The hand wringing going on with the release of Allen Crabbe was perhaps somewhat understandable because he did make a very high percentage (.444) of his 3-pt attempts last season. But to me, it wasn't his make percentage that was the issue but rather his oft reluctance to shoot at all unless he was wide-open. In 28+ mpg last season, Crabbe got up 3.8 3-pt shots per game. Contrast that to this year's version of Patty Fastball who in 20% less minutes (22.2), Planet Pat is getting up 4.3 3-pt shots per game....a 10+% higher rate. That is significant from both side. Add to it that Planet Pat is connecting at a staggering 50% clip from '3' (which one can't expect to continue) and Crabbe's production has been replaced quite nicely for a fraction of the cost. That in itself is huge as Portland is struggling with the Salary Tax/Luxury Tax line. Pat's confidence is what I notice most as he is ready to shoot immediately and is making shots that are contested with no change in his stroke from when he is wide open. It is very early, but he has been a very pleasant surprise early on and help make the bench one of the more productive versions for the Blazers that we have seen in quite a while.
He's improve is notable. I really like how he is playing right now. Our second unit could be solid if the rookies get it going. And btw why he don't put shabazz Collins and Swanigan?
