NBA Draft: A breakdown of Blazers forward Caleb Swanigan

Mar 16, 2017; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Vermont Catamounts guard Trae Bell-Haynes (2) falls in attempt to pass the ball while Purdue Boilermakers forward Caleb Swanigan (50) defends during the second half of the game in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 16, 2017; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Vermont Catamounts guard Trae Bell-Haynes (2) falls in attempt to pass the ball while Purdue Boilermakers forward Caleb Swanigan (50) defends during the second half of the game in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports /
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KANSAS CITY, MO – MARCH 23: Josh Jackson
KANSAS CITY, MO – MARCH 23: Josh Jackson /

Strengths

Swanigan is a great rebounder by way of using his physicality to bang down low. This helps him establish position and grab rebounds with his long arms.

The forward is a strong inside and post scorer, but also a sufficient mid range shoot.

He has a very quick release and can shoot in a variety of ways; whether it’s coming off screens, pick and pops, or spot ups, Swanigan can hit the shot.

He’s also known to step behind the three-point line and knock some down, too:

Animated GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
Animated GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY /

Swanigan is a good playmaker for his size and will open up the offense with his passing ability:

Animated GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
Animated GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY /

He has a high basketball IQ and motor, as well as a great work ethic. All his numbers improved from his freshman season to his sophomore season, and proved to be one of the best college basketball players last season.

He is just an all-around basketball player who loves to play and can make an impact by just being on the floor.

Check this sequence out:

Animated GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
Animated GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY /

In that short sequence, he registers a chase down block, runs the floor, then shovels a dime to his teammate for an open layup. He’s a player who makes those around him better.