Power Ranking Every Clippers Player: Who’s Their MVP?
By Tom West
14th: Chuck Hayes
Jan 25, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Chuck Hayes (44) goes after the ball against the Los Angeles Clippers at Air Canada Centre. The Clippers beat the Raptors 126-118. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
As the Clippers’ newest signing, 6’6″ big man Chuck Hayes is most likely coming to L.A. at number five in the frontcourt rotation. With the likes of Griffin, Jordan, Josh Smith and Cole Aldrich around, Hayes will start with a minor role near the bottom of the second unit with rookie Branden Dawson.
Hayes will only be playing around 5 minutes a game in the rare occasions he steps onto the floor. His role will be something similar to that of Ekpe Udoh from last season, which means that he’ll hardly be making much difference to the Clippers’ championship chances. However, that doesn’t mean that he has nothing to offer.
When looking past his career free throw percentage of 61.8 (which isn’t much of a problem seeing as he has such a small role), Hayes can bring two key strengths to the Clippers: post defense and playmaking.
On defense, Hayes uses his strong frame to try and force opponents out of the paint as much as possible. Even though he lacks explosiveness and speed, he makes up for it with correct instincts and effort. As a result, he made opponents shoot 5.8 percent worse than normal on two point attempts. Then, at the other end of the floor, Hayes used his vision and high-post passing to average 2.8 assists per 36 minutes last season, whilst creating 8.4 points per 48 minutes with his passes.
He won’t be doing a lot for the Clippers, but he’ll stick to his role and bring some defensive energy when necessary. If he can help serve as a solid veteran presence to younger players as well, that’s just another added bonus.
Next: Branden Dawson