Its difficult trying to determine if a player is improving when you haven't watched any games, but by his "stat lines" it seems Bayless is starting to perhaps "get it" as far as adjusting and improving his game for the Blazers and NBA? Any comments from those who have seen him at the Rose garden?
It's been apparent for a while now that he's a SG and not a PG. The playing time he's gotten so far he has ditched the idea of converting into a PG. So, I do think he's finally getting it.
Chauncy Billups averaged less than 4 assists per game in 5 of his first 7 years in 28 minutes per game. Bayless averaged 3.5 assists per game last year in 28 minutes per game. FYI, Billups is widely considered one of the better PG's in the league.
It's the people who don't follow college basketball who have given up on Bayless. The people who pay attention over the years know talent when they see it.
He looks better, but I don't like him as a Blazer. He is a SG in a PG's body. Reminds me too much of what we expected with Damon. I am a fan of a facilitating PG, especially knowing we have so many offensive weapons as it is.
I think I agree with most in here. He isn't a fit here. But with the good play of late, lets hope he is reinforcing some of his trade value. If he does make it here. That's great. I like Jerryd. Always have. I like his attitude and he is a gamer.
Hmmm. Great question. A legit backup four. Ronny Turiaf would be nice. Then again, with the way Howard is playing. We may not need to address that. I would then say, a package of Travis, Jerryd, Martell or Rudy to Washington for Caron Butler. Mid season trade.
The interesting thing about this question. If I was Kp, I would think due to how long and how much its taking to work the new guys in you would want to deal asap. If you did it a midseason, its almost like starting over again trying to see how the pieces fit. This is just one reason why KP doesnt like dealing at midseason because he knows he takes time to get the new player/s acquainted. But if you are going to deal. Do it sooner than later.
Bayless is absolutely starting to "Get It." No surprise there: he's young, talented, athletic, and driven. I'd be for Bayless + Outlaw for a legit (younger) backup PF -- I just don't know who.
I hope he is beginning to get it. I agree with folks who believe the issue has been one of "fit", not talent. To be blunt, I am starting to wonder if Rudy is really part of our future core. First complaints about playing time, now injury problems. This may be Bayless' best chance to force his way into our long-term plans. I hope he takes advantage of it.
I have been saying this for a long time. Quit asking him to be what he is not and his chances to succeed are much higher. He is a scorer. Also I would point out the comparison to Damon up above is invalid. Bayless is much taller than Damon, and can play above the rim, which is something Damon could never do. Damon was bout "outside-in" play. Bayless is about "inside-out" play. Now secondly, many of you need to think about the future of the team. I honestly don't see Rudy staying here past his rookie contract. He is going to be sick of Nate and how he is used, and bail. Bayless plays into that timeline perfectly. Hell if Rudy's back spasms don't clear up, Bayless may play a more important role sooner rather than later. Lastly, why would we want to trade for a backup PF. Veteran, smart PF are available every year in free agency. I am very happy with Juwan Howard as the backup PF. If I was going to trade for anything, it would be for a starting quality SF.
I'm with you on Rudy. I honestly don't see what everyone else thinks is so special about the guy. Other than the occasional flashy pass, what does he offer off the bench that's any different than (say) Von Wafer?
And he has been playing a lot more SG with Miller or Blake at the 1. I think Bayless is starting to get it for sure. He is REALLY exciting to watch live. I disagree with that idea. I think Outlaw needs to go, but not with Bayless. Rex needs to stay another couple years.
I guess if KP still thinks Bayless is the bomb, and since he will eventually be able to back up both guard positions, we could entertain trading Rudy instead. I know, a lot of poster already are.
