That can't be right. Wasn't he around 240? In any case according to Bayno he is bigger, stronger and just as quick. Regardless of the real actual weight, sounds like he has been working pretty hard this summer with a personal trainer
I'd be curious to see some pics. If he really did add significant muscle mass, he should be able to bang a bit more down low.
Kind of goes against Nate's philosophy of wanting his players to be lean and long, though, doesn't it? Guess we'll see.
Bayno was on Wheels at work. Said he was 260-262. LMA called him and asked him to come down to Texas and help him. (Working at driving to the basket as well as some more Post up moves. (intiating contact before making the move by usng his Butt and shoulder first-creating more space) Said he will work with him for 3 weeks in Texas before LMA gets to Portland September 3rd. Also said he had a baby. (Reason why he did not play for Team USA)
Good to hear. Hopefully it will give him more confidence moving forward so that mentally he can turn the corner on paint play.
Seems to me like this is the key. I dont have a problem with LMA getting bigger as long as he loses NONE of his speed. One of his biggest advantages is being to get out on the break ahead of the opposing bigmen. If he loses his speed he better start rebounding about 11 boards a game to make up for it but I would still rather his speed advantage especially if Oden is healthy and grabbing the boards to start the break.
My guess is if he really is up to 260-262, he will lose 5-7 by the end of camp. I agree that 255 is probably better. Sounds like he was in the weight room all summer.
I really hope he adds a face up dribble move to his game, it'll be a whole new world for him if he can get that down (more FTAs, more options on offense, more pressure on post defenders that will already have their hands full with Camby and Oden) ... god, I really want this to be true, so I can go back to him being one of my favorite players.
