<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (NetIncome @ Jun 29 2008, 07:40 AM)
<{POST_SNAPBACK}></div><div class='quotemain'><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (ly_yng @ Jun 29 2008, 03:17 AM)
<{POST_SNAPBACK}></div><div class='quotemain'><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (ghoti @ Jun 29 2008, 03:39 AM)
<{POST_SNAPBACK}></div><div class='quotemain'>I think CDR dropped because what he is good at doesn't translate to the format of the workouts and his measurables were weak across the board. The guy is a great basketball player.
Lopez was taken because he fills a need for the Nets. I'm no fan of his, but they really need someone who can score down low and Lopez can do that on day one. Just that one skill will have a big effect on the team, and Frank knows how to use him to full advantage. The other parts of his game will take time to develop. He is physically ready for the NBA at 20, though, so it might not be that long until things come around.</div>
The issue with a lack of athleticism tends to come at the defensive end of the floor. Both these guys should be smart, efficient scorers, but both of them might not be quick enough to guard players on the other end.
We acquired four major prospects the other night: Yi, Lopez, Anderson and CDR. Are any of them going to be even average defenders on an NBA level?
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The lack of defense is an issue. Also, FYI, so is Yi's age. His passport says he is 20 but logic dictates he is more likely 23. Chinese have a verified history of faking kids ages so they can win international youth competitions. To accept that Yi is only 20 means you also have to accept that he was the Chinese Basketball Association ROY at age 15.
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His body looks 20.
The defense is an issue, but all four players have a chance to be decent to good defenders.
CDR was an above average defender in college. He has good height and he will fill out eventually. He's not a stopper, but I'm not too concerned with him because of his superior anticipation and work ethic. He won't let himself be a bad defender.
Anderson was a good defender in college. He seems like he would struggle in the pros because he isn't particularly quick or nimble. He will have to guard PF to start, which could be tough for him.
Yi just needs more upper body strength. He is very quick, coordinated and athletic and is a matchup nightmare. He's got the most potential on the defensive end.
Lopez is a bit of a stiff defensively, one more reason not to draft him. His twin is a good shot blocker, so maybe there's hope for him. He was taken to score inside and the Nets are crossing their fingers about the rest.
Remember one thing about CDR and Anderson, these guys are tough competitors and play hard all the time. They will learn how to be effective and overcome some of their physical limitations. Is Jason Collins physically equipped to be a good NBA defender? Competive players find a way to get stops. At the very least the team defense will improve simply because they will listen to the coach and communicate with each other.