AG@RICE said:
I think people are overestimating Clingan based upon the success of Walker Kessler. The large slow center had largely gone out of fashion until Kessler put on a show last year. The thing people forget is that Kessler averaged >4 blocks per game in college, while Clingan barely got to 2.5. They aren't close to the same player.
I'm actually curious why you think Clingan will be better than Zach Edey?
Edey was more productive in almost every category in college. He has also tested better at the combine in agility drills. Clingan is testing like an incredibly slow footed plodder.
If I'm betting on a behemoth I'm picking Edey. At the very least he put up big offensive numbers consistently. He even torched Clingan for 37 in the title game. That said, I don't think either of them will be able to cover enough space laterally to be impactful on the defensive end in the NBA.
I too was shocked at Edey vs Clingan's combine numbers but watching them actually play in games, to me it's not close. Edey may have tested better in an open gym against air, but I've seen enough games to know he's the much slower player in a real game. Clingan conversely just plays bouncier, regardless of what the combine said.
If I'm predicting what the role for both players are; I think the likely outcome for Edey is a change of pace limited 3rd string C. Whereas Clingan will be a bonafide #2. Kessler I think is Clingan's 'comp' because they're both white guys but I think his upside comp is closer to Jarrett Allen.
