Pacers select Goga Bitadze with No. 18 pick
With the No. 18 pick of the 2019 NBA Draft, the Indiana Pacers selected Georgian center Goga Bitadze.
Bitadze's continued development overseas provided enough evidence that he should be among the most successful players in this draft class.
The 7-footer's size, length, and elite touch should allow him to quickly emerge into an effective pro and become the latest Euro big to flourish in the NBA. He has potential as a shooter and has proven to be a dependable rim protector.
Most importantly, Bitadze's offense will make him a perfect fit in almost any lineup. He should be dominant in pick-and-rolls, finishing both above the rim or rising above traffic with a solid range of post moves.
Bio
Position: C
Club: Mega Bemax (Serbia)
Height: 6-foot-11
Weight: 250 lbs
Wingspan: 7-foot-2
Max Vertical: N/A
Strengths
- Gifted offensive talent with awesome touch around the rim and from mid-range. Figures to become a floor-spacing center.
- Good rim protector with solid timing.
- Excellent size and length that'll help him become an impact player on both ends.
- Among the most reliable players in the draft. Too skilled to not succeed.
Weaknesses
- Doesn't always know what he's doing defensively. Struggles to switch on the perimeter.
- Needs to become a more effective post passer.