Jedzz wrote:Let's be honest about Graham's proven stats so far. He barely played much at first but had interesting numbers when he did. However last season when he got more minutes all of his numbers plummeted to a level I'm not comfortable with. When I think about veteran players and being positive about their additions, I'm also attributing Pro level skills to be expected from them and that includes shooting at least in NBA average zones. The examples we had last two seasons were what I'm happy with from Veteran rotation guys. Graham/Wallace aren't at that level that I can see by the numbers. I don't know what more we can expect. Maybe the coaches see more. How is there much hope in how they "fill in"?
Just as you are automatically assuming Culver can be in the rotation, and some claim even start, so too do I believe Nowell is near the same level. They both bring a wide range of skills they can already play with. These are things Wiggins and Okogie for example may still not have down and ready. Having the skills lets them fit in better with anything. So maybe you could elaborate on what it is you think Nowell is missing that someone like Culver isn't missing to deserve a shot in the games now? What in your mind makes Nowell a weakness if he should have an opportunity to just fill in, or even be part of a deep rotation? Is there something specific? Or are you just saying there are bodies in his way? If we actually have much better players, then Culver and Nowell should both go to Iowa for a while as the balance proves they are that good.
If Sounders locks this roster down to 9 guys all season I'm going to be starting the chants for his successor. I don't care who's idea it is. If we end up having to watch 3 players who can't shoot at NBA starting levels for 35-38 minutes per game again all season the team's leadership should be dragged out in the street and stomped on. Layman, Nowell and possibly Culver have a chance to be better than what we've had.
I'm sorry, as much as I like Nowell as a prospect I can't share the same belief you do that he is near the same level as Culver. GMs and draft scouts aren't infallible, but I don't think it can be ignored that Culver was widely considered a Top 5-10 pick while Nowell was a fringe 1st rounder who fell to the middle of the second round. It's not a guarantee for greater NBA success, but I believe it does indicate a gap in talent level and physical ability displayed on the court.
That being said, I've never said that I believe Nowell is a weakness or doesn't deserve a chance to earn minutes. Of course he has a chance, like everyone does. I'm just stating my opinions of how I believe things will shake out. It's less to do with Nowell's ability, and more to do with the ability of players ahead of him.
And Saunders wanting a 9-10 man rotation doesn't mean there will only be 9-10 players who play all season long. Having a tight rotation like that doesn't mean three players will be playing 35-38 minutes/game all season long either.
