Expectations for Bryce McGowens: Realistic and best-case scenario with Blazers

Bryce McGowens is a lanky 6-foot-7 shooting guard who was the No. 40 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. In two seasons with the Hornets, he's averaged just over five points on 33 percent shooting from behind the arc. What can the Blazers hope to expect from him this season after signing him to a two-way deal?

Realistic expectations for McGowens

It's much more likely than not that McGowens won't be a major addition to the Blazers this season, as is the case with many two-way signees. Given the nature of a two-way contract, McGowens will only be able to spend a maximum of 45 days at the NBA level unless the Blazers convert his contract to a fully guaranteed NBA deal.

McGowens has shown comfort in taking and creating shots over smaller defenders. He's great at getting shots off with his positional size, but his efficiency could be cause for concern. The NBA's average three-point shooting is right around 35 percent, which McGowens has never reached, even in college.

McGowens' length and athleticism are positives. But his defense projects to be at best league average, and when attacking the basket, he can sometimes become rushed and out of control. His impact will be minimal, with the occasional scoring game in the teens.

So, realistically speaking, McGowens will most likely spend a maximum of 45 games at the NBA level this season. But what if he exceeds expectations?