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Trail Blazers coach assesses Yang Hansen‘s performance as he attempts to do ‘a Nikola Jokic thing’ in Summer League

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Bergas Agung | Last updated Jul 13, 2025 5:07 PM ET

The NBA Summer League spotlight isn’t reserved for Cooper Flagg and high lottery picks.

Yang Hansen was labelled as ‘the wildest pick ever‘ at the NBA Draft, but he is stealing the show with his revolutionary center play.

Portland’s 16th pick has basketball fans buzzing with his complete modern center performance. His unique skillset is drawing comparisons to a three-time MVP, Nikola Jokic.

The masterful debut that earned Hansen his ‘Chinese Jokic’ comparison and shocked Warriors fans

Hansen delivered a statement performance against Golden State, recording 10 points, four rebounds, and five assists. The stat line doesn’t tell the complete story of his dominance.

The rookie center showcased elite court vision and passing ability that separates him from traditional big men.

His ability to find open teammates and execute smart passes caught everyone’s attention, creating ‘Chinese Jokic‘ nickname.

Hansen followed up with another impressive showing against Memphis, posting 10 points, five rebounds, and three assists. The consistency proved his initial performance wasn’t a fluke.

Summer League coach Ronnie Burrell praised Hansen’s adaptation to American basketball’s demanding schedule. Playing back-to-back games presented a unique challenge for the international prospect.

“That’s one of the things that the NBA is different from every other league around the world, is we play back to back. So, it’s something he has to get used to,” Burrell explained.

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Hansen’s dangerous passing style mirrors Jokic’s genius but creates costly turnovers

Hansen’s aggressive playmaking comes with inevitable growing pains. He totaled eight turnovers across two games, including five against the Grizzlies.

The turnovers stem from Hansen’s willingness to attempt risky passes that most centers wouldn’t consider. His court vision allows him to spot cutting teammates, but execution remains inconsistent.

Burrell isn’t concerned about the turnover issues. He understands that elite passing ability requires accepting occasional mistakes during the learning process.

“I don’t overreact to him turning the ball over sometimes because it’s going to happen with a guy who’s passed the way he does. Sometimes there’s going to be turnovers as well,” Burrell stated.

Hansen’s potential could fills Portland’s biggest need and solves their center crisis

Hansen’s development timeline couldn’t be better for Portland. The Blazers desperately need reliable center play after DeAndre Ayton joined the Lakers.

Hansen must refine his decision-making and ball security to maximize his effectiveness. The learning curve is steep, but his foundation suggests significant upside.

If Hansen successfully addresses his turnover issues, he could secure a major role in Portland’s rotation next season. The Blazers’ center position remains wide open for the taking.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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