Branden Dawson

Dawson is entering his rookie season in the NBA after being selected with the 56th overall pick in the draft this June. During his senior year at Michigan State, Dawson averaged 11.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 35 minutes per game. The 2014-15 NCAA season saw Dawson truly separate himself from the crowd, earning Big Ten All-Defensive Team and Second-Team All-Big Ten honors. Despite measuring just 6-foot-6, Dawson has developed a reputation as a tenacious rebounder, a skill which he showcased in the Orlando Summer League. Averaging 12.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, 1.8 steals, and 1.2 blocks in 26 minutes per game, Dawson was one of just two players in Orlando to average a double-double. Although he may have made a name for himself during summer league, the Clippers' crowded frontcourt could create an obstacle in terms of receiving minutes for Dawson. With the acquisition of Josh Smith, Los Angeles now possesses two high-caliber veteran power forwards who should occupy the majority of the minutes at the power forward slot. While the rookie has shown plenty of potential, he should see tough competition for minutes as he serves as a backup to Blake Griffin.