9. Enes Kanter, Jazz
As a high draft pick and someone who dominated the Nike Hoop Summit game like no one has since Dirk Nowitzki, the expectations for Kanter are extremely high. It's not fair or wise to expect total dominance from a big man who is just 19 and playing in America for the first time. Rather, it's important to see success in small doses -- perhaps even big success in one area of the game that, over time, will grow into something much bigger. (That's really how it happens almost all the time in the NBA.)
Suffice it to say that Kanter is doing that as a rebounder. His six offensive rebounds against Oklahoma City on Feb. 10 were impressive in that he showed great hands, an ability to tip the ball away from the opponent and to himself, and a willingness to bang guys in front of the rim while going to the glass frequently. It's no surprise that a big man with long arms and good hands is the best offensive and defensive rebounder of this class despite being so young.
It makes me wonder how good Kanter would be right now had he been able to play for a season at Kentucky. Still, his numbers suggest that he can be a starting big man in the league, one who finishes inside well and owns the boards.
