First impressions after finally catching the game:
Jerian Grant - I like this kid. He played a little out of control and seemed nervous. But he still flashed to the rim a lot, whether on a cut without the ball or a drive with it. The give and go between he and Porzingis in the 4th quarter was a thing of beauty. I think this guy can be very very good. He reminds me a bit of Jeff Teague or Reggie Jackson, but he's bigger than both. I think a backcourt of he and Galloway can be very good this year. I'm curious to see how he looks next to Afflalo as well.
Porzingis - Promising first game. He's aware on offense and moves around well. Seems to have good awareness there. On defense, his size guarding guys one on one obviously causes problems for people. The big hole I see is rebounding. He's just very unaware of where the ball is going for rebounds, a few slipped through his hands and at times he got bodied out of position. He definitely needs to get stronger. But I could see him contributing ten points per game and maybe a block or two this coming season. I think defensively he will be okay, rebounding needs a lot of work (which will come with strength), offense will be solid. I think he'll be able to get better shots once he's stronger, but the fact that he is not afraid of contact is a very good thing.
Early - looked much better. Quicker, more decisive, more confident. I hope to see some of this improvement carry through to training camp and the season. It'd be nice if he could earn some rotation minutes.
Galloway - whatever, he looked fine. Obviously just there as a sort of mentor. He's a rotation player for the team.
Wear - I liked the way he played. I'd consider him for one of the last roster spots. He's a good rebounder and plays smart. Kind of like Lance Thomas, but I think a better defender than him. I think at the least he's earned a training camp invite. Wouldn't be shocked if they signed him to the minimum before the end of SL.
Ledo - saw some decent things from him. Had a great alley oop pass and a great finish in traffic on the fast break. Otherwise seems to float in the offense and not really know his spots yet. His defense is so so. I'd keep working with him and keep him around for a roster spot. He's got a lot of untapped potential.
Ndour - I was impressed by this guy. Active on D - good finisher, a nice block. He might be worth a look as our final big. Would think he might earn a training camp invite if he keeps up this level of play.
Labeyrie - Meh. Didn't see much from him. He seems quite raw still.
Thanasis - ... this kid disappoints me. Very good at defense AT TIMES. No offensive game at all. He was pretty terrible overall in the game. He might need a season or two in Europe.
Will be interested to watch continued development from Grant, Porzingis, Early, Ledo, Ndour as we go on.
