Detroit Pistons 2021 NBA Draft Profile: Evan Mobley

Evan Mobley #4 of the USC Trojans could be the pick for the Detroit Pistons (Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images)
Evan Mobley #4 of the USC Trojans could be the pick for the Detroit Pistons (Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images)
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Detroit Pistons, Evan Mobley
USC Trojans forward Evan Mobley could be a fit on the Detroit Pistons Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports

Detroit Pistons: Evan Mobley makes plays on both ends

Offensively, Evan Mobley has multiple facets to his game that make him unique for a forward/center. To start off, Mobley has the ability to stretch the court, primarily due to his impressive perimeter shooting skills.

Mobley is shooting 62 percent from within the three-point line and a respectable 32 percent from beyond the arc. His ability to create any type of shot in the paint, and being able to go over both shoulders in the post makes him difficult to guard even when he is posted up in the paint.

Being a seven-footer, his ability to force opposing big men to stick on him outside of the paint opens up passing and cutting lanes for teammates. On top of this, his athleticism allows for him to blow past big men if they are left in single coverage so far from the rim.

This leads right into his next impressive trait which is his playmaking and vision. Having both of these skills usually points to a player that has a high basketball IQ and understands all aspects of the game.

On top of his non-stop scoring threat, his playmaking shines with his ability to put his teammates in successful situations. His ball-handling skills are very helpful in helping create opportunities no matter where he is on the court. Whether Mobley is moving in transition or in a half-court offense, his vision helps him read the whole court and make the best play possible most of the time.

While his offensive skills are most impressive, his defense is where he can make the biggest difference. Given his seven-foot-four wingspan, Mobley can give any player issues with scoring around the rim.

So far this season, Mobley has been averaging 2.9 blocks per game, which ranks top-ten in all of Division-I basketball this year. To add to his defensive capabilities, Mobley’s athleticism allows for him to be able to switch onto smaller guards on the perimeter and keep them contained until a help defender can make it over.

Given both of these skills, Mobley has the pieces to become an elite defender while constantly being a threat on the offensive half of the court.