NBA Draft 2020: Why Tyrese Haliburton could be the steal of the draft
By Joe Casey
Physical Attributes
Even though it is becoming more common to find taller guards at the top of draft boards, for example Killian Hayes and Lamelo Ball, Haliburton stands out because of his comparable height and longer wingspan. At 6’5 with an estimated 7’0 wingspan, he is by far and away the longest guard in the draft.
His height gives him the ability to see over other smaller guards and heightens his court vision, making him an extremely efficient pick and roll player. At the next level, the pick and roll has become a requirement for point guards to run effectively and Haliburton has been given a physical advantage in comparison to other guards.
In regards to his wingspan, Haliburton uses his length to actively rebound on both ends of the floor. On the offensive end, it was common to find Haliburton tipping missed shots into the basket strictly due to the fact he was taller and longer than his defender.
As a defensive rebounder his length gives him the ability to sky for rebounds and immediately start the break-in transition for easy baskets. Haliburton’s length does not only give him an advantage on the glass but also gives him the potential to be an elite defender.
During his sophomore season, he averaged 2.5 SPG due to his ability to disrupt passing lanes and agitate offenses in the half-court . As he moves to the next level, Haliburton will need to pack on some much needed muscle to become elite but with his current frame and physical attributes he already has a physical advantage over his peers. This will make him a challenging matchup on both ends of the floor, and in time, could help him become an elite two way player at the next level.