Ivan Rabb was a highly touted freshman at Cal before returning for one more year. Now, Rabb is entering the NBA draft ready to prove that the extra year in college helped.
When Ivan Rabb returned for a second season at Cal, he had to show it was the right decision. It was a surprise to many that a kid with NBA potential would return, but he was determined to get better. Rabb also participated in Indiana’s pre-draft workout on Monday.
After a respectable freshman campaign, Rabb posted better numbers across the board in year two. He increased his per-game averages in points, rebounds, assists and steals. If the 20-year-old can continue to grow, he could become an NBA cornerstone.
Strengths
Rabb is a stat sheet stuffer. In his sophomore season, he averaged a double-double of 14 points and 10.5 boards per game. Over his career, Rabb recorded 29 total double-doubles, a stat NBA teams should be looking for.
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He stands 6-foot-10 with a 7-foot-1 wingspan. His size and length are there, and at only 220 pounds, he has the agility and quickness to wear out a defense. If he fills out, he could be an even bigger presence down low and on the glass.
His post game has been solid, and he is developing a jumper. The modern NBA values shooters more than ever before, so a solid jump shot can go a long way.
Going back to school shows that he wants to be the best he can be. He knew he wasn’t quite ready for the next level so he took the time to improve. I think NBA teams should view that as a positive because he was focused on the game and not the money. This also speaks to his character.
Weaknesses
Strength could become an issue at the next level if Rabb doesn’t bulk up and fill out. His size isn’t terrible, but some NBA bigs could handle him with ease. The post game will continue to grow if he can work against bigger guys in the paint.
Rabb’s athleticism is also not outstanding. Rabb only posted a 32.5 inch max vertical at the combine. Athleticism isn’t a huge area of need for big men, but a little improvement would help.
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Bleacher Report projects him to be gone before the Pacers are on the clock at No. 18. Depending on how the draft goes, he could be in consideration for the Pacers.
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