Scouting Report: H. Smith, 6’4” G

So I figured this could be kind of fun. Stretch my scouting muscles out a little bit and get a little uncomfortably honest with myself about my game.

H. Smith, G, 1999, Pro City (USA)

6'4", 185lbs, 6'7.5"wingspan

The Good: Smith is a rugged, ambidextrous 2-way guard with a strong feel for the game and a natural playmaking touch. Decent shooter with three-level capabilities. He likes getting to his spots in the midrange and using a quick, high release to get his shot off over his defender. Shooting can be streaky, but he's a career 80% shooter from the line, so with the right coach he should develop into a consistent three point threat. While he won't blow you away athletically, he's smooth and knowledgeable about how to beat you from different spots, including 2-3 dribble isolation moves from the wing and finishing with both hands. Passing is the strong point of his offensive game, as he's able to thread needles at a high level. Early growth spurt led to a lot of formative years as a post player, and playing NCAA soccer in tandem with this led to strong footwork. Defensively, his +3.5 wingspan leads you to believe he's switchable on guards, and the post background led to very strong instincts as a helpside defender and shot blocker. Pretty good rebounder for his lack of leaping ability, more of a rim-reader.

The Bad: As an older prospect, he's another in a group of players who's success could easily be defined by the situation he's drafted to. Shooting isn't what you'd hope it would be from an efficiency standpoint for a player who won't ever blow anyone away off the dribble. Handle is also a little bit loose and despite a strong feel for his teammate's' positioning on the floor, he can be goaded into making poor decisions. If he wants to carve out a role as a pro, he'll need to bring his handle to the level of his passing, especially since he'll likely be a one instead of a two due to his frame. Athleticism will likely be targeted despite having a good cerebral feel for defense. Can get baited into reach-in fouls if he gets blown by. Not really an above-the-rim threat, but the team drafting him will be aware of that, undoubtedly. Issues with durability have been called into question, as Smith has been open about issues with both his back and nerves in his fingertips. With rehabbing, you like to think this can be abated, but it's hard to say, especially compared to younger prospects.