Portland Trail Blazers: 3 forwards for Nassir Little to emulate

3. Andre Iguodala

Nassir Little’s body type has him best suited to play small forward in the league. Fans may worry about his defensive potential at the three-slot as he stands only 6’5. Those with concerns should turn to All-Defensive ace Andre Iguodala to quell any qualms they may have.

At his height, Little has a massive wingspan, listed at 7’1. He’s also got the bulk to matchup against any forward in the league at a hefty 224-lbs.

Iggy is similarly built at 6’5, with a 6’11 length from finger tip to finger tip, and weighing in around 217 according to the Comeback.

Of course, Iguodala is a freak athlete, and an underappreciated one. But we’re not scoffing at his absurd physical gifts here either. As unearthly as Andre is, Nassir Little is just as talented in that department.

The only true separators between the two are defensive IQ, discipline, effort, and experience. Experience will come with time, but everything else can be taught and learned immediately.

Little’s best option to get on the court — and stay on — is to prove that he can contain opposing reserve forwards. The Portland Trail Blazers are in desperate need of another elite wing defender alongside Robert Covington. Nassir Little should prove that they already have one on the roster.

If he can study Iggy’s defensive instincts and movements, he’ll go a long way to becoming the star the Blazers hope he will be.