Javaris Crittenton Draft Capsule
VITALS: 6-5, 198, Georgia Tech
OVERVIEW: Recognized three times as the Atlantic Coast Conference Rookie of the Week in his only collegiate season. Shared the team's scoring lead, averaging 14.4 points. Led Georgia Tech in assists (5.8 apg) and ranked third in the ACC with 2.03 steals. Had 26 points, five rebounds, six assists and seven steals vs. Clemson. Posted a season-high 11 assists and scored 13 points in a win at North Carolina. Named Georgia's "Mr. Basketball" in 2006. Holds Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy's all-time scoring record with 3,500-plus points. Teamed with the Orlando Magic's Dwight Howard to win a Class A state championship in 2004.
LIKELY DRAFT POSITION: 18-27
COMPARATIVE UPSIDE: Chauncey Billups
COMPARATIVE DOWNSIDE: Julius Hodge
ROLE PROJECTION: Backup point guard who will need time and careful nurturing.
POSITIVES: Javaris Crittenton has the size NBA teams crave at the point guard position. He is aggressive taking the ball to the basket and also a competent jump shooter. Despite having only one season of college basketball behind him, Javaris Crittenton has the makings of a starting point guard. He is unselfish and will make some excellent plays for teammates. He has excellent potential to get better as he gains experience.
SHORTCOMINGS: Javaris Crittenton was a high-assist, high-turnover point guard in his one season in college. For every great play he made, he had a turnover that showed his lack of patience and maturity as a floor general. Often, he would rush a play and end up with a palming or traveling violation. Despite his talent, Javaris Crittenton is a at least two years away from being able to think about starting in the NBA.
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