2018 NBA Draft: Moritz Wagner Scouting Report and Highlights
After a disappointing showing at the 2017 combine, Wagner, a native of Germany, returned to school and helped engineer Michigan’s run to the national title game. A skilled but slow-footed stretch big, his ability to shoot from outside gives him a chance to stick in the NBA.
The Crossover’s Front Office breaks down Wagner’s strengths, weaknesses, NBA comparison and more in its in-depth scouting report.
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Moritz Wagner, C, Michigan | Junior
Height: 6'11" | Weight: 240 | DOB: 4/26/97 (21)
Stats: 14.6 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 0.5 BPG
Strengths
• Wagner shot 39.5% from three over his final two seasons at Michigan, elite for his size and position. His mechanics are comfortable.
• Has a nice handle and all-around skill level, able to attack the rim from the three-point line off of closeouts or when he has a step.
• Showed major improvement as a rebounder last season, committing more to playing physically, upping his defensive rebound rate to 24.9% and averaging 9.3 boards per-36.
Weaknesses
• Wagner is coordinated for a big man but lacks the foot speed and athleticism to defend in space, making him vulnerable at the next level.
• Despite his size, he offers very little rim protection for his position, averaging 0.6 blocks per-36 for his career.
• Despite the shooting and impressive numbers, Wagner is pretty limited offensively, using a predictable skill set and infrequently getting to the foul line. He often feasted on smaller opponents.
Highlights
Read More
Behind dominant defense and continued growth, Michigan runs to Final Four (March 2018)
Comparison: Mo Speights
Wagner could find a niche somewhere as a stretchy big man off the bench. It’s a common role in today’s modern game, and one that often allows players to have their defensive liabilities excused for offensive production.
