NBA Future Prospect: Marques Bolden
Marques Bolden: 6’11” and 245 lbs. Center for Duke
Marques Bolden has a lot of potential as a freshman center, but injury has limited his opportunities to show off his skills. So far this season Bolden has only seen action in 5 games for a total of 36 minutes, with 13 minutes against UNLV his most logged in one game. He’s averaging 2.6 points and 1.2 rebounds per game on 54% shooting. Duke’s depth has allowed Bolden to take his time rehabbing from injury. Despite his lack of playing time he will likely enter the draft at the end of this season and should be a first round pick.
Bolden’s offensive skill set is what had him as a top prospect coming out of high school. Prior to the season he was receiving high praise for his passing ability from the post. He also has a variety of post moves that make his offensive potential dangerous. Unfortunately his play time for Duke thus far has been limited and his body of work has not been that impressive.
Bolden has looked slow and clunky which is to be expected coming off of a leg injury. He also has a tendency to rush his shots and look lost within the offense which can be attributed to a lack of experience. His recovery from injury, inexperience, and playing behind senior Amile Jefferson means his chances will be limited until he’s full strength.
Bolden’s lack of mobility this season has also left a lot to be desired on the defensive end of the floor. His rebounding and rim protection have been subpar for his size. Another area that should improve with experience and as his confidence grows.
Bolden’s draft stock to this point is largely based on potential, but that could change as he gets healthy and sees more minutes. Right now that potential seems to be landing him somewhere in the middle of the first round on a team like Atlanta or Milwaukee where he would be coming off the bench. If he can get back to full strength and show what he’s capable of as a low post threat he can improve that stock.
Featured Game: Win vs. Tennessee State 65-55
The featured game I chose for Bolden was the Blue Devil’s home game against Tennessee State on 12/19/16. Bolden only played 6 minutes and was 0-2 from the floor with 1 assist. Bolden only played the first half of a game that was much closer than expected. He was aggressive on the offensive end posting up each time down the floor and getting to his spots; but he rushed his shots and often times got in the way of teammates on drives to the basket. Bolden also struggled to protect the rim on defense allowing State’s guards to drive the rim on multiple occasions. Tennessee State’s roster was packed with upper classmen that kept the game respectable into the second half which meant Coach K was going to keep his vets on the floor to insure the win. Bolden showed flashes on offense but he needs more experience to really develop into a lottery worthy draft pick.
Shot Chart 1st Half:
Shot Chart 2nd Half: Did Not Play
