Remember Him? Modeled After Zhou Qi, Cut Twice in Five Months, and Now at 23, He's Facing an NBA Exit

Aleksandar "Poku" Pokusevski was once hailed as a promising prospect with a bright future in the NBA. Fans and analysts alike were drawn to his unique skill set and towering presence. Born in Serbia and honing his skills in the Greek league, the 7-foot-0 forward boasted a 7-foot-3 wingspan, an intriguing blend of ball-handling, and shooting ability. Many compared him to Zhou Qi, the 43rd pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, who shared similar physical attributes and style of play. Both players were seen as modern big men, capable of stretching the floor and providing versatile offensive options, unlike traditional centers.

The Rise and Fall of a Promising Prospect

In the world of sports, talent is often seen as the primary determinant of a player's potential. Pokusevski embodied this principle, appearing as a raw yet promising talent with a vast ceiling. He was often compared to players like Lauri Markkanen and Kristaps Porzingis, envisioning him as a floor-spacing power forward. Others saw the potential for him to develop into a playmaking center, akin to Nikola Jokic or Alperen Sengun. The most ambitious fans even dreamed of him becoming the next Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Unfortunately, despite the numerous paths to success laid out before him, Pokusevski's journey through the NBA has been anything but smooth. His physical limitations, notably his slender frame and lack of core strength, have been significant obstacles. Despite extensive efforts in strength and conditioning, Pokusevski has struggled to add the necessary muscle mass to compete effectively in the NBA's physically demanding environment. His narrow shoulders and underdeveloped hip muscles have left him vulnerable, both offensively and defensively.

Offensive and Defensive Struggles

On the offensive end, Pokusevski's game has been limited by his physical shortcomings. His inability to withstand contact has forced him to rely heavily on his perimeter shooting, where he has been inconsistent at best. Over the past two seasons, his three-point shooting percentage has hovered below 30%, making him a liability on the floor. His inability to drive into the paint and finish through contact has further limited his scoring options, reducing his impact on the game.

Defensively, Pokusevski's lack of strength has made him an easy target for opponents. Despite his height and wingspan, he has struggled to secure rebounds and protect the rim effectively. Opponents can easily overpower him in the post, neutralizing his potential defensive contributions. His frail frame also increases the risk of injuries, which has been a persistent issue throughout his career. Over four seasons, Pokusevski has played in just 168 games, with injuries to both legs hampering his ability to stay on the court.

A Career at a Crossroads

Pokusevski's career reached a turning point earlier this year. The Oklahoma City Thunder, the team that had initially invested in his potential, decided to waive him before the trade deadline, signaling a lack of faith in his future with the team. Shortly after, the Charlotte Hornets picked him up, offering him a lifeline in the NBA. However, this reprieve was short-lived. Just a few days ago, the Hornets also decided to cut ties with Pokusevski, marking his second release in just five months. At 23 years old, Pokusevski now faces the very real possibility of being out of the NBA entirely.

The Zhou Qi Comparison

The comparison to Zhou Qi is fitting, as both players share similar career trajectories. Zhou Qi, a talented big man from China, was also seen as a player with immense potential due to his height and skill set. However, like Pokusevski, Zhou Qi struggled to adapt to the NBA's physicality and pace. His stint with the Houston Rockets was short-lived, and he eventually returned to play in China after failing to secure a long-term spot in the NBA.

Pokusevski's plight highlights the challenges that international big men often face in the NBA. Despite their unique talents and potential, the transition to the NBA can be unforgiving, especially for players who lack the necessary physical attributes to compete at the highest level. The league's emphasis on speed, strength, and athleticism can be a significant barrier for players like Pokusevski and Zhou Qi, whose games rely more on skill and finesse.

The Road Ahead

For Pokusevski, the path forward is uncertain. His age and talent suggest that there is still time for him to develop and potentially return to the NBA. However, he will need to address his physical limitations and find a way to stay healthy if he hopes to revive his career. European leagues or other international opportunities may provide a more suitable environment for him to refine his game and rebuild his confidence.

Despite the setbacks, Pokusevski's journey is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional sports. Talent alone is not always enough to guarantee success, and the physical and mental demands of the NBA can derail even the most promising careers. For now, Pokusevski's future remains uncertain, but his story is far from over. With determination and the right opportunities, he may yet find a way to fulfill the potential that once made him one of the NBA's most intriguing prospects.