Despite not playing in the 2023 NBA Summer League, Utah Jazz rookie Taylor Hendricks still believes he will be a good defender in the league. He was already an elite defensive prospect when he was in college playing for the University of Central Florida.
Every NBA scout knows the league is the pinnacle of basketball, especially on offence. That means any player looking to become a good defender will have a tough time for at least their first year in the league.
Anyone looking to make wagers for the Jazz has to see Hendricks because he is a projected starter in the frontcourt. He can also be a good prospect for beginners who want to try a hand at sports betting aside from playing live casino games. Here are the reasons why Hendricks believes he can be an elite defender:
Playing defence in the NBA requires many adjustments
People have to realise the NBA’s level of play is more intense and gruelling compared to college basketball. Hendricks might have looked elite in college but he has to make adjustments when he enters the NBA. Speed is the most important factor players have to adjust to because the NBA is filled with world-class athletes.
Physicality is also a factor they have to remember which Hendricks will have to prepare for because he might struggle in that aspect if he does not bulk up. However, Hendricks believes he fits well in the NBA.
He said, ‘I would just say, it’s just different things you have to do on defence. But just watching (the games), I feel like I could thrive in that environment’.
Hendricks has the physical tools to become an elite defender
Coming from college, Hendricks has solid tools because he is a switchable defender who can keep up with any player from point guards to centers. That kind of skill set is vital to success in the modern NBA as you see from Draymond Green and Aaron Gordon. Hendricks has the wingspan of a sliver over seven feet while standing at a 6’10” frame.
He has superb foot speed as he can keep up with the smaller and speedier players. Think of a player like Trae Young, he is one of the most elite offensive players in the league but he’s tiny compared to Hendricks which is a tough matchup. If the rookie can keep up, he can contain players like Young and that’s good for a promising Jazz frontcourt with him and Walker Kessler.
Hendricks fits well in the Jazz lineup
As Kessler has proven he is one of the best rim protectors in the league in his rookie season in 2022/23, he has cemented his place in the Jazz starting lineup. Most people might think John Collins is the long-term answer for the Jazz in the power forward position but Hendricks is the right choice.
He is the defender that any team would love to have and Collins is more of the offensive talent. However, Hendricks has the upside on offence too so the Jazz might let Collins walk away or make him stay as a sixth-man scorer.
Any NBA fan or sports bettor will have a good underdog option with the Jazz next season. This can be a good stepping stone for a beginner who wants to take a break from live casino games.
