I want to sign him as a very low risk project type of player, and hope that the light bulb goes on for him as he learns how to play the game from professionals like Yao, Tmac, Scola, Battier etc. DD
Would much rather have Pietrus than Azubuike. Pietrus is tough, can hit the occasional three pointer, good D, and basically wants out from GS. We should be able to pick him up for cheaper than what he is actually worth after his disappointing past season. Not too impressed with any of the GSW players, will their players work in our dynamic system? I guess not.
You also have to realize the system a guy plays in. GS was free to chuck up shots from anywhere and they played a very uptempo game. That means a lot more possesions and a lot more potential rebounds. Putting him on the Rox and giving him 40 min does not mean he puts up those numbers.
He is a better shooter, a better finisher, and a better defender than Luther Head. He would be an upgrade. However, I seriously doubt GS lets him walk when they are going to let Pietrus walk. The smart money would be to offer him $8 mill over 3 years and make GS match. Otherwise, they can re-sign him for much less.
I am a bit dubious of Pietrus with this glowing report about him. But then you never know. A change in scenary might be good for him. Mickael Pietrus: He was the distraction this year - not Baron’s health, not Jackson’s temper, not Monta or Biedrins’ contract. But Pietrus’ contract issues and trade demands, then late-season injury woes, was the biggest locker room issue. That’s a sign of a good locker room. His play picked up late in the season, negating a horrible first half of the season. He evidently relaxed when the trade deadline passed. What he gained with stellar bench play, he lost with an elongated groin injury. Grade: D
I doubt Morey really wants him. If we get him back, look to see his production drop...drastically. The warriors routinely lineup with 5 3pt shooters and it makes it almost impossible to contain a quick player. ugh... aww forget it...no matter how much i try to explain it people will always fawn over these small ball players until they see them fail. You would think people would be clued in when these types of teams bring in guys who were nobodies for most of their careers and they instantly turn into stars.
Well sure, I'd rather have an incredible SF like Magette, Artest or Marion. What are the odds we can get one of them without giving up one of the following Landry, Battier, T-Mac, Yao. That's why we look at guys like Azubuike and say, hey maybe this guy can contribute. Fit the Rockets under the salary stipulations and fit in with the team.
Keleena gives you two more inches and about 25 more pounds than Luther. He doesn't get pushed around as much by big 2's as Luther does. Much better matchup against Kutchner/Korver of the Jazz. Luther is supposed to have quickness but he doesn't use it. He looks like a deer in headlights so many times out there. And whoever's fault it was, good ol' Illini dunkin Head would go to the rim only twice a year under JVG. But then that may have been KA's problem in preseason with JVG - don't make a mistake (vs. go for it and make something happen). I still think JVG had most of his players back on their heels waiting for permission. Remember it was a very strict "system". KA is an upgrade on Luther. I wouldn't trade our first round pick for him. Maybe Luther would be better in the GS running system. Trade?
