Mouhamed Gueye

Overview:

Mouhamed Gueye is a very long wing that, with development, could be an intriguing NBA contributor.  Gueye has the length of an NBA Big but right now does not have the frame to successfully compete against NBA Bigs.  He is only 20 years old, so there is room to grow.  He has the length to potentially dominate wings but doesn’t have the shot making to be a viable option.  The direction of his career will depend largely on which direction he chooses; add size to become an NBA Big or add shooting skill to become a long NBA Wing.

NBA Skill:  Rim Finishing Big

Mouhamed Gueye looks like an NBA player.  Long, agile for his size, runs well and works hard.  But when compared to the averages of other drafted NBA Bigs he is below average in almost all categories.  Gueye’s shooting efficiency is very low across the board.  His low efficiency is due to his small frame which leads to being pushed off his line on drives to the basket, matador screen setting and an overall avoidance of contact.  Gueye makes up for his lack of size with a high motor.  But at his current size, it is questionable that will be able to find more than just spot minutes on an NBA team.  In order to be a contributor on an NBA team Gueye will need to add 20 pounds onto his frame. This will unlock his ability to finish at the rim, and be an effective screener. 

Gueye would be a more intriguing NBA prospect if he could develop into an efficient wing.  At 6 ’10”, developing into a credible floor spacer that can finish at the rim.  It would be a more difficult road but it would come with a lot more upside.  While he may never become the next Kevin Durant, this option may suit his body type better.

In order for Gueye to carve out a role on a NBA team he will need to be a much better roller in pick and roll.  But to really add value he will need to improve his shooting, transition finishing and cut to the basket.  As a second side role player this will be his key to getting playing time at the NBA level.

Assist and Decision Making

Mouhamed Gueye has shown good connector passing.  He makes solid reads and “one-more” passes.  While his turnovers are a bit high, Gueye makes solid reads.  He will need to value the ball more as there won’t be as many opportunities given to role players unless he is making up for those mistakes on the defensive end.

Rebounding and Defense

Mouhamed Gueye out performs his slender frame with a high rebounding motor.  This is great for a young player who will only be 19 on draft night.  His high motor is seen in his offensive rebounding numbers.  

Defensively, Gueye is a below average defender when compared to previously drafted Bigs.   For a player as long as Gueye he should get more blocks during the season.  As a second side help defender Gueye doesn’t protect the rim as well as his athleticism and length would expect.  Hopefully, with the right development, this will be an area where Gueye can be developed to maximize his elite physical gifts.