Has Orlando Found A Hidden Gem ? All Star Break Update
It was the last game before the all star break so Orlando decided to rest Vanvleet to give him a even longer break. In his place two-way player Jessel Perez started and right away made a name for himself. In 32 minutes he scored 20 points, dished out 5 assist and had 3 steals and went 6/8 from 3.
Perez has saw his overall increase since he was signed (1 or 2 points) still he was a intriguing prospect this past summer. We admit we have no clue where he came from just happy, we found him. A 3 & D PG with solid size at 6'3 you're not going to see many PG with his combo of perimeter defense and 3-point shooting. Oddly enough VanVleet would be a pretty good comparison for him.
If he can shoot 40% from 3 this year then he is good enough to be in the rotation next year. Especially if he can get steals like he did this game which is possible as he is +13 over the league average. Despite A+ grades in 3's and mid-range his FT rating is only 62. He only grades out as D athleticism, but its not a total loss in the department. He has 91 speed 9 above league average. Then his 93 speed is 10 above league average. His playmaking is another negative.
Orlando is thinking about putting him onto the main roster, but would need to cut someone to do it. Boban, we like having around as the 3rd C incase Shaq gets hurt. Then Kris Dunn and his A+ defense could come in handy late in games in the playoffs. So what likely happens is Orlando just signs him this summer to a longer-term deal.
Orlando goes into the all-star break a bit cold still is the 3rd seed. Things are pretty tight so could easily move up or down. Shaq and Banchero were both voted to the all-star game.
