2017 NBA Manifesto
Elfrid Payton
PG, 6’4, 185lbs, 23 years old, 3 years of experience
Pretty good progression on show from Payton over this past season, whose knack for sneaking into the lane remains, but who is now making the shots when he gets there (61% finishing at the rim) and the passes on the move as he heads there. He also much improved his hitherto poor pull-up two point jump shot, giving hope that perhaps the three will follow, and as the scoring efficiency went up, the turnovers also came down. He is starting to figure out this half court NBA point guard thing - with Gordon back in his correct position, less two-paint line-ups and with some better shooting help, next year will be intriguing for him. The defence, however, must come with it. Payton was far too easy to get around on the perimeter this year.
Player Plan: One year of rookie scale salary remaining, and extension eligible this summer. Even after a good year, Payton has not put himself in the top 10 point guards conversation, maybe not even top 20, so that must be reflected in any negotiations.
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PG, 6’4, 185lbs, 23 years old, 3 years of experience
Pretty good progression on show from Payton over this past season, whose knack for sneaking into the lane remains, but who is now making the shots when he gets there (61% finishing at the rim) and the passes on the move as he heads there. He also much improved his hitherto poor pull-up two point jump shot, giving hope that perhaps the three will follow, and as the scoring efficiency went up, the turnovers also came down. He is starting to figure out this half court NBA point guard thing - with Gordon back in his correct position, less two-paint line-ups and with some better shooting help, next year will be intriguing for him. The defence, however, must come with it. Payton was far too easy to get around on the perimeter this year.
Player Plan: One year of rookie scale salary remaining, and extension eligible this summer. Even after a good year, Payton has not put himself in the top 10 point guards conversation, maybe not even top 20, so that must be reflected in any negotiations.
