VITALS: 6-11, 236 OVERVIEW: Pasalic was an early entry candidate for the 2004 NBA draft before withdrawing. The 21-year-old has played the last four seasons with KK Split in the Adriatic League. He averaged 14.3 points and six rebounds in 21 games this season before leaving in mid-season due to disagreements with the club. In the 2004 European Championships for Under-20 Men, Pasalic averaged 25 points, including a high of 38 vs. Portugal. LIKELY DRAFT POSITION: Some team is going to get very lucky and draft Pasalic in the second round. He might go early to an astute team like Utah (34) or he might last all the way to the late 40s. COMPARATIVE UPSIDE: Mehmet Okur COMPARATIVE DOWNSIDE: Paul Rogers ROLE PROJECTION: Reserve power forward. POSITIVES: Pasalic is very active, able to guard forwards and centers. He is a high-energy player who makes plays on both ends of the court. In back-to-back years, he has delivered excellent performances at the NBA Pre-Draft Camp, this year leading the camp in rebounding. He has a scoring touch from both inside and outside but is the type of player who is able to score points without plays being run for him. His overall basketball skill set is excellent. SHORTCOMINGS: Pasalic has failed to attract the notice of other young Europeans with less complete games. He is good or at least adequate in many facets of the game but does not have the athleticism or physique to impress casual observers. He will need to build strength as he gets older to deal with bigger NBA players down low.
