Nick Collison

Overview: A productive and efficient power forward who lives under the radar, but could be a valuable contributor for most playoff teams. Possesses good height for a power forward at 6-10, and a nice 7-1 ½ wingspan, which allows him to see some minutes at the center position at times. Very strong, and makes an effort to fight for position in the post. Runs the floor hard. Isn’t very quick or explosive. Gets by on good fundamentals and hard work. Solid midrange jumper, but is better around the basket. Shows great footwork and nice touch in the post. Isn’t athletic enough to score consistently at the rim. Passes the ball better than most power forwards. Very sound offensively. An outstanding rebounder who dedicates himself on the glass offensively as well as defensively. Makes an effort to contest shots around the basket, but commits a lot of fouls due to his lack of athleticism. Had a tremendous career at Kansas. Won the Big 12 Conference Player of the Year Award as a senior in 2003. High quality player, but probably won’t get a whole lot better than he is right now. Would probably be more valued on a contending team alongside veteran players.

Offense: A fundamentally sound offensive player who lacks the natural tools to be a dynamic scorer. Gets his touches as a skill player in the post, but also has a hustle player by his own initiative. Displays a nice looking shooting stroke, but struggles mightily with his consistency from the midrange. Won’t do much damage off the dribble and simply isn’t a threat to put the ball on the floor to score. Quality post game. Displays good touch with both hands and over both shoulders. Looks to use his hooks rather than his turnaround. Likes to face up, but is only effective from the left block where he doesn’t spend much time. Knows how to get open under the basket and finish despite his lack of athleticism. Good touch, uses the glass well and knows how to use the rim and his body to get his shot off. Works hard without the ball and has excellent hands. Simply knows how to play good basketball. Has a great feel for the game. Solid passer. Has the timing to grab a few offensive rebounds each game, and always sets solid screens. Does the little things.

Defense: Has good fundamentals and is very competitive, but lacks the athleticism to make an impact against elite level-big men. Doesn’t have the foot speed to stay in front of quicker players in the high (and sometimes low) post, making him fairly foul prone. Struggles stepping out and guarding the pick and roll. Isn’t explosive enough to block shots. Will give fouls when he’s beat. Needs to learn to be more stingy with his fouls. Would be more effective next to a great shot blocker. Plays one-on-one defense like a veteran. Won’t fall for fakes. Rebounds at an outstanding rate. A smart defender, but is somewhat limited against certain matchups.