Outside the Draft Box: Nik Stauskas

Stauskas stepped up as a player who uses screens as well.  Last year, he was often found sitting behind the arc waiting for the play to develop as a 4th or 5th option player. This year, he split the role as a top offensive option with Caris Lavert.  His best move is using screens to set up his jumpshot.  He may shoot behind the screen, or use the screen to brush his defender off-balance, then step back to pull up for his jumpshot. He’s opportunistic at attacking the basket, but has a surprising amount of shake off-the-dribble to get by his initial defender.

Defensively, Stauskas may have some issues.  His lateral quickness is average at best, along with his wingspan.  At the shooting guard position, he’ll be doing a lot of work chasing shooters and fighting through off-ball screens.  He brings more strength than most at the shooting guard position.  What he lacks in physical talent he makes up for with intensity and focus.

On a side note, he’s the type of player that would be scary in a San Antonio Spurs system.  He has excellent basketball IQ, makes the simple play, plays a well-disciplined game, and knows how to incorporate teammates within the half-court set. He’s an unselfish player, and often prides himself on his shooting abilities along with his playmaking abilities.