if Bacon can work on these minor issues, he could have a successful career to look forward to.
NBA Player Comparison
Although there are some minor differences in size, Bacon plays a very similar game to Philadelphia 76ers forward, Robert Covington. Both Bacon and Covington possess impressive, but inconsistent three point shooting. Furthermore, the athleticism displayed in their respective playing styles are very similar. Covington averaged a stellar 33.3% from deep this season, identical to Bacon’s production. The Florida State forward is extremely effective at attacking the rim and is even more consistent at the line; much like Covington. Both shoot over 75% at the free-throw line and use their size and ball skills to their advantage. Covington is yet to exhibit any real consistency, something which Bacon may also have a problem with in the NBA.
Look for Dwayne Bacon to be selected in the mid-second round in the draft and be sure to stay updated with our complete coverage of the 2017 NBA Draft!
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