Denver Nuggets forward Kenneth Faried has been shining among a crop of the most talented, young American basketball players that the nation has to offer.
Selected to play in the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup, Faried has looked dominant while playing alongside other young stars like Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, and Stephen Curry.
Formerly viewed as an above-average hustle infused player, he is attempting to stake his claim as one of the NBA’s top potential breakout performers this upcoming season.
A 6-foot, 8-inch power forward, Faried has always been long on hustle and short on skill, as he does not possess a capable jump shot, nor the ball-handling skills to score off the dribble.
Most of his points originate from offensive rebounds or pick and rolls, where he can have the ball in very high percentage areas.
An exciting player to watch, he is often a fan favorite and over-valued by many because of his raw athleticism. Playing as close to the basket as he does, he continues to lack any consistently effective post-moves, a definite sore spot in his overall game.
Defensively, Faried lacks the ability to make correct split-second adjustments.
So, how has Faried become a prime candidate for MVP in an international tournament full of the best young crop of basketball players the globe has to offer?
Faried’s relentless motor has been a constant, much-needed spark, which has been a catalyst for productivity not only for himself, but also for his teammates.
The Nuggets organization has long been debating the worth of Faried and whether or not to hedge a large financial bet on the young swingman.
After this tournament, they may have no choice. Faried has upped his play to a level many thought he couldn’t consistently reach. The Nuggets roster is very deep, but has lacked a star player since the days of Carmelo Anthony.
Even though Faried may not ever reach the same level of stardom or skill as some players, like LaMarcus Aldridge or Zach Randolph, he’s looking the part of a much more talented and smart power forward, one which will be inevitably paid next summer.
