Originally Posted by
As I See It
Tonight, the talent couldn't perform the group's poor execution. I saw way too much standing around and ball watching. If they would have run the ball, as I'm sure they were being told to do, I think they could have run Memphis out of the gym.
Takeaways.....
Jaxson Hayes is a 'flash or crash' type ball player; he will wow you with his tremendous athleticism, but leave you shaking your head as fundamentally he is sorely lacking. He definitely has an All Pro ceiling, but his play, right now, is barely NAIA worthy. The good news is he's 'so raw'...the bad news is that he is 'so raw'. His skills need to be developed in G League at least until the All Star Break. Also, needs a nutritionist and personal trainer to help him add muscle and bulk to his teenage frame. He wouldn't last a month with 265 pound centers leaning on him for 15 to 20 minutes a night. SEND HIM TO ERIE TO START.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker has a flair for the sensational play, but needs to be more consistent making the routine play. Unlike many of you who have posted here, I see the strongest element of his game as being his defensive anticipation...he's a pest!!! Needs to stay with the Pelicans as the third point guard (behind Ball and Holiday/jackson) and get maybe six to 12 minutes per game this year. Make no mistake, his shot is NBA-ready, but his floor game is not.
'Didi' Louzada-Silva has shocked me. Of all the rookies I've seen, he has impressed me the most (just didn't see that much of Williamson). I know he is earmarked for Australia, but he probably could play significant minutes for the parent club this year. Already, I will declare him the heir apparent to JJ Reddick as his quick stroke and deadly accuracy will keep the floor spread as this group matures and advances. Another pest on defense, his anticipation and nose for the ball will serve him well in a long NBA career. Manu Ginobili, anyone?