SQ9 One More Thing

Most of us Celtics-philes have sucked the pixels off any internet information on our beloved and soon-to-be-beloved Celtics players, and examined the offerings on the NBA channel; but today I'd like to offer some additional tidbits on the new Celtics players that may have sneaked by you. I'm 1500 miles away, more if you had to take highways, from Boston or either summer league site so I don't have any special access—just a keen interest. Hence all these offerings have been gleaned from sources on the web (and any of you that [also] follow another NBA team will recognize how lucky we Boston fans are since there are far more sites, far more articles, and far more discussions that are Celtic-centric) and the televised summer games in Utah and Vegas. I may read a little longer and watch the recorded summer leagues a little more often—but then I have the advantage of being retired so my vocation no longer interferes with my avocation.

How great is it that Dave Cowens, who practically invented the undersized stretch center position augmented by almost maniacal hustle, is such a fan of Amir Johnson's game. I don't think endorsements come from any more respected source. Bulpett had a fine piece in the Herald on Amir who found Cowens present when Johnson walked into the gym for his introductory press conference. I especially liked Dave's comments on remembering the 18-yr-old rookie he saw as a member of Detroit's coaching staff.”

“Like, I’ve never seen a guy just be able to take the ball and instinctively be able to hit guys who were getting open without even thinking about it — first day. There was nobody telling him what to do. He just kind of had a really good sense about passing the basketball and playing.”

Good golly, I get chills just thinking about it.

David Lee is more ambidextrous than most and he came by that added dexterity the same way I jump-started the development of my off hand in basketball—he broke his arm as a youth and played most of a season right handed. Another thing that impresses me is how he took a demotion to the bench (although initially forced there by injury), nothing says professional more than accepting a supporting role for the betterment of the team. I think we got a veteran influence and example that will make us miss Gerald Wallace not at all—and this vet can still play.

As for the rookies, all three likely to make the roster are better passers than advertised. In R. J. Hunter's case, that complementary enabling skill comes as just one facet of a value-added set. His BBIQ impressed me long before his shot began to fall. Although he arrived with the rep as a dead-eye shooter, he quickly demonstrated a knack for the shrewd pass. Even though not known as a dangerous driver, he showed a skill set that allowed him to begin drives that opened up teammates, and the skill and willingness to hit the open man. Finally, he offered some skills that leave no mark on the individual stat sheet. Not noted for his defensive prowess, he stayed with the play when beaten, and blocked or bothered the shot of his assignment by surprising the driver when he caught up with the play. Even more impressive, when off the ball he often took a step or two toward “help” that discouraged the offensive from even trying the move into promising territory. Usually this help came at no cost to his own assignment or to his positioning to offer help in other directions. That kind of subtle floor sense is rare even for seasoned veterans, kudos for both the awareness and the energy.

Jordan Mickey arrived as a highly touted shot-blocker. While he definitely fulfilled that promise, he also showed a smooth jumper out to the top of the free throw circle and excellent passing. His passes were especially surprising not just for their court-sense anticipation but also for their deft touch. His contributions weren't just flashes, he was impressive in his consistency.

Terry Rozier was billed as a speedy and strong 'tweener guard with a shaky shot. We saw the speed and the strength, but I was more impressed with his pushing the ball up court, willing passing, and fearless (if often inefficient) shooting. It is always nice to see a player with the heart to seek out the big shot under pressure. It is a bit strange to see just how many parallels there are between Rozier and Smart. Terry certainly needs more experience to develop the judgment and quick decisions needed to excel at the point, but early indications are promising.

In fact the only newcomer with which I was disappointed, was Marcus Thornton. His blazing quickness on offense was in stark contrast to his slow response time on defense. Opposing guards often were completely by him before he began to move. He also seemed to only operate in shoot mode or pass mode, seemingly unable to react to what the defense was giving him. I can only hope Australia proves to be a rich learning experience.

Only 57 more days until camp.

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