Overview
Tom Blalock, the 6-foot-10, 277-pound center for the Denver Demons, has established himself as a formidable force in the paint. With eight years of professional experience, the 27-year-old Florida State product has developed into a reliable scoring option and a strong defensive presence. Below, we break down his key attributes, strengths, and areas for improvement.
Strengths
Elite Inside Scoring (INS: 84)
- Blalock thrives in the low post, using his size and strength to score efficiently around the rim.
- His career field goal percentage of 48.6% highlights his ability to convert high-percentage shots.
- Averaging 17.1 points per game in the 2037 season, he has become a primary offensive weapon for the Demons.
Rebounding Prowess (ORB: 95, DRB: 85)
- One of the best offensive rebounders in the league, Blalock consistently creates second-chance opportunities.
- His 2.7 offensive rebounds per game in 2037 demonstrate his ability to battle for extra possessions.
- Defensively, he secures 6.6 rebounds per game, making him a key presence on the glass.
Strong Interior Defense (PSD: 79, BLK: 88)
- Blalock is a solid rim protector, averaging 3.0 blocks per game in 2037.
- His post defense rating of 79 allows him to hold his own against elite big men.
- His shot-blocking ability makes him a deterrent in the paint.
Physical Strength (STR: 97)
- With a strength rating of 97, Blalock is nearly impossible to move off his spot.
- His physicality allows him to dominate in the post on both ends of the floor.
Weaknesses
Limited Shooting Range (JPS: 49, 3PS: 31)
- Blalock struggles outside the paint, with a jump shot rating of 49 and a three-point rating of 31.
- His three-point shooting percentage of 23.0% in 2037 suggests he is not a threat from beyond the arc.
- Opponents can sag off him, knowing he is unlikely to score from mid-range or deep.
Free Throw Struggles (FT: 36)
- A career free throw percentage of 54.8% indicates a major weakness at the line.
- His 48.2% free throw shooting in 2037 makes him a liability in late-game situations.
- Teams may employ a “Hack-a-Blalock” strategy to exploit this weakness.
Lack of Quickness (QKN: 28)
- Blalock’s quickness rating of 28 limits his ability to guard more agile big men.
- He can struggle in pick-and-roll defense against faster opponents.
- His lack of lateral movement makes him vulnerable against stretch bigs.
Minimal Playmaking Ability (HND: 7, PAS: 26)
- With a handling rating of 7 and a passing rating of 26, Blalock is not a playmaker.
- He averages only 1.6 assists per game, showing little ability to create for teammates.
- Turnovers (2.5 per game in 2037) can be an issue when he is pressured.
Final Assessment
Tom Blalock is a dominant interior force who excels in scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking. His strength and post presence make him a valuable asset for the Denver Demons. However, his lack of shooting range, poor free throw percentage, and limited mobility present challenges. If he can improve his free throw shooting and defensive agility, he could elevate his game to an even higher level. For now, he remains a reliable low-post scorer and defensive anchor for Denver.