Guerschon Yabusele could blossom this season.
The Boston Celtics have few weaknesses. Players across the roster can dominate any game.
Boston’s guard rotation is, by far, the best in the NBA. The Celtics have a top-15 player in Kyrie Irving–and more–guys who can tear up the court, like Marcus Smart, Terry Rozier, and Jaylen Brown. The wing play is strong, too. There’s former all-star, Gordon Hayward, and emerging star, Jayson Tatum.
However, there is one position that needs help–power forward. The only true fours on the team are Daniel Theis and Guerschon Yabusele. But one of those players has the capability of being a key contributor this year. That player is Yabusele.
Considered one of the best international prospects heading into the 2016 NBA draft, Yabusele was picked 16th overall by the Celtics. His style, which combines grittiness and hustle, befits his nickname, “Dancing Bear.”
Because Yabusele played overseas his entire career–and the C’s didn’t need major contributions from him at the moment–he was selected to play overseas ball under their draft rights.
During that season abroad, Yabusele showed clear signs of potential. His international per game splits were impressive. Through his 43 games played, he racked up 20.9 points, 2 assists, and 9.4. What’s especially impressive is that he was able to record those stats while starting just four games.
But, unfortunately for Yabusele, he never got the chance to display his skill set for the Celtics last year. I think that may change this year. Here’s why.
What the Celtics need is a two-way power forward, a player who can contribute on the defensive end while also being able to score on the other end. Theis isn’t the answer; he lacks an offensive game. Another option, Marcus Morris, is challenged defensively.
That leaves the door wide open for Yabusele. His defensive game is his calling card. A 6’7”, 260-pound frame makes him a nightmare for defensive players–particularly those who prefer an inside game. Pound-for-pound Yabusele makes it difficult for opponents to do anything in the post. And his strength serves him well in the rebounding department. His 16.4% defensive rebound percentage is impressive.
See what I mean.
The main question is Yabusele’s offensive polish. His three-point percentage dropped dramatically–a full 6%–from overseas to the NBA. Hopefully, though, chemistry developed with the team’s playmakers will enable him to get better shot opportunities.
If Yabusele is able to replenish his offensive game, then expect him to gain significant minutes. In fact, I think he could be the team’s leading defensive player off the bench. Match him up with the established forward, like Semi Ojeleye, and I think the Celtics backcourt may once again be one of NBA’s best.
