With the #22 selection of the 2011 NBA draft, the Denver Nuggets chose Kenneth Faried, an undersized power forward out of Morehead State. Most analysts considered this pick something a of a “reach”, as Faried was projected by many websites as a second-rounder.
The Nuggets have never had reason to regret their choice. Faried has acquired a wonderful nickname “The Manimal” for his relentless motion and fierce work on the boards. He’s an Energizer Bunny of a player, always cutting or screening or slashing to the hoop – he seems to never stop. He reminds me of Richard Hamilton, who was an essential contributor to the excellent Detroit Pistons teams of a decade or so past.