guys slip in the draft all the time, plain and simple. Don't forget to keep in mind that he came from a relatively small program with an injury to boot. I know you're a draftnik, but draft position certainly isn't the ideal measure.
Landry shoots only when he's open. Aldridge shoots with a hand on his face. That extra 3 inches makes a world of difference.
I think Carl's knee history affected his position back then, didn't it? We all hope he gets the exposiveness back in his legs. Regarding the OP's comparison, I'm sorry thacabbage, but I just don't see it. We have a real bargain with Landry and he has the possibilty of a lot of improvement, but he's no Aldridge. After watching the series, I'm kinda surprised that you went there. It's no slam on Carl at all. I just think they have a different skill set (some parts are similar, but just some, IMO) and much different physiques.
Landry is 6'7, not 6'9. And he is 25, LA is 23. LA is a softie, but his physical attributes are something too hard for Landry to overcome.
You forget that Purdue was good when he was there and he was a very very popular, nationally recognized player and had a lot of hype. He was also very productive, but scouts thought that he was too short for the hybrid forward position, and the fact that he played mostly as a PF/C. Its just a fact that he's a little undersized and doesn't have the quickness/flexibility to play on the perimeter. It doesn't mean he's not athletic (he's a very solid athlete), but he just didn't possess the elite athletic ability to shoot him up the draft boards. His combination of skills, athleticism, make-up and intelligence make him the perfect role player, which is what he still is, no offense.
He measured 6"7.75' barefoot, 6"8.5", in shoes, when he was drafted. http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-pre-draft-measurements/?year=2007
Then Scola must be 6'10.5" in comparison (in shoes). He's clearly a couple of inches taller than Carl, IMO.
If Landry has a surprising growth spurt, maybe. But who needs another Aldridge?!?! LANDRY. CAN. SHOOT. 3s!!!!!
I know Aldridge plays the 4, but it looks to me like his game is more suited for the 3. I saw him get rebounds, but I didn't see him get many in a crowd. I saw him post up, but most of the time he took jumpers instead of forcing the action and trying to get to the line. If Scola was on that team, Aldridge would be a 3.
I think a better comparison of someone Landry could be similar to if he put in the work is David West. Edit: I just read MrButtocks post. Pretty much said the same thing.
Aldridge is a gifted outside shooter and I don't know if Landry will ever be as good. Landry is an explosive jumper. I don't think their games are all that similar. If the question is, do I think Landry can be as much of an impact for his team as Aldridge has, then yes.
LMA is younger and has a more well rounded and consistent game. Landry is a poor man's LMA. That's why LMA is a starter and Landry is a backup.
different type of players, LA has a great shot, midrange game, can face up and post up. is taller and a good athlete. CL plays mostly near the rim, but does have a jumpshot but doesn't hit him as well as LA. CL will never be as good as LA, but he's one of the best role players in the league IMO.
