Scouting Report: Clint Capela, PF, Switzerland
One of the top shot-blockers and rebounders in the top French league this past season, Swiss frontcourt prospect Clint Capela is as intriguing as they come. Remember the difference Serge Ibaka made in the Western Conference finals by adding an element of rim protection for Oklahaoma City? That's what some believe Capela could eventually provide at the NBA level, should a team have the patience to develop the 20-year-old properly.
Background
| Position | DX Rank | ESPN Rank | Height w/o Shoes | Weight (lbs.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PF | 18 | 26 | 6' 9.5" (2013) | 222 |
| Wing | Vert (in.) | Standing Reach | Hand Length (in.) | Agility (sec.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7' 4.5" | n/a | 9' 2.5" | n/a | n/a |
Scouting Report
Strengths: Capela is incredibly long and flashes great shot-blocking instincts, profiling as an elite rim protector in his top-percentile development paths. He should defend well in the pick-and-roll, too, given his length and athleticism. He also rebounds well and uses his speed to get out in transition for offense, often finishing above the rim.
Weaknesses: International prospects and big men both tend to take longer to develop - and since Capela is both, patience will be required for any team drafting him. He needs to add strength and has a virtually non-existent offensive game; additionally, he'll likely face fouling issues when he makes the jump. For these reasons, a team may stash him in Europe for a season.
Highlight Reel
What to Expect on Draft Day
Capela's stock has been up and down all season. Teams differ on whether they want him to come to the NBA right away or get another year of seasoning - in the latter case, teams with multiple first-round picks seem like logical landing spots. He probably won't go higher than No. 18 (where Phoenix has its second of three picks) and it's conceivable, though somewhat unlikely, that he could miss the first round entirely.