Man, Batum has even converted the ESPN announcers. I kind of want to keep him in the second unit with Rudy, Sergio etc. I think he may work there better than Outlaw.
I tuned in late and watched Batum finish two fast breaks within a three minute span. And I don't think I have seen that from other Blazers. He really has the speed and good hands and the confidence.
Excellent body control amd speed, he also made an out of nowhere incredible block on Duncan in the fist half. This kid can flat out play, plus his D is good, he and Webs will lock down the SF for the next 2-3 years and then maybe we decide. Travis is odd man out or backup PF and 6th man IMO.
Batum seems more like the complimentary scorer that would fit nicely with the starters. I'd start him and let Outlaw come off the bench. Batum got 12 off the bench, Outlaw got 11 as a starter. Essentially, I think Batum could essentially score the saem 10-12 as a starter, while Outlaw could score more as the go-to guy off the bench.
I totally agree and have posted as much since Batum was made the pseudo-starter. Rudy struggled tonight on offense; I think Outlaw/Rudy is a great combo off of the bench.
I love Batum's game. He has a big impact on the game, with his defense, rebounding, and all-around hustle. He's also unselfish and doesn't make a lot of mistakes. He's definitely a joy to watch. But I also love Rudy and Roy. And Aldridge. All these Blazers are fun to watch. It's so much better now than several years ago when my favorite Blazer was Derek Anderson.
Batum shutting down Tony Parker at the end of the first half was beautiful. He is the only one on the team other than manybe Bayless that can possibly stay with TP. Got to love his length.
I second everyone who thinks Batum should be starting. Travis is really more comfortable on the 2nd unit; I don't know if Nate is just being stubborn now or what.
What a great game to see in person. The atmosphere was awesome. I saw Batum up close and he's a lot bigger in person than you'd think. On both ends of the floor our best SF tonight was Batum.
love this dude. he does all the little things i love in a basketball player. hes very young but wow, he is a game changer at this young of an age: very rare to see for me.
Batum played great tonight. I never would have expected him to be this effective so early in his NBA career. Let's hope he can keep it up!
