4. Marc Gasol
Carmelo Anthony opened eyes in 2016 by comparing Willy Hernangomez to Memphis Grizzlies star Marc Gasol. Anthony praised Hernangomez’s ability to score, pass, and defend, going as far as saying: “I see a lot of Marc Gasol in him.”
That’s a compliment of the highest order, as Gasol has become one of the best two-way players in the NBA—something Hernangomez is capable of becoming, as well.
Gasol has many of the offensive traits that Hernangomez hopes to embody, but this all starts on defense. Gasol, who was named Defensive Player of the Year in XXXX-XX, overcomes his average athleticism by playing bigger than he is.
Gasol keeps his arms extended, his legs moving, and his eyes up as he covers more ground than players with his level of athleticism are often capable of.
Offensively, Gasol is an excellent post player who can finish with both hands and facilitate from the high post. He’s also expanded his range to beyond the arc, where he converted 104 three-point field goals in 2016-17 after making just 12 in his first eight seasons combined.
Hernangomez wants to be a better shooter and a more versatile defender—progress that Gasol, against all odds, made himself. This is the perfect upside comparison.