Let's Talk About DJ...

[spectre]

Barring something totally unforeseen DJ has a strong chance of being the starter at PG on opening night. Other starters will probably be Jax, Crash, Boris & Nazr (please don't make this into a "Tyrus WILL start" thread...at least yet ). What will be his role with this team? What does he need to work on to make the above group successful?

We all want a more traditional PG and DJ just isn't one...but with Boris & Jax he doesn't really have to be. He is a great outside spot up guy and the only one really in the first group...so camping out at the 3 line should be a priority. He shouldn't concern himself with trying to penetrate/create unless it's there in front of him; both Crash, Boris & Jax can do that and do it well. Maybe with him spending less time in the paint it'll open it up more for those guys.

On defense he just has to keep working. I've never felt he was as bad as his rep has him...but his lateral reaction isn't the best so we will have to compensate at times. What he has done to help himself is by picking up his opposite early in the half court set. There will be plenty of times that we'll have no choice but to try and compensate for him (think Evans, Rose, etc.), but we can counter that somewhat by running DJ off screens and wearing them out on D. We can also work hard on switching (I'm assuming LB's gonna do that regardless, but...), getting Crash or Jax on those dominant players whenever possible.

Sooo...don't force it on offense. Let the natural creators we have do that. Don't worry about being "Glorious Leader". I don't think he has the personality to pull it off and we already have guys who do. Stay with his strengths. Keep the brain farts to a bare minimum.

I'm thinking something like the John Paxson role. It worked for the Bulls' team with dominant 2/3 players (I know Jax isn't MJ)...it should work most times for us.

This is my attempt to become "glass half full" for this season...so constructive thoughts if you guys don't mind.

[Toocool]

Firstly I'll like to say that DJ is a brilliant Pick and Roll PG. In his Texan college days, a lot of looks he could create through the P&R. TT will be perfect to supplement DJ in the P&R situation, with TT rolling to the basket and DJ with the dish, TT then has the opportunity to dunk it in his opponents face, lay it up, dish it off or pull up for the mid range jumper. I think if we can have DJ and TT constantly doing the P&R, things will really open up for the Bobcats. He's not Steve Nash, nor is TT Amare but I think that if they're able to develop that synergy and chemistry, good things will happen.

Secondly, I'm all for DJ also camping the 3 point line. He's a brilliant shooter. He can slash, but I would prefer for him to only do so when there's a high chance that he'll make the shot or go to the free throw line.

Thirdly, DJ on the floor helps spread the floor. Even though he was in a shooting slump this past year, he's still deadly from 3. This will help open up the floor for Cpt. Jack and Crash when slashing as they have to guard DJ. If his PG sags off him, dish it off to DJ and he can take, and more times than not knock down the shot.

Fourthly, if DJ can have the chemistry Crash and Rayray did in the open court when on the fast break, good things will happen. DJ on the floor with guys like Hendo, UPS, TT, Crash is a very fast lineup and should be willing to shift it into high gear. Best thing is that DJ is brilliant at moving at top speed. His top speed isn't anything amazing, but he can move and can dribble with great handles weaving through opponents at full speed. Fast break should really help DJ as seen past two years, one notable outcome being the behind the head pass to Crash for the alley, which was sweet.

In regards to defense. Defense, he's continued to get better. He's gotten bigger and bigger as he's matured in age, and he's not so much a stick as he use to be. He certainly has added some strength and bulk to his frame, which can only help him, and help us. He does work hard at his defense, and he's at least an average perimeter defender, if not better. He's good at not taking gambles on passes and he works hard on defense.

Finally, he can pass the ball. If he sees a teammate open, he can get that guy the ball.

I think that DJ really wants his starting position, and if he can build from his first two seasons (all of which is valuable experience) then he can only go up. He's apparently been working hard on his game and building up more core strength.

There is a lot of doubt about DJ, but I'm surprisingly optimistic. He has all the tools to be a solid, if unspectacular point guard, but I'm sure he can be at worst servicable.

[SWedd523]

Usually what messes people up is that they make it too complicated. I want DJ to just keep it simple. On offense, bring it down and dish it off. Then run around screens, people, whatever to get open for a shot. Watch a ton of Rip Hamilton film. This could work well with Jack especially since he jab steps for half an hour each time he gets the ball so it would give DJ room to get free. I also think he's a better ball handler than Ray, so as long as he can work on a couple of go to crossovers then he's golden.

On defense, just keep trying. He doesn't have to be a lockdown defender as long as I see him TRYING. There are plenty of times where guys with lesser athleticism are as good on defense because they use their head and give it effort. Play people to their weak hand, sag off if they can't shoot, stay tight if they can't dribble. If all of that fails, shepherd him to one of the giants on the roster.

Other than that, get out and run. Off turnovers/missed shots, push the ball and look to score.



Recap to DJ's successful rookie season:

1) Move without the ball, use screens to get open, don't think about the shot--just yoke it
2) Stay smart on defense, play to the opponents weakness and use the rest of the NBA's best defense when you need help
3) Push the ball, get out and use your (and your teammates') speed to get easy buckets
*) Tell LB to go fuck himself. You were a lottery pick and showed it your rookie season. Listen to what the old hoot has to say (because he wants the best for you), but use your insticts and let the game come to you.

[BRNC]

SWedd...my concern (since we drafted DJ) has been about his defensive skill set...I think Offensively he is a player...he does seem to have problems distributing and I'm not sure if is passing or inability to "see" the court...or if it is lack of height hurting him...

But defensively he scares me...I've watched him get beaten by guys that I consider mediocre PGs time-and-time again...I don't think it is lack of desire on his part but his physical limitations up to now...I do think with work he can become an average defender but he's got to learn (with his limitations) how to play other PGs so he is not consistently beaten...

My last concern has more to do with how LB will treat him...LB is tough on PGs and DJ did not hold up last year when there was not "much" pressure on him...that all changes as the starter...

[spectre]

*) Tell LB to go fuck himself. You were a lottery pick and showed it your rookie season. Listen to what the old hoot has to say (because he wants the best for you), but use your insticts and let the game come to you.

Bingo!

That's exactly what Felton did this past season...LB continually mentioned that Felton would listen, nodding his head the whole time...then go out and not necessarily follow what he'd written up. He can't flat out ignore LB, but he also has to trust his instincts in real time.

Nice post all around Swedd...and Toocool with some good stuff as well!

BRNC I'm right with ya. Everyone here knows I'm all about the D and I've questioned his all thru his 2 seasons. He does put forth effort tho, and he has gotten better (how could he not with LB here). We just have to work better with the team D. If TC were still here I'd feel MUCH better as he knows how to defend the P&R, but Crash & Jax are damn good defenders, so hopefully it won't be as bad as you think.

[EC123]

What is there to talk about? If he's your starting PG, then you are doomed, and anyone who believes that the team is better with him as PG instead of Felton (even with his issues), doesn't know anything about basketball.

[ohara831]

If DJ could find a little tear drop shot down the middle of the lane like Tony Parker, we would be set at PG for the next 10 years. I could live with his defense if he could develope the tear drop to go with his perimeter game.

[GoBobs]

I don't think he is capable of being a difference maker on defense. To be a starter in the NBA he has to be a difference maker on offense. If he has a couple of slumps like the big one last year where he stops looking for his shot, he is more of a bench guy.

DJ needs to run the pick and roll and shot a three off the dribble when ever the other team goes under the pick. He needs to get an in between floater too because he doesn't get calls when he takes it all the way to the basket.

I think he can average 32 min 14 points 6 assists 2.5 turnovers

[spectre]

What is there to talk about? If he's your starting PG, then you are doomed, and anyone who believes that the team is better with him as PG instead of Felton (even with his issues), doesn't know anything about basketball.

Why can't he play a John Paxson/Derek Fisher role with us?

I don't think that the team is better off with DJ vs. Felton right now...but Felton isn't here. We can either dwell on letting him go or we can deal with "what is".

I will say though that with our makeup we weren't using Felton to the best of his abilities. With Boris & Jax DJ might just end up being a better fit.

[Toocool]

Why can't he play a John Paxson/Derek Fisher role with us?

I don't think that the team is better off with DJ vs. Felton right now...but Felton isn't here. We can either dwell on letting him go or we can deal with "what is".

I will say though that with our makeup we weren't using Felton to the best of his abilities. With Boris & Jax DJ might just end up being a better fit.

Sorry...Derek Fisher actually has a role? I thought his job was simply to give it to Kobe and spot up for the open 3. DJ can do that, pass it to Jack and spot up for the open 3.

[Plowright]

If DJ could find a little tear drop shot down the middle of the lane like Tony Parker, we would be set at PG for the next 10 years. I could live with his defense if he could develope the tear drop to go with his perimeter game.

I read an interview with him online somewhere and he said thats what he had been working on all summer, the TP floater... so your in luck!

[spectre]

Sorry...Derek Fisher actually has a role? I thought his job was simply to give it to Kobe and spot up for the open 3. DJ can do that, pass it to Jack and spot up for the open 3.

...and there ya go! :p

My last post I meant offensively in regards to DJ fitting better.

[K1NGofAKR0N]

he should play like mo williams

[Toocool]

...and there ya go! :p

My last post I meant offensively in regards to DJ fitting better.

I know. I couldn't help it. I feel people overrate D. Fisher all the time, I think he's just pure crap besides a few good traits. And I would like DJ to be more than D. Fisher, he's got more talent, but with our team will probably be 3rd/4th option of offense.

[teej]

Why can't he play a John Paxson/Derek Fisher role with us?


Because we don't have Kobe, Gasol, Pippen or MJ.

DJ is a solid backup and fringe starter. He would be perfect for the Heat, but we're not the Heat. He's best off in a Jet Terry role, but unless Shaun Livingston proves he can run the point (which I think he can), DJ can't do that.

[Plowright]

I think you guys should have more faith in DJ, everyone is saying he can only shoot 3's and he can't play defense. He shouldnt drive, he shouldnt guard D rose. I think we should just let DJ play like any other PG, if we start telling him what he can and cant do then thats just gonna make him be like... shit what can i do? they dont even trust me. DJ was seen as a good NBA prospect a year ago, just because of one bad season shouldnt change that. Let him start, Let him play his was, let himget confidence in himself and do some to impress everyone. Lets not put him down before the year has even begun. Stop the DJ hating!!!

[rsxnova]

I just hope DJ does better than Matt Moore under pressure.

[Toocool]

I just hope DJ does better than Matt Moore under pressure.

You sir are why we can't have nice things. You try throw properly with almost no protection from your front line and under extreme pressure.

[DY_nasty]

Matt Moore has the pocket presence of a lawn chair and loves to stare down receivers while having the accuracy of a sawed shotgun from 200 yards.

[spectre]

he should play like mo williams

I don't think he has that type of mentality. Wish he did...he could probably fit that role to some extent.


Because we don't have Kobe, Gasol, Pippen or MJ.

That's where our strengths are though. With Boris & Jax dominating the ball on the offense I don't think that's a bad role for him to fill. He has limitations and that role at least minimizes them somewhat.


I think you guys should have more faith in DJ, everyone is saying he can only shoot 3's and he can't play defense. He shouldnt drive, he shouldnt guard D rose. I think we should just let DJ play like any other PG, if we start telling him what he can and cant do then thats just gonna make him be like... shit what can i do? they dont even trust me. DJ was seen as a good NBA prospect a year ago, just because of one bad season shouldnt change that. Let him start, Let him play his was, let himget confidence in himself and do some to impress everyone. Lets not put him down before the year has even begun. Stop the DJ hating!!!

This isn't hate, it's a realistic look at what we're dealing with this upcoming year and how to try and be successful at it.

In his two seasons he's pretty much demonstrated what he's strong at and what he isn't:

He's not good at finishing in the lane. He's not a good midrange shooter (but it appeared he was doing better at the latter end of last season). He pushes into bad places in the halfcourt with his dribble.

He IS good at spot up 3s. He runs a P&R pretty decent (needs to get that floater down). He's a very willing passer.

No one is saying he can't work to improve all of that...but in the games he needs to stick with what doesn't hurt the team.

[Plowright]

But to get better at things, you have to do things wrong and learn from your mistakes. If DJ drives into an open lane and gets blocked im fine with that, at the end of the day he is doing the right thing. The next time he drives down an open lane he might think right, lets do it different this time. Hence progress is made.

[spectre]

I'm not saying "never".

It's obvious DJ is weak on the "confidence" part. To gain/keep that why not put him in the position where he has the best chance to succeed?

[dav7z]

OK i've read enough hype. We need to compare him to the points on the roster . Its not a certain he even wins the starting job.
You guys covered DJs abilitys pretty well. But how does that compare to Livingston and Collins.
Liningston is seven inches taller than DJ. Hes going to be a lot tougher for any point to shoot over. He a lot longer so hes not going to get broken down on the drive as quickly. He a lot better finisher at the basket than DJ. He sees the floor much better than DJ and is a better passer. He can post up most points in the league. At 6.7 he should be able to switch on pick and roles and guard players with size . He has a better mid range jumper . But no three point game to speak of. DJ shuld be able to run the floor quicker , Shoot the spot up 3 better , Thats about the only two advanteges DJ should have on Livingston . If Livingstons knee holds out . Starting point is not a given to DJ


Collins is stronger than DJ . DJ may be a little quicker . I don;t know how well Collins can distribute. Both seem able to hit the three . I kinda think DJ has a little better handle and Collins might be a little better passer. Im not even going to say it's a given DJ starts over Collins .

DJ will have to earn a starting position over Livingston and Collins witch im not sure he can do. This should be a battle for the starting job.

My guess is Brown makes a trade be for December . I hate to say this but i kinda expect Ford or Calderon a Bobcat be for season end . I really hope not.

[BRNC]

Dav...I honestly think the Calderon train left the station...and he will not be a 'Cat...not sure on TJ either since his value (as an expiring) will increase as the year goes on...

IMO if we make a trade it will be a team that wants Doris and brings back a longer term contract PG (but not Calderon)...or we simply go with who we have and pick up someone as a FA already available...but I'm beginning to lean towards the "what we see is what we've got" conclusion for the team this season...

[rsxnova]

You sir are why we can't have nice things. You try throw properly with almost no protection from your front line and under extreme pressure.

I lost confidence in him when he floated it to a TE in tripple coverage.

[dav7z]

Dav...I honestly think the Calderon train left the station...and he will not be a 'Cat...not sure on TJ either since his value (as an expiring) will increase as the year goes on...

IMO if we make a trade it will be a team that wants Doris and brings back a longer term contract PG (but not Calderon)...or we simply go with who we have and pick up someone as a FA already available...but I'm beginning to lean towards the "what we see is what we've got" conclusion for the team this season...

I hope we go with what we got exception [Flip] . If we do go as is i fully expect Livingston to edge out DJ for a starting position in a tough battle .

[BRNC]

I'm open as heck to bringing back Flip...my only concern would be it probably would cost Hendo minutes...but if they cut Collins I'd be good with it...

[spectre]

I wonder who LB prefers, Flip or Hughes? To be sure after being forced to go thru this salary adjustment he'll at least get to pick where that 2.2 million goes.

[teej]

I wonder who LB prefers, Flip or Hughes?

Most likely Flip, he raved about him the whole time he was here, and he wasn't thrilled Flip got traded. Hughes was a very quiet acquisition and LB didn't say too much about it.

[Plowright]

LB would never start collins over DJ dav7e and that is a fact so lets just forget about that...
I think DJ will become better at defending bigger point guards while having to train and compete against Shaun every day
Also it sounds like flip is off to China

[SWedd523]

LB would never start collins over DJ dav7e and that is a fact so lets just forget about that...
I think DJ will become better at defending bigger point guards while having to train and compete against Shaun every day
Also it sounds like flip is off to China

link please.

[BlockParty]

link please.

Same report is on a lot of sites (nothing concrete though) http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/39245086/sports/player_news

""Veteran SG Flip Murray has been in contact with Chinese teams and could sign overseas this summer.

Murray had previously drawn interest from the Cavs, Clippers, and Bulls. He would likely be asked to accept the veteran's minimum for any NBA team, so if the money is right don't be shocked to see him in a Flying Dragons uniform in 2010-11.""

[BRNC]

...He could also be waiting to see how much of a teams MLE he can get before committing to an overseas team...by the end of training camps more teams are likely to look for Vet help so he has no real motivation at this point to commit to an overseas team...just my opinion...

[Toocool]

All the best to Flip. I wouldn't mind bringing him back, but after he came here last season it seemed that DJ completely hid in a turtle/tortoise/snail/hermit crab shell. I think it'll be best if he stayed away, although I'll take him in a heart beat over Hughes.

[dav7z]

All the best to Flip. I wouldn't mind bringing him back, but after he came here last season it seemed that DJ completely hid in a turtle/tortoise/snail/hermit crab shell. I think it'll be best if he stayed away, although I'll take him in a heart beat over Hughes.

Agreeded Flip would take DJs playing time. Flip plays with much more confidence than DJ . Hell Flip on the floor thinks hes a all star.



Does any one other than me think Livingston could start over DJ this season?? THOUGHTS

[JamieMcNeill]

Does any one other than me think Livingston could start over DJ this season?? THOUGHTS

I do. Livingston isn't a shooter, which is a concern for a team that cant shoot anyway (i.e. we are already a team of slasher types), but I think he is a better defender and his size alone makes him a problem for teams trying to defend him. Essentially Livingston will be good, at worst, based on mismatches alone.

[Scottley Crue]

Agreeded Flip would take DJs playing time. Flip plays with much more confidence than DJ . Hell Flip on the floor thinks hes a all star.



Does any one other than me think Livingston could start over DJ this season?? THOUGHTS

He just might. I like what Livingston did in Washington last year and am looking forward to what he can do here. I really like a lineup of Livingston-Jack-Crash-TT-Boris at times. Defensively, they can switch everything which I think will give teams nightmares.

[SWedd523]

Dav I think you're making too much out of the "starter" role. It really doesn't matter which one of them starts (for now) because at least during the first part of the season, they'll be splitting minutes. Neither one will take the majority of the minutes unless the other just falls off. Shaun definitely CAN take the starter spot if DJ continues his sophomore slump, but I have a feeling DJ will be the starter if he keeps his rookie form.

[Toocool]

Dav I think you're making too much out of the "starter" role. It really doesn't matter which one of them starts (for now) because at least during the first part of the season, they'll be splitting minutes. Neither one will take the majority of the minutes unless the other just falls off. Shaun definitely CAN take the starter spot if DJ continues his sophomore slump, but I have a feeling DJ will be the starter if he keeps his rookie form.

I agree. They'll basically split the minutes, with Livingston only getting about 20 mins a game (due to his knee concerns). I'm perfectly fine with that, and I don't mind whoever starts. As long as they both produce and have good chemistry with the team, I'll all for whoever starts. I just hope LB doesn't ship out DJ or something if he's on a roll and stick him on the bench.

[dav7z]

Dav I think you're making too much out of the "starter" role. It really doesn't matter which one of them starts (for now) because at least during the first part of the season, they'll be splitting minutes. Neither one will take the majority of the minutes unless the other just falls off. Shaun definitely CAN take the starter spot if DJ continues his sophomore slump, but I have a feeling DJ will be the starter if he keeps his rookie form.

I disagree with your statement about me doubting DJs ability to start . Or making to much of it . Its been over 5000 post about Felton vs DJ . With tons of people trashing Felton. Im not trashing DJ in this thread im just doubting his abilitys to start . I asked a question if any one else felt like Livingston might start over DJ .[THATS IT].
What you call a [sophomore slump ] is more likely, to be ,his game is not as good on a pro level as you want. Most good NBA players see your game and make adjustments . Defences just addapted to DJs style of play. Either DJ will addapt or he will never get any better.

Your statement saying It really doesn't matter who starts reminds me of a tee Ball game . Where it don't matter who wins because the score isn't being kept any way.
Sweed im saying this with the up most respect of you and your post . But who starts at any position on our team has a direct impact on our team and should be discussed.

[dav7z]

He just might. I like what Livingston did in Washington last year and am looking forward to what he can do here. I really like a lineup of Livingston-Jack-Crash-TT-Boris at times. Defensively, they can switch everything which I think will give teams nightmares.

Agreeded that might well be our most effective line up . I love the fact ever player on the floor is either 6.7 or 6.8 Fact is we can switch at any position on defence . The pick and role should not be effective with ever player able to switch.

Livingston does hurt spreading the floor . But ia a asset posting up other guards. I would not be suprized to see those five playing a lot toghter. With Nazz and DJ playing solid in a seven man rotation. Brown plays a lot with just a 8 man rotation . I have no idea who steps in that 8th spot.

[spectre]

There's a lot of doubting about DJ out there. From Hoopsworld just the other day:

Charlotte Bobcats 2010-2011 Preview (http://www.hoopsworld.com/Story.asp?story_id=17349)

All five guys felt like we downgraded at the 1 & the 5 and under "strengths" said:



Assuming Livingston wins the primary point guard role, Charlotte will have a starting lineup featuring no player under 6'7.Time for a Replacement: Five NBA Teams Most in Need of a New Point Guard (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/466776-time-for-a-replacement-the-five-nba-teams-most-in-need-of-a-new-point-guard)

Guess who's picture is on the opening page.

I want to be more optimistic about DJ, and I think it'll be warranted if LB would stop trying to make him into what he isn't and just play him to his strengths. With Boris & Jax we can get away with that.

[BRNC]

I agree with most analyst that question our PG position...but I also agree that either Shaun or DJ "could" have a big year...I think one of these guys stepping up and being solid will dictate a return (or not) to the play-offs...my caveat...bring on Hinrich works for me...

[dav7z]

There's a lot of doubting about DJ out there. From Hoopsworld just the other day:

Charlotte Bobcats 2010-2011 Preview (http://www.hoopsworld.com/Story.asp?story_id=17349)

All five guys felt like we downgraded at the 1 & the 5 and under "strengths" said:

[LEFT]Time for a Replacement: Five NBA Teams Most in Need of a New Point Guard (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/466776-time-for-a-replacement-the-five-nba-teams-most-in-need-of-a-new-point-guard)[COLOR=#000000]

Guess who's picture is on the opening page.


Nice finds clearly all of the articals spoke of a down grade at the point position. While most think Livingston is our best hope at the point position. Not Signing Felton seems or looks to be a big mistake. One writer said NY up graded at the point while we down graded. From reading the articals it gives me the impression if Livingston don't come through then we are screwed starting DJ,. Statments like DJ is undersized . not athletic enough. a down grade on the top ranked defence speaks volums as to what the experts think.

I want to be more optimistic about DJ,

Agreeded i do to

[dav7z]

I agree with most analyst that question our PG position...but I also agree that either Shaun or DJ "could" have a big year...I think one of these guys stepping up and being solid will dictate a return (or not) to the play-offs...my caveat...bring on Hinrich works for me...

He would be a great fit with our starters . But i don't think we have the assets to get him.

[dav7z]

Nice read and openions about DJ

http://www.rufusonfire.com/2010/9/20/1699550/community-projection-d-j-augustin

[SWedd523]

I think his outside shooting was down mainly because he started the season out so poorly. As the year progressed (and many forget this), he got steadily better. Also of note:



more efficient from mid-range (<10 feet: 31.0FG% to 45.5FG%, and 10-15 feet: 30.0FG% to 36.7FG%).
Improved his assist rate and his turnover rate.
Was a better defender, it appears, by his increased number of steals, charges taken, and blocks(!). Small sample size theatre, but still...

I like that he improved his midrange shooting because outside shooters, like DJ, don't suddenly become poor from range. He'll get back to his ~40% rookie form from deep and if he can continue to keep his mid range efficiency up, he'll be a pretty good offensive threat.

As for the assists/turnovers and defense, not really anything that surprised me. I noticed all last year that his D improved and he's always seemed to be a better passer/ball handler than Ray. I think he has the potential to get back to his rookie form (and then some) and surprise some people--especially playing beside Jack as opposed to Raja. He won't be as good as Ray on D, but he'll be better on O. So I can live with it.

[Toocool]

DJ has great handles, especially moving at top speed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7I8ZiYJ1vEI

Watch 0:29-0:33