My first impressions of Lyles are very positive. He definitely has an old school laid back offensive game. Not overly athletic but smart. Loved his pass to Cooley in OT. Needs to get stronger was pushed around under the basket while rebounding. I thought he occupied his guy why rebounding but lacked the strength to get the rebound. Do not think he will be a great rebounder but can improve with added strength and experience. I am sure being his first game also contributed to the lack of rebounding. I think he definitely has the making of a stretch four and I was surprised how much he played out on the perimeter.
I liked how he set picks and with a little luck a few more of those missed shots would have gone in. I didn't see the traveling when he made the nice move to the basket in the first half. As far as defense, this part of his game needs the most work however, I liked how he went out and guarded on the perimeter. I think in certain circumstances he may play a hybrid SF. I think due to it being his first game he was just trying to be at the right spot on defensive. I don
t think he will be a shot blocker or a great defender but there are some skills there that can be developed. OVerall I give him a B-/C+ for his first game. I am pleasantly hopeful that we have the making of another important part of our championship roster.
