09-18-2020, 03:29 PM
I am not sure what y'all are seeing in terms of Powell's defense. I am generally completely unimpressed by his defense especially with the starting unit. I would see flashes sometimes where the team defense looked good with him out there. It was seldom that I saw him really stand out individually on defense.
One issue is that he really has no shot-blocking ability for whatever reason. It was a big deal when you'd see him get the occasional shot block. I have seen players drive right by Powell without him able to alter the shot. On closeouts around the perimeter, I also don't think he bothers shooters.
His defense has been my biggest issue. Offensively he's great, uber-efficient. On defense however he generally just doesn't impress tho you would think he has the tools (or had?) to be a solid defender.
With that I don't see a huge drop-off coming post-achilles bc he wasn't that great to begin with. I also think the bench just suits him better anyway bc he will be generally playing against players that can't as easily take advantage of his defensive shortcomings.
So call me an optimist but I think contract aside we will be pleasantly surprised with his effectiveness coming back from injury, at least once he gets comfortable. Maybe it takes a couple of months but I think he will get there.
One issue is that he really has no shot-blocking ability for whatever reason. It was a big deal when you'd see him get the occasional shot block. I have seen players drive right by Powell without him able to alter the shot. On closeouts around the perimeter, I also don't think he bothers shooters.
His defense has been my biggest issue. Offensively he's great, uber-efficient. On defense however he generally just doesn't impress tho you would think he has the tools (or had?) to be a solid defender.
With that I don't see a huge drop-off coming post-achilles bc he wasn't that great to begin with. I also think the bench just suits him better anyway bc he will be generally playing against players that can't as easily take advantage of his defensive shortcomings.
So call me an optimist but I think contract aside we will be pleasantly surprised with his effectiveness coming back from injury, at least once he gets comfortable. Maybe it takes a couple of months but I think he will get there.