Peja Stojakovic

Overview: A tremendous shooter who will score at a high rate despite his lack of elite athleticism. Great size and decent bulk for the small forward spot. Doesn’t show great foot speed or leaping ability, but can get by on his anticipation and experience. Has an impressive offensive repertoire, but does most of his damage with his jump shot. Adequate defender due to his basketball IQ. Grew up in Serbia, but spent quite a bit of his career in Greece. Didn’t make the move to the NBA immediately after being drafted. Wasn’t an overnight success either. Turned the corner during his second year with the Kings. Has had quite a few injuries, but finally managed to stay healthy for the first time in years in 07/08. One of the top European players in the game has the reputation of getting extremely hot from three point range. Two time Three-Point Contest champion. Three time All-Star.

Offense: One of the best shooters the game has to offer. Does most of his damage in that way whether he’s moving off of screens, spotting up, or getting open in transition. Has one of the quickest and purest releases on the planet. Almost impossible to contest due to his size and the quickness in which he gets his shot off. Doesn’t care if there’s a hand in his face. Almost as consistent when defended than when open, which is truly unusual. Lights out from three point range. Only decent off the dribble. Arguably the best catch and shoot player in the League. Doesn’t do a whole lot of scoring at the rim, but works off the ball to find easy looks. Runs the floor well and finds his way to his hot spots in transition. Pretty good ball handler. Rarely gets to the free throw line, but is one of the league’s best once there. Isn’t flashy or quick, but can get where he needs to go. Decent passer, but turns the ball over at a miniscule rate. Moves the ball well on the perimeter, but doesn’t create shots for his teammates. Pretty effective post game. Not just a great shooter, but a very seasoned and polished player across the board.

Defense: A decent defender who plays with savvy. Isn’t athletic or explosive enough to be a lock down defender. Doesn’t have the lateral quickness to stay in front of many offensive players. Uses his basketball IQ to anticipate and funnel players towards his help defense, instead of relying on his physical skills. Great size helps in this regard. Uses his hands extremely well. Will create some turnovers due to his length and intelligence. Not going to be able to defend every player he’s matched up with. Will do his best when it counts. Can defend both forward spots, but doesn’t have the ideal tools for either one. Average rebounder.