Plain and simple, Mirotic is the real deal. I think everyone is starting to realize that now, including him. He can get past most PF's off the dribble. He can shoot from anywhere. He has craftier post moves than anyone thought he did. His dedication & improvement on the defensive end is getting better and better with each game (5 blocks against he Celtics today). This guy has bonafide ALL STAR written all over him. It's only just a matter of time before he puts it all together. By year 2, I expect this kid to take over as starting PF.
^this. Theres definitely some areas of his game that need to evolve, & an off season or 2 dedicated to building body-strength, but it appears the makings of a star are present .
Another trait I haven't seen discussed much is his openness to coaching & criticism from staff & teammates. The guy just doesn't appear to be above taking criticism in-stride from his teammates or coaches. In the era of the prim a-donna pro athlete, this seems to be a rare trait. In todays nets game, camera caught him getting lambasted(& rightfully so) a couple times by his teammates, & unlike so many of todays lofty prospects, he did not brush-off, disregard, or tune it out in any way. Maybe this seems trivial, but, I personally believe this goes a long way in the development of an aspiring pro. 1 thing for sure is that this guy NEEDS TO PLAY NOW, whether its by injuries to starters, garbage-time minutes or otherwise. I regard taj highly, but I sure hope his return to the roster doesnt keep Niko from getting the meaningful minutes needed for his further development. Im not so sure that by the end of his current contract, that he wont be the most important piece of the bulls roster, Rose, Noah, Butler, Gasol included. Far-fetched sounding I know, but I believe the skill-set, attitude & physical attributes are there to make it happen.
