Jaylin Hunter has emerged as the SLB’s premier playmaker, leading the league in both assists per game and assist-to-turnover ratio among regular contributors. His steady hand has made him the maestro of the Leicester Riders’ disciplined offence.
Elite Playmaking
The chart below illustrates Hunter’s unique standing among the SLB’s top passers, comparing assists per game with assist-to-turnover ratio.
As the chart shows, Hunter is the only player in the top-right quadrant, a testament to his unmatched efficiency at high volume. Leading the SLB with 8.42 assists per game as well as a 4.39 assist-to-turnover ratio, Hunter stands as the league’s most complete playmaker. For Leicester, this combination is critical to their offensive strategy, where every possession is maximised to maintain their hallmark precision.
Ball Security and Leicester’s Discipline
Leicester’s team-wide ball control has been key to their success this season. Their turnover percentage (16.83%) is the lowest in the SLB, showcasing a disciplined offence that rarely gifts opponents easy opportunities. This control complements Hunter’s efficiency, creating a foundation for Leicester’s methodical style of play.
| Team | TOV% |
|---|---|
| Leicester Riders | 16.83% |
| Cheshire Phoenix | 17.36% |
| Newcastle Eagles | 17.38% |
| Surrey 89ers | 17.94% |
| Bristol Flyers | 18.50% |
| B. Braun Sheffield Sharks | 18.61% |
| Manchester Basketball | 18.82% |
| London Lions | 19.51% |
| Caledonia Gladiators | 23.21% |
This team-wide precision not only defines the Riders’ offensive identity but also gives them a distinct advantage in controlling the pace and flow of games against less-disciplined opponents. It’s not just about Hunter—it’s a team-wide ethos of minimising mistakes that allows the Riders to thrive.
Hunter’s Importance in the Championship
With a 3-2 record in the championship standings and a close deficit to overturn in the Trophy Semi-final against Newcastle, Leicester remain strong contenders in both competitions so far this season. They may be flying under the radar but their consistent playmaking and discipline, led by Hunter, position them as formidable challengers in the league’s most competitive matchups.
*Andrew Lawrence of the Surrey 89ers didn’t meet the 20-assist cutoff for the chart due to limited games played following his return from injury. Despite this, Lawrence’s current 9.50 assist-to-turnover ratio is remarkable, achieved while averaging 3.80 assists per game. Still, Hunter’s ability to combine high volume with control remains unparalleled in the league.
