Many people are saying they think Danilo Gallinari could be the next Peja Stojakovic. However, I am not one of those people nor do I want Danilo to be Peja. With Danilo’s skill set I would like him to be an all around player. Which is something Peja Stojakovic has fallen short of. There is more to Gallo than just a guy that shoots 3’s.

If Danilo Gallinari stays healthy for his career he has a chance to be better than Peja Stojakovic. Peja in his best years in the NBA averaged around the low 20’s, with around 5 rebounds, and 2 assists a game. Without a doubt I feel Danilo Gallnari can achieve these numbers and some. The only advantage I see Peja having is in the foul line shooting department. Gallo can block shots, pass, and score.

Peja Stojakovic is just a spot up shooter and not really known for taking his man off the dribble or being versatile to bring up the ball as a point forward. Danilo Galliari has all the attributes to score on the offensive end and he is athletic. His step back jumpshot probably is one of the best in the league. And get this folks, he shoots his step back shot off the dribble or coming from 3 point range.

In the month of December alone I have seen Danilo get better. Not just with his shooting, but becoming more of a player that wants to be committed on the defensive end of the court. We have seen Gallo block the shots and dunks of Richardson, Okafor, and Amundson. What was most impressive was his recent block of guard Acie Law in the final seconds of the Knicks win over the Bobcats. Right now Danilo is averaging 0.8 blocks a game. I really feel he is a player that can get at least 1 and a half blocks a game.

The most slept on part of Gallo’s game is his passing ability. If you thought Duhon was the only player that knows how to run the pick and roll play with Lee, you are mistaken. Watch Danilo the next time he is on the court with David Lee or even Wilson Chandler.

Currently Danilo Gallinari is averaging 14 points, 4.7 rebounds, 0.8 blocks, and 0.9 steals a game. This is all with Gallinari not taking many shots and getting 29 minutes per game. Not bad for a second year player.

So you can keep your Peja Stojakovic clone. I would rather bank on Gallinari’s future as a complete player in this league.