NBA Rookie Report
By admin
Tue, 03/09/2010 - 1:40am
By Jonathan Wasserman
The 2009 NBA draft was full of questions marks, low expectations, and more uncertainties than an award show hosted by Sacha Baren Cohen. Other than no-brainer first selection Blake Griffin, the rest of the field was anybody's guess. However, just a few games into the pre-season, Griffin busted his knee, and his first season as a pro, leaving the door labeled "Rookie of the Year Honors" open to any newcomer from this year's draft.
General Managers have a lot to think about when choosing their next potential big time contributor. When looking over the field, so many question marks arise: Can Thabeet be the defensive presence in the NBA that he was in college? Can Steph Curry light it up from all over the court in the pro's, even with the body of what seems to be a 14 year old? Will Jonny Flynn's balloon sized heart help translate memorable college performances into future NBA wins? Will Ricky Rubio play in this country? Will Brandon Jennings one and done stint in Europe jump-start his career and set a trend for future high school prospects? All of these questions have been asked, and we will soon find out the answers.
Rookies in the NBA are great to analyze. Some catch on quickly, some... well not so quickly. Every year there are pleasant surprises, and every year there are disappointments. Who will wear the labels this year? Lets take a look at the top ten rookies of the 2009-2010 season so far...
Tyreke Evans1. Tyreke Evans- How often do you find a 6'6 guard who has the quickness
and handle of a point guard, the versatility of a 2 guard, and the power
and strength of a 3 or 4? With the ability to get to the rim with
ease, Tyreke poses a serious threat to opponents, even at 20 years old.
He struggles shooting from the outside while lacking any type of range
on his jumper (26% from 3), but that doesn't seem to stop him from
scoring 20 points a game. The only question mark regarding Evans’ game
is whether or not he’s a true point guard or a shooting guard.
Regardless, he's the favorite for Rookie of the Year honors, and the sky
is the limit for this athletically gifted guard out of Memphis.
Virtually unguardable off the dribble, Evans has a bright future in this
league, and with an improved outside game, he could be wearing an
All-Star jersey each February for years to come.
2. Stephen Curry- Smooth, quick, precise, mature, and straight up talented... Steph has shown he can score at the next level, as well as distribute and surprisingly rebound. Starting off a little slow, Steph has come on to put up multiple 30 point performances, as well as a jaw dropping 36 point, 13 assist and 10 rebound performance in a game against the Clippers. He seems to be getting more and more comfortable as the season progresses, showing off a difference facet of his game every night. His assists are down a bit (5.5) for a starting point guard, but he has been relied upon to score too often and his assists will come with time, as he is a fast learner, and a smart individual with a high basketball IQ. Before the season started, it seemed with franchise player Monta Ellis already in the backcourt, it might be tough for Steph to adjust. Now, it seems Curry has become the franchise player, and if only Golden State had defenders or some bigs, Curry could have made them relevant.
3. Darren Collison- If Chris Paul decided to retire tomorrow, the Hornets would still be in good hands with this promising young point guard from UCLA. While CP3 has struggled with injuries, Collison has kept the Hornets in the race, and put up crazy numbers in the process. He's had 18 and 14 assist games, while averaging 20 points, over 8 assists and 4 rebounds in the month of February while Chris Paul has been out. He was the 8th point guard chosen in this year's draft, and seems to be rubbing that in to those who passed on him. Coming out of UCLA, he has been more NBA ready than most due to their pro-like offensive sets and systems. He has struggled a bit with consistently making shots, however he's just a rookie and playing unexpected big minutes for a team fighting for a playoff spot in the elite western conference. He can attack the rim and find the open man, 2 key elements in forming an efficient point guard. Also doesn't hurt to be mentored by CP3 everyday in practice, not to mention every timeout during games.
4. Brandon Jennings- Jennings was the first of his kind to skip college and play with the big boys in Europe for a year before entering his name in the NBA Draft. How did that work out for him? Well, he struggled getting minutes in Europe, not allowing him to get in any sort of rhythm, and scouts and general managers seemed mixed on how his game would translate in the NBA. Known for his speed, quickness and flash, Jennings has shown he can run and gun with the best, however, his poor jump shot has limited him to inconsistent basketball. He dropped 55 in a game earlier this season, making New York fans and scouts sick after passing on him for Jordan Hill, but Jennings has come back to earth, shooting a dreadful 36% from the field. Regardless of how serious his shooting slump has become, Brandon has shown he can run a team from the point, while illustrating flashes of quickness that you cant find or teach anywhere else. Like Evans, with an improved outside game, Jennings has scary potential.
5. Ty Lawson - One of the elite point guards in the country while winning a National Championship for the Tar Heels, Lawson was another uncertain prospect moving forward. His ability to lead a team and demonstrate pure toughness has made him a popular prospect. Ty has surprising quickness, and his maturity and consistent play make him #5 on the rookie list, despite his just average numbers. He doesn't turn the ball over, he can knock down midrange jumpers as well as the 3ball, and can push the ball in transition while giving his teammates confidence that when Chauncey comes out, the offense can still run effectively. The bottom line with Ty is, he can conduct an efficient offense, as he rarely makes mistakes out there and understands his role of getting the ball to the guys who have the best opportunity at converting baskets. Almost seems like he's been in the league for years.
6. Marcus Thornton- Dropping to the second round seemed to just motivate this 4 year guard from LSU, as he has burst onto the scene with a 37 point game, and some other big time performances from a team who desperately needs another scoring option. His record 23 point quarter against Cleveland illustrates his "scoring in bunches" ability, and his unconscious shooting mentality and fluent stroke make him a feared scorer off the bench. Though he has been streaky throughout the season, his up and down playing time and the fact that he's just a rookie have contributed to his inconsistent play. He's not the fastest guy on the court, and at 6'4 is slightly undersized for a 2 guard, but Thornton can flat out just put the ball in the hoop. You never know which guys will come out of nowhere after the draft, and Marcus Thornton seems to be one of them.
7. Jonny Flynn- Flynn is so easy to like, even when his numbers are not there. He puts in almost 14 points a game, with his non-stop motor and lighting quick first step, he's able to contribute right away in the NBA. His 4.5 assists is somewhat of a concern, although he lacks a supporting cast making it tough on a starting rookie point guard. He's only shooting 35% from 3, although that should improve with time as he can knock down the midrange jumper off the dribble. His ability to finish around the rim though makes him a special young player, and his high energy and work ethic will no doubt help a team some day. If you were not inspired by his 34 point, 11 assist, 6 overtime victory at Syracuse against conference rival UConn, than you need to check your pulse. Once he learns to get the ball to right players at the right time, Flynn can be an effective starting point guard in this league for years to come.
8. James Harden- Most would think Oklahoma made a mistake by passing on Tyreke Evans and reaching for Harden at the 3 pick, but Harden seems to be a perfect fit for this young, exciting, up and coming Thunder team. Playing behind stars like Durant and Westbrook, Harden does not have to come in right away and score 20 a night. His 3 point shooting is becoming a signature threat for the young 2 guard, and his defensive abilities give him a bright outlook for the future. In time, his 23 minutes per game will increase, and as the Thunder progress, so will James. Usually the 3rd pick in the draft goes to a struggling team, however, the Thunder are this year's surprise bunch, which will only help mature Harden's game and give him experience playing at the highest level on the biggest stage. He's not the most athletic two guard in the league, but he's smart and seems very aware, making him a valuable piece to a young franchise on the rise.
9. Jonas Jerebko- An Unknown to most forward from Sweden, Jerebko seems to be one of those under the radar, high production players. JJ is one of those guys who does not need to fill up the stat sheet to be effective. A tough competitor with a high defensive IQ, JJ can help any team with his high activity level. Whether it's deflecting passes or creating tips and keeping balls alive, Jonas does not need the ball to help his team. He replaced Tayshaun Prince in the starting lineup, showing just how much confidence the Piston's coaching staff has in him. His 3 point percentage isn't there yet, but with an improved outside game, every team could use a guy like JJ.
10. Dejuan Blair- Not many 6'7 guys can dominate the glass like DB. He slipped to the 2nd round of the draft after teams couldn't figure out if he lacked a true position in this league (not to mention he does not have any ACLs, literally). He's not much of a scorer, but he can rebound like a 6'10 power forward. His wide frame clogs the lane defensively, and when he's out on the floor, everyone in the building knows it. He averages 8 points and 6 rebounds a game in only 18 minutes, proving with more playing time, he can be serious role player for any team in this league. He can't face up to the basket, and really doesn't have any type of offensive game outside of putbacks and finishes around the rim, but that's not why he's out there. When that shot goes up and Dejuan is in the game, chances are he's in the best position for the board.
Other notable performers:
Taj Gibson, Chi...Chase Budinger, Hou...Wesley Matthews, Utah...Omri Casspi, Sac...Jrue Holiday, Phi... Rodrigue Beaubois, Dal...
Taking their time:
Hasheem Thabeet, OKC...Jordan Hill, Hou...Gerald Henderson, Char...Earl Clark, Pho...James Johnson, Chi...Blake Griffin, LAC...
The 2009 NBA draft was full of questions marks, low expectations, and more uncertainties than an award show hosted by Sacha Baren Cohen. Other than no-brainer first selection Blake Griffin, the rest of the field was anybody's guess. However, just a few games into the pre-season, Griffin busted his knee, and his first season as a pro, leaving the door labeled "Rookie of the Year Honors" open to any newcomer from this year's draft.
General Managers have a lot to think about when choosing their next potential big time contributor. When looking over the field, so many question marks arise: Can Thabeet be the defensive presence in the NBA that he was in college? Can Steph Curry light it up from all over the court in the pro's, even with the body of what seems to be a 14 year old? Will Jonny Flynn's balloon sized heart help translate memorable college performances into future NBA wins? Will Ricky Rubio play in this country? Will Brandon Jennings one and done stint in Europe jump-start his career and set a trend for future high school prospects? All of these questions have been asked, and we will soon find out the answers.
Rookies in the NBA are great to analyze. Some catch on quickly, some... well not so quickly. Every year there are pleasant surprises, and every year there are disappointments. Who will wear the labels this year? Lets take a look at the top ten rookies of the 2009-2010 season so far...
Tyreke Evans1. Tyreke Evans- How often do you find a 6'6 guard who has the quickness
and handle of a point guard, the versatility of a 2 guard, and the power
and strength of a 3 or 4? With the ability to get to the rim with
ease, Tyreke poses a serious threat to opponents, even at 20 years old.
He struggles shooting from the outside while lacking any type of range
on his jumper (26% from 3), but that doesn't seem to stop him from
scoring 20 points a game. The only question mark regarding Evans’ game
is whether or not he’s a true point guard or a shooting guard.
Regardless, he's the favorite for Rookie of the Year honors, and the sky
is the limit for this athletically gifted guard out of Memphis.
Virtually unguardable off the dribble, Evans has a bright future in this
league, and with an improved outside game, he could be wearing an
All-Star jersey each February for years to come. 2. Stephen Curry- Smooth, quick, precise, mature, and straight up talented... Steph has shown he can score at the next level, as well as distribute and surprisingly rebound. Starting off a little slow, Steph has come on to put up multiple 30 point performances, as well as a jaw dropping 36 point, 13 assist and 10 rebound performance in a game against the Clippers. He seems to be getting more and more comfortable as the season progresses, showing off a difference facet of his game every night. His assists are down a bit (5.5) for a starting point guard, but he has been relied upon to score too often and his assists will come with time, as he is a fast learner, and a smart individual with a high basketball IQ. Before the season started, it seemed with franchise player Monta Ellis already in the backcourt, it might be tough for Steph to adjust. Now, it seems Curry has become the franchise player, and if only Golden State had defenders or some bigs, Curry could have made them relevant.
3. Darren Collison- If Chris Paul decided to retire tomorrow, the Hornets would still be in good hands with this promising young point guard from UCLA. While CP3 has struggled with injuries, Collison has kept the Hornets in the race, and put up crazy numbers in the process. He's had 18 and 14 assist games, while averaging 20 points, over 8 assists and 4 rebounds in the month of February while Chris Paul has been out. He was the 8th point guard chosen in this year's draft, and seems to be rubbing that in to those who passed on him. Coming out of UCLA, he has been more NBA ready than most due to their pro-like offensive sets and systems. He has struggled a bit with consistently making shots, however he's just a rookie and playing unexpected big minutes for a team fighting for a playoff spot in the elite western conference. He can attack the rim and find the open man, 2 key elements in forming an efficient point guard. Also doesn't hurt to be mentored by CP3 everyday in practice, not to mention every timeout during games.
4. Brandon Jennings- Jennings was the first of his kind to skip college and play with the big boys in Europe for a year before entering his name in the NBA Draft. How did that work out for him? Well, he struggled getting minutes in Europe, not allowing him to get in any sort of rhythm, and scouts and general managers seemed mixed on how his game would translate in the NBA. Known for his speed, quickness and flash, Jennings has shown he can run and gun with the best, however, his poor jump shot has limited him to inconsistent basketball. He dropped 55 in a game earlier this season, making New York fans and scouts sick after passing on him for Jordan Hill, but Jennings has come back to earth, shooting a dreadful 36% from the field. Regardless of how serious his shooting slump has become, Brandon has shown he can run a team from the point, while illustrating flashes of quickness that you cant find or teach anywhere else. Like Evans, with an improved outside game, Jennings has scary potential.
5. Ty Lawson - One of the elite point guards in the country while winning a National Championship for the Tar Heels, Lawson was another uncertain prospect moving forward. His ability to lead a team and demonstrate pure toughness has made him a popular prospect. Ty has surprising quickness, and his maturity and consistent play make him #5 on the rookie list, despite his just average numbers. He doesn't turn the ball over, he can knock down midrange jumpers as well as the 3ball, and can push the ball in transition while giving his teammates confidence that when Chauncey comes out, the offense can still run effectively. The bottom line with Ty is, he can conduct an efficient offense, as he rarely makes mistakes out there and understands his role of getting the ball to the guys who have the best opportunity at converting baskets. Almost seems like he's been in the league for years.
6. Marcus Thornton- Dropping to the second round seemed to just motivate this 4 year guard from LSU, as he has burst onto the scene with a 37 point game, and some other big time performances from a team who desperately needs another scoring option. His record 23 point quarter against Cleveland illustrates his "scoring in bunches" ability, and his unconscious shooting mentality and fluent stroke make him a feared scorer off the bench. Though he has been streaky throughout the season, his up and down playing time and the fact that he's just a rookie have contributed to his inconsistent play. He's not the fastest guy on the court, and at 6'4 is slightly undersized for a 2 guard, but Thornton can flat out just put the ball in the hoop. You never know which guys will come out of nowhere after the draft, and Marcus Thornton seems to be one of them.
7. Jonny Flynn- Flynn is so easy to like, even when his numbers are not there. He puts in almost 14 points a game, with his non-stop motor and lighting quick first step, he's able to contribute right away in the NBA. His 4.5 assists is somewhat of a concern, although he lacks a supporting cast making it tough on a starting rookie point guard. He's only shooting 35% from 3, although that should improve with time as he can knock down the midrange jumper off the dribble. His ability to finish around the rim though makes him a special young player, and his high energy and work ethic will no doubt help a team some day. If you were not inspired by his 34 point, 11 assist, 6 overtime victory at Syracuse against conference rival UConn, than you need to check your pulse. Once he learns to get the ball to right players at the right time, Flynn can be an effective starting point guard in this league for years to come.
8. James Harden- Most would think Oklahoma made a mistake by passing on Tyreke Evans and reaching for Harden at the 3 pick, but Harden seems to be a perfect fit for this young, exciting, up and coming Thunder team. Playing behind stars like Durant and Westbrook, Harden does not have to come in right away and score 20 a night. His 3 point shooting is becoming a signature threat for the young 2 guard, and his defensive abilities give him a bright outlook for the future. In time, his 23 minutes per game will increase, and as the Thunder progress, so will James. Usually the 3rd pick in the draft goes to a struggling team, however, the Thunder are this year's surprise bunch, which will only help mature Harden's game and give him experience playing at the highest level on the biggest stage. He's not the most athletic two guard in the league, but he's smart and seems very aware, making him a valuable piece to a young franchise on the rise.
9. Jonas Jerebko- An Unknown to most forward from Sweden, Jerebko seems to be one of those under the radar, high production players. JJ is one of those guys who does not need to fill up the stat sheet to be effective. A tough competitor with a high defensive IQ, JJ can help any team with his high activity level. Whether it's deflecting passes or creating tips and keeping balls alive, Jonas does not need the ball to help his team. He replaced Tayshaun Prince in the starting lineup, showing just how much confidence the Piston's coaching staff has in him. His 3 point percentage isn't there yet, but with an improved outside game, every team could use a guy like JJ.
10. Dejuan Blair- Not many 6'7 guys can dominate the glass like DB. He slipped to the 2nd round of the draft after teams couldn't figure out if he lacked a true position in this league (not to mention he does not have any ACLs, literally). He's not much of a scorer, but he can rebound like a 6'10 power forward. His wide frame clogs the lane defensively, and when he's out on the floor, everyone in the building knows it. He averages 8 points and 6 rebounds a game in only 18 minutes, proving with more playing time, he can be serious role player for any team in this league. He can't face up to the basket, and really doesn't have any type of offensive game outside of putbacks and finishes around the rim, but that's not why he's out there. When that shot goes up and Dejuan is in the game, chances are he's in the best position for the board.
Other notable performers:
Taj Gibson, Chi...Chase Budinger, Hou...Wesley Matthews, Utah...Omri Casspi, Sac...Jrue Holiday, Phi... Rodrigue Beaubois, Dal...
Taking their time:
Hasheem Thabeet, OKC...Jordan Hill, Hou...Gerald Henderson, Char...Earl Clark, Pho...James Johnson, Chi...Blake Griffin, LAC...
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