Didn't see this thread, so I thought someone should start it ...
A few impressions from the first game of the season: (1) I liked that version of Smart, where he's pouring his energy into defense, his shooting is minimal, and he's busy distributing the ball. Not sure how happy he is with that role, but I think it's the ideal one. (2) Teague + Thompson looked like a huge upgrade over Wanamaker + Kanter (Kanter was 7 for 7 for Portland last night, but probably a sieve on defense, as usual) (3) Semi! (Or is it Shemmy?) I had given up on him last year, then last night we got a great Euro step and clever pass within two minutes. Real or mirage? He often looked good, though he still stands like a statue on defense after someone blows by him. (4) It will be interesting to see where the offense comes from when Jaylen and Jayson don't have a great game at the same time (5) Only six turnovers last night -- very good sign! (6) Interestingly, a few times they were overpassing, but it was nice to see after they woefully underpassed in both preseason games. (7) Grant seemed kind of meh. I think there'll be some intense competition to be in the rotation, and all the players know it, so he better pick up his game.
A few impressions from the first game of the season: (1) I liked that version of Smart, where he's pouring his energy into defense, his shooting is minimal, and he's busy distributing the ball. Not sure how happy he is with that role, but I think it's the ideal one. (2) Teague + Thompson looked like a huge upgrade over Wanamaker + Kanter (Kanter was 7 for 7 for Portland last night, but probably a sieve on defense, as usual) (3) Semi! (Or is it Shemmy?) I had given up on him last year, then last night we got a great Euro step and clever pass within two minutes. Real or mirage? He often looked good, though he still stands like a statue on defense after someone blows by him. (4) It will be interesting to see where the offense comes from when Jaylen and Jayson don't have a great game at the same time (5) Only six turnovers last night -- very good sign! (6) Interestingly, a few times they were overpassing, but it was nice to see after they woefully underpassed in both preseason games. (7) Grant seemed kind of meh. I think there'll be some intense competition to be in the rotation, and all the players know it, so he better pick up his game.