NBA Draft 2021: 5 observations from the G-League Elite Camp

Jose Alvarado shows he belongs

The tiny Georgia Tech point guard won me over in the regular season with his heart and hustle. He was one of the best defensive guards in the country and helped lead the Yellow Jackets to the NCAA Tournament. As expected, Alvarado was his typical pest self at the G-League elite combine. He was constantly picking up full court, making things hard on opposing guards Scotty Pippen Jr. and Carlik Jones. Even if it didn’t lead to a turnover, Alvarado turned opposing guards in the backcourt and made it harder to initiate offense.

Alvarado also showcased his instincts off the ball. He can sense when a big is about to catch the ball in an uncomfortable position, and times when he’s going to go for the steal. He has a tendency to gamble, but they aren’t ill-advised attempts. He nabbed three steals in the first scrimmage.

Offense is the challenge for Alvarado at the next level. He’s quick with the ball, but his size makes finishing hard around the rim. He’s a capable shooter, nailing an impressive stepback three in the second scrimmage, but his shot is not at the level it needs to be at yet. He had a few rim attempts blocked due to sheer size.

Alvarado probably isn’t going to get drafted, especially after he wasn’t one of the four players selected to move up to the NBA Combine. But, he showed he’s someone who is worth a two-way contract. I can’t wait to watch him eat up opposing guards at the Summer League.