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Eduardo Najera

Drafted #38 in the 2000 NBA Draft by the Mavericks
Height: 6'7" (201 cm)
Weight: 235 lbs (107 kg)
Position: PF
High School: Cornerstone Christian School (Texas)
Hometown: Meoqui, Mexico
College: Oklahoma
Current Team: Oklahoma
Win - Loss: 20 - 12

Articles

NBA Scouting Reports, Atlantic Division (Part Four)

Jonathan Givony
Jonathan Givony
Matt Williams
Matt Williams
Joseph Treutlein
Joseph Treutlein
Jul 02, 2009, 09:19 pm
Overview: The definition of what it means to be a ‘hustle player.’ Has made a name for himself with toughness and a great work ethic, despite being stuck between both forward positions. Not the biggest or most athletic player, but strong and relentless. Has a near 7’0 wingspan, but remains a bit on the short side at under 6-8 in shoes. Not as athletic as he was when he was drafted, but is far more skilled and experienced. The second player from Mexico to play in the NBA. Developed into a very high quality collegiate player during his four years at Oklahoma. Used his toughness to be an effective scorer in college, but had to transition that toughness to the defensive end and on the glass in the NBA. Has been an effective role-player for many years. Has developed some range on his shot, but has seen his effectiveness and efficiency waver as the players around him have changed. His team-first attitude and commitment to the defensive end have been constants though. Has suffered a lot of small injuries recently, making him more of a presence in practice than in games. Extremely high-character guy in the locker room.

Offense: Will never be known for his exploits on this end of the court, as he lacks a great skill level or tremendous athleticism. Had a bad year after receiving a big contract following a great season with the Nuggets in 2008, partially due to injuries. Didn’t shoot the ball as well from the field in limited action. Gets almost half of his possessions as a spot up shooter at this point in his career. Doesn’t have bad form on his jumper, but is hindered by a slow release and bouts of inconsistency when defended. Not a bad option when wide open, but not ideal in that regard. Doesn’t put the ball on the floor much, but attacks the rim, and prefers driving right when he does. Not a great ball handler, but doesn’t force things too often. Proves to be a solid finisher around the basket in limited attempts. Can use both hands and has soft touch, will have some trouble when he has to score over bigger defenders. Not afraid to mix it up down low. Doesn’t get any possessions in the post anymore, find his touches by working off the ball. Does a good job cutting to the rim, crashing the glass, and running the floor in transition. Always looking to tip a missed shot back out to his teammates. Has never been a great foul shooter, but was truly brutal from there in 08-09, dipping down to an abysmal 36%. May not ever be as efficient as he was during his final two seasons with the Nuggets.

Defense: Capable of defending multiple positions for stretches of his career. Can still guard some players at both forward spots. Maximizes his physical tools with his physical play defensively. Always gets a hand up when closing out shooters, being very aggressive and showing great awareness and decent recovery speed to get back in the play if he gets beat. Knows when to concede fouls, and does so often. Pretty foul prone for that reason. Very good help defender in terms of timing and fundamentals, but lacks the athleticism to make an impact as a playmaker. Does show good hands when stripping ball handlers in the lane. Very fundamentally sound after the shot goes up. Turns and rides his man out of the lane before going after the ball. Isn’t a glamorous defender by any stretch of the imagination, but knows how to get the job done and will work as hard as anyone to stay in position.

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