2024 Preview: Denver Based Forwards Worth Another Look
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Johnathan Lyons CO #29 SF #6 HEIGHT 6'5" POS SF CLASS 2024 View Profile Johnathan Lyons State: Colorado School: Cherry Creek Club: Colorado Collective Lyons is a two-way forward worth watching thanks to his defensive versatility and willingness to stay…
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Continue ReadingLyons is a two-way forward worth watching thanks to his defensive versatility and willingness to stay physical. Capable matching up 2-4, the small forward possesses a wide reach, capable of staying in front of a variety of matchups. Given his wide reach and high motor, Lyons shows notable value grabbing rebounds on either end of the floor, actively finding box outs to secure the opponent. Their offensive game has taken notable strides through the past couple years, improving his spot-up shooting and overall capabilities attacking the rim. Now at Cherry Creek, the seniors will have ample opportunities to showcase their skills within a new environment.
Buchenau is another sturdy forward with an especially high motor on either end of the floor. Capable guarding up against taller opponents, the forward does well at getting low to irritate opponents in the paint. As he continues to add athleticism, we could be looking at Buchenau as a legitimate rim protector, particularly at the point of attack. Throughout showcase events, Buchenau has continued to become more comfortable attacking the rim off the bounce. Active attacking smaller matchups in order to get a layup or draw the double.
Bazan-Torres was an impactful tall guard from the Uprise Elite 100 Showcase, effective in a variety of areas on offense. Capable of knocking down quick triples off the catch, the tall guard has plenty of gravity out along the perimeter. They showed value attacking closeouts, staying patient to read the defense once help came. Effective getting to his pivot foot for shot fakes and fadeaways, the guard is certainly a bright spot for Lakewood’s program.
Bantock showed a versatile impact on offense, particularly with his passing vision and perimeter shooting. Capable of sending bounce passes through tight windows, the forward has no trouble attempting a daring pass if available. Possessing intrigue as a spot-up shooter out to the three point line, the forward will play a role in Dakota Ridge’s excellent floor spacing. Continuing to add strength will be necessary for Bantock to match up with the bigger forwards the state has to offer, particularly if the Jeffco program makes another playoff run.
Highlights
An especially bouncy forward, Dixon was an excellent defender around the rim, effective at guarding up against taller opponents. Both strong and athletic, the guard will be a valuable frontcourt defender with Valor, who is still fairly small among those positions. Their continued growth and increase in volume on spot-up attempts beyond the arc will be important for his offensive upside. Should Dixon be a consistent floor spacer, he will have ample opportunities to attack for above the rim finishes. Valor will feature three above average three point shooters in the majority of their projected lineups, allowing ample space for the senior forward.
Prinicipato will step into a much larger role this season, following the departure of seven seniors from the formerly 17-7 program. The guard is effective off the ball, maneuvering into position to effectively space the floor or get downhill on a cut. Interesting season ahead, especially considering the significant growth in opportunity for the wing.