The next 'Big Things': Watch out for these Rookies

2. Cody Zeller

Of all the videos of Zeller I have watched, one word kept recurring in my mind - Polished. He has a high basketball I.Q. He’s got great coordination for a 7-footer and is an all-round athlete. He runs the floor and plays with great energy. He’s confident, composed and is unselfish. He can make a very sound impact on the offensive end, but not as a scorer. He has a 37.5 running jump and that is AMAZING for a 7 footer – shows that he is a terrific athlete. However, on the defensive end, he has some shortcomings. He’s not much of a shot-blocker, and is overcome by bigger or stronger opponents. He’s predictable and at times, a tad too slow.

The No. 4 draft pick finished the summer circuit with 16.3 PPG, 9.3 RPG and 4 PF. Although he is capable of scoring, he’s not assertive enough. He lacks the alpha male personality and this might be a disadvantage for him. However, Charlotte Bobcats should probably thank the heavens that they got a player of his talent in the draft. Zeller definitely has the potential. But can the Big Man make it big?