Carter Bryant is already impressive, but he needs work

Carter Bryant got minutes versus the Knicks yesterday, and at this point he has played enough for me to say his defense is quite impressive for a rookie. His ability to cover ground with his length, anticipation, and footwork makes ball-handlers hesitant to drive against him. This also allows Bryant to force them into passing out or into slightly awkward jumpers, which is a boost for him because his 6 ’11 wingspan allows him to contest them easily.

Bryant is also switchable, as the effort he plays with allows him to absorb bumps from taller guys — like Jokić, Randle, Jaren Jackson Junior, Derik Queen and Scottie Barnes — whom he has spent a decent amount of time guarding. In these matchups, Bryant has not given up considerable advantages.

Bryant’s defensive potential is there, but his offensive floor needs much work. Via Basketball Reference, he boosts an Offensive Rating of just 88. Usually, he is spotted up in the corner as a catch and shoot guy, but he only shoots 30% from 3. Until Carter takes an offensive jump — likely during the All-Star break or the off–season — he’ll best be used as a defensive specialist when a stop is needed. Judging by his enthusiasm and tenacity to play, I’d bet on it coming soon.

Bryant’s lack of playing time and offensive skillset don’t take away from his impressive defensive prowess in any way. The sample size he has shown so far in these limited spurts highlights a rookie who’s already a viable defender, with the trajectory to improve.