SF: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist – Outside Shooting
Age: 22
2015-16 Averages: 12.7 PPG, 1.3 APG, 6.4 RPG, 1.1 TOV, 29.3 MPG
2015-16 Shooting Stats: 54.1% FG, 42.9% 3FG, 69% FT
Yes we know. This has largely been the knock on MKG throughout his NBA career and until we have seen a significant jump in his outside shooting ability, it will continue to be. We saw a slight glimpse of his improved shooting touch last season but because of injuries, there wasn’t enough to change the narrative surrounding Kidd-Gilchrist.
He is already a world-class perimeter defender, an effective rebounder, and good at slashing to the basket. The only thing that could take his game to the next level would be an improved outside shot. It doesn’t even have to be three-point shots either, if he can consistently knock down mid-range jumpers this season, then I think most people would consider that a success.
We all know how tirelessly MKG has worked on his outside shot since entering the NBA but now that he will be entering his fifth year in the league, it is time to see a significant improvement. Kidd-Gilchrist was able to show some effectiveness with his outside shot in his seven games last season. Before the 2015-16 season, MKG had only made three three-point shots in his entire professional career. He was able to make three in only seven game this past season.
So while there is some improvement, we will need to see it consistently from Kidd-Gilchrist this season if he wants to be considered as one of the the top-10 small forwards in the NBA. While I doubt that he will be able to shoot over 40% from the three-point line like he did this past year, if he is somewhere in the mid-30’s then that would be good for him and the team.
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