Fansided

25-under-25: Biggest disappointments

By Jerry Christodoulatos

PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 7: Jahlil Okafor #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers watches the game against the San Antonio Spurs from the bench on December 7, 2015 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. The Spurs defeated the 76ers 119-68. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 7: Jahlil Okafor #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers watches the game against the San Antonio Spurs from the bench on December 7, 2015 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. The Spurs defeated the 76ers 119-68. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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SACRAMENTO, CA – APRIL 11: Marquese Chriss
SACRAMENTO, CA – APRIL 11: Marquese Chriss /

2. Alex Len, ranked 98th

Are we sure that Alex Len even exists anymore? The No. 5 overall pick in the 2013 Draft has basically become invisible. Looking back at this SB Nation scouting report of Len from June 2013 is fascinating. In that article Jonathan Tjarks (now of the Ringer) lays out the case for taking Len high in the lottery, highlighting his unique blend of subtle skill and athleticism on both ends of the floor. The article includes excerpts from other scouting reports as well. Many of those snippets voice concerns about Len’s inability to really dominate at the college level despite his many physical advantages. After four seasons in the league, we have yet to see Len make any significant strides as a player. He just hasn’t shown enough to validate this status as a top-five pick.

Right now Len is languishing in restricted free agency, presumably without any offers. Restricted free agency can be particularly cruel, but Len’s inability to attract any attention indicates how far his value has fallen. He struggles to score on offense and is total non-factor on that end of the floor; the big Ukrainian’s shooting efficiency is alarmingly low for a big man. Len has shown flashes of competence on defense, but he certainly isn’t a stud on that side of the ball.

Unless Phoenix makes him a favorable offer (which they have no reason to do), Len will likely sign their qualifying offer and enter unrestricted free agency next summer. That would be a big risk, considering his place in the Phoenix big rotation is far from guaranteed.

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