I think the Swiss-Army Knife label is appropriate for Cade. He really should fit in all sorts of winning lineups. that’s not the same as saying he will be a star.
My thoughts on the 3 rookies after 1 game: Jaygup- Defensively, reminds me of the good Iman Shumpert. Competes at an elite level, communicates like a leader on that side of the ball. Offensively, was really bad and really good at times. I’m looking forward to seeing what he looks like when he’s surrounded by more pros and can play off the ball more. I don’t think he’s going to be very successful isolating against NBA defenses. But it wasn’t all bad. Al P- Only negative I noticed, and this isn’t his fault, was that he clearly didn’t know what was going on at times. I can’t imagine how difficult it is playing with a bunch of new teammates and you can’t even communicate with them. Having said that, 15/15 against Mobley was impressive as hell! He’ll get more used to NBA physicality and be a better finisher soon, I think. Jalen- As advertised if not better. I know everyone has pegged him as Zach Lavine because of the leaping ability. But I’m seeing more Devin Booker with his tough shot making and overall offensive real for the game. Think he’s a better athlete than Book though and can be a better passer. Defense doesn’t even have to be great, and it was pretty good today! Shout out to Stone man! He pulled off in one draft what it should have taken 2 or 3 at least to do. And we haven’t even seen Goruba yet… Rebuilds are not supposed to be this fun this fast!
I mostly agree with you, though for me Cade still has the highest floor. With his height, wingspan, shooting, and ability for at least some secondary creation there’s almost no way he’s not at least a pretty good pro. IMO Green probably has/had a little more bust potential since for him to be a good pro it will be as a volume scorer, whether all the time or in bursts off the bench. I really like his chances but that’s a little narrower of a path. Green definitely has top 5-10 player potential that to me Cade really doesn’t though.
Detroit was never gonna pick Green no 1. It was either they take Cade no 1 or they trade down, Cade being no 2 was never an option
