04-10-2026, 08:39 AM
(04-09-2026, 11:12 AM)cow Wrote: Tries hard, but he is a turnstile on defense. I love, love, love his supreme confidence. I'm not sure how well having the greenest of green lights will work out for him when he plays with a better cast around him which could paint him in a selfish light, but I love that he is doing it now as this is his opportunity. I want to see more of him for sure.
Agreed on AJ and we haven't seen much out of Smith.
I've been pretty down on Nembhard, but he's played little better of late. His size and lack of elite traits make me iffy on him.
I like Cisse's energy and athleticism but he's a bit painful to watch on the offensive end. I'd put him in my iffy category.
Bagley's been a very pleasant surprise. And this is the guy I wanted to draft but didn't want on this team at the TDL. I wonder if we could lock him up for a few years on the cheap.
I think defense is so hard for rookies. Especially one who comes in near the end of the year playing with a group of mismatch parts. Cooper should be an elite defender in time, but you have seen him struggle with just how good these NBA players are. I look for is guys who are smart and pick things up quickly. Mostly off ball stuff. You can stick around just being a really good off ball defender and being in the right spot. Even if you have limitations in one on one guarding. Do you have mental mistakes or make dumb fouls that lead to free throws or get you in the penalty? You can see who gets it and who doesn't. Not saying John gets it but that is the things I am looking for with young players. I think Nembhard is good with this. His size will always be a huge limitation but he typically does the right thing on defense.

