Just a little fun with numbers .... A comparison of Ming's first four games with his last 4 games shows remarkable improvement in scoring, while the rest of the stats didn't change much, other than personal fouls are going down. Surprisingly, while the minutes were close, Ming had more minutes in the first 4 games: 63 to 59. In those minutes, in the first 4 games, Ming had 10 points on 4-15 shooting from the floor (27%). In the second 4 games, Ming had 40 points on 17-18 shooting (an unbelievable 94%) Over the last 4 games, Ming is scoring at a 33 point per 48 minute clip. Free throw shooting went from 0-2 to 6-7. Rebounds were about the same, 16 in the first 4 games, 14 in the second 4. He is rebounding at a 12 boards per 48 minute pace. While respectable, there is certainly room for improvement there. Assists were the same - 2 each set. As teams respect his scoring ability and he gets more floor time, I think Ming's assist numbers will increase substantially. Steals - none the first 4, one the second. Blocks - one the first 4 games, two the second. These numbers should go up as Ming gets used to positioning himself correctly and the speed of the game. Turnovers - one the first 4, two the second. Personal fouls went down - 12 the first 4, 9 the second (Ming is at an 8 fouls per 48 minute pace). He needs more improvement here. Once Ming gets enough shots to qualify, he will lead the league in field goal percentage - 67%. Stick that in your Najera.
