Of course its the first game. Not going to be like some of the ridiculous "Sky is Falling" posts on the game thread last night. Some guys just have no understanding about the game, time needed to be a efficient team, player developmental time and judging players potential. I was looking for a few things last night:
1. How strong are Melo's knees? Very encouraged. He seemed to have the quick jumper back in the first half. Even had a nice dunk. Got tired early and in second half and became impatient, as he does when the team is down by double digits. Shot was dead on early until he lost his legs.
2. How was Rose's speed and explosiveness? Very pleased. We had more easy scores on made baskets in one game than all of last year. His outside shot will come and when it does, watch out. Think Hornacek pushed for him to push the pace but he has to keep in mind that pushing the pace also involves penetrating and passing to his open teammates as well. I am sure it will come.
3. Did KP work on low post game? Very disappointed. He seems to love the 30 foot jumper and pump and drive. He seems to think he is a SG. He reminds me of a kid that had a growth spurt and doesn't realize how tall he is. Who is going to block his shot? Think his game has to be established inside and then float to outside when given the easy 3. Hopefully he will adjust and go to the block more often. Coach setting up more catch and shoots will help.
4. How is our Bench? Looks like work in progress. Jennings plays better when he has scorers around him. Has to trust team mates in second unit. Tried to do too much. Liked Holiday's athleticism. Can see why he is liked by staff. Starting to hit the 3 and is very quick on defense. His talent has to be developed and given playing time. Kuz, while looking okay to the average eye, floats to same spot on offense and is very slow on defense. Needs to more without ball more. LT seems to be back to the way he was two years ago, not very good. Unfortunately I think he doesn't realize he is not shooting well. Hopefully he gets back to form. Baker has a hi IQ but trouble keeping in front of NBA 1's and 2's. Think he will improve as he becomes familiar with players. Definitely a good NBA talent. Needs more PT. KO was his usual inconsistent self. He has been like this for years. Shows ability in a couple of games and then frustrates with his play for the next several. Think we need to trade him. Of course they all looked a bit rusty, which is natural, but have to be given a good amount of playing time to truly see who can play. But think they have potential.
Other notes: Lee needs to be more aggressive. I am sure he will find his role on offense with time. The whole fist unit will get better about knowing their spots on floor and offensive roles. Noah was very loud and high energy. Needs to get his wind back, could tell that his movement without the ball was affected by his stamina as early as mid 1st quarter.
Overall, it was clear to see the potential and improvement in every position. We will need a lot more time to develop but a already can tell it is a much better team to watch than last year.
tear it up like you've got handle bars and are Derrick Rose!!!
I think we have the gamethread and like 2 other post gamethread threads. Thanks.
