After only playing 24 games in his rookie season due to injuries, Usman Garuba is ready to take big strides for his upcoming sophomore year. Garuba only played 10 minutes per game, but he showcased his unique attributes of screening, rebounding, defending, and the ability to finish at the rim. Although the Houston Rockets missed out on Mo Bamba in free agency to the Orlando Magic, giving Garuba the backup center minutes could be ideal.
At 229 pounds, Garuba shows great strength inside the paint against opposing centers. He doesn’t allow his man to create space or get good positioning.