Nuggets training camp capsules: Malik Beasley

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In the buildup to training camp beginning Sept. 27, BSN Denver is profiling the Nuggets roster player by player, reflecting on their performance last year and what they have to prove in training camp, preseason, and throughout the regular season to have a productive 2016-17 campaign.

Player Profile

Malik Beasley, 6-foot-5, 196 pounds

2015-16 season averages (college): 34 games, 29.8 minutes, 15.6 points (47.1 FG%, 38.7 3PT%), 5.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists.

Projected role: Reserve shooting guard

Training camp outlook

Beasley enters his first season with the Denver Nuggets as the biggest unknown on the roster. He sat throughout the Las Vegas Summer League as he recovered from surgery to repair a stress fracture in his right leg and has not been seen much except for a few Instagram posts of him, and usually fellow rookie Jamal Murray in the gym. The Nuggets have been cautious and have monitored him closely during rehab, but he should be a full go for the season.

Beasley’s game resembles that of a more controlled and gifted Will Barton. He has the athletic ability to be an absolute terror in transition, gives effort on the defensive end and seemingly has the physical tools and IQ to be a plus-defender in time. His jumper is pure and he has the ability to score in a multitude of ways. Beasley’s numbers from Florida State do not portray that he is a willing passer as well.

The 19-year-old will have an uphill battle in terms of earning playing time. Being a rookie always hurts but being behind the likes of Murray, Barton and Gary Harris makes Beasley’s quest for minutes in the first half of the season seemingly impossible. Beasley’s priority coming into training camp should be to catch up. No rookie comes into the league with NBA-ready conditioning or the mental aptitude to grasp all of the offensive and defensive philosophies right away. His physical talents are undeniable but to be one of the youngest players drafted means that the learning curve will be steep.

Look for Beasley to come into training camp with a blank canvas. If he can take full advantage of his time spent at the end of the bench it could be huge for his development going forward. Beasley has the potential to be the best shooting guard on this roster and time will tell if he can reach that lofty ceiling. He was the only collegiate basketball player last year to put up per 40 minute average of over 20 points while shooting 55 percent from the field and 4o percent from 3-point range. Add in his ability to attack the basket and his plus basketball IQ, all while giving effort on the defensive end, and Beasley has all the tools to develop into a special NBA player.