Thank you! I don't really get this either. It's almost as if some in here think a journalism career is going to come from their "unbiased" coverage of the team from our message board. It's mind boggling to me to see some posters that have spent a TON of time and writing trying to disprove any positive notion people have on the board. That's a weird sort of fandom to me. I understand i isn't all sunshine and rainbows, and I've definitely expressed negative opinions on players here. But a bust after 20 games when we're all hoping he can become a franchise player is next level.
I’ll say this he’s fouling because he’s putting in the work on defense. He’s extremely aggressive and I’m ok with that refs will eventually back off. Aggressive defenders seem to get the benefit after a while
Scoot is going to be a great pt guard. He's fortunately got an NBA body his rookie season and mad athletic ability. Sky is the limit for this kid
I think we can hold onto all three guards for at least another year, but the decision has to be made going into 25-26 because I don’t think we can risk Ant leaving for nothing or potentially having to pay all three max extensions.
His shooting is suspect (and his offensive rating vs defensive rating is not good), but I really like how he's showing growth as quick as he is. He has struggles (as I said, he's not a good shooter yet), but he's showing that the game is slowing down for him. I don't mind the mistakes on offense (passes, etc), but he's gotta work on finishing.
I think Ant is worth more in trade the sooner he is moved than the later. A team interested in him wants his cheap contract for as long as possible before extending him again.
This is probably true but it's hard to say. I think if we give him a full year at point guard he can show that he is, in fact, a point guard. I think teams thought he was another combo guard like CJ.
Time to change the name of the thread to Bust A Scoot yet? I don't remember who suggested it, but it needs to happen. Here it is! it was @kjironman1
my only fear is do ego’s get in the way. If all three aren’t starting or if one guy is stunting the growth of another (Ant stunting growth of Shae or Scoot) one will eventually want out of Portland. my biggest fear is Sharpe tends to defer so when he’s not being asked to do as much he disappears thus stunting his growth. Guess you can see who plays together the best and then make a decision here’s my take on all three Ant- phenomenal offensive player with all star potential. Offensively makes game a little easier because he draws so much attention but ultimately not a true PG becoming acceptable defender Scoot- superstar potential. Be an ok shooter who will eventually be able to get to the basket at will. His strength is old school PG drive and find guys for easy shots. Defensively has all star potential and wants to be great defender. Skys the limit with his determination and skill set Sharpe- huge upside and for the most part when asked can carry a team offensively. Potential to be really good defender. Good to great shooter/scorer. Can disappear when playing with other good players, he rarely forces shots and extremely team oriented. All star/ super star potential but needs to be carburetor not a piston (sorry poor analogy but you get the point)
Watching the Scoot highlights from last night's game, he seems to be taking his time and squaring up on his 3 pointers. Not as rushed as he was in his earlier games. 3/5 on the evening. Hopefully that's a sign of things to come. Posted this in the game thread - Scoot has put together a nice run of games of late.
I agree with all of this. My direct thought is that with all you've pointed out, Sharpe has the biggest upside but to get the most out of him he needs to be with an unselfish PG. Hence, Portland drafted Scoot. He loves to pass and rack up assists. Developing his shot will be important. But he has been doing very well since the injury. Ant, as you said is a phenomenal offensive player, etc... But he is not a pass first PG like Scoot which I whole heartedly feel Sharpe needs. I just don't see Ant wanting anything to do with being a sixth man. Unfortunately he most likely needs to go. I agree with others saying he is worth a couple first rounders. I doubt Portland can get a player they can truly use or build with for Ant. Teams loathe trading big for small. Portland has draft capital if going for a star in trade. Many ways they could go. But Scoot started the season awful, was injured, and is now playing well. Small sample size. But if he plays the rest of the season the way he is now probably does not bode well for Ant staying in Portland. Most knew by the end of Sharpe's rookie season that he was special. Scoot is exceeding Sharpe's end of rookie season showing now, when considering his assists along with scoring. Anyways, great post above.
I think when it comes to trading Ant, a team would have to blow our doors off if they wanted him by the upcoming trade deadline... I think the same thing would go for the upcoming draft. I think we would get serious about trading him at the deadline 2025 but maybe by then there is a three man rotation at guard that just works between Ant, Shae and Scoot. A lot of time to be patient with Scoot and the three guard situation.