In his short span as a Rocket, he rarely dominated the boards. Yes, he was a great shotblocker in college, and a decent one in the NBA, but to expect him to be a great shotblocker in the NBA when he is 6 ft 9, is a lot to ask for. Offensively, he never really had a post-up game or the ability to drive to the hoop. What exactly did he do that screamed potential star? He always looked like a role player.
I was so excited when we drafted him. I remember I was at the Lowe's in Baytown buying a lawnmower. I really thought we had a young Marcus Camby. We were so desperate for a big man. What a disappointment!
How many 19 year olds have ever come out of college with a great post game? They usually dominate the game so easily that there was no need. Players that stay four years are the ones who've had time to work in this area. 19 year olds are drafted primarily on potential. Eddie Griffin was a blocking machine with a nice shot who appeared to have the athleticism to take his game to the next level. If he had the desire and work ethic of a Tim Duncan there's no doubt in my mind that he could have been a 20-10 guy in the league.
I think this is a very astute post. What I remember is the coach hving to pull Eddie and put in Juwon Howard to slow down the opposing PFs. Yes Griffin could block shots, but he could not play NBA level defense. No knock on his three point shot, but take that away, and there was not much left on the offensive end. I can't comment on his college or high school career, as I never knew who he was till we drafted him. I do reember reading about his problems with teammates and such, and easily being able to overlook them. I see that was very pollyanna of me and a mistake. I admit that people grow out of their youth, but at the same time your past is what you have done. I remember one of the Chronicle beat writters saying that 'Bonzi came with baggage'. I was easily able to overlook that 'baggage' when he signed with us foir cheap, but I am starting to wonder.
I agree, I was really excited, too...I thought we had drafted a potential superstar...couldn't have been more wrong in hindsight.
I guess fate just played a joke on you -- you needed to be patient for one more year to get your wish.
Eddie had emotional problems from the very beginning of his basketball career. They were compounded by pressure to succeed, JVG's impatience with young players and drug use -- particularly pot. Regardless of our anger and disappointment in this kid, I still hope he can get his act together. I hope Griffin returns to the care and feeding of John Lucas. Lucas knows what its like to throw away an NBA career.
