Free Agency Analysis: Sam McDaniel Back to Melbourne

With free agency underway, NBL Media’s Liam Santamaria is taking a look at each and every signing and breaking down what it all means ahead of #NBL21.

SIGNING SNAPSHOT: SAM MCDANIEL BACK TO MELBOURNE

Signed by: Melbourne United

The deal: One year

Age: 24

2019-20 team: Melbourne United

2019-20 stats (per game): 1.3 points, 40.0 FG%, 33.3 3P%, 83.3 FT%

Projected role: Back-up wing.

Quote: “We’re looking forward to seeing Sam take that next step in his career and really establish himself as a strong, reliable member of our squad.” – Dean Vickerman (Melbourne United head coach)

My take: Firstly, let me start by saying it’s nice to get some positive news coming out of Melbourne United during what has been a difficult time for that organisation. 

Regarding McDaniel, this is a nice re-signing by MU. At 24, the son-of-Wayne will be entering his third year at United – his second as a fully-contracted player – and, after receiving very little playing time last season, will be looking to crack the rotation in NBL21.

Possessing an intriguing mix of size, strength and quickness, McDaniel is both a capable scorer and a very good on-ball defender. He has always been a skilled operator in the mid-range and has worked hard to develop his three-ball over the past twelve months with, I’m told, encouraging results.

This time last year McDaniel was really impressing during pre-season action for United. In fact, I remember watching him score 17 points on 8-of-9 shooting against Goorjian’s CBA team in mid-August and thinking ‘this kid looks ready to play.’ Unfortunately, however, an injury just prior to the start of the season derailed those plans. This year, with one less player on the roster, he may well get that chance.