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Kaminsky admits being 'overwhelmed' on defense

Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports / Reuters

Although he was billed as NBA-ready, Frank Kaminsky struggled to make the jump from college to the professional ranks like virtually every other rookie in history.

Offense came naturally to him, as the 7-footer was able to score effectively by relying on an inside-out game that lured bigs out of the paint and into uncharted waters along the perimeter. But defense was a challenge, and he admitted as much this summer.

"I've got to be a better overall defender. I was overwhelmed at times," Kaminsky told Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer on Wednesday.

Kaminsky was an adequate defender in terms of positioning, but his lack of physicality limited his effectiveness. The 23-year-old was woeful on the glass and struggled to record even half a block per game. On the whole, opponents shot a blistering 54.5 percent at the rim when he was in position to defend.

Some of that is unavoidable. Kaminsky has a relatively short wingspan for a 7-footer, and isn't an explosive athlete. But he can get stronger and use his added bulk to control the paint.

"My preparation, obviously, needs to get better," he said. "I so want to be a more consistent player. I'd have a good game and then disappear in the next."

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