Devin Ebank's Breakout Summer League Performance

Devin Ebanks the athletic forward from the West Virginia University is having a promising summer league campaign as part of the Los Angeles Lakers summer league team. Ebanks had first round draft potential, but scouts were scared because they didn't know if he could shoot the ball or put it on the floor and go to the basket. Also, some attitude and character issues played into the role of Ebanks slipping into the 2^nd round going to the Los Angeles Lakers with the 43^rd overall pick.

Personally, the Lakers got a steal by picking up Ebanks here. If Devin Ebanks does what he's suppose to and maintains his cool and attitude he'll be a significant contributor to the Lakers. Ebanks is a shutdown defensive player that can crash the boards as well.

So far after 2 summer league games Devin Ebanks is looking like a scorer averaging 22.5 ppg and shooting over 50% from the field. Also, Ebanks is shooting a whopping 50% from the 3 point arc. That was a noted deficit with scouting reports, but Devin Ebanks is out to prove all the teams that passed on him that he's a talented all-around player who can score if needed.

However, Ebanks role with the Los Angeles Lakers will be more of a contributor like playing defense, rebounding and getting points as needed. Devin has Kobe Bryant, Paul Gasol and Lamar Odom to score for the Lakers.

Devin Ebanks has the intangibles of being long and athletic. He'll improve as he practices and plays against the greatest players in the world. All he'll need is the chance and opportunity to earn playing time. Also, Ebanks will need to add strength to compete underneath the basket with the big boys.

Is Devin Ebanks the steal of the NBA draft? Only time will tell and the way he handles himself on and off the court will play a critical role if he makes the Lakers team and becomes a contributor.

Source:

http://www.nba.com/summerleague2010/players/devin_ebanks/index.html