Antonio McDyess

Overview: A skilled power forward who was a tremendous athlete and a franchise player before suffering a serious knee injury early in the 2001 season. Was once able to dominate the low block with explosiveness and strength. Won an Olympic gold medal with the US national team in 2000. Made his only All-Star appearance in 2001. Still has the strength and size to play down low, but isn’t as explosive as he once was. Still moves pretty well despite the injuries. Has polished his offensive game significantly. Transitioned into a bench player when he first joined the Pistons. Made his return to the starting lineup for Detroit in 2006 and is now seeing extended minutes. A very valuable piece.

Offense: One of the League’s best midrange jump shooters. Gets the vast majority of his shots off of spot ups, and pick and pops. Very consistent and reliable shooting stroke. Knocks down fade aways and bank shots with regularity. Decent finisher at the rim as well. Good post player. Likes to turn over his right shoulder for turnarounds on both blocks. Doesn’t drive or put the ball on the floor to attack the rim. Gets to the line periodically anyways. Shoots a mediocre percentage from the stripe. Good offensive rebounder. Smart passer. Improved his offensive skills significantly throughout his career. Used to be able to dominate with athleticism. Developed the skills to be solid even without his elite physical assets.

Defense: Decent defender at the power forward position. Strong and athletic, but not the dominant defender he used to be. Usually gets a tough draw now that he’s a starter. Gives a good effort. Gets his hands up and tries to contest shots at the rim. Strong enough to keep comparably sized players off the block. Has a tough time defending players with height advantages. Not a great midrange defender. Focuses more on prevent drives than shots when his man faces up. Always closes out with a hand up though. Shows sure hands when grabbing rebounds and loose balls. Gives smart fouls.