A Few Late August Thoughts…
*Stephen Curry is one to watch out for. He had a few impressive second place finishes during his rookie season: the 2010 All-star three-point contest, which showcased his effortless outside shooting touch, as well as Rookie of the Year voting. What’s scary is Curry makes his game look easy. Some highlights of his rookie season include a 36-pt, 10-reb, 13-ast triple-double (joining Jason Kidd, Michael Jordan, Jerry West, Oscar Robertson and Elgin Baylor as the only rookies to put up that stat line), as well as setting the rookie record for 3-point field goals with 166. Curry’s maturity and ability to stay positive and produce make him one of the most promising rising stars in the league. Look for an all-star caliber sophomore season.
*Does USA Basketball really need a face? What about twelve faces? Kevin Durant’s modesty is refreshing and his desire to be one of twelve faces is smart and mature. It is no wonder that the Thunder had a fairy tale turnaround this past season. Chemistry is underrated and Durant seems to be able to bring it-and understand its value-to whatever team he plays for.
*Turmoil in Denver. The Nuggets were once a few Trevor Ariza steals away from the NBA Finals. Now, the art of the inbounds pass seems like the least of their problems. With Carmelo Anthony’s pen still no closer to a 3-year, $65M extension, media outlets are speculating about when and how Melo will leave Denver. The career 46% shooter (31% from three), averaged nearly twenty-five points over his first seven NBA seasons. With Amar’e Stoudemire not too subtly doing some recruiting for the Knicks as well as Anthony’s 2003 draft classmates forming the Big 3 in Miami, the pressure to make a change is mounting.
*Can you answer this: Who signs first: Allen Iverson or Grizzlies’ rookies?
