In the years ahead, the LA Clippers’ front office could view the 30th overall pick they made this summer, for Yanic Konan Niederhauser, in one of two ways: as a smart and wise decision for the debatable steal of the draft or as an impulsive move with a more capable player available.
Niederhauser was excellent in his junior season for the Penn State Nittany Lions. He averaged 12.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks, which led him to the self-realization that he is ready for the next step: declaring for the NBA Draft.
The film on Niederhauser was solid, but just like most rookies selected, weaknesses were evident, and the Clippers would be taking a risk. The question is, was using the last pick of the first round on the six-foot-eleven big man an innovative venture?
His college days say yes, but his first summer league game, last night against the Houston Rockets, counters. Granted, Niederhauser performed just as expected on defense by swatting shots and sliding his feet with quick hand-eye coordination, but it is offensively where the front office may already be wishing to take time back.
Yanic Konan Niederhauser’s offensive potential could already be a nightmare that the LA Clippers have no desire to experience
In 26 minutes of his debut in the NBA Summer League, Yanic Konan Niederhauser stood like a tower in the paint. His shot-blocking ability is elite, as evidenced by his excellent timing and effective contests, which explains his four blocks.
Niederhauser also grabbed two steals, which is not common, nor easy, for a center, as most move more slowly. Hence, guards and forwards are typically the primary positions that tally deflections left and right.
However, on offense, Niederhauser was underwhelming. He had plays in transition that demonstrated potential, but they were not finished. Additionally, he went 0-4 from the field, 0-1 from beyond the arc, and 1-2 from the charity stripe.
Niederhauser also posted two turnovers and four personal fouls, with an expected count of zero assists. His playmaking was a massive concern, despite his greatness for Penn State, which will be a challenge to develop in the regular season.
At the end of the day, this performance had positives and negatives, but it was just a summer league game and Niederhauser’s debut. With time, the Clippers and their fans must keep their hopes high that he will eventually translate into a dominant, two-way player.