15. Raul Neto
Aug 16, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; United States guard Derrick Rose (6) is defended by Brazil forward Raul Neto (5) during the second quarter at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
While the female contingency of Utah Jazz fans may swoon every time they hear Raul Neto‘s name, he still has a lot to prove on the basketball court. The 23-year-old from Minas Gerais, Brazil was the 47th pick of the 2013 NBA Draft and acquired via trade by the Jazz.
Raulzinho has played in the Spanish ACB league since 2011. This is the most skilled basketball league in the world outside of the NBA. He has played with both UCAM Murcia and Gipuzkoa BC San Sebastian.
Offensively, Neto does a lot of things right. He is a speedy guard whose game is comparable to that of Ricky Rubio in the sense that he’s a pass-first guard who plays stingy defense. Neto can use his excellent speed and ball handling to get to the basket as well.
Similar to Rubio, however, Neto cannot shoot. In 171 games since 2011, Neto has shot 28.46 percent from three on 267 attempts. Neto did shoot 36.3 percent from three in 61 games from 2012 to 2014, but followed it up with a career low 20.5 percent last season.
What may determine how Neto performs this year, more than anything else, is how he shoots from three. If he hits 20.5 percent this year, he will not last long in the league. A conversion rate closer to the 36.3 percent mark will propel him up the depth chart.
Neto’s ranking on this list is based primarily off the fact that he has not proved anything in the league. I am much lower on Raul than most Jazz fans. I think his shot is broken and that he will struggle because of that. However, ESPN’s Amin Elhassan, who used to work in the Suns front office, is very high on him. He dropped this bomb when the Jazz got Neto–
By the way, Jazz fans, allow me to blow your mind: get ready to like Neto more than Burke. Go ahead and favorite this
— Chillin in my Bacta (@DarthAmin) June 28, 2013
Elhassan has not ceased believing in Neto. In his recent appearance on the Lowe Post Podcast, he mentioned that he thinks Neto will be the starter for the Utah Jazz by the time this season is over. There is some logic behind him saying that, particularly that he can replace Dante Exum‘s defense better than Trey Burke can.
Neto could impress and become a key role player for the team this year. Quin Snyder loves ball movers and Neto is very good at that. I think that the only way he becomes the starter is if Burke shoots himself out of the job.
Here are some Neto highlights from 2014 Brasil vs USA game. Neto shows a knack for finding the open man.
Next: Player No. 14