2021 NBA Draft: Evan Mobley scouting report, strengths, weaknesses and player comparisons

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Evan Mobley made a strong case as the best big man in this draft class in his lone season at USC.

The 19-year-old's trophy case is full following his freshman season, where he took home Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year honours in the Pac-12, while also being named First Team All-Pac-12, Pac-12 All-Defensive First Team and a Consensus All-American.

Averaging 16.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 2.9 blocks per game, Mobley showcased the potential of a player who could be one of the best two-way big men in the NBA in the near future.

But what does the 7-foot, 215-pound centre bring to the franchise that selects him?

Strengths

Mobley is impressively mobile, athletic and coordinated for a 7-footer. His quick footwork makes him perfect for the defences in today's NBA, more than capable of switching pick-and-rolls on the perimeter, keeping faster guards in front of him. His 7-foot-4 wingspan attributes to him being the best shot blocker in college basketball last season, as his 2.9 blocks per game led the Pac-12 and his 95 total blocks were second-most in the entire NCAA.

But it's more than just his physical gifts that make him a great rim protector; Mobley's instincts and timing are off the charts, excelling as a help defender or last line of protection at the basket. His versatility and feel for the game are all any NBA team could ask for in a big man.

Offensively, he's a scoring threat from anywhere inside the arc and thrives as a screener in pick-and-rolls, giving opposing defences plenty to worry about with his plethora of ways he can beat you.

Whether it be diving to the rim for a lob...

...popping for a jumper...

...or short-rolling to utilize his agility to his advantage against clunkier bigs...

Mobley is already polished in one of the most important aspects for an offensive-minded big man at the next level.

Weaknesses

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Although Mobley flashed a soft touch on his jumpshots inside the 3-point line, he has yet to extend his range beyond the arc. He converted 30.0 percent of 40 3-point attempts in his freshman season and, according to InStat, he shot 1-for-7 on catch-and-shoot attempts, which includes pick-and-pop scenarios.

While that may seem like nitpicking the 19-year-old centre (and it is), the 3-point shot could add another layer to an already fleshed-out offensive arsenal for the 7-footer.

However, an area that is vital for Mobley to develop more quickly is his post moves. For a big man with plus-coordination, good hands and a soft touch, he doesn't have an array of go-to moves with his back to the basket on the block.

His ball-handling and decision-making as a passer could also improve, although those skills are already more advanced than most players at his position. Mobley is thin for an NBA centre at just 215 lbs., but the 19-year-old will surely continue to grow into his body and add weight with NBA training.

Projected NBA Draft Position: Top five pick

Projected NBA Role: Franchise two-way focal point

Shades of: Chris Bosh, Deandre Ayton

The views expressed here do not represent those of the NBA or its clubs.

Author(s)
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Kyle Irving is an NBA content producer for The Sporting News.