Image by Getty Images via @daylifeChandler Parsons, 6'9”, Small Forward, Senior, Florida
11.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 2.3 turnovers, 49% FG, 56% FT, 38% 3P
Chandler Parsons has developed into an intriguing all-around player, being named SEC player of the year while leading the Florida Gators to a 26-7 record and a 2-seed in the NCAA tournament. While Parsons scoring output has not taken the jump many hoped for, his all-around game has continued to show signs of progression.
Offensively, Parsons continues to increase his proficiency from long range, now converting 38% of his 3-point attempts, a career best. He still has a fairly long release, but he gets good elevation on his shot and does a solid job of making shots with his feet set—a crucial part of his evaluation as a pro prospect.
Parsons increasing ability to make spot-up jump shots increases the effectiveness of his dribble drive game, as he does an excellent job of utilizing pump fakes to open up driving lanes, showing an ability to hit a pull up jump shot or go all the way to the rim when the opportunity presents itself. When in the lane, Parson's ball handling and passing ability really shines. An excellent ball handler and decision maker for a player his size, Parsons' 4.4 assists per 40 minutes pace adjusted ranks tops amongst all small forwards in our database.
He also does an extremely good job moving without the ball, continuing to improve as a catch and shoot player, making strong cuts without the ball, and doing a very good job off the offensive glass. A more fluid than explosive athlete, Parsons does a good job of finishing at the rim, keeping the ball up high and going up quickly off of offensive rebounds, wasting little time to allow defenders to react.
Defensively, Parsons appears to have above average lateral quickness, which will be needed to defend the perimeter when transitioning to the next level. He appears to have added some upper body strength during his time at Florida, but he still could use some lower body strength to help defend against more physical post players. He uses his length well, but at times can lose his focus or get outhustled by more physical players, something he must continue to work on.
