National Basketball Association

90. Kent Bazemore, SF, Hawks

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

foxsports

In case it got lost somewhere between “He looks like Chance the Rapper” and “He started a war between Nike and Under Armour,” Kent Bazemore enjoyed a quality breakout campaign last season. This was a long time coming for the 27-year-old, who went undrafted out of Old Dominion and worked his way up from the D-League and the Summer League circuit to secure a starting role for the Hawks last season. A hyperactive, long two guard, Bazemore (11.6 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 2.3 APG) pulled in a four-year, $70 million contract this summer by proving that he could fill the 3-and-D role fairly well. Although he’s not quite a knockdown shooter or a lockdown perimeter defender, Bazemore has the physical tools, athleticism and enough newfound control to serve as a helpful contributor on both ends. His positional versatility on the defensive end, in particular, makes him a valuable piece for the Hawks and the type of guy who would find a way to fit in on just about any contender. Going forward, Bazemore is probably best served by staying in his lane, as his decision-making with the ball can be erratic and much of his offense is generated by Atlanta’s emphasis on ball movement. (Last year: Not ranked)

+ His $15.7 million for 2016-17 is more than 33 times larger what he made in 2012-13
+ Less than 3% of his field-goal attempts came within 10-15 ft. (via basketball-reference)
– He rated “Below average” as a pick-and-roll ball-handler last season, per Synergy Sports
– His numbers could take a hit with the losses of skilled passers Jeff Teague and Al Horford

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