NBA Comparison: Jonathan Bender/Mikki Moore
Strengths: Ajinca was an important factor in his team reaching the semifinals of the French Cup (Semaine des As), not solely due to his 7 blocks and several others redirected, but on offense as well, he created his share of mayhem ... A very agile and mobile 7 footer with great athleticism and long arms, able to run the floor very well and shows solid passing ability in the process ... Even in the open court, he enjoys an accurate awareness ... Also a good shot blocker who takes pride on defense, using his available tools (quick feet), although he needs to improve his concentration and toughness in defensive 1 on 1 situations ... His rebounding is quite good, often pursuing offensive boards, but needs to box out a bit better on defense. Also decent hands and okay shooting stroke from 15 feet and in.
Weaknesses: Should set better picks to exploit more pick and roll situations. Nonetheless he's a guy who gives a strong effort and plays with intensity ... Apart from that, his balance is just okay and he doesn't always enjoy a soft touch near the basket ... Draws few fouls in general and still lacking lot of game knowledge (experience)... His strength has shown improvement in the past year but remains a big hurdle for him. He moves very well for a player his size, but there are questions about how additional weight will affect his mobility ...
draftexpress got him going 23
Comparisons:
Best Case: LaMarcus Aldridge
Worst Case: Francisco Elson
AT A GLANCE - Alexis Ajinca
Strengths:
• Size
• Incredible wingspan
• Athleticism
• Fluidity
• Ability to finish around the basket
• Ability to face up
• Range out to 3-point line
• Good feel/Understands the game
• Unselfishness
• Solid passer
• Timing/Coordination
• Ability/Agility to hedge screens on perimeter
• Shot-blocking potential
• Huge upside
Weaknesses:
• Extremely skinny
• Frail frame
• Not incredibly active
• Average rebounder
• Lacks balance/core strength
• Cannot hold spot on the block
• Finishing through contact
• Poor footwork/Post-moves
• Struggles to defend players man to man
• Foul prone
• Mental lapses/Decision making
• Extremely inexperienced/Barely plays
