May 16, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Shabazz Muhammad is interviewed during the NBA Draft combine at Harrison Street Athletics Facility. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
The Blazers possess the 10th pick in the 2013 NBA Draft and have sampled a figurative smorgasbord of prospects. Although there are a number of quality players at varying positions, there is one I am particularly keen on. As you have gathered, this is UCLA small forward, Shabazz Muhammad. Muhammad’s year in college was surrounded by petty scandal- just enough to drop his draft stock to between #8 and #12. From questionable eligibility to falsified age to a first round loss in the NCAA tournament, Muhammad has had his share of bad press.
The beauty of it is that very little of the reason for his slide is actually basketball based. He is still the big time player that makes big time plays. Shabazz led the Bruins with 18 points per game in 2012-2013 and is ready to bring his skills to the next level. He has already stated that he wants to help the Portland Trail Blazers and he is willing to learn, and I say we give him his shot if he’s available at 10. Here’s why: