Kid Clutch gets an A+ this year. Game winners by the fistful, including the biggest since Jordan Over Ehlo. Improved every aspect of his game. Plays like a mature adult out there. The most amazing personal style and brand awareness, which I would scoff at if we didn't know this is a Star League and that having a star breeds success. And he seems to have bought into the mythology of Rip City, which means he'll get to be a part of that mythology soon enough (hell, he already is after hitting The Shot). It's mind boggling to think that this was just his second battle campaign. And now that Gary Payton is starting to take notice, we might be able to get him the training in the defense side of The Force that he needs. Damian's proven twice now that he self-improves at every opportunity. I'm stoked to see where he goes with his game next.
It amazes me how, if you look at that comparison I posted, Dame's numbers are almost identical to Derrick Rose in his second year. Same PER. Same PPG. Almost the same assist numbers. The thing that really stands out though, out of all those point guards Dame is the only one who played the full season. Irving played 59, Paul played 64, Wall played 66, Rose played 78, and Curry played 74.
Yeah, Rose shot a better FG%, but Dame was the MUCH better three point shooter. Dame actually had a better eFG%.
We saw some huge improvements from Roy in his 3rd year. Would be great to see some steps from Damian next season. His shooting was lethal but if he can start making 60% of those open floaters in the lane he'll be more dangerous.
I'm fine with him working on floaters, but this needs to be the summer of defense. He needs to make big strides defensively in his third year.
I agree - but I also think at least half of his deficiencies are tied to Stotts' system. Stotts - more than anyone - needs to work on his defense. Or, preferably, just contract it out since he clearly doesn't understand how it's played.
