A more explosive Terrell Brandon would be amazing. If he can find his jumper this comparison is not too far off.
Pretty solid "outsider's" take on the team ... Interesting to actually read a national media person's perspective on Oden; not many seem to want to buy that he's improving or anything other than a bust.
Reality is, he is improving. You can talk all the numbers you want. I urge everyone to push the numbers to the side and just watch him on the court. Come back and tell us you don't feel he is improving. That would be erroneous. He is MUCH improved. And getting better.
LaMarcus definitely needs to step it up and play up to his extension. So far, he hasn't. He has to go from an 18/8 player to a 20/10 player. Maybe the new uptempo offense will light a fire under him.
LaMarcus was BUILT for an uptempo game. The guy is freaking unstoppable in transition, he's too fast, too long, too strong and too skilled. If his man can't muscle him out of position he is deadly. In a fluid full court offense LaMarcus can pad 6 points a game at point blank range. I'm ecstatic about LMA + Miller. I found myself screaming at Nate through the TV, "You are using him correctly sir!" after months - every season up til now in fact - of screaming "You're using him WRONG SIR!" (Sifl and Olly quote for the unelightened).
LaMarcus needs accountability. He obviously doesn't hold himself accountable enough. Whatever he is doing, he is fine with. So how do you fix this? I personally feel, until he becomes an all star, this team will always fall short. Unless Oden, really comes on which is possible. But, I don't think this coaching staff is the answer to LaMarcus. I think LaMarcus needs to be pushed and challenged. I'm not sure that's happening here. I don't want to say he needs a hard arse for a coach. Although he could. I just know whatever is happening right now is not enough.
