Story by
Purdue C Oscar Cluff Could Solidify Nets' Front Court as UDFA
- Story by
- Purdue C Oscar Cluff Could Solidify Nets' Front Court as UDFA
(Jeff Curry/Imagn Images)
Tomorrow, June 23rd, the Brooklyn Nets will add the next generation of NBA talent to their ranks, with the No. 7 overall pick and multiple opportunities in the second round.
In this year's draft class, a lot of talented players will fall lower than expected due to the high quality prospects towards the top of the class, making way for teams to capitalize following the draft.
Advertisement
Recently, we have covered multiple undrafted free agent targets for Brooklyn, including Purdue's Fletcher Loyer and Texas Tech's Donovan Atwell.
In this profile, I will highlight Loyer's teammate, Oscar Cluff, who was one of the most efficient players in the country last season.
High-Quality Shot Selection
Cluff excelled in his lone season at the power four level, averaging 10.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 0.9 blocked shots per game.
However, his shooting percentage stood out, with the 6-foot-11 big man converting on 68.3-percent of his field goal attempts, ranking second in school history.
Advertisement
Cluff recorded nine double-doubles throughout the season, holding down the glass and creating extra opportunities through his hustle.
In a big win over No. 7 Nebraska, Cluff tied a school record with ten offensive rebounds, ending the season as the ninth-best offensive rebounder in the country (130).
While Cluff has some work to do to fit the NBA's perimeter-oriented style of play, he is a dominant player close to the rim, with great touch and the ability to finish with both hands from multiple angles.
In a 79-59 victory over Marquette, Cluff demonstrated his efficiency, knocking down all nine of his shot attempts and going 4-for-4 from the charity stripe.
Advertisement
Cluff led all scorers with 22 points, adding 11 rebounds.
Areas For Improvement
Outside of developing a semblance of perimeter ability, Cluff should try to improve from the free-throw line.
Overall, Cluff shot under 70-percent from the foul line, but got to the line at a decent rate.
Draft Projection
Cluff is not listed in many mock draft projections, but will definitely be seen as a high-priority UDFA.
On ESPN's big board, the Australian native is ranked as the No. 59 overall prospect.
Are Nets a Fit?
The Nets could benefit from Cluff's interior consistency and experience alongside NBA hopefuls Loyer and Braden Smith, who have been mocked close to Brooklyn's second round selections throughout the pre-draft process.
Advertisement
Join the Community
Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!
It's completely free to join, simply by clicking the yellow button at the top of the homepage. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
