Post by dj on Feb 6, 2009 20:14:22 GMT -5
Sources are indicating that former EuroLeague MVP Juhani Saarela is opting out the final year of his contract with European powerhouse DKV Joventut, to pursue his dream of playing in BBS. Saarela expressed his desire to play in BBS a number of times over the years, but his contract situation made it virtually impossible, until now. A native on Finland, Saarela has become a national hero, and can be seen all over Europe in a number of advertisements for products such as the very popular Saarela Nutella spread. As free agency draws near, it is expected that a number of BBS clubs will have interest in the sharp shooting Fin(known as the Finnish Splash). Most scouts we talk to say that Saarela is a complete professional and great team player that should be able to help out a team in need of shooting and scoring. His deficiencies will limit his role at the next level and Saarela will have to be content with not being a star, the role that he is accustomed to playing in Europe. Scouts say this shouldn't be an issue as Saarela has already stated that he "just wants to win in the best league in the world and will do what is necessary to make that happen".
Scouting Report on Juhani Saarela
position: Forward
age: 28
height: 6'11
weight: 212lbs
Current Team: Free Agent
Grades:
C+ A B C C+ D
Strengths:
Outstanding shooter. Is very accurate from deep. Possesses nice touch from mid range. Has the handling ability to create space
for his pull up jumper. Is deadly coming off of screens. His size, combined with a high release point, makes his shot very difficult
to block. Quick release. Has nice handles and passing ability for a big. Has been used as a point forward in Europe. Unselfish and
will swing the ball. Can help out on the glass. Consistent on the offensive boards. Smart player that doesn't turn the ball over
much.
Weaknesses:
A big forward that is too slow to guard BBS sf's and too weak to guard BBS pf's. Poor defender. Lacks lateral quickness and strength. Decent rebounder but should do more at his size. Pure jump shooter with a minimal post game. Not much of a slasher. Has good handling ability but doesn't have the athleticism to get into the lane and finish strong. No upside.
Notes:
Was named EuroLeague MVP in 2016. Is a two time EuroLeague scoring champion. Has big game experience and has been part of championship teams. May not be a starter in the BBS but could provide a team with scoring punch off of the bench.
Scouting Report on Juhani Saarela
position: Forward
age: 28
height: 6'11
weight: 212lbs
Current Team: Free Agent
Grades:
C+ A B C C+ D
Strengths:
Outstanding shooter. Is very accurate from deep. Possesses nice touch from mid range. Has the handling ability to create space
for his pull up jumper. Is deadly coming off of screens. His size, combined with a high release point, makes his shot very difficult
to block. Quick release. Has nice handles and passing ability for a big. Has been used as a point forward in Europe. Unselfish and
will swing the ball. Can help out on the glass. Consistent on the offensive boards. Smart player that doesn't turn the ball over
much.
Weaknesses:
A big forward that is too slow to guard BBS sf's and too weak to guard BBS pf's. Poor defender. Lacks lateral quickness and strength. Decent rebounder but should do more at his size. Pure jump shooter with a minimal post game. Not much of a slasher. Has good handling ability but doesn't have the athleticism to get into the lane and finish strong. No upside.
Notes:
Was named EuroLeague MVP in 2016. Is a two time EuroLeague scoring champion. Has big game experience and has been part of championship teams. May not be a starter in the BBS but could provide a team with scoring punch off of the bench.