Nikola Vucevic 2015-16 Statistical Projections
The Big Picture
Many might feel these projections skirt the real issues with Vucevic, most of which lie in his defensive abilities. That is a fair assumption, because this is really about projecting offensive numbers (and board work).
Our overall line works out to 21 points per game, 11 rebounds and 2.5 assists.
Say it loud: “All Star!”
The Magic making a leap to playoff contention would all but assure Vucevic and his teammates start getting the respect they all crave. This is a team that is better than 25 wins, but a lot of the improvement is going to come on the heels of players playing smarter ball.
Smarter ball means getting it to a guy that can put it in the bucket. With Vucevic having established himself as a threat both at the basket and stepping away from it, there’s no reason the Magic can’t turn him into a premier offensive center.
Manu Ginobili was quick to credit him as “one of the best big men in the NBA.”
And it is not just Ginobili or even Erik Spoelstra giving Vucevic props that has us so ready to call him that 21/11 player. It is his past performance.
Vucevic has continued to get better each year in the NBA, and it is doubtful he has truly reached his ceiling, at least numerically.
His play may not substantially change over the rest of his NBA career, but his role can.
The Magic can make sure to get him the ball, involve him in the offense and to maximize a very versatile skill set complete with soft touch.
It is certainly not too much to ask from a well-coached team of young players.