http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/1/1...amarcus-aldridge-addressed-team-after-loss-to This is good news
lamonster is beasting in the paint lately, looks like he is stepping up his leadership too, whats not to like?
I like LA's play lately, but I think stories about locker-room speeches are mostly fluff. I'd be a little more more impressed if I saw guys (like LA) calling out defensive rotations and being more demonstrative during games.
I've only seen the last few minutes of the game (Cavs) but it seemed Lamarcus was doing a better job defensively, rotating and protecting the paint. JJ Hickson gives us very important production but he is what he is - he doesn't pass and doesn't play good defense, especially not Center-type defense. I've seen a quote from Lamarcus saying we miss a big man protecting the rim, I don't know if he has it in him to be that man but it seems like he is at least trying.
His first basket was in mid-2nd quarter. We were 14 down and had been way down for several minutes. The defense was easing by then, enabling The Relaxed Team Leader to put out some effort.