Karl was just on Sportscenter sharing his thoughts on our team. "I think the reason why he's come back this way is Robin Lopez. Aldridge has always said he wanted a big man to play next to. He wants to be a power forward, not a center, I'm not sure I understand that, but Lopez... when the trade was made last summer... eh... I didn't think it was that great, but Lopez has had a defensive impact on this game and the connection and confidence of Aldridge coincides with Lopez playing next to him, in a very unique way." He mentions Batum and Matthews and says we have one of the best starting fives in the NBA. He thinks we've already punched our ticket to the playoffs.
George is an interesting guy. Good coach, but there is a reason why management never wanted to give him authority over personnel decisions. I would compare him to the NFL's version of Mike Ditka.
Repped for capturing this. It was my impression for some time that a true center would have this effect on Aldridge, it's really fueled his game. Also brings me great joy that all the haters were wrong about Lopez, and for that matter LA, who has become an indisputable #1 option.
I think that is one of many factors. Certainly not having to bang in the middle on D helps, but there is much more to it. Lopez never seems to be in the way, and also lays wood on other players freeing up LMA on both ends for rebounding and scoring. But, LMA is clearly advancing as well because he plays on a team that is unselfish and is finally comfortable with his ability to really change the game. Kind of like when Neo discovers his power at the end of Matrix 1. Aldridge now realizes that he can fight for boards and can hit great shots toward the end of games. He is much more comfortable and relaxed, which helps more. I'm guessing he is also more relaxed because he is having fun on this team and isn't worrying as much about the future. Again, part of that gets back to Lopez, but it's more than that. I'm just glad to see LMA really taking leadership on the court.
I like George as I think he is a fine regular season coach. Now he said I didn't think it was that great, but Lopez has had a defensive impact on this game and the connection and confidence of Aldridge coincides with Lopez playing next to him, in a very unique way. Now he is talking about the Blazers starting center being a great defensive center when the whole team is ranked 22nd at defense?How many teams have you known have great defensive centers who get ranked at the bottom and how many great defensive teams have shitty defensive centers? Now disrespect to Robin I just find it amusing.
