2025 NBA Draft Prospect: Izan Almansa, 6-10 Forward from Perth - A Versatile International Big with High Upside

In the world of basketball scouting, finding players with versatility and a high ceiling is always a priority. One such player who fits this description is Jaden McDaniels, a 6-10 forward from the United States. At just 19 years old and weighing 220 pounds, McDaniels is an accomplished international big who projects as a versatile offensive hub and a prolific rebounder. However, his production will need to start matching his flashes of upside sooner than later.

• Facilitating: McDaniels is a strong elbow and post playmaker with the ability to handle double teams and locate shooters and cutters. His NBA team could use him in dribble handoffs since he can also dribble to the basket or back into post-ups.
• Midrange scoring: He loves using spin moves straight into hook shots, and it works no matter the angle or the defensive contest. He’s a strong dribbler and passer, and he also has a push floater that could punish defenses that leave him open. If his shot develops, his open floor ball-handling would open up his game even more.
• Screening: A fundamental screener and an eager roller with soft hands, McDaniels is patient and uses head and ball fakes to let defenders fly by when needed. A potential short-roll weapon if paired with the right point guard.
• Hustle: A great rebounder on both ends with a nose for the ball, McDaniels is like a magnet. He runs the floor hard too and makes second and third efforts on the regular.
• Defense: A high-effort defender with the ability to play in different schemes, McDaniels is nimble enough to switch or blitz.

Concerns:

• Shooting: McDaniels is a subpar free-throw shooter and stiff from 3-point range. Even though he has midrange touch, it hasn’t translated anywhere else. He also seems to struggle with confidence as a shooter; when he misses early, he’ll pass up open shots. At this stage, his shooting development is purely hypothetical.
• Athleticism: As a drop coverage big man on defense, McDaniels is more of a positional defender than an imposing shot-blocker. And on the perimeter, he’s solid but not a stopper. He still gets roasted by some quicker players.
• Strength: McDaniels gets overpowered by stronger players on post-ups, which raises concerns about his ability to play center.

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