What is the obsession by most NBA fans with highly touted high school players. Smith is a skinny dude who needs loads of seasoning. Even Garnett, one of the premier HS players and currently of the NBA, it took about 3 years to get him into playing shape. It is not until this year that Garnett really has shown some great ability. Last year Marbury was carrying the team, the year before it was Gugiotta. Leon Smith will not help the Rockets this year or even the next 2 years if he signs with the Rockets. By the time he is ready to play, the Rockets must pay. Most HS players really are busts when they go to the NBA. Exceptions are Malone, Bryant, Garnett and a few others. It's a role of the dice. Rudy knows talent, studies it, and is dedicated to the job he does; so if he says its a go, well it will only be a few more gray hairs for Rudy.
Even Garnett, one of the premier HS players and currently of the NBA, it took about 3 years to get him into playing shape. It is not until this year that Garnett really has shown some great ability. Hmm, interesting take. I'd have to argue that a guy that made the all-star team in his 2nd and 3rd years in the league and then is a 20 and 10 guy in his 4th year (when there was no all-star game) has shown plenty before this year.
The answer to the question is Kevin Garnett. Is Leon Smith a player who will have the impact of Garnett? Not in a million years! All this guy has shown so far is that he is the next Chris Washburn. For his sake, Smith needs to get his life together before he tries to run in the NBA's fast lane. [This message has been edited by No Worries (edited January 23, 2000).]
