What is Trendon Watford’s floor?
Through 31 games, Watford has made it clear that he belongs on an NBA court. His size, athleticism, versatility, and two-way potential are all of professional quality.
At the least, he can be counted on for energy and effort while providing traditional size at the power forward position.
In his short career, he’s already proven to have elite touch inside for a big man. Watford might have one of the best-looking floaters among true big men, if not all NBA players.
He’s also shown that he’s a willing defender — albeit a little too eager and overzealous — and has the length and strength necessary to hold up against power forwards and even some centers in the league.
Just from the tools he’s already proven to have through 31 games, Watford should land a multi-year NBA contract.
The Portland Trail Blazers have until the end of the season to turn his contract from a two-way to a guaranteed multi-year deal. If they do, which they should, they’ll be securing a solid backup big who can contribute in spurts on both ends of the floor.
Floor: Trevor Booker
Trevor Booker was a longtime NBA backup four, who carved out an eight-year career with his offensive touch.
He flashed perimeter skills throughout the years but never developed them enough to become more than a solid bench guy.
With solid size and mobility, Booker could hold his own on defense but never showed the elite instincts needed to compensate for his middle-of-the-road athleticism to become a truly impactful stopper.
Ultimately, Booker’s lack of a reliable 3-point shot cut his career short. He shot 31 percent from deep in his time in the league. Trendon Watford will similarly need to either become a plus defender or a reliable deep threat to become an NBA starter.