ClutchFans Game Thread: Spurs @ Rockets 10/17/2024 (Preseason)

And look at the massive difference between Adams and Sengun. Quite telling...

 

True, Sengun is a lot better.

 

A definitive plus/minus data tells another story though.

 

In a small sample size.

 

plus minus on a game basis doesnt mean much tbh. Adams had higher plus minus than both Jalen and Sengun combined obv that's a lie.

 

Did he get much stronger? There were a couple of times he was just plowing through them. He's always had the finesse for a big man. If he can also add power, he's going to be a great option down the stretch when you need to get a bucket.

 

It seems.

 

Missed a stretch in the second where they opened up the first big lead, but still caught a majority of the game.

FVV - Nothing new to report here. He understands the assignment. Run the offense, set up the young guys, play defense. I can live with the occasional early shot clock three as long as he's doing the rest. An organizing presence.

Sengun - Had his way bullying Collins for post position, just missed a few easy ones. Got on track in the 2nd/3rd to put it away. Looked unstoppable when he was racking up the And-1s. Can't complain about anything other than the freethrows, but that looks to be overall improved based on earlier games.

Jalen - Liked his willingness to get downhill and rack up FTs, would like to see more of that game to game. Jumper is looking nice, and its generally been coming in the flow of the offense. I'm optimistic on the consistency because it seems like he's just making the wide open/open shots he's usually missed.

Jabari - Every time he gets a chance to cook I feel like theres a 50% chance he turns it over. Overthinking things? Looked really good on reactive plays like on ball defense, crashing the boards, or cutting. I think both of his blocks came on 1:1 possessions. Not too worried about the jumper rn, but can't say i'm not a little disappointed.

Brooks - Does a good job of setting the tone on defense and has a little more to his offense than people give him credit for. When he puts the ball on the floor I'm at least confident he'll be able to get a shot off instead of turning it over. I think a lot of fans view him more as an upcoming trade piece, but I wouldn't be mad if he stuck around the whole season, especially with Tari still easing into things.

Amen - The handle looks so close to being at a level where it can keep up with his athleticism. It almost doesn't matter on takes to the hoop because he's so explosive and has touch, but I think to evolve into a PG role he'll need more control to stay balanced and find safer passing lanes. Another angle is if his shot somehow develops and defenders can't sag off, he won't require as much speed to blow by.

Reed - I like the patience and pace. Seems content to just keep the offense flowing and set up others. Would like to see a little more assertiveness, shot hunting, and designed plays for 3s as the season goes on. Defenders are definitely pressuring him, but he's handling it pretty well for a young rookie.

Tari - Lineups with him and Amen are going to be a nightmare for opponents. That 24 sec violation they forced in the second quarter was beautiful. Still looks like hes getting his footing, didn't look as explosive on offense, but its great to see him out there after being out for so long.

Adams - Boban was cool and all, but its nice having a locker room vibes guy that can also play legit minutes. Another bonus is that Jeff Green is no longer the first big off the bench. Screen assists and offensive rebounds about to go through the roof.

Whitmore - Honestly forgot he was on the floor during his mins. Didn't look particularly engaged. Should he be getting the ball more? Maybe. Should he be doing more on the floor to warrant getting the ball? Probably.

 

He got stronger and leaner. He looks a lot faster moving around the court

 

But their multiple posts seem to border on obsession. And my post was about them bashing a rookie who has not even played a single official NBA game. Nothing to do with anyone else unless they too have been doing the bashing.

 

Why all the hyperbole? DPOY? Constantly harping on and bashing a rookie who has not played a minute of an official NBA game? Maybe, a little chilling would help with the Reed obsession.

 

Really? I think I noticed that the Spurs last night had many undefended players when they moved the ball crisply on their offense. I think I saw many of their backdoor cuts and dunks or layups with no Rockets defenders on them. Maybe, there are comments in basketball that "a player was left alone and was dared to shoot". Or so and so was left open...Just maybe, those things do happen in every game.

 

Brooks played really well offensively. His defense was putrid. He is gambling way too much and not moving his feet to stay in front of his man. He gave up mulitple wide-open layups. Maybe, he is trying hard to get steals “to play faster”. Both Amen and Tari are better defenders and should always get more minutes.

 

Yeah I think numbers back that up. Brooks' reputation on defense is better than reality. His reputation may also be tapering off as well.. But he still maintains an irrational confidence that is kinda needed for a young team finding their way.

The question then becomes, are the young guys ready? Most think so, or are at least betting they will be when the trade deadline comes around. I just think its not a bad thing if he's still around after that.

 

I loved watching this lineup destroy the Spurs on defense and move the ball around on offense.

 

There's a few unhinged people here that will attack you if you disagree with their assessment of players. Reed has a couple, Jalen obviously has his weird cult, the Sengunatics have largely chilled out and there's one dude that hates Jabari with the power of a thousand suns for some odd reason.

They all seem to lack to ability for a pragmatic discussion and eventually they resort to name calling or sweeping generalizations. Just ignore them and move on, there's plenty of discussion to be had about our many players that is healthy.

 

A

I think he is good insurance and don’t mind if he is still around, but if Amen is getting less than 30+ minutes it will be a detriment to his development and the team’s winning percentage. Vets are like a security blanket to NBA coaches. With the new apron rules they are going to get over that and younger players are going to have to develop at a faster pace. Luckily, 2 of our youngsters have incredible bbiq.

 

I agree with pretty much all...

But Dillon has the GM/coach on his side and he brings a veteran griity edge that the young bulls need and he is keeping Amen/Tari etc iron sharp

All 3 gamble a lot, its just the young bulls got more spring chicken energy and they play like they want that deal Dillon got, or more(Amen + Sengun + JG4 are potential big 3 max type)

 

On to the regular season! It will be a long 5 days until the season opener. Preseason games are not real games. Not only are they a small sample size, but teams are experimenting with different line ups and different plays. Give the guys 15-20 games before drawing any conclusions - good or bad