Marko Simonovic

Marko Simonovic, Chicago Bulls – 44^th overall

27 G, 15.7 PTS, 9.1 REB, 1.7 AST, 0.9 STL, 0.4 BLK, 2.5 TOV | 47.7 FG%, 33.8 3P%, 76.4 FT%, 55.0 eFG% (for Mega Soccerbet)

Simonovic played for Mega Soccerbet this season after being drafted by the Bulls in the second round. Due to the Petrušev acquisition, Simonovic primarily played at power forward but that has not negatively impacted his game much. He already had a high IQ and versatile offensive skillset, which he expanded by improving his shooting. His total attempts from beyond the arc nearly doubled and he has made them at a decent rate for a big. On top of that, Simonovic has continued to rebound well and score inside, and has become more disciplined on defense. His defensive metrics, especially shot blocking, have been down compared to last season, which could be a result of playing more power forward next to Petrušev. His continued shooting improvement and extended time at power forward make him a more versatile player, which could benefit in the NBA. At this time, no decision has been announced yet for the Bulls’ plans for Simonovic next season. If he does make the jump to the NBA, Simonovic has the skillset of a modern big and could continue to develop behind Nikola Vucevic.

Marko Simonović (Mega Soccerbet): born in 1999. As said above, he would take the award in last season but Corona happened and the season was cancelled. His name is still on the draft entry list for this draft but even if he will be drafted, he should be stashed for another year. Last season he averaged 16.2 points and 7.6 rebounds per game, probably his role will be a little smaller this season because of Petrušev, but there will be times where both will play together on the court and Simonović will play on the power forward position. He also worked a lot on his outside game, his shot became quicker and more consistent, started to shoot some off the dribble threes too. His high IQ and offensive versatility are his main assets. Can stretch the floor, play face up or with back to the basket and usually makes the right decisions with the ball in his hands. Definitely one of the players NBA scouts and executives from top level teams around Europe should watch and evaluate in next season.

Montenegrin big had the worst showing of the season as he went scoreless. He started the season with Italian team Roseto to complete homegrown status there but came back to Ljublana on the beginning of November. He sees the most limited minutes in major competitions but had single really good games here and there so far. What stands out positively this season is activity on the glass. Rebounding numbers are ridiculously good for 19yo especially in stronger leagues where he debutes: 12.9 per 36 in Slovenia, 13.4 in ABA and 13.5 in BCL. He plays with good motor and his energy, athleticism or rim running are definitely above average. From statistical standpoint we can dig some downsides as well like just 2 blocks in nearly 200 minutes in Adriatic and Champions League which is way below expectations even regarding inconsistent playing time he was given. Also he commits 8.9 and 5.7 fouls per 36 respectively in two leagues mentioned above. It kinda tells a lot about how much he struggles on defensive end. He may fight more than in the past but fundamentals especially in PnR seem bad and he gets completely lost. Also gets thrown away while entering hard contact with other centers. Other than that I would risk a statement that he is not used the right way. On the youth level he was often pick and pop target and showed promise of utilizing his projectable stroke. As of now SImonovic attempted only 5 threes in 21 ABA & BCL contests and is basically used as a garbage big man in iso heavy system with little ball movement. Dreams about being drafted may have to be postponed until the next season but defensive improvements and contributing shooting wise are his only chances to make it as well as simply being given bigger role.

Marko Simonovic (’99 – MNG – 212cm) – One of the players I was hyped to watch first time live on the court. The Olimpija center set in some good numbers in the tournament with 14.7 PPG and 10 RPG. Good athleticism and can run the court, really skilled and can score from different ways. Despite this I expected a bit more offensively. Intimidates a lot in defense but motor comes and goes.

Marko Simonovic (1999, #4) – Montenegrin big already scored multiple times in double digits at strong Italy A2 league and has been very productive per minute in general. He started to appear in mock drafts and probably it’s just the matter of time until he surpasses Isaac Bonga to get the third spot.

Marko Simonovic’s advanced skillset brought many oohs and aahs not only from supporters but also scouts who normally doesn’t show much emotions while evaluating players. It was Marko’s third summer in row with Montenegro youth teams. Previously he was important player with potential but now put his name on the map as a one of the best young big guys in entire continent. Should be able to prove himself quickly in Italian A2 which will most likely be his trampoline to the best European leagues.