Oh man that's so weird to read...If you asked anybody a year ago who our starting SG of the future would be, and threw his name in to correct them, wow just wow. Not saying I don't like it, I love his style of play, just amazing how quickly things can change.
"When I look around the league, and I've spent some time in the NBA, I find it really hard to believe there's not a spot for a guy that makes so many winning plays, that is so tough, such a team player," said Michael Crotty, Connaughton's former Middlesex (Mass.) Magic AAU coach who had also worked as the Boston Celtics' director of player development for three seasons. "He's mature, his body is ready and every step of the way he keeps surprising people and surprising people. Hopefully real soon, it won't be a surprise just how good of a player this guy is and that he really belongs in the NBA."
Went back and watched a couple of his games and liked what I saw. Nothing flashy, but just makes positive plays. If his shooting transfers, he has chance to have long career.
I don't watch much NCAA basketball, but did watch some of the tournament and I specifically remember being impressed with him. I like his game, hope it translates to the NBA.
Pat is my biggest worry this season. Why? Because I have probably unreasonably high hopes for Pat, bigger than I should. Oh, the emotions of it all!
What, is it unreasonable to expect that he will unexpectedly earn the starting spot over CJ, much like Batum unexpectedly started ahead of Outlaw back in 2008-09?
I watched some college basketball this year (though not a ton), and I did see him play in the tourney and remember being quite impressed in the 4-5 games I saw him play this year. I remember being confused as to why he was playing power forward, but he more than held his own. He plays much bigger than he is. There is a lot to like about him. Like Wizard Mentor, I'm kinda worried for the let-down with this guy. After watching him play in the tourney, I was thinking this kid was a legit prospect. I figure I must think a lot more of this guy than most, since he did last until the 41st pick of the draft.
The big fear was him playing baseball, clubs were afraid to waste a pick. I see it as the opposite he's choosing Basketball over Baseball. Not worried about #5 he's got a good head on his shoulders. ( Al tho he could use a hair cut ) Baltimore gave him $428,000 just for his rights if he ever plays baseball, could of had more if he would of dropped hoops. He's a rare breed these days, glad he's in Portland
I think CJ will arguabley end up a better player, but I think Connaughton starts, because I think he will play better alongside Dame than CJ. I also think the bench will need CJ more than Connaughton. CJ is going to get most improved player AND 6th man award next year.
I have a feeling about Pat, like we really stole a guy who slipped under the radar by not being flashy. I don't have hopes of him being and all star or even a starter, but one of those career rotational guys that other teams hate to have to play against.
