FanPost

A case for Bismack Biyombo

As reported by multiple sources, the Hornets will not extend a qualifying offer to Bismack Biyombo, which will make him a free agent. Here's a case for why I think we should sign or at least go after the intriguing 22 years old center out of the Congo. The 6 foot, 9 incher averaged 4.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in 19.4 minutes in his 64 appearances last season with the Hornets.

What he's good at:

Biz's main upside comes from his defense. He's typically very active in the paint on that end, and despite his size, has shown impressive ability to protect the rim. He's also very active on the glass, and has shown a good amount of athleticism when it comes to finishing around the basket. Courtesy of everyone's favorite highlight maker, DownToBuck, here's some nice plays from Biz against some... familiar faces.

And of course some defensive highlights (from a few years back).

What he's... not so good at:

Well, as Suns fans, we're used to complaining about guys that are serviceable on offense and don't really pull their weight on the other end. The good news is, you won't be complaining about lack of effort or hustle when Biz is playing defense. The bad news is, the guy doesn't really have much to offer on the other side. As demonstrated above, the guy will get the occasional putback off the offensive glass, and he can dunk with the best of them...

...But he is lacking in his technical ability. Not much of a jump shot, and over the years he has shot 48%, 52%, 52% and 58% from the line. At least he's improving.

So Bismack has his flaws...

But he's only 22 years old, and there's plenty of time for him to work on his weaknesses. In the meantime he's still a nice character with some good upside on the court.

He's likely to go cheap, especially compared to the other options in play for us, such as Brandan Wright. So why not give this interesting project a chance to show what he's got, and maybe add another piece to our group of young talent?

After all, what's the worst that can happen? He beats up some guy outside of a gym?