Basketball analyst David Thorpe writes today that Kawhi Leonard has the tools to make the transition to the small forward position in the NBA.

Noting Leonard’s speed, length, and never-quit motor, Thorpe says Leonard will thrive in transition and off cuts to the rim.

Leonard leads the No. 6 ranked San Diego State Aztecs in points, offensive rebounds, defensive rebounds, steals and is second in assists.

Perry Jones is a candidate for Big 12 Freshman of the Year and a sure-fire lottery pick should he decide to enter the draft, but his passivity has hampered his production.

“I haven’t been the type of player to just sit there and take shots when my team needed me to,” said Jones, who averaged 16.3 points, 10.8 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.7 blocks as a high school senior. “I’ve always been a very passive player.”

Baylor Coach Scott Drew has been trying to change that, and there’s no doubt he’s made progress toward that end.

“Defenses have done a good job in adjusting to him and trying to limit him,” Drew said. “He’s also had an opportunity to now work on facing double-teams and different things like that, which he’s getting better at.”