I personally think Claver is the guy. He had the BBIQ and instincts; just couldn't make a lay-up or open jumper. If he improves and at least hits them with somewhat of a frequency; he's gonna be a real asset. I'm rooting for him!
Claver's not going to play much. He's 3rd string at both SF & PF. My dark horse is Crabbe. He's going to be money off the bench.
I think that would be a mistake. I would like to see Claver get around 5 minutes a game at least. I think there will be games he gets more. I do like your "Crabbe" dark horse idea. The guy has a good chip on his shoulder and is money from the perimeter. I expect him to get a lot of burn.
I like Crabbe as well. But my pick is Robinson. I think TRob is tired of these teams dumping him without giving him a legit opportunity and will make em pay. I predict: 10/8/1blk in about 25 mpg. Solid bench player who will win us some games. You guys remember this from his Kansas days? [video]www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPEgEF4IKa4[/video] Dude goes all out and has a great motor.
I actually don't think he will be a dark horse. I expect great things from him and I suspect the team does too.
My pick is Will, he's been here almost all summer practicing everyday and looks like he's been hitting the weight room.
I'm hoping for Robinson. Was very excited when we acquired him and I hope that he tears it up for us.
That's who I'm picking, as well. He's in a perfect position to produce. I believe his talent:competition-at-the-(backup)position quotient is quite high.
Here is what I like about the FAs and trades. Each player brought in is a 'motor' player. Wright Lopez Robinson Watson I am really looking forward to seeing how the bench does this year. Even if it just an average bench, it will mean the Blazers are competitive all season long for the playoffs, and could make a bigger leap depending on Lillard's progress from year one to year two. Oh, and I'll pick Dorrell Wright.
I agree, massive chip on his shoulder and he rebounds like a monster (and plays D) IMO which is what we will tell him to focus on
think i'm going with Victor too. he may not initially get a lot of playing time, but i think he'll earn it as the season progresses.
I hope its TRob. So many people are trashing the pickup and calling him a bust and a waste of cap space. But I would be thrilled if Leonard arrives in a BIG way!
I'll say Robinson. Too many SG's for one to float to the top but Robinson has the backup PF spot all to himself. He'll be given every opportunity to flourish.
Some great answers here. I think we all expect a lot of CJ, Robinson will have no excuse..but my dark horse pick to silence the nay-sayers is Lopez. I have the feeling he is going to thrive here playing with these guys.
You're right! If Lopez can have his type of high per and excellent shot blocking; it's going to shut up a lot of people (and I'm not talking about the fans in here). I would be ecstatic if he gives us 9 points, 10 rebounds and 2 blocks a game.
