Michael Gilchrist, Freshman, Small Forward, Kentucky
Overview:
Gilchrist has been one of the most talked about players since his debut with St. Patrick, the New Jersey based high school team he attended, after growing up in Somerdale, New Jersey. As a long, athletic player that had to make his mark playing behind some talented upperclassmen, Gilchrist made a name for himself with his defense and rebounding. Not only does Gilchrist possess many of the athetic gifts you would want, but he also has a rare competitive drive for someone his age. He puts up big numbers across the board, being able to score in the post against smaller defenders and take larger defenders off the dribble. With all his scoring ability, where Gilchrist really stands out is his rebounding and shot blocking ability. He has tremendous instincts on the defensive end of the floor, causing havoc for opposing offensive threats.
With each passing season in high school, Gilchrist just got better and better. Today, he is a top recruit, and rightfully so. He has developed into a versatile small forward capable of playing inside or outside depending on the matchup or situation. He should fit in well at Kentucky, and bring a style of defense that Coach John Calipari will need if Kentucky plans on repeating the success they had in 2010.
Final Projection:
Gilchrist has the talent to be a future lottery pick, and an outstanding work ethic, a very lethal combination. Look for Gilchrist to be a key player for Kentucky in 2011 He will gain much needed experience in college playing against better competition, as well as have some time to work on his jump shot. Coach Calipari does not recruit players to be one and done, but it seems to be headed in that direction for Gilchrist, as NBA scouts will be watching closely as the 2012 NBA draft approaches.
5/31/12 Update by Dan Levine:
Kidd-Gilchrist showed off his athleticism during this past college basketball season. He was versatile for the Wildcats as they could run him in three different positions: small forward, power forward, and two-guard. In the NBA because of his size, he will most likely have to strictly play shooting guard. His shot needs to be a bit more consistent. He will still be a lottery pick, but look for him to go between 10 and 15.
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