Thomas Campbell-US PRESSWIRE
With the 52nd pick in the second round of the 2012 NBA Draft the Golden State Warriors took center Ognjen Kuzmic who played professionally overseas in Spain. He averaged 10.4 points per game, 8.6 rebounds, 2.1 blocks on 53.6 percent shooting and 67.1 percent from the free throw line.
According to one scout he said “Kuzmic is very inexperienced but has shown quick development. A 7-footer with a long wingspan, he can block shots, is mobile and is developing his skills quickly. He has a high potential and would be worth a second round pick. In several years he can be something special.”
The Warriors have a number of centers ahead of him which include Andrew Bogut, Andris Biedrins, Festus Ezeli and Jeremy Tyler can fill in at center if need be even though his natural position is at power forward. It’s a far cry from the 2011 season for coach Mark Jackson because there was a revolving door of centers due to injuries and for 2012-2013 there’s depth.
Bogut didn’t play a single game for the team after being acquired due to an ankle injury, Biedrins continued to struggle with confidence and injuries, Kwame Brown played well before suffering a season ending injury after nine games, Ekpe Udoh got traded bringing in Bogut, Mickell Gladness started seven games and Tyler started the last 23 games.
Centers that didn’t get a start and saw action included Earl Barron, Keith Benson and Mikki Moore.
If the Warriors centers can stay healthy Kuzmic will not see much playing time if at all this year. Instead he will get the chance to gain valuable experience from practicing with the team and if he does play well later on the season he can go to the D-League to get playing time and showcase the skills he has learned.
For more player profiles on the Warriors please check out these:
Jeremy Tyler 2012-2013 player profile
Kent Bazemore 2012-2013 player profile
