Βy Giorgos Orfanakis / info@eurohoops.net
Jamel McLean – 8.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.4 assists
After a presence of two years at Armani Milan, Jamel McLean’s contract with the Italian club has expired and now he has to look for the next stop in his career.
At 29 years of age, the American undersized big man is in his best basketball years without however coming off a season that is proportionate to his true potential. Milan’s disappointing course (16th place, 8-22 wins) and the lack of chemistry affected even the most talented players on the team that would now like to forget the previous season.
McLean counted 30 appearances, averaging 8.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.4 assists. He can post up his opponents, he can play facing the basket, put the ball on the floor and offer some quality minutes without his price tag being prohibitive.
Daniel Hackett – 5 points, 1.5 rebounds, 1.6 assists
The case of Daniel Hackett is one of the most special ones on this particular list since his serious injury midway through the season that just ended changed everything completely.
Olympiacos’s decision not to make a renewal offer to the Italian guard automatically places his name on the free agency list of the summer transfer period, with the competitive inaction of several months dropping his price.
Hackett’s averages (5 points, 1.5 rebounds, 1.6 assists) might not be impressive but all those things he can offer on the court make him an especially useful player. An exceptional character, a strong work ethic, a strong body, unbeatable in the post against big men or smaller players, and with good decision-making in offense whenever necessary. These are only some of the elements that can convince any EuroLeague coach that the 30-year-old guard deserves a spot on the roster.