2020 Preseason Speculation - Lineup battles underway

[Ghost of Kleine]

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Good article. I like the idea of Smith as an 'energy' guy for 10-15 a night while he gets accustomed to the league. We don't need him to put up huge numbers or be an all star, just someone who is a net positive when he's on the floor. Plugging him in for a few minutes a night and saying "play good defense, rebound the hell out of the ball and give 110%" isn't a bad starting place.

I wouldn't worry too much about running offensive sets for him, or making him a feature player. Just have him go be big and smart and do the little things well. Then slowly add more to his plate.

Definitely agree!
My hope is that he can fill a " Sweet Lou" Amundson type of role for us. But with much better low usage offense! Since Lou didn't really shoot much at all. But was still very energizing for our team. And not to be too revisionist, But could Damian Jones kind of fill a Steven Hunter type of role for us too?

[bwgood77]

It was on Matt Moore's twitter (@HPbasketball) but I believe that 43 wins was a translation to regular 82-game season (which is 38 wins in 72-game season I think). So it was lower than 38 wins before and they made it 38 after CP3.

Also, not only the west is brutal, our division is straight up killer. Not sure how many games we are playing the LA teams, who are better than us, and we are on par with GSW.

Luckily this year we will only play with our division rivals 3* times each.

*In case you or other people here don't know: Teams play 3 times each against every team in their conference (14 x 3 = 52) and 2 times each against teams in other conference (15 x 2 = 30) so 72 games total.

Also we won against Clippers even last year so I don't think we will lose all the 6 games against LAL and LAC. I'm not afraid of any team this season which is an awesome feeling.

I think we beat the Clippers twice...once in the first 5 games or so and then the bubble game. Doesn't mean we will beat them again, but probably will be games Chris Paul has a little more motivation against.

[bwgood77]

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Good article. I like the idea of Smith as an 'energy' guy for 10-15 a night while he gets accustomed to the league. We don't need him to put up huge numbers or be an all star, just someone who is a net positive when he's on the floor. Plugging him in for a few minutes a night and saying "play good defense, rebound the hell out of the ball and give 110%" isn't a bad starting place.

I wouldn't worry too much about running offensive sets for him, or making him a feature player. Just have him go be big and smart and do the little things well. Then slowly add more to his plate.

Definitely agree!
My hope is that he can fill a " Sweet Lou" Amundson type of role for us. But with much better low usage offense! Since Lou didn't really shoot much at all. But was still very energizing for our team. And not to be too revisionist, But could Damian Jones kind of fill a Steven Hunter type of role for us too?

Sweet Lou, c'mon...loved the guy, but Smith is a guy that will practice hard to come off screens for 3s, finish lobs, etc. Everyone will be well aware of our offense. I think Smith will surprise some people who think he's really raw. All rookie are of course raw when it comes to the NBA, although to a lesser extent those who have played against very tough competition, like Doncic, but I expect he is as ready as pretty much anyone taken above him...except maybe Avdija and Toppin...who I am curious to see, because I think if he was there we were going to take it.

But Smith isn't as raw as Edwards, Ball, Wiseman, Okoro, Williams and Okongwu. Not sure about Hayes.

[suns12345]

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/260603/Frank-Kaminsky-Agrees-To-One-Year-Deal-With-Suns

Unusual to see a guy have an option declined and then come back with the same team at significantly less money (I presume)

I don't mind retaining him though, he a 7ft'er who can shoot. good depth.

He signed with Kings. The title is wrong.

Sorry if you were just kidding.

Oh haha. No i thought it was the Suns.

Makes sense thought given I said it would be unusual he would re-sign with us.

Glad he got to sign somewhere, seems like a god guy

[AtheJ415]

Good article. I like the idea of Smith as an 'energy' guy for 10-15 a night while he gets accustomed to the league. We don't need him to put up huge numbers or be an all star, just someone who is a net positive when he's on the floor. Plugging him in for a few minutes a night and saying "play good defense, rebound the hell out of the ball and give 110%" isn't a bad starting place.

I wouldn't worry too much about running offensive sets for him, or making him a feature player. Just have him go be big and smart and do the little things well. Then slowly add more to his plate.

Definitely agree!
My hope is that he can fill a " Sweet Lou" Amundson type of role for us. But with much better low usage offense! Since Lou didn't really shoot much at all. But was still very energizing for our team. And not to be too revisionist, But could Damian Jones kind of fill a Steven Hunter type of role for us too?

Sweet Lou, c'mon...loved the guy, but Smith is a guy that will practice hard to come off screens for 3s, finish lobs, etc. Everyone will be well aware of our offense. I think Smith will surprise some people who think he's really raw. All rookie are of course raw when it comes to the NBA, although to a lesser extent those who have played against very tough competition, like Doncic, but I expect he is as ready as pretty much anyone taken above him...except maybe Avdija and Toppin...who I am curious to see, because I think if he was there we were going to take it.

But Smith isn't as raw as Edwards, Ball, Wiseman, Okoro, Williams and Okongwu. Not sure about Hayes.

Yeah Smith is skilled. He's not that raw at all. I think people assume athletic guys who aren't at their ceiling yet are raw, but he's not. His touch and shooting and interior defense for his age are all very advanced. His issues are handle (really bad for his experience level), passing, and perimeter defense. He's not really bad at anything else and Maryland fell apart anytime he was in foul trouble. Whether this draft works out or not will entirely depend on his ability to play the 4, which will depend on the perimeter defense. He won't need to pass or handle offensively to play the 4 on this team because with Paul and Booker we can use him as a floor spacer with Ayton pressuring the rim, and he can occasionally cut to finish around the hoop. In the long-run, his handle and passing must improve.

My hope is that Jones's statement about his improvement from college relate to his ability to slide on defense / hips. Because that is the predominant reason every analyst had him as a 5 in the NBA.

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[Flying Colors]

Oh damn, Thats so soon, can’t wait to watch this team.

[Ghost of Kleine]

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[thamadkant]

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?s=09

Good article. I like the idea of Smith as an 'energy' guy for 10-15 a night while he gets accustomed to the league. We don't need him to put up huge numbers or be an all star, just someone who is a net positive when he's on the floor. Plugging him in for a few minutes a night and saying "play good defense, rebound the hell out of the ball and give 110%" isn't a bad starting place.

I wouldn't worry too much about running offensive sets for him, or making him a feature player. Just have him go be big and smart and do the little things well. Then slowly add more to his plate.

Definitely agree!
My hope is that he can fill a " Sweet Lou" Amundson type of role for us. But with much better low usage offense! Since Lou didn't really shoot much at all. But was still very energizing for our team. And not to be too revisionist, But could Damian Jones kind of fill a Steven Hunter type of role for us too?

Damian Jones was signed in the case one of the bigs miss games due to injuries or some sort of personal leave... he's a bench warmer and will never likely see any minutes. Steven Hunter was the better center, and Hunter was bad... thats how bad Damian Jones is, but he accepts his role as a practice player and contingency player (when others miss games). Nothing more.

Jalen Smith would have been a legit Top 10 ranked player if the tournament was not impacted by COVID-19.... He was having a great run and would have been under the spotlight more in the tournament and his stock would have risen a lot, he is a what many teams look for in a big man today.... RIm Protector, High Motor, Good character, Highly coachable, Good physique and athleticism, can protect the rim, rebound well and shoot the 3pt shot.

Smith is much more than Amundson, he is an ideal big next to Ayton, reminds me of the Otis Thorpe/Robert Horry/Hakeem Olajuwon front courts... and even the Robinson/JR Reid days. Basically, a PF that does not get in the way of the star center, but helps defensively.
I dont expect them to play together a lot this coming season, but as Smith becomes more comfortable as a stretch 4 and improve his perimeter defense and Ayton climb his way up to the top 5 NBA big man rankings, I expect them to become a formidable front court that other team has to adjust to.... bringing back the traditional 6'10+ front court lineups,

[Ghost of Kleine]

Spoiler:

Good article. I like the idea of Smith as an 'energy' guy for 10-15 a night while he gets accustomed to the league. We don't need him to put up huge numbers or be an all star, just someone who is a net positive when he's on the floor. Plugging him in for a few minutes a night and saying "play good defense, rebound the hell out of the ball and give 110%" isn't a bad starting place.

I wouldn't worry too much about running offensive sets for him, or making him a feature player. Just have him go be big and smart and do the little things well. Then slowly add more to his plate.

Definitely agree!
My hope is that he can fill a " Sweet Lou" Amundson type of role for us. But with much better low usage offense! Since Lou didn't really shoot much at all. But was still very energizing for our team. And not to be too revisionist, But could Damian Jones kind of fill a Steven Hunter type of role for us too?

Sweet Lou, c'mon...loved the guy, but Smith is a guy that will practice hard to come off screens for 3s, finish lobs, etc. Everyone will be well aware of our offense. I think Smith will surprise some people who think he's really raw. All rookie are of course raw when it comes to the NBA, although to a lesser extent those who have played against very tough competition, like Doncic, but I expect he is as ready as pretty much anyone taken above him...except maybe Avdija and Toppin...who I am curious to see, because I think if he was there we were going to take it.

But Smith isn't as raw as Edwards, Ball, Wiseman, Okoro, Williams and Okongwu. Not sure about Hayes.

Sweet Lou, c'mon...loved the guy, but Smith is a guy that will practice hard to come off screens for 3s, finish lobs, etc

Lol.........
Well I did say with Better low usage offense So you can of course make any inference from that comparison as you wish man. And of course Smith is slightly bigger, longer (6'9 220- Amundson to 6'10 225 lbs Smith) and with much a better offensive skillset. But the premise for comparison is that initially, his majority value (aside from his floor spacing ability) will be predicated upon his weakside shotblocking/ rim protection and rebounding and constant/ relentless energizing defensive plays. I mean was Lou Amundson not known for his high energy and impactful defense and shotblocking whilst with the suns?

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Can you see the parallels from the video clip?
Both are highly mobile energetic, relentless post players that are good shotblockers ( with good timing) and an apparent nose for the ball, making them really good at 2nd chance attempts and offensive rebounding plays. Again, I realize that Lou pretty much had no legitimate offensive skillset to speak of during his time with us. But I'd attribute that to him having a very specific role, That didn't really require him to make offensive contributions. Obviously back in 2009, 3 point shooting and being a high level floor spacing big wasn't nearly as prevalent or essential as it is in today's game.

But I still feel there are stark similarities in their style of play. At least on the defensive side of the ball. Although I will agree that Jalen has a much higher upside due to his advanced offensive skillset and the current culture of play in today's NBA. Is there a player that early on in their career you like for a comparison role?

[Ghost of Kleine]

Good article. I like the idea of Smith as an 'energy' guy for 10-15 a night while he gets accustomed to the league. We don't need him to put up huge numbers or be an all star, just someone who is a net positive when he's on the floor. Plugging him in for a few minutes a night and saying "play good defense, rebound the hell out of the ball and give 110%" isn't a bad starting place.

I wouldn't worry too much about running offensive sets for him, or making him a feature player. Just have him go be big and smart and do the little things well. Then slowly add more to his plate.

Definitely agree!
My hope is that he can fill a " Sweet Lou" Amundson type of role for us. But with much better low usage offense! Since Lou didn't really shoot much at all. But was still very energizing for our team. And not to be too revisionist, But could Damian Jones kind of fill a Steven Hunter type of role for us too?

Damian Jones was signed in the case one of the bigs miss games due to injuries or some sort of personal leave... he's a bench warmer and will never likely see any minutes. Steven Hunter was the better center, and Hunter was bad... thats how bad Damian Jones is, but he accepts his role as a practice player and contingency player (when others miss games). Nothing more.

Jalen Smith would have been a legit Top 10 ranked player if the tournament was not impacted by COVID-19.... He was having a great run and would have been under the spotlight more in the tournament and his stock would have risen a lot, he is a what many teams look for in a big man today.... RIm Protector, High Motor, Good character, Highly coachable, Good physique and athleticism, can protect the rim, rebound well and shoot the 3pt shot.

Smith is much more than Amundson, he is an ideal big next to Ayton, reminds me of the Otis Thorpe/Robert Horry/Hakeem Olajuwon front courts... and even the Robinson/JR Reid days. Basically, a PF that does not get in the way of the star center, but helps defensively.
I dont expect them to play together a lot this coming season, but as Smith becomes more comfortable as a stretch 4 and improve his perimeter defense and Ayton climb his way up to the top 5 NBA big man rankings, I expect them to become a formidable front court that other team has to adjust to.... bringing back the traditional 6'10+ front court lineups,

Nice comps!
My longterm upside comp for Smith though would be a mix of Serge Ibaka ( offensively/ Larry Sanders defensively)

And yeah, I do get that Smith has a much greater upside outcome than Amundson due to his advanced offensive skillset and overall versatility. I was just making the comparison to Amundson for the impact rim protection and impact defensive plays. Without being a necessary/ primary focal point of our offense. I say this because early on, I see his offensive skillset being viewed as more of a bonus for us. And his primary value ( early on) being his shotblocking/ rim protection and defensive capabilities carrying the majority of his value initially.

And of course I see similarities in their style of play too. As in the relentless motor, high energy, impact plays in the post. Additionally both have a keen ability to be in the right place at the right time for offensive rebounds and tip ins, etc. Making defensive plays that energize the team.

Watch on YouTube

Both are highly mobile, and adept at finishing at/ around the rim with either hand. Both really have a nose for the ball on offensive rebounds and 2nd chance ( tip in plays). Both are good rolling to them rim on cuts and have good strides to the rim. Both will initially make their names early on in the league with their defensive ( shotblocking/ energy) plays.

Watch on YouTube

This is where I see the similarities most. Is in their good weakside shotblocking whilst staying vertical and not fouling. Both have a knack for quick, fluid weakside rotations to block shots with very good timing on defense. Both are again relentless defensively in the post. And will make plays that energize the team. Both will be fan favorites for the suns as well! But I also like your comparisons as stated too.

[bwgood77]

This is a good deal.

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[BobbieL]

This is a good deal.

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Excellent deal! I pay like 45 per year

Have they replaced Mizell yet? Or the guy that come errs U of A sports - Holmes ?

Mizell working for the Suns - I bought her Valley Tales

[bwgood77]

This is a good deal.

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Excellent deal! I pay like 45 per year

Have they replaced Mizell yet? Or the guy that come errs U of A sports - Holmes ?

Mizell working for the Suns - I bought her Valley Tales

I just subscribed a couple weeks ago for $30 for a year. No real replacement for Gina. There was a guy assigned to the Suns..he wrote something not too long ago, but the same person as last year...can't remember his name...maybe Doug Haller?

[KLEON]

JJ please use the last roster spot to sign Skal Labissière. Am I the only one who sees how underrated this man is? How the hell did they sign Damian Jones over him? This is unbelievable

[thamadkant]

Definitely agree!
My hope is that he can fill a " Sweet Lou" Amundson type of role for us. But with much better low usage offense! Since Lou didn't really shoot much at all. But was still very energizing for our team. And not to be too revisionist, But could Damian Jones kind of fill a Steven Hunter type of role for us too?

Damian Jones was signed in the case one of the bigs miss games due to injuries or some sort of personal leave... he's a bench warmer and will never likely see any minutes. Steven Hunter was the better center, and Hunter was bad... thats how bad Damian Jones is, but he accepts his role as a practice player and contingency player (when others miss games). Nothing more.

Jalen Smith would have been a legit Top 10 ranked player if the tournament was not impacted by COVID-19.... He was having a great run and would have been under the spotlight more in the tournament and his stock would have risen a lot, he is a what many teams look for in a big man today.... RIm Protector, High Motor, Good character, Highly coachable, Good physique and athleticism, can protect the rim, rebound well and shoot the 3pt shot.

Smith is much more than Amundson, he is an ideal big next to Ayton, reminds me of the Otis Thorpe/Robert Horry/Hakeem Olajuwon front courts... and even the Robinson/JR Reid days. Basically, a PF that does not get in the way of the star center, but helps defensively.
I dont expect them to play together a lot this coming season, but as Smith becomes more comfortable as a stretch 4 and improve his perimeter defense and Ayton climb his way up to the top 5 NBA big man rankings, I expect them to become a formidable front court that other team has to adjust to.... bringing back the traditional 6'10+ front court lineups,

Nice comps!
My longterm upside comp for Smith though would be a mix of Serge Ibaka ( offensively/ Larry Sanders defensively)

And yeah, I do get that Smith has a much greater upside outcome than Amundson due to his advanced offensive skillset and overall versatility. I was just making the comparison to Amundson for the impact rim protection and impact defensive plays. Without being a necessary/ primary focal point of our offense. I say this because early on, I see his offensive skillset being viewed as more of a bonus for us. And his primary value ( early on) being his shotblocking/ rim protection and defensive capabilities carrying the majority of his value initially.

And of course I see similarities in their style of play too. As in the relentless motor, high energy, impact plays in the post. Additionally both have a keen ability to be in the right place at the right time for offensive rebounds and tip ins, etc. Making defensive plays that energize the team.

Watch on YouTube

Both are highly mobile, and adept at finishing at/ around the rim with either hand. Both really have a nose for the ball on offensive rebounds and 2nd chance ( tip in plays). Both are good rolling to them rim on cuts and have good strides to the rim. Both will initially make their names early on in the league with their defensive ( shotblocking/ energy) plays.

Watch on YouTube

This is where I see the similarities most. Is in their good weakside shotblocking whilst staying vertical and not fouling. Both have a knack for quick, fluid weakside rotations to block shots with very good timing on defense. Both are again relentless defensively in the post. And will make plays that energize the team. Both will be fan favorites for the suns as well! But I also like your comparisons as stated too.

I wanted the Suns to draft Jalen Smith because he did remind me of Ibaka Horford hybrid... and exactly what Suns need next to Ayton or as a backup, since I knew Baynes was leaving and Kaminsky is bottom 5 athletic player in the NBA.

[NTB]

OT: Is there way to block certain threads in the forum? Block, remove (only for myself) or make the new messages disappear whichever is doable.

[NTB]

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[darmani]

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[jcsunsfan]

JJ please use the last roster spot to sign Skal Labissière. Am I the only one who sees how underrated this man is? How the hell did they sign Damian Jones over him? This is unbelievable

Skal is still available? I would definitely sign him over Jones. It’s a surprise—probably to all—that he is still unsigned.