NBA Free Agency Preview: 10 Lesser Talked About Names
Al-Farouq Aminu
Al-Farouq Aminu (1.2 nERD) didn't put up gawdy numbers this year. In 18.5 minutes, Aminu scored just 5.6 points (on 41.2% shooting) and tallied 4.6 rebounds per game. His per 36 numbers aren't really worth mentioning either. What did the 24-year old show the NBA then?
For starters, he is just 24. Aminu is young and still learning how to develop a consistent jumper. As for his talents in the here and now, Aminu is a rare small forward with the quickness and ability to slow down a Durant or LeBron (the ability to). In his limited time role, Aminu accumulated a Defensive Rating of 102 with 1.8 steals and 1.6 blocks per 36 minutes.
That defensive ability is the reason many teams will be looking to add Aminu to the mix for this upcoming season. That list of teams includes Portland, Boston, New York, Toronto and New Orleans. Aminu and his defensive talents could surely help any of those teams improve on the defensive end of the floor.