Scouting Report: Tyus Battle

Tyus Battle is a sophomore at Syracuse University that has seen a big jump in production, nearly doubling his points per game. Here is my scouting report of 6’6 sophomore guard Tyus Battle:

Tools: Physical profile, slashing

Pros:

• Long arms
• Very good slasher
• Good lateral quickness on the perimeter- can switch onto shooters quickly
• Athletic in the open court
• May be able to play both guard positions in the NBA

Cons:

• Poor shooter/ shooting form
• Struggles shooting off the dribble; changes mechanics (brings the ball up with just one hand, flicks legs) when shooting on the move
• Plays out of control at times
• Predictable using screens
• Offensive consistency

Overall: Tyus Battle is an offensive minded player that still needs refinement in his game. His mechanics often are not repeatable, primarily seen when shooting off the dribble. His jump shot needs tweaking, so he may be best starting off as a 2-way player. His best offensive strengths right now are being able to run the offense at times and attacking the basket. However, when using screens he is predictable. Battle usually uses the screen to dribble around a defender, but rarely uses fakes or dribble moves into the screen to trap his defender while he goes the opposite direction.

Tyus Battle poses defensive upside with good lateral quickness and a solid frame. He must add strength in order to reach his defensive upside.

Battle also must improve his feel for the game. He plays out of control at times, often trying to force penetration when he should be passing or taking a jump shot. If Battle can improve his jump shot mechanics and tendencies, he can become an NBA rotation player.

NBA Comparison: Floor- Vander Blue; ceiling- Alec Burks

Projected draft range: Late 2nd round/ undrafted

How he fits with the Mavericks:

Battle often runs the offense at Syracuse, which gives him upside as a secondary ball handler in the NBA. Battle could be used in a similar role that of Monta Ellis or Devin Harris. If the Mavs acquired Battle, I’d expect him to be on a 2-way contract. Battle would be a project for the Mavericks rather than a player who could play right away and earn minutes in the rotation. Tyus Battle would benefit from being around NBA practices and learning from one of the best coaches in the league. At his best, Tyus Battle could turn into a solid scorer off the bench.