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With the 48th pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers selected Ryan Kelly out of Duke University. The 6-foot-11 230-pound power forward played all four years with the Blue Devils and was able to increase his points per game in every season. In his junior season, he made a big leap increasing his points per game from 6.6 to 11.8 and his rebounds from 3.7 to 5.4. He missed the last part of his junior year due to a foot injury which lingered on throughout his senior season causing him to miss several weeks. He increased his scoring average from 11.8 to 12.9 and improved on all of his shooting percentages.
Kelly finds most of his offense as a perimeter shooter. He lacks elevation on his jumper but has consistent mechanics and a quick release which will allow him to get his shot off with impressive accuracy. He has above average ball handling skills for a big man which allows him to compensate for his lack of strength and aggressiveness in the post with a very good finesse game around the rim.
Kelly is a smart and active defender and knows where he needs to be at all times. However, his lack of strength and athleticism will be his biggest downfall in the league. He isn’t athletic enough to cover the power forwards in today’s NBA. He may be better off covering the slower centers, but he will get pushed around and give up many offensive rebounds.
The Lakers should still be considered a playoff contender if Kobe Bryant can come back by Christmas. They have Steve Nash and Pau Gasol returning, and the addition of Chris Kaman will solidify their front court. I don’t envision Kelly having a major role, however, the only backup big on the Lakers is Jordan Hill. Unless they plan on playing small ball he may be called on when they get into foul trouble or have an injury.
Kelly could definitely use some time in the D-League this year and get used to covering the power forwards and centers in the NBA. He will need to get stronger like Ryan Anderson did if he wants to be a major factor in the NBA. If he cant reach that level, he can still be a Byron Mullens type of player that can put the ball in the basket but will be a defensive liability. He will receive sporadic play in his rookie season, but if he can take advantage of his opportunities like Earl Clark did, he could end up being the fourth or fifth guy off the bench.
Related: Los Angeles Lakers Rumors: Lou Amundson Could Provide Good Minutes Off The Bench
