Okay, if you were in the game thread, you would have noticed how I was crying out to put Flynn and Thabeet in. Well it happened with only 2 minutes left (so small sample size in effect) but I noticed one thing. This Flynn kid has some handles. I mean impressive handles. And he dribbles with his head up. I didn't see him put his head down for a second. He could be a steal. Hopefully he pans out and sticks with this team.
Well, he played 4 minutes and managed a -2.9 PER and a GmScr of -0.1. Very small sample size, of course, and he can only improve from his first game!
The PER and GmScr of minutes when the game was already lost wasn't what I was watching. They didn't even have a practice and knew the game sets. I was more involved with paying attention to his personal ability. And his handles looked pretty solid, IMO.
I don't think his handles have ever been in question. I hope he pans out as well, though. Why not give him 15-20 minutes, and Nolan Smith 15-20 minutes, and play Felton as little as possible. Not only would the Blazers be able to see what they have in these young guards, but it would also be a big asset in Operation Tank, so it's win-win!
You may get your wish if we go on a losing streak. I suspect if we lose 3 more games in a row (which is realistically possible); we will see less of Crawford and Felton and more of Flynn and Smith.
It's a low bar. I think it's the most interesting story the rest of the season. Like you, I am hopeful. Stay tuned.
Again, it's not my "wish" that the Blazers become a laughingstock again. I just call a Tank Job a Tank Job. I guess I'm a realist in this instance.
Yeah my guess (or hope) is that Fylnn will play big minutes the last 10 games. I agree with all of you that Felton needs to sit NOW, but a new coach needs his Vets to have his back too. His handles and speed will will be good. But can he hit a wide open jumper? or a floater, or at least finish at the basket? I am anxious to see as well.
