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Speedy Claxton

Drafted #20 in the 2000 NBA Draft by the 76ers
Height: 5'11" (180 cm)
Weight: 166 lbs (75 kg)
Position: PG
High School: Christ The King Regional High School (New York)
Hometown: Hempstead, NY
College: Hofstra
Current Team:

Articles

NBA Scouting Reports, Southeastern Division (Part 1)

Matt Williams
Matt Williams
May 06, 2008, 11:56 pm
Overview: A lightning quick backup point guard, who excels in transition, but doesn’t have the offensive skill set to thrive in half court settings. One of the fastest players in the League. Able to run the ball up the floor, but doesn’t get a chance to in Atlanta’s methodical offensive system. Is limited physically, lacking size and strength. Has had a long line of injury problems that may end up defining his career. Still able to do some nice things on the floor when he is able to freelance and use his speed advantage. Had a very impressive career at Hofstra. Won the American East Conference Player of the Year Award as a junior and senior. Bounced around the League throughout his six year career, battling injury problems throughout. Won the NBA Championship with the Spurs in 2003. Enjoyed some success playing in up-tempo offensive systems.

Offense: Can do some positive things on the offensive end with the ball in his hands. Isn’t a very efficient scorer due to the inconsistency of his jump shot. Possesses decent form on his jumper, but its follow-through changes periodically due to the degree of elevation he has to achieve to shoot over defenders. Doesn’t always set his feet when shooting off the dribble. Has the range to step out to NBA three-point line. Never surprising to see him miss some shots badly because of his mechanics. First step makes him a threat to get into the lane at all times. Can finish around the basket when he has space. Makes his living as a lead guard. Shows the ability to create offensive opportunities for his teammates on a regular basis. Can break his man down consistently off the dribble. Has the athleticism to draw additional defenders with and without screens. Turns the corner with little trouble when executing the pick and roll. Makes good decisions when forced to pass. Sees the floor well. Is a handful in transition solely because he can get out in the open floor and make things happen. Possesses an extra gear that makes him tough for backpedaling defenders to contain. Has much better vertical explosion off one leg than off of two, a telling sign of the kind of threat he can be when pushing the ball up the floor. Unfortunately, is asked to act as a jump shooter in Atlanta, playing away from his biggest offensive strength.

Defense: Size is a hindrance defensively, but is a prototypical ‘water bug’ point guard. Pressures the ball as well as almost any player in the League. Uses his speed to make ball-handlers change direction multiple times before initiating offensive sets. Can be posted up and shot over by taller guards. Does a good job of getting his man out of rhythm. Is a work horse on the defensive end. Creates turnovers with his ball-hawking abilities.