As the NBA Draft approaches, former Duke Blue Devil Kyle Filipowski is generating significant buzz. At 6-10 and 229 pounds, Filipowski’s versatility—highlighted by his three-point shooting and a surprisingly quick spin move—makes him a valuable asset for any team.
Filipowski has discussed how the college game’s spacing limited his play, noting the narrower lane (12 feet in college versus 16 feet in the NBA) as a factor. However, he hasn’t addressed the challenges he’ll face on the defensive end in the NBA.
In the NBA, Filipowski will encounter less frequent double-teams but will face an unprecedented level of athleticism. Players like Zion Williamson, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and LeBron James are exceptionally athletic, while others like Bam Adebayo, Domantas Sabonis, and Julius Randle, although less athletically spectacular by NBA standards, still rank among the top athletes globally. Additionally, players like Draymond Green compensate for average athleticism with high basketball intelligence.
Filipowski will need to adapt by leveraging his intelligence and understanding of the game. While he’s a solid athlete with impressive size and strength, his run-and-jump abilities won’t place him among the NBA’s elite. However, this doesn’t necessarily limit his offensive potential. Players like Nikola Jokić and Luka Dončić, who aren’t known for their athleticism, have thrived in the NBA. Similarly, when Kyrie Irving and Jayson Tatum left Duke, they faced skepticism about their athleticism, and yet they excelled. Even Stephen Curry, considered less athletic than many NBA guards, has become one of the greatest shooters in history.
Success in the NBA often hinges on game understanding. While some players dominate with sheer athleticism, others, like Jokić, Larry Bird, and Magic Johnson, excel by comprehending court dynamics and anticipating movements. Wayne Gretzky’s famous quote, “I skate to where the puck is going to be, not to where it has been,” encapsulates this idea perfectly.
In conclusion, while Filipowski may face physical limitations, his basketball IQ and ability to adapt can overcome these challenges. The true constraints are those placed on one’s mind, not the body.
For those following Filipowski’s journey to the NBA, here are some mock drafts to get you prepared.
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