For years, the secret to unlocking All-Star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo’s full potential on the court is to surround him with shooters and give him enough space to operate in the paint. The Milwaukee Bucks can continue that formula by drafting G-League Ignite star Izan Almansa in the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft.
Almansa started his professional career in the United States by signing with Overtime Elite in 2021 after playing several years in Spain. He played two seasons there before ultimately signing with the G-League Ignite in 2023.
Over the course of 16 games, Almansa posted averages of 8.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per contest. Although 6’10” forward needs to improve his outside shooting, the Spanish star connected 52 percent of his shots from the field.
Just recently, Almansa declared for the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft. Although the incoming class of rookies is considered weaker than previous batches, there might be some gems waiting to be unearthed, such as the G-League Ignite forward.
Izan Almansa Among Milwaukee Bucks’ Prospects in 2024 NBA Draft
Along with Purdue’s Zach Edey and Alabama’s Mark Sears, the Milwaukee Bucks may consider getting Izan Almansa in the draft to bolster their lineup. Franco Luna explains more in an article for Behind the Buck Pass.
“Possibly the most important thing for a big these days: Almansa stretches the floor with a developing 3-point shot. As we’ve seen with both Portis and Lopez, this opens driving lanes for Giannis and creates spacing nightmares for opposing defenses, especially ones that like to drop on the pick-and-roll. His ability to knock down open shots complements Giannis’ drive-and-kick game perfectly.
And yet Almansa isn’t just a scorer; he’s a facilitator. With a high basketball IQ and impressive passing skills for his size, he can operate out of the high post, finding open shooters and creating scoring opportunities for teammates. This unselfish style complements Giannis’ dominance in the paint,” Luna wrote.
Although the Bucks may benefit from another guard in its rotation, the franchise can use one of its two picks in the draft on Almansa. Doing so will add another reliable forward to defend at the highest level and progress in the coming years on the offensive end of the court.
It remains to be seen whether Milwaukee uses one of its two picks on Almansa or not. Nevertheless, there’s a lot of upside that comes along with the G-League Ignite star.
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