Name: Lucas Nogueira
Age: 20
Height: 7-foot
Position: Center
School/Country: Estudiantes (Brazil)
Latest Stats: 5.3 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 1.1 bpg
Two years ago, Lucas Nogueira declared for the 2011 NBA Draft at the age of 18. However, it was a shaky decision and Nogueira eventually retracted his name from contention to better prepare himself for the professional level here in the United States. At the age of 20, Nogueira is now entering his name into the 2013 NBA Draft as a more refined prospect.
With that being said however, Nogueira is still an untapped talent so even despite two years passing by he is considered an investment pick. Nogueira is a true 7-footer who averaged 5.3 points and 3.2 rebounds in just over 13 minutes of action per game this past season as a member of the Estudiantes club in Spain, although he is an original native of Brazil. Despite still being considered raw in terms of his NBA potential, Nogueira is looking like a late first round selection.
Strengths: Nogueira stands at 7-feet tall and he boasts a wingspan that is even more intimidating (7-foot-6). Nogueira has the potential to be a legitimate NBA forward/center someday, especially given his athleticism which could eventually make him a nightmare on both ends of the floor. Nogueira finishes best with put-backs and garbage points, but he can also run well in transition.
Weaknesses: Nogueira is raw, so he’s the type of wait and see prospect that may or may not pan out. Despite his 7-foot frame, Nogueira only weighs in at 220 lbs. he will need to add to his strength as he continues to get older and be more physical at the NBA level. Nogueira could also use some work on his individual moves, but that’s why he is considered to be a project guy through and through.
Draft Projection: Late First Round
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