ROGAVOPOULOS, A CENTER WITH A DIFFERENT STYLE AND A HIGH COMBO: THE 3 CRITICAL DECISIONS AT PANATHINAIKOS

Written by ✍️ Thodoris 

Panathinaikos is heading into the summer with its main priority being to maintain the competitive identity that led it to the top, but also to substantially strengthen key positions. With the base of the roster remaining strong, Ergin Ataman and his staff are called upon to make three strategic decisions that will determine the character of the team in the new season: the addition of a second center, the Rogapoulos case, and the possibility of acquiring a tall combo with flexibility.

Initially, the issue of the second center is more complex than it seems. Matthias Lesor remains on the roster, however, after his injury there is a reasonable question mark about his pace and degree of readiness at the start of the season. Panathinaikos is therefore looking for a player to cover the “5” position, but the following dilemma arises: should he have similar characteristics to Lesor, namely physique, toughness, an aptitude for defense and playing close to the basket? Or is it the right time to acquire a more modern tall player, with the ability to shoot from a distance, in order to offer spacing and more offensive solutions?

The style of the second “5” is not just a matter of taste. It will determine how Panathinaikos will play when Lesor is not on the court and whether the team will be able to adapt to the demands of each opponent. One option offers continuity and stability to the team’s defensive profile. The other opens up tactical horizons that can prove decisive, especially in a playoff series or in special situation matches.

At the same time, Nikos Rogapoulos is very close to transferring to Panathinaikos, a move that – if completed – could prove to be of great importance. The international forward is a shooter with size, has room for improvement due to his age and brings experience from the Euroleague with Baskonia. If the process of obtaining a Greek passport is completed positively, Panathinaikos will gain a main rotation player with domestic “status” – an element that opens the rotation and helps in the preparation of a Euroleague roster.

The presence of Rogapoulos will provide a specialized shooter at the “3” position with size and a clear role, something that the team has been lacking. In addition, it gives Ataman the ability to vary formations depending on the opponent and the development of the game.

The third question that concerns the coaching team is whether the roster needs a player who can cover both the “4” and “5” positions. A modern tall combo, that is, who will offer alternative solutions when a change of formation is required, when injuries occur or when the match requires tall and flexible formations. Such a player can function as a valuable “tool”, especially in conditions that require intense rotation.

In this particular role, the step-up of Dinos Mitoglou will also be important  , as he has the ability to provide solutions in both positions. If he finds rhythm and consistency, he can become the “4-5” that Panathinaikos is looking for from within. Otherwise, the acquisition of another player with these characteristics may be deemed necessary.

Panathinaikos does not need a revolution in its roster. It needs  surgical interventions  – additions with substance and competitive logic. The three decisions that are currently in the spotlight are not simply transfer-related. They are  strategic choices  that will determine the structure, the character and – why not – the path to the stars. Because for Ergin Ataman’s team,  there is no ceiling .