Swanigan has been putting up All-American numbers this season, averaging 18.4 points and 12.6 rebounds per contest, while tacking on an more-than-impressive 42.7 percent from beyond the arc in the process. Based on statistical output alone, it’s difficult to imagine the Purdue big man dropping much further than the later stages of the first round, even with his questionable NBA fit.
At just 6-9, it’s difficult to get a read on just how well Swanigan’s game translates to the next level. While he has slimmed down significantly this season, he’s still slower than most forwards with his height disadvantage, likely relegating him to a small ball five role in a sense, despite not having the typical traits of one. His lateral mobility limits him defensively in a massive way, which makes it difficult to project him as much more than a role player at the next level.
With that said, however, Swanigan could give the Lakers some decent energy around the basket. His strength and competitive fire alone will allow him to grab rebounds at a decent rate, while his perimeter shooting does afford him some utility outside of straight post-ups, an absolute must in regards to his success at the next level.
A lot of what Swanigan’s success will be based on how well that outside shot transfers, as well as the improvements he makes in regards to both mobility and defense in general. He can block shots at the rim, but with limited lift and a less obvious physical advantage at the next level, that facet of his game will depreciate in value rather quickly.
He’s obviously limited, but has enough to get by with a real role in the rotation from day one. It’ll be interesting to see how his career progresses, to say the least.