Zach is unbelievable. I could not be happier with his development. Bear in mind this guy just closed out a game against the golden state warriors. So excited for our future!
He's great. He can literally do everything, at this point he doesn't fully excel at anything but he does not either have any glaring weaknesses in his game which is amazing for a rookie. He had a slower start to his NBA career than plenty of other top 10 picks but it needs to be said he wasn't a started at Gonzaga so he was naturally a little step behind in development. He's got the potential to be a top, top player here. Very excited.
@BonesJones I don't always agree with you, but I respect your opinion on players, as I know you played ball and are white (you had to have some BBIQ to make it that far). What is your opinion on Collins? I'm torn between feeling like a total homer and thinking he has prime Pau potential, and trying to be realistic and thinking he'll be a great role player. Any personal thoughts? Sway me.
I’m sure someone has said it but isn’t Zach the ideal defender for Durant? Ofc Durant is better offensively but ZC is like the antithesis of KDs offensive game, at least in a year or two?
Not at all. His lack of quickness on the perimeter limits him, as it does most normal guys that tall. Down low, sure
I like Zach a lot but he does have a weakness that I'm pretty sure is going to get better and better. He fouls a lot.
Not sure if I replied to this earlier but if not let me say thanks for the greeting. Always a treat to hear from you.
I'm a Gonzaga fan so I'm more of a homer towards him than you. I think he has a very high floor, will be a very solid starter for sure. His ceiling? I have no clue. I don't think anybody does.
I still see that resemblance to Kevin McHale with a 3. He has the tools and the toughness to be an elite defender and a very good post player. He is super long, athletic, moves his feet really well and has great fundamentals. You add the ability to stroke the 3 ball - and he is like the prototypical new NBA big man. Now, I am not saying he will be as good as McHale - but some version of him (even a 90% McHale with a 3 is super valuable).
So what is Zach’s position? It seemed like they envisioned him being a center when he was drafted. However he’s been playing exclusively at PF since being put into the rotation. Personally I think he looks better at PF. He still needs some bulk but I don’t really want him putting to much weight on and limiting his quickness just so he can bang at center. He’s the perfect 4/small ball 5.
I see the same similarity with McHale. They both play with great instincts and confidence. Both were comfortable banging against guys much larger too. Both with great shooters around them and big body inside to free lance some.
His position, increasingly, is "on the floor" rather than "on the bench". In this era basketball, G/F/C doesn't matter so much as "Does he help us win?" He does.
