Strengths
Right-handed… To some, Mirotic is just breaking out onto the national scene as of late, but we've had our eyes on Mirotic for some time. He measured in very well at the Nike Hoop Summit at 6'10" with a 7'1" wingspan and has a budding perimeter game to make him a legitimate first round NBA prospect. He was the World Select Team's second-leading scorer and rebounder (behind Enes Kanter's 34 points) with 14 points and 7 rebounds. He showed off a nice ability to read Team USA's defense and find the open man to pass to or drive into the gaps to cut through… His biggest advantage is his developing perimeter game. Earlier in his career, Mirotic used his size and skill to post up and score around the rim, but now he is much more comfortable operating 15-20 feet from the basketball. He's versatile, scoring from inside and out, more so as a stand-still shooting than anything else. He has added a new wrinkle, a shot-fake and one or two dribbles into a pull-up or taking the ball all the way to the rim… Defensively, Mirotic is actually fundamentally sound and won't be a liability like some other European products who are heavy-footed or lack great timing.
Weaknesses
Mirotic is a developing perimeter prospect. He doesn't have a great ability to put the ball on the floor and create his own shot, especially with his left hand. With his size, Mirotic could be an excellent stretch the floor 4-man with his face-up abilities… He played in the low blocks more as a younger player, and could benefit with his size advantage to keep growing as a post player. Right now, his advanced low-post scoring goes about as far as a baby jump hook and with his touch, he could develop into much more… He'll need to add strength to his frame to play some productive minutes in the NBA. Given that, he could probably make himself into a better defensive rebounder, although he is limited by his athleticism… The biggest drawback could not only be his contract's huge buyout clause ($2 million). Playing in Spain and the NBA lockout looming, Mirotic could probably sign a pretty hefty extension to keep him overseas instead of making the venture to the US.
