SI Article: 'Cats' future belongs to rookies

[Proudiddy]

Talks about Kemba struggling to adjust to the pace of the NBA... Seems to end pretty ominously though... Suggests that we aren't dedicated to Kemba and Smack and could be trying to turn them into assets to make moves going forward. Smack won't even commit to saying they are the future here because he doesn't know what's going on in the front office or what they're thinking... Wow.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/writers/ian_thomsen/02/08/charlotte.bobcats/index.html?eref=writers


During his two seasons in Spain, Biyombo was often the most athletic big man on the court. He no longer holds such an obvious advantage, especially because he lacks the technique to make use of his athleticism. "He really wants to learn, he's working hard -- as hard as anybody I've ever seen," said Silas. Scouts have been comparing him to Ben Wallace since he produced a triple-double of 12 points, 11 rebounds and 10 blocks at the Hoop Summit last April. But Silas believes a summer of hard work will enable Biyombo to make jumpers, "and once he gets that I think you'll see him develop in every aspect of his game."

In the meantime, Biyombo has refused to act like a rookie, even if it means confronting older teammates at practice. "I'm not afraid to talk, because I don't want to lose," said Biyombo, who speaks five languages. "Me personally, I don't control myself, saying, well, this guy's old, you're going to talk to him with respect. I'm going to talk to you like my teammate because I want to win the game. So I got to grab your hand and tell you this and that -- and I will, because I want to win the game."

How do his teammates react when confronted? "Well, sometimes I might be wrong," he said. "Sometimes you're going to be wrong, but they're going to correct you -- 'Hey, young fella, you were wrong right there.' And they help you. That's just part of the game."

The 6-1 Walker is learning to become a point guard after his scoring drove UConn to the national championship last year. "Guys are a lot bigger, faster, stronger, and at times I tend to let guys speed me up instead of playing at my own pace," he said. "In college it took me three years. By the time my junior year came, that's when everything slowed down for me."

So he understands he'll need time to adapt to the NBA pace. Yet he showed promise with a triple-double of 20 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds in a January loss to the Wizards. "You're not going to see anybody his size getting as many rebounds as he gets," said Silas (though he neglected Rajon Rondo's ability in that area). "And that just shows you the mental and physical toughness that he has."

Walker and his young big man are going to need that toughness over the remaining 11 weeks. For his part, Biyombo doesn't feel qualified to forecast their future together. "That's a tough question -- you don't know what's going on in the office, what they're thinking about us," he said. "I really don't know what they're thinking, I can't control their mind, I can't control what's coming. But the only thing I can control is me getting better on the court day by day."

Other troubled franchises are rebuilding around star talents: The Wizards have John Wall, the Hornets have Eric Gordon. But no such assurance can be drawn from the Bobcats' roster. The ultimate goal for this season is to transform Walker and Biyombo into valuable assets, whether they remain in Charlotte or are moved elsewhere, and to turn this otherwise hopeless season into the No. 1 pick via the lottery. "I'm going to be on them to do the right things," said Silas. "But I'm always going to be positive with them. They can do. And that's what I want them to be is positive."

Staying upbeat will be an achievement in itself.

[stun704]

Talks about Kemba struggling to adjust to the pace of the NBA... Seems to end pretty ominously though... Suggests that we aren't dedicated to Kemba and Smack and could be trying to turn them into assets to make moves going forward. Smack won't even commit to saying they are the future here because he doesn't know what's going on in the front office or what they're thinking... Wow.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/writers/ian_thomsen/02/08/charlotte.bobcats/index.html?eref=writers
To trade a center when hes 19 is pure retardation, they better not be trying to deal him, theres honestly no one in the up coming draft i would trade bismack for straight up except maybe anthony davis, but we're more then likely getting him anyway.

[murphman]

I think the part about trading them away is pure conjecture by the author. In the end anything could happen. Kobe, Rose and Durant could be traded. We never know. However I believe that the FO is fully behind these two guys for the forseeable future.

[Mustachio]

I think the part about trading them away is pure conjecture by the author. In the end anything could happen. Kobe, Rose and Durant could be traded. We never know. However I believe that the FO is fully behind these two guys for the forseeable future.


This. Chalk it up to bias. Same reason Jeremy Lin is the greatest rookie of all time after a 28 point showing, while a Kemba triple double goes basically unnoticed in the media.

[Chef]

To trade a center when hes 19 is pure retardation, they better not be trying to deal him, theres honestly no one in the up coming draft i would trade bismack for straight up except maybe anthony davis, but we're more then likely getting him anyway.

to me, biz is the only one on the roster i would not trade. of course, if it brought back a top player, read a ticket seller like wade, durant, etc, then yes. otherwise no.

[dav7z]

I could see us trading Kemba for a top pick but not SMACK . If Kemba netted us a top five pick . I would have to consider it . After watching Rivers last night and kim being compared to Wade . A top five would have to be considered sence we have DJ.

[Pepperz]

I see Kemba and Bismack as part of the future. Kemba might take a bit more time to learn the swing of things but once he does, he is going to be a force to be reckon with. I like how he doesnt let the past effect him. He does something bad, hell forget about it and keep playing basketball. He shown me how he is strong mentally. Same with Bis, he has a strong mental game. He just wants to keep on getting better and better. That drive that championship teams have. Once we get that "franchise" player that we are looking for, we are going to be a strong contender.

[spectre]

I think the part about trading them away is pure conjecture by the author. In the end anything could happen. Kobe, Rose and Durant could be traded. We never know. However I believe that the FO is fully behind these two guys for the forseeable future.

Agreed with murphman. I think the plan right now is to go with Kemba & Smack but no one is ever untouchable.

If Kemba keeps selling jerseys and keeps the crowds excited for him like he has been I don't see them moving him for a pick this year...but it's not like he'd net a top 5 pick this year either.

[Chef]

I could see us trading Kemba for a top pick but not SMACK . If Kemba netted us a top five pick . I would have to consider it . After watching Rivers last night and kim being compared to Wade . A top five would have to be considered sence we have DJ.

simple logic if i am another gm: no way in hell the #9 pick in a weak draft last year nets me a top 5 pick in this year's much stronger draft. only possibility i can think of would be to utah for gsw pick this year.

[Let's Go Cats 218]

I think we just need to take Anthony Davis with the 1st pick... but let's not give up the bright spots that we actually have (like Kemba) before we get a chance to see them develop.

[The Milk]

I don't think the author has watched the games and is basing his opinion solely on statistics. I think Kemba has improved in his understanding of the game and decision making in each game. With Bismack there is no lack of trying that's for sure, and that's refreshing.

[Proudiddy]

I get what you all are saying and I, myself, consider them core players for the future... That being said, I don't know how it can be dismissed that Smack himself says he doesn't know what the FO is thinking so he doesn't want to try to forecast what the future holds. That's the part that bothers me. Players usually don't say things like that, especially young ones, unless they have heard something that would make them think that.

[SWedd523]

I get what you all are saying and I, myself, consider them core players for the future... That being said, I don't know how it can be dismissed that Smack himself says he doesn't know what the FO is thinking so he doesn't want to try to forecast what the future holds. That's the part that bothers me. Players usually don't say things like that, especially young ones, unless they have heard something that would make them think that.

I doubt any players other than the stars know what the FO is doing. It's not the players' jobs to know what the FO is thinking and it's not the FOs job to tell them.


He wasn't making a point that the FO is inept. He was saying, quite clearly, that he doesn't know what they have planned for the future and that all he knows is that he's going to work on continuing his development. We aren't really this disillusioned are we?

[Mustachio]

I doubt any players other than the stars know what the FO is doing. It's not the players' jobs to know what the FO is thinking and it's not the FOs job to tell them.


He wasn't making a point that the FO is inept. He was saying, quite clearly, that he doesn't know what they have planned for the future and that all he knows is that he's going to work on continuing his development. We aren't really this disillusioned are we?

exactly. the actual question wasnt known either. if the line of questioning to bis was about what front office moves might impact the team and what not. What else is he supposed to say. Just Bis saying, players in general cannot worry about decisions up there because they have no control over it.

I can totally understand prouddiddy though because the whole article just has this slight negative tilt to it.

[Scottley Crue]

I doubt any players other than the stars know what the FO is doing. It's not the players' jobs to know what the FO is thinking and it's not the FOs job to tell them.


He wasn't making a point that the FO is inept. He was saying, quite clearly, that he doesn't know what they have planned for the future and that all he knows is that he's going to work on continuing his development. We aren't really this disillusioned are we?

Agreed, he was speaking in very general terms. I find it kind of hard to see it any other way.

[Proudiddy]

I doubt any players other than the stars know what the FO is doing. It's not the players' jobs to know what the FO is thinking and it's not the FOs job to tell them.


He wasn't making a point that the FO is inept. He was saying, quite clearly, that he doesn't know what they have planned for the future and that all he knows is that he's going to work on continuing his development. We aren't really this disillusioned are we?

Why do all of your responses to me in recent memory seem incedniary?

I suspect you haven't appreciated my outspoken views on how bad our FO has been throughout our existence as a franchise.

That being said, sorry buddy, you were wrong on this one.

I wasn't insinuating that Smack was saying the FO were idiots, I was saying that taking his words at face value I find it to be concerning that he isn't sure that he's a building block for the franchise. In my years of watching/observing/reading about sports, his response is one typically given by a guy who will eventually be leaving town, either on his own accord or by the front office's.

Usually, especially with young guys (in the first year of their contract), when they are asked about their future with their current franchise, they will give a "gee-golly, I'm honored to be here and I plan on being a part of making this team successful/a winner, blah, blah, blah."

I just find Smack's response concerning. Perhaps it was how the author framed it, but I don't know... I don't remember hearing a guy, especially a rookie, give that type of response unless he was being shopped or planned on leaving.

[Toocool]

TBH the SI article doesn't make much sense.
Why fight so hard to move up in the draft (for Smack), only to give him away?
Surely Smack+Walker would see themselves as the future.
Although if the right trade comes along, ofc you trade Smack for whoever, but highly unlikely we'll give him away.

[dnbman]

Usually, especially with young guys (in the first year of their contract), when they are asked about their future with their current franchise, they will give a "gee-golly, I'm honored to be here and I plan on being a part of making this team successful/a winner, blah, blah, blah."

I just find Smack's response concerning. Perhaps it was how the author framed it, but I don't know... I don't remember hearing a guy, especially a rookie, give that type of response unless he was being shopped or planned on leaving.

I see what you mean, but I think is a bit more genuine than the average NBA player or average American for that matter. He recognizes that this is a business. If we're trying to read between the lines, I'd be mostly concerned about locker room talk. I'm hoping that the majority of the roster isn't just biding their time until they're traded, even if that is the case for most of them. That's one of the most difficult things about having a team full of young guys and journeymen: maintaining pride and value of the team.

[dav7z]

I see what you mean, but I think is a bit more genuine than the average NBA player or average American for that matter. He recognizes that this is a business. If we're trying to read between the lines, I'd be mostly concerned about locker room talk. I'm hoping that the majority of the roster isn't just biding their time until they're traded, even if that is the case for most of them. That's one of the most difficult things about having a team full of young guys and journeymen: maintaining pride and value of the team.

I think you just hit it locker room talk , You know the whole locor room is thinking thair jobs isn;t safe. And i could understand why with the loseing streak. Its all most like you worried about being laid off. Management may have failed in reasureing the two rookies but if they tell the two rookies they safe . All the other players will be asking questions . Some times its better to just be quite during times like this ,. Nothing said no explenations needed.

[dav7z]

Why do all of your responses to me in recent memory seem incedniary?

I suspect you haven't appreciated my outspoken views on how bad our FO has been throughout our existence as a franchise.

That being said, sorry buddy, you were wrong on this one.

I wasn't insinuating that Smack was saying the FO were idiots, I was saying that taking his words at face value I find it to be concerning that he isn't sure that he's a building block for the franchise. In my years of watching/observing/reading about sports, his response is one typically given by a guy who will eventually be leaving town, either on his own accord or by the front office's.

Usually, especially with young guys (in the first year of their contract), when they are asked about their future with their current franchise, they will give a "gee-golly, I'm honored to be here and I plan on being a part of making this team successful/a winner, blah, blah, blah."

I just find Smack's response concerning. Perhaps it was how the author framed it, but I don't know... I don't remember hearing a guy, especially a rookie, give that type of response unless he was being shopped or planned on leaving.

Like i said the frount office isn't ruleing thing out. I think if you talk to one . You have to talk to all. Im sure CHO is looking to deal right now. If it gains assets long term im sure hes instrested.

[Chef]

I see what you mean, but I think is a bit more genuine than the average NBA player or average American for that matter. He recognizes that this is a business. If we're trying to read between the lines, I'd be mostly concerned about locker room talk. I'm hoping that the majority of the roster isn't just biding their time until they're traded, even if that is the case for most of them. That's one of the most difficult things about having a team full of young guys and journeymen: maintaining pride and value of the team.

not only does he recognize this is a business, especially after the taste of contract issues in europe, but i think he much much smarter than the average nba player definitely moreso than the rookies. he speaks multiple languages which takes a certain level of intelligence. of course, it is also practice and environment, but i get the sense that he has strong head on his shoulders.

also, why would he expect to be a cornerstone/guaranteed to be here type guy? on the court he has not proven to be anything other than a guy with an extremely bright future attached to huge IF's.

maybe the FO has learned something and/or regrets the gerald wallace trade happenings, where it does effect players when you outright tell them they are part of the cats future and then turn around and trade them.

[SWedd523]

I suspect you haven't appreciated my outspoken views on how bad our FO has been throughout our existence as a franchise.
Just not a fan of knee-jerk and unnecessarily/overly negative reactions.



I wasn't insinuating that Smack was saying the FO were idiots, I was saying that taking his words at face value I find it to be concerning that he isn't sure that he's a building block for the franchise. In my years of watching/observing/reading about sports, his response is one typically given by a guy who will eventually be leaving town, either on his own accord or by the front office's.

Usually, especially with young guys (in the first year of their contract), when they are asked about their future with their current franchise, they will give a "gee-golly, I'm honored to be here and I plan on being a part of making this team successful/a winner, blah, blah, blah."

I just find Smack's response concerning. Perhaps it was how the author framed it, but I don't know... I don't remember hearing a guy, especially a rookie, give that type of response unless he was being shopped or planned on leaving.

Seems like you're so used to being negative in regards to the FO/team that you're reading something into his quote that isn't there. Not that it's a bad thing, mind you, just that it seems to be clouding your vision a little bit.

Bismack said exactly what he thinks, that he has no idea what they're doing and that he isn't worried about it because he can't control it. And do you know why he doesn't know? Because it isn't his job to know.

You should know by now that Bismack is "different". He doesn't act like the typical player, much less the typical rookie. He's not going to be all PC and give you the "gee-golly" response because that's not who he is. You can take his candidness in a negative light all you want, but I personally find it refreshing.

[BETCATS]

I wouldnt be sad if they traded Kemba because all he is good for is shooting, but not scoring. However, if they get rid of a raw 19 year old who actually might turn into a long term starter I'd be pissed. Do not trade Biyambo. And since this season is lost, their is no reason to send him to the d-league. Start him.

[Mustachio]

I wouldnt be sad if they traded Kemba because all he is good for is shooting, but not scoring.

Huh? I'd be stupid pissed if they traded Kemba.

I do agree about Biyombo though. Bis is getting better every game. looking more comfortable. Cannot let him go.

[ChuckHayes69]

Trade whoever you want if you're getting more valuable assets coming back. I don't see them finding that though for Biyombo or Kemba, so I don't see them going anywhere. I don't really read anything into the Biyombo quote...the framing of it within the article also seems a bit strange like the author was trying to make it sound like a bad thing.

[Dcarnys]

Don't trade either of them, problem solved.

[BETCATS]

Huh? I'd be stupid pissed if they traded Kemba.

I do agree about Biyombo though. Bis is getting better every game. looking more comfortable. Cannot let him go.
Kemba has a 36% field goal percentage even though he can pretty much do whatever he wants. If he reminds me of anyone it is Jason Terry when he was on the Hawks aka a gunner who doesn't make anyone around him better. He will be a good 6th man for us one day, but if we could get another young guy who is a potential starter I'd be all for doing it.

[skratch]

trade bismack

[Pepperz]

Who ever is for trading these rookies are retarded. We havent even finished a season in their rookie year and you guys are talking about trading these guys already. Kemba will learn the NBA in due time just like he did college. Bis is still young and new compared to everybody else his age when it comes to the game of basketball. As these guys mature and grow more accustom to the game, they will get better, ALOT better. You are also forgetting that they need talent around them. We are going to suck for a couple years. We will get some top talent in these up and coming drafts. We will also free up cap space to sign quality guys in the coming years. Once we have our draft picks and future FAs, we will be good. Untill then be patient and STFU about trading rookies.

[polarcat]

I think Henderson is in that "untouchable" argument along with Walker and Smack. Henderson isn't a superstar or anything, but I really think MJ sees Hendo as a Pippen-like player for our future. Henderson didn't blow up right away, but pre-injury, he was looking like a man that found that next gear and looked pretty clutch since getting some 1-on-1 attention from Jordan. We have a lot of holes and I hope that Henderson is not a piece used to fill one of these holes by opening up a hole at SG. He's young, quick, explosive and plays great defense... and when he's on, pretty tough to stop on the offensive end.

[Mustachio]

Who ever is for trading these rookies are retarded. We havent even finished a season in their rookie year and you guys are talking about trading these guys already. Kemba will learn the NBA in due time just like he did college. Bis is still young and new compared to everybody else his age when it comes to the game of basketball. As these guys mature and grow more accustom to the game, they will get better, ALOT better. You are also forgetting that they need talent around them. We are going to suck for a couple years. We will get some top talent in these up and coming drafts. We will also free up cap space to sign quality guys in the coming years. Once we have our draft picks and future FAs, we will be good. Untill then be patient and STFU about trading rookies.


+1. I hate the argument that "Kemba just isn't a point guard" First of all he's a rookie, and second of all Steve Nash wouldn't be a point guard on this team.

[ammofan]

+1. I hate the argument that "Kemba just isn't a point guard" First of all he's a rookie, and second of all Steve Nash wouldn't be a point guard on this team.

Exactly. People don't seem to understand that we're not trying to win now or even next year. We're in a major rebuild and were acquiring young guys who will definitely need time to develop.

Many also act as if Kemba was a top 3 pick and he should be a star right off the bat.....he wasn't. He was the ninth pick. Guys at that position aren't expected to be leaders of a team right off the bat. But Kemba is being expected to do that now, and quite frankly he's doing a damn good job of it considering his situation. I think he's going to be a very very good player in a another few years, same for Bis.

[spectre]

First off I'm am "stun" Mistachio and I agree so thoroughly in regards to our rookies. This has to be the first time ever in the history of the world that this has happened. :biggrin:

Personally I am thrilled with the development of both Kemba & Smack, and especially considering their circumstances. Everything negative I've seen can IMO be fixed/worked on in the offseason and the positives are WAY more than I'd hoped concerning Smack. Going into the starting lineup and logging decent minutes, he's mostly held his own defensively with flashes of stellar play and you can see his progression offensively. Kemba adjusted to "these guys aren't doing shit so I have to take it all on myself" to making an effort to give them opportunities anyway...despite Silas' pitiful attempts to run actual plays that of course goes 180^ against Kemba's strengths.

I'm even excited about Mully still. His shot isn't falling now but we know he has that; bulking up and becoming a better defender will only take a matter of time. He really is still a rook himself, so along with Kemba and Smack you have to give him time.

[Toocool]

Huh? I'd be stupid pissed if they traded Kemba.

I do agree about Biyombo though. Bis is getting better every game. looking more comfortable. Cannot let him go.

The game's slowing down for him, bit by bit.

[Scottley Crue]

First off I'm am "stun" Mistachio and I agree so thoroughly in regards to our rookies. This has to be the first time ever in the history of the world that this has happened. :biggrin:

Personally I am thrilled with the development of both Kemba & Smack, and especially considering their circumstances. Everything negative I've seen can IMO be fixed/worked on in the offseason and the positives are WAY more than I'd hoped concerning Smack. Going into the starting lineup and logging decent minutes, he's mostly held his own defensively with flashes of stellar play and you can see his progression offensively. Kemba adjusted to "these guys aren't doing shit so I have to take it all on myself" to making an effort to give them opportunities anyway...despite Silas' pitiful attempts to run actual plays that of course goes 180^ against Kemba's strengths.

I'm even excited about Mully still. His shot isn't falling now but we know he has that; bulking up and becoming a better defender will only take a matter of time. He really is still a rook himself, so along with Kemba and Smack you have to give him time.

I'm very excited about those three as well. I'm very happy with their development and I do believe their weaknesses are correctable with proper time to train. Kemba's biggest knock is his shooting percentage. Maybe it's just me, but when he misses most of those misses are just short. I really believe he, like a lot of players this year, are worn out. It's a crazy, jam-packed season that's not very forgiving in terms of downtime. Give him some rest and plenty of practice and I imagine there will be improvement there.

Bismack just needs court time, be it in a game or practice. He's very well ahead of that "he went 1-on-0 and lost" comment we heard from his private workout before the draft but obviously just needs to log the hours. He clearly has the work ethic and desire to get better.

Mully does need to beef up and, in all honesty, man up. I've seen him put in more effort and fight around the basket on the defensive side lately, so it seems like someone made that point to him recently. I think he'll be a fine back-up center and those don't come a dime to the dozen.

[spectre]

I really believe he, like a lot of players this year, are worn out. It's a crazy, jam-packed season that's not very forgiving in terms of downtime. Give him some rest and plenty of practice and I imagine there will be improvement there.

Man thanks for the reminder. It occurred to me the other day that I should look up his minutes played last year vs. what he's had to play this year.

Going by UCONN's schedule this year it's right at 5 months (Nov. 2 - April 3) til the title game where he logged in 1543 minutes.

Our season started on December 26th and our last game was February 15th...slightly over 1.5 months. So far he's logged 849 minutes...over half what he'd logged all of last season.

5 months - 1543
1,5 months - 849

No doubt he's worn out.