We have the Wiz tonight. It'll be interesting to see Speights go up against Blatche and McGee. Who ordered a nightmare?
The frontcourt match-up is good, but both frontcourts are at somewhat of a disadvantage because sloppy summer league play tends to be more guard oriented. Thad, Smith and Speights would have really benefited from LouW playing, or at least some decent PG. As it is, Thad, Lamont Gordon and Junior Harrington are sloppy looking out there.
Son't get me wrong, Thad has shown signs of an improved handle and evidence that he is a star SF in the making- but he still is a far cry from a point forward.
---
Speights has looked better every game. He has these brief spurts where he just takes over with follow dunks and easy finishes. He has great hands, and is really quick for his size. He lacks great natural shotblocking instincts, but seems to have the tools to be a good defender and rebounder. Speights is both big and quick. I think he will be able to stay in front of Washington's bigs- but it should be interesting. I think of the 4 bigs Blatche is by far the most polished.
Speights jumper with his feet set looks automatic- and his form is pristine. He does look very raw when he puts the ball on the floor or tries to make moves- but is very effective when he gets his feet under him. The guy has all kinds of potential to rapidly develop into a top PF. Way ahead of where I thought he would be. In fact, in some ways he looks as ready at PF and Thad does at SF.
Thad shows great moves, first step and finishing ability. Also, looks good defensively on the wing. Thad looks very sloppy on his drives- tries to do way to much fancy dribbling- although drives with his head up and has made some great passes.
Smith has been shooting well, and made that one good post move. Smith has looked really small and soft out there- esp in comparison to Speights. Smith seems to struggle to control rebounds even when in position, where as Speights moves around like a man amongst boys.
