Offense
Strengths
• Confident shooter
• Good range on jump shot
• Can create shots off the dribble
• Quick first step to basket
• Good range on jump shot
• Great athleticism
Weaknesses
• Shot selection can improve
• Average ballhandler
• Needs to move more without the ball
Defense
Strengths
• Good athlete, doesn’t get beat off the dribble easily
• Long arms, good hands – alters passing lanes
Weaknesses
• Effort on defensive end could improve
• Needs to close better on shooters
• Overplays often, gets beat on back cuts
Analysis
While Crawford became a known name over the summer with the infamous dunk on Lebron James, he has surprised many with how much of a real threat he was on the court. On offense, he can score in a variety ways, and there aren’t many opportunities he passes up to score. He has a smooth jump shot, good range, and an explosive first step to the basket. He has proven throughout the season that he wants the ball when the game is on the line, and has delivered more than once. While his offensive skills are quite advanced, he needs to shore up his defensive fundamentals. He has great athleticism and doesn’t get beat off of the dribble often, though he tends to overplay his man and get beat on the backside. He also needs to work on contesting perimeter shots. It is clear that Crawford has some special talents, and it will be up to him how good he can really be.
- Ed Isaacson