Hardwood Houdini Draft Profiles
Miles Bridges: Michigan State, SF
Height: 6’7″
Weight: 230 pounds
Age: 18
Click the name for up to date stats: Miles Bridges
Strengths
Rebounding:
Bridges is a superb rebounder for his size, averaging 8.1 rebounds a game. For the Spartans this year, Tom Izzo has placed Bridges in the power forward role almost exclusively. His rebounding ability for his height is extremely impressive.
Scoring ability:
Bridges is an extremely unique scorer because he can do it in a variety of ways. He has scored in double figures in every game he has played in this year, except for three. He has had 6 20+ scoring games, including a 33 point performance against Purdue. Bridges can get to the basket, he has a solid mid-range game, and he is shooting 40.5% from behind the arc. His perimeter jump shot is improving. Although not quite the athlete of a Josh Jackson, he does show flashes of athleticism.
Jan 7, 2017; University Park, PA, USA; Michigan State Spartans guard Miles Bridges (22) shoots the ball past Penn State Nittany Lions forward Lamar Stevens (11) during the first half at Palestra. Mandatory Credit: Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Weaknesses
Position:
As noted above, Bridges has been primarily playing the power forward position for Michigan State this year. At 6’7” he is undersized to play the four in the NBA. Unlike a Draymond Green, he doesn’t have anywhere near the defensive versatility or quickness to play the four in the NBA. His natural position in the NBA will most likely be a small forward, but he will probably play some shooting guard as well. He will have to adjust to playing more on the perimeter. He won’t be able to dominate playing the four in the NBA like he has been in college.
Decision Making/Turnovers:
Bridges averages almost 3 turnovers a game (2.9). Part of this definitely has to do with Michigan State’s lack of success this year, as Bridges has been called upon to be the primary scoring option every night. Teams know that Bridges will be the primary weapon used, so they often put him into tough situations. However, his turnovers also go back to poor decision-making, as he sometimes tries to force the issue. Additionally, Bridges occasionally settles for outside jumpers, instead of attacking the basket more often.
Defense:
Bridges sometimes gets lazy on defense and doesn’t go hard on every defensive possession. He struggles with defensive consistency. Although built fairly well for his size, he does not have great mobility or great length, which doesn’t help him on the defensive end.
Overview
Bridges is a unique talent because he can score in a variety of ways and has a nice lefty stroke from the perimeter. He needs to cut down on his turnovers and needs to improve his decision-making when he gets to the next level. He will play more on the perimeter in the NBA, which he will need to adjust to. For his size, he is an outstanding rebounder. He will be able to come in and contribute offensively in a variety of ways. I see Bridges being selected around the tenth pick or so in the draft.
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