Scouting Report

Julian Wright had his chances to become a great player in New Orleans. As a six-foot-eight athletic freak, Wright was put at small forward next to Chris Paul, a position most would dream to be in. Unfortunately, Wright didn’t come through and never averaged more than five points with the Hornets during his three seasons there. During his final season with the Hornets, Julian shot below 30% on mid-range jumpers, averaged as many turnovers as assists (.6 to .6), and didn’t even rebound well for someone as gifted as he is athletically.

Wright is now a Raptor and though he is no longer playing with Chris Paul, there is a chance that he could improve somewhat offensively. Its not likely that he discovers his shot or starts blowing by his man on a regular basis but Toronto has made it clear that they are committed to acquiring a bunch of athletes and then unleashing them on the break. In that regard, Julian could come in for 20 minutes a night and throw down a few jams in transition. Its not a big role and its barely a fraction of what most thought he could be but at least he has a job, which is something you could say was in doubt based on his performance with the Hornets.

Other than his ability to dunk, you can make a case for Wright as a good defender, which may be the reason he’s still in the league save for the fact that he can jump high. According to Synergy Sports Technology, Julian allowed just .87 points per possession, a great number. Additionally, in isolation sets, Wright held his man to just .75 points per possession and 37% shooting, the 65th best mark in the league.

Wright failed to develop during his time with the Hornets but there is a slight chance he can be rejuvenated in Toronto as they are dedicating to let all of their top flight athletes run wild. Other than that, though, his offense is below average at best and he will likely never be much more than an athlete. His defense is what will get him his next contract. He’s tall, long, athletic and a good defender and in the right position he can be an above average rebounder as well.