blkexec wrote:Well....I wanted DSJ on draft day. I remember talking to people that say him play in person, and they was in shock at his athletism. I thought he would be a 1 player high light type, similar to D.Rose…..But skills alone doesn't work in the NBA. He's clearly missing something or distracted. Some days, he looks like he belongs in the G league. Other days, he looks like a player with potential.
Deciding between him and Frank is tough to me, because they are so different. Personally, I would rather have Frank because Frank can play 3 positions and he doesn't come with an ego. DSJ comes with entitlement. He doesn't like coming off the bench and prefer to be a starter. His basketball IQ seems to be lower than Frank, from a team perspective. But in a play ground, rucker park for example, DSJ would be my easy choice. For an NBA team? I don't fee comfortable with DSJ running the show. His stock has hit rock bottom.
Where did the narrative of him having an ego start with you? I agree that he has terrible body language at times. Get that he did not react well to being replaced as the face of the Mavericks within 12 month time span. But what drives the feeling that he has a problematic ego? Specially considering the things he has had to go through at the age of 21 and 22.
In terms of choice between Frank or Smith, feel they are two totally different players. One is a defensive specialist, not offensive minded and is more of a role player. Exactly what you insinuated. The guy everyone wants on their team at Rucker Park. Problem is, we are not talking about putting teams together at Rucker Park. We are talking about picking a guy who has the highest ceiling and potential to be an impact player in today's NBA. Smith is a physical phenom, has had the better start and has the highest ceiling. Reason why I felt he would be a better pick at 8. That and the fact I thought Frank would just be a role player (I was right). Role players can be had in later rounds or signed cheaply in Free agency. However, do agree it is a tough choice and Frank has several good attributes. For the reasons you mentioned, if I had to pick, I would pick as you did. Then fear the possibility that Smith turns out to be as good as he has been at every level he has played in and as good as his natural ability hints he can be. I have a feeling that there is a big possibility that neither are here next year.
Hofstra -- I'm not much of a fan of Ntilikina's floor game actually. But he is much easier to like than Dennis.
Another nice game for Smith. Hasnt looked this athletic, and hasnt run the point this well since his rookie year. Hope he can keep this going.
GustavBahler wrote:Another nice game for Smith. Hasnt looked this athletic, and hasnt run the point this well since his rookie year. Hope he can keep this going.
I wouldn't say nice game, but it's encouraging. Heck, that's an improvement. He looked like a shell of his former self earlier. Hopefully he keeps building.
I sat 20 feet away from him. He sits on the end of the bench. Body language not great. Not the worst either. Seems a bit detached. Seems like he moves a little as possible off the ball. The dunk in traffic was cool as hell!!!!
Sambakick wrote:Hofstra -- I'm not much of a fan of Ntilikina's floor game actually. But he is much easier to like than Dennis.
Agreed. Specially now that Smith is struggling. Never bagged on guys for liking him. Like him myself. He is a good kid. Just opposing the unfair hate and over reactive narrative for another one of our talented but very young players.
