The Russell Westbrook Thread

[Slam]

I've been lucky enough to see Westbrook play when Collison was out and when he was in so I've seen him as a PG and a SG.

He is a fantastic on ball defender who is quick, dedicated and shows great anticipation. He's an explosive athlete going to the rack with fantastic body control and a quick 1st step. He doesn't seem like a natural PG but can easily slide over if needed. SG is more his position though and with his stella D shouldn't have to worry about giving up a little size to opposing SG's.

Comparison: Hinrich (defense) meets Wade (offense)

Best Fits: Blazers, Pacers, Kings

[ohara831]

Agree totally with your assessment.

[dvdbumpus]

I'd love to have the guy on our team, he's a stud. I'd even put him at the 2 in a majorly upgraded 2 PG set.

6'4 and his skillset? NICE.

[Slam]

You do that though Bumpus and what happens with Swish and Crash?

[dvdbumpus]

You do that though Bumpus and what happens with Swish and Crash?

I'll rephrase it. I'd love to have him be our backup point guard, as well as push Felton for time. I'd also like to see some 2 point sets with those guys in the background. During this, I'd probably trade Matt as his value is pretty good due to the fact he's automatic from 3. That also provides some salary relief (even if it's not THAT much).

Bottom line, it's a talent increase that will improve our depth. I wouldn't start him unless Felton struggles or if we traded someone.

[ohara831]

As we near the Draft, IF we end up in the #8 hole, I am not sure if I'd take a Big just to take him. I really like Westbrook. He can play the PG and SG and is a great defender. I honestly think he's a poor man's Mayo on offense but with better defensive skills. I think he'd be a good choice if the right Big is not there for us or we dont get love from the ping pong balls.

[spectre]

I guess it was because of the RealGM Mock, but I've been beating around Westbrook too this morning. I would REALLY like a combo guard (as most know I want Mayo most out of this draft if not Beasley).

We badly need an upgrade on our perimeter D. Ohara...any resemblances to Flash or is that a major reach? NBA Draft compares him to Monta Ellis/Rondo.

Strengths: Athletic and explosive combo guard with the length to make up for his lack of height … Attacks the basket with a lethal first step and crossover ability … Can handle the rock well and gets into the lane effortlessly … Finishes well at the rim and is unafraid to go up in traffic … Huge wingspan allows him to play much bigger than his 6-3 height … Gets good lift on his jumpshot and has a quick release … Solid passer with unselfishness, always looks for the open man … Has an excellent mid-range game … A gym rat, really works hard to improve … Has a great attitude, extremely coach-able … Has the potential to be a bigtime scorer when given the chance … Really excels defensively and has a chance to develop into a great defender … His anticipation for steals and his on ball defensive ability are special … Solid passer who shows the ability to play the point guard position ...

I think that was written before last season though.

[ohara831]

From my point of view, he has the ability to spell Ray at the PG, and then spell J-Rich at the SG. That will give him a good 20 min/game as a Rookie. It also puts pressure on Ray to take advantage of the chance to become the PG we think he can, or get ready to be challanged for the starting PG role. Perimeter Def by a Guard is crucial, and we lack it. The great teams have someone who can get onto another teams star player and cover them like a hawk. Prince from Detroit is a brilliant defender, and Bowen from the Spurs.

I agree, if we get the Top 2, Beasley and Rose have to be the selection. But if 3rd, I'd be really torn. I think Lopez can prove to be a quality Big, like Brad Miller. Mayo is more dynamic on offense than Westbrook, but I think Westbrook brings better Defense with some really quality Offense as well. Now, people are really starting to talk Bayless into a position where he may challenge for the #3 pick. I am not as high on him as the other 3 though.

Flash? Perhaps some resemblance, but he has a lot to prove at the NBA level before we can go there. But it ain't out of the question.

Boy, it will be so much easier if we get the #1 or #2. Then we know, Beasley or Rose, whomever was not taken #1.

[dav7z]

I love the way this kid plays and if hes still around at eight he could be a steal.
I think drafting him would make Larry Brown think big time about trading Crash for a quality four. It's no other big in this draft im even considering except Beasley..........

[ohara831]

I had not thought of that scenario. Depending upon how our balls drop on the 20th, you may see that our front office works something out on that front. Very interesting thought.