Ilyasova: Milwaukee's Adam Morrison?

The Bucks injury woes this month have created a unique opportunity for rookie SF Ersan Ilyasova to show what he's got. And, for the most part, he's taken advantage of that opportunity. His Eff48 for the month of January (21.36) is the best among all Eastern Conference rookies who are averaging at least 20 minutes per game.

Have the Bucks once again found first round talent in the second round? Perhaps. To me Ilyasova looks quite a bit like Charlotte's Adam Morrison, who was drafted third overall.

Physically and athletically, the two are remarkably similar. They are both (essentially) small forwards who are about the same size. They both favor the perimeter game. Neither is much of a defender. (Although Ilyasova has shown signs of promise at various times).

Statistically, the comparison continues to hold, with Ilyasova having the edge in most categories. He is more productive, a better shooter, a much better rebounder, and a more willing driver. Morrison, on the other hand, is a better passer (which should embarass the hell out of Ersan) and a slightly better ballhandler.

Here is a rundown of the numbers, with Morrison's in Bobcat orange and Ilyasova's in Bucks green.

Adam Morrison vs. Ersan Ilyasova
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Eff48: .................................12.33 vs. 17.62
Eff48 in January: .....................14.12 vs. 21.36

eFG: ...........................................41.4% vs. 43.3%
Jumpshot eFG: ................................39.9% vs. 42.8%
Basket Attack (FTA/FGA): ...................16.9% vs. 24.76%
Passer Rating: .................................5.4 vs. 1.9
Rebounder Rating: ...........................10.3 vs. 22.1
Ballhandler Rating: ........................... 13.7 vs. 9.5

Pts/48: ...............................................19.4 vs. 18.2
Reb/48: ..............................................4.7 vs. 10.2
Ass/48: ...............................................3.2 vs. 2.6
TO/48: ................................................2.6 vs. 2.7