Martynas Arlauskas

NKL, December 13th in Mazeikiai: Ereliai vs Zalgiris II

Without Martynas Arlauskas and Rokas Jokubaitis, Modestas Kancleris was clearly the most intriguing prospect in the game especially in long term perspective. Every time I had a chance to see him live he seemed taller and not done growing and currently stands at maybe even + 6’8. For that size he is very fluid and effortless athlete who can elevate above the rim. His light feet allow him to excel also on the defensive end of the floor. Most of the time he was guarding backcourt players, keeping pace with them and when Zalgiris run zone D for some stretches he was used on top of it to interrupt passing lanes. He covers ground impressively quick and uses length to contest shot attempts. Surprisingly he played with a lot of passion, energy or even you can call it poise. If he is able to fill out then possibly has all the ingredients to become high level switchable defender. Offensively long limbed forward is not necessarily less exciting. He may be master of none but versitality combined with good understanding of the game is something that can allow him to fit in within almost every tactical concept. Kancleris possess maybe not perfect but rather projectable stroke. He can also put the ball on the floor and drive in straight line or coast to coast in open court. Besides he is solid passer who occasionally runs simple pick and roll plays. However his biggest asset considering his liability in playing through contact may turn out cutting given nose for finding open lanes, size and quick leaping ability. Modestas has been oozing with potential for a while but in the past he tended to get passive and less willing to battle. He gained a little strength but his frame may have a limit and never bear enough bulk. This may be something that could keep him away from reaching full potential. Anyway he is must follow for NBA executives and if everything goes right legitimate draft candidate next years. Should lead Zalgiris U18 at home in upcoming Adidas Next Generation Tournament.

MARTYNAS ARLAUSKAS (6’6, 2000. GUARD, ZALGIRIS KAUNAS)- Another highly touted Zalgiris prospect who already made several Euroleague appearances. He played with good confidence level which can be connected to the experience that he gained thanks to coach Jasikevicius. Maturity was visible not only in decisions he was making but also Arlauskas body started to fill out. He possess really well rounded skillset standing around 6’7 which is enough for high level ⅔ position swingman. He took a role of pick and roll ball handler at times and was able to create either for himself and teammates. Showed nice slashing ability especially attacking the close outs with flashes of solid acceleration for European prospect. In isolations he lacks super advanced go to moves but can also sporadically blow by his defender. Plays tough and is definitely good IQ player but wasn’t really able to make a difference. Very good prospect and must follow but NBA chances aren’t overly big in my eyes as he doesn’t appear to have elite skill.

Martynas Arlauskas (2000, #16) – Saras apparently loves him. He may not be ready to play Euroleague now but the experience that he is gaining can be crucial for his further development. Barely 17yo player who arrive on Euroleague games except garbage time must have something special in himself.