As the NBA has morphed, over the last few years, into a shooter’s league, big men are routinely asked to expand their game well beyond the painted area in order to provide that extra bit of spacing offensively. Given that centers are normally defended by the other team’s best rim protector, drawing that player out of the paint opens up driving lanes and finishing opportunities for teammates. If the defensive center stays rooted in the paint, a prolific outside shooter can have a field day.
Alex Len has changed with the times, opening up his outside game significantly last year.