Its official. Welcome to the NBA Mr Blatche

[hands11]

And that was the one more good game in a row from Blatche I was looking for.


Its official..... Welcome to the NBA young man. This is going to be fun watching him grow game by game.

Caron even gave him plenty of air time in his post game interview.

Said he was " one of the best young players Ive played with. I played with Dwayne...and he is one of the best.." Now that saying something. Like I said fellas, why trade for KG when I think we have our own already. This may be just as fun as watching Gil develop...

Caron and AJ log tons of minutes so, once Etan is back to share minutes with Haywood, Blatche will start to take some minutes from AJ mostly. You will witness the passing of the sword...this process will end with AJ coming off the bench and us winning some titles...

Who was the one I was arguing with because they called our team mediocre...

[jbooma]

And that was the one more good game in a row from Blatche I was looking for.


Its official..... Welcome to the NBA young man. This is going to be fun watching him grow game by game.

Caron even gave him plenty of air time in his post game interview.

Said he was " one of the best young players Ive played with. I played with Dwayne...and he is one of the best.." Now that saying something. Like I said fellas, why trade for KG when I think we have our own already. This may be just as fun as watching Gil develop...
...

he has potential but untill we see some double doubles will i get all excited :)

[hands11]

he has potential but untill we see some double doubles will i get all excited :)


Come on. I not talking double double just yet, but adding a player like him to the rotation helps this team a lot. Also, him getting regular PT is helping him develop a lot. The kid has mad raw skills so he has big shoes to fill out.

Now consider this. Gil got to develop in more of a vacuum. This team was mostly rudderless. Blatche will get to grow with Gil, Caron, and AJ guiding him and he gets to grow in a winning environment that doesnt completely relying on his skills to win. I would expect his development to happen a lot faster because of these factors. I wouldn't be surprised at all if we see him improve quickly over the next month. Ill even go this far. I wouldn't be surprised if he did log a 10+ pts 10+ rbs 3+ blocks with in the next 30 days.

[Awesome2]

I came in here thinking of a thread I could make about Andray, I'm glad you did it for me.

It seems like every time they put him in he does something awesome.

The coaching staff needs to seriously give him more playing time, he definitely looks like the real deal to me, and I could not be more excited about his potential.

[Warhead36]

He's got sick athleticism. Those blocks were amazing. I think he may have found himself an Amare-like role. We all thought he'd become a Point Forward but it seems being the athletic PF/C is a better fit. He's definitely earned his minutes.

[MonkFan8]

As EJ said, he's certainly earning more minutes for himself. The play where he grabbed the offensive rebound and slammed it in was amazing. I really think he could be a special player.

[skinfan2k]

what is his role when songalia comes back? he is back to being inactive or is booth taking over that role

[Matt Kyriacou]

He is already better than Kwame ever was.

[r2k64]

He is already better than Kwame ever was.
Lol, well said. I just think he needs to bulk up more, so eventually he'll be able to post up, and defend those big players who like to post up.

[hands11]

what is his role when songalia comes back? he is back to being inactive or is booth taking over that role

I wouldn't count on much from Sag this year. If he isn't ready until after Feb 16,then the team will be headed into a playoff run and will already has gelled.

He will take time to mix in. That hard enough for a returning player let alone a new player.

Oddly enough, we may soon find ourselves with more talent that we have time to play them. Come next year, we have another internation player we can bring in :D Its a quality problem.

[Mr. Grundle]

Big paws on a puppy.

[CMonster]

I was also going to come here and start a thread on Blatche.

The sky is the limit for this guy, no doubt. He will be an all-star. In addition to being 6-11 with a handle and range, he has things you can't teach. He has a high basketball IQ. Within 2 years, he and Arenas and Butler will be a ridiculous trio.

Thank you Ernie Grunfeld!!!!!!

[LiveStrongSkins]

Can anyone post the dunk he had? That must have been the one two minute stretch I missed the whole game...:doh:

[hands11]

Can anyone post the dunk he had? That must have been the one two minute stretch I missed the whole game...:doh:

The game airs again at 1:30. you may want to record it.

[stwasm]

He definitely has potential. He may be one of those "diamonds in the rough" found by Msrrs. Grunfeld and Jordan. Again, it's amazing what happens when you have a REAL GM who knows how to evaluate talent.

[stwasm]

Within 2 years, he and Arenas and Butler will be a ridiculous trio.

Why couldn't we have a "Fantastic Four?" You're forgetting about Antawn Jamison!

[tundey]

Well Jamison is 30 now, in 2 years EG will probably have to unload him and his contract. At best he'll have a reduced role. But just imagine if AJ steps down and Blatche steps in without any disruption. Maybe we don't win the whole enchilada but we'll be a dangerous team for at least the next 5-6 years.

[Spaceman Spiff]

AJ's jumper is pretty wet, I think he'll be solid for the next couple of years. He doesn't show any sign of slowing down as of yet.

Blatche is gonna be awesome. I'm really glad to see he's not getting garbage minutes anymore but quality playing time.

[arenasisgod]

He has been showing something different every night Eddie puts him out there. Last night it was the shot blocking and in-traffic rebounds. He hit a jumpshot on the baseline too and set up another with a nice inside move. I like putting him at the four where he can either step out or make a move inside. He is still a little lost on defense (How many back door dunks was Gadzuric going to have?) but thats cuz hes still a teenager

[The End]

He is already better than Kwame ever was.

research that bro, Kwame dropped 30 a couple times if i recall. His best game was in '04 in Sacramento when he dropped 30 points and grabbed 19 boards. Don't get me wrong, i hate the guy and im very glad he is gone...but i don't think Blatche has had 5 points in a game yet so its way too early to say he's better than Kwame was.

[LiveStrongSkins]

The fact that Blatche can catch the ball already makes him better than Kwame. Also, Kwame is a terrible shot blocker with horrendous timing. Blatche has already shown a nose for the ball.

[DonMagicJuan]

research that bro, Kwame dropped 30 a couple times if i recall. His best game was in '04 in Sacramento when he dropped 30 points and grabbed 19 boards. Don't get me wrong, i hate the guy and im very glad he is gone...but i don't think Blatche has had 5 points in a game yet so its way too early to say he's better than Kwame was.


ok we can say that he has POTENTIALLY better then kwame ever was....kwame couldnt palm the ball, and ANDRAY and play POINT-FOWARD for us...and he can play almost all 5 positions which is scary in this leauge!

[redskinedwizard]

tell him keep his ass out the Platinum nightclub maybe he could get some PT

[hands11]

Why couldn't we have a "Fantastic Four?" You're forgetting about Antawn Jamison!

We will probably see Blatche play center in some situations. Actually, Im sure of it. But I see him as a PF.

I would expect to see.

Haywood, Blatche, Caron

Blatche, Etan, Caron

Blatche, Etan, AJ, Caron, Gil

and once he have the advantage the extra depth, I think we may finally see some Haywood, Etan combinations. We are going to be a much better D team once he is playing. One extra big adds a lot of depth.

There are lots of options. But if you are looking for a defensive stop, AJ will not be on the floor.

I also think he may become bench player who scores like Gordon. I like AJ a ton but he just can play man D at all. He got blown by again last night on the last possession. They just missed the 3. That the same thing that happen in the playoffs last year against Cleveland.

If we are going to win more playoff game, AJ cant be on the floor during a defensive crunch.

[hands11]

Well Jamison is 30 now, in 2 years EG will probably have to unload him and his contract. At best he'll have a reduced role. But just imagine if AJ steps down and Blatche steps in without any disruption. Maybe we don't win the whole enchilada but we'll be a dangerous team for at least the next 5-6 years.

AJs contract is up soon. next year is his option year. He isnt going anywhere. He loves it here. He will resign for less and retire a Wizard. Count on it.

[The End]

AJ can shoot but Blatche got shot.

[Diablo23]

AJ can shoot but Blatche got shot.

:laugh:

Why did that make me laugh so hard? :doh: :laugh: :silly:

[nuposse87]

blatche could end up like a poor man's lewis or odom for us soon if he makes decent progress. Hell if he ended up like Diaw i would be more then happy.

[the burgundy and gold]

he's too big to be Diaw. he's like Amare. ok maybe not but i can dream.

[MonkFan8]

I dunno, right now I see him as a less polished KG. Good ball handling skils, decent range and extremely athletic. Only time will tell, though.

[B.Lloyd]

Imagine how good this team is gonna be if Juan Carlos Navarro comes here to play. Add Pecherov and Veremeenko to the equation, and I think we will have a damn good team in a few years. Blatche is the icing on the cake.

[hands11]

I dunno, right now I see him as a less polished KG. Good ball handling skils, decent range and extremely athletic. Only time will tell, though.

I cant watch the kid chew gum and not think of KG.

KG 6-11 220lbs
Blatche 6-11 248lbs

If I recall correctly, KG was a little raw when he started but he got tons of shot attempts. But he came to a team that was bad enough that he started 1/2 the games his first year. Blatch got shot his first year. Kind of rough start for the kid. KGs first year numbers were 10 pts 6 rebounds.

Blatche is on a more mature established team. Thats good and bad. With the minutes he can get, I dont see him posting more then about 6 and 6 for the season.

[Spaceman Spiff]

The kid just makes big plays, and thats the best thing so far. He's made clutch blocks and grabbed key boards. The points will come.

He's rediculously athletic and quick. I wonder if anyone outside of DC is noticing him.

[hands11]

If figured out one thing that makes me keep thinking KG.

Its the way he takes off on a break. He looks just like KG, the way his arms pump to get up to speed, looks very much the same.

[CMonster]

He's not ready to play, but he has a ridiculously high basketball IQ.

That you cannot teach, you cannot develop. To be great, you just have to have it. That he is 6'11'' with range is iciing on the cake.

[CMonster]

AJs contract is up soon. next year is his option year. He isnt going anywhere. He loves it here. He will resign for less and retire a Wizard. Count on it. I agree.

He's already gotten a max contract and has made money. He's also been in 2 situations where he wasn't happy (GS and Dallas).

He'll take less money to play with what looks like a team that will be a contender for many years to come. Arenas, Butler, Haywood, Thomas, and Blatche are all still getting better.

[hands11]

I agree.

He's already gotten a max contract and has made money. He's also been in 2 situations where he wasn't happy (GS and Dallas).

He'll take less money to play with what looks like a team that will be a contender for many years to come. Arenas, Butler, Haywood, Thomas, and Blatche are all still getting better.


You got it man.. We have enough info on our GM and those players to project that as the most likely outcome.

[Mr. Grundle]

I think Blatche is going to make Ruffin irrelevant. I wonder if we can package him with Hayes and get us a bench scorer like Mo Pete, or maybe even bring back Dixon. Add a bench scorer and we would be so strong.

[hands11]

I think Blatche is going to make Ruffin irrelevant. I wonder if we can package him with Hayes and get us a bench scorer like Mo Pete, or maybe even bring back Dixon. Add a bench scorer and we would be so strong.

I didnt expect Ruffin to make the team this year but Sagaila is hurt and Ramos was a bust.

Im disappointed in the mins Blatche got tonight. The game turned around when he came in and AJ sat. He played well and then didnt get any more PT until garbage time. Disappointing. He was building momentum and this is a small step back.

[hands11]

Sorry Mr Blatche, welcome to the bench.

4-5 prime time minutes in 2 games isn't showing much faith in what you have to offer this team. Sorry dude. Keep your head up and go ask the coach what you can do to earn more minutes, then do what he says. We need you on the court and he isn't smart enough to do it on his own so do exactly what he says. Nothing more.

[arenasisgod]

yesterday, Eddie needed shooters. We saw Andray pull up for a three that came woefully short. He starts hitting that shot...whoa

[hands11]

yesterday, Eddie needed shooters. We saw Andray pull up for a three that came woefully short. He starts hitting that shot...whoa


I dissagree that he needed shooters. What he needed was a spark.

Usually this team has enough going on offensively to generate a spark offensively but that wasnt happening. We were not driving enough or making enough shots or FTs.

So when we arent scoring, having AJ on thre floor is magnified.
Starks are often generated by defense and that gets the offense rolling. Oh yeah, we got that with 4 minutes to go, way to late.

[twenty-eight]

He's been showing flashes for a while now. Give him consistent minutes Eddie!! Even if it's ten minutes a game, just put him in!!!!

[hands11]

Well, the kid put himself back on the map with his performace in the Chicago game. It was only 6 minutes but he had an impact. Thats what Im looking for right now. Impact.

Now I want him to find a reliable way to score. He doesnt fit in the offense right now. Is it going to be a 10fter , or a drive? Put backs are nice but we need him intigrated in the offense so he can be on the floor longer.

[twenty-eight]

He brings a lot of energy and makes hustle plays, we dont really need his scoring at this point. He'll get more comfortable on offense the more he plays...

Or just keep him on the bench til the playoffs and he'll be our secret weapon:)

[arenasisgod]

Eddie praised 'dray during the post game presser last night.

[LiveStrongSkins]

He's doing a hell of a job if you ask me. Last night he took one step inside from the perimeter to use his long ass arms to bother a shooter who was only about 8 feet from the basket. You cant teach that type of stuff. This is a guy who when he puts on some more weight is going to be throwing it down like Dwight Howard. The way he dunked that ball last night with no h esitation was nice to watch. I wanna see him get out on the fast break and get a few alley oops from Arenas.

[MoochieDC_86]

Blatche is definately gonna be worthy of watching these next few years...

[twenty-eight]

His contract is up at the end of they year...we gotta resign him

[LiveStrongSkins]

His contract is up at the end of they year...we gotta resign him

I'm pretty sure Grunfeld knows his potential. He was Grunfeld's pick. I'm sure hell sign him. Is he restricted or unrestricted?

[XxSpearheadxX]

I'm pretty sure Grunfeld knows his potential. He was Grunfeld's pick. I'm sure hell sign him. Is he restricted or unrestricted?

He's 2nd round so he is (somewhat) unrestricted - but there is that "Gilbert Arenas" rule that went into effect after EG fleeced the Warriors for Gil. Now I believe that 2nd rounders have the same situation as first rounders, being that other teams can't offer more than 15% less than what the home team is offering a drafted player. There are qualifying #s in the contract though.

Maybe someone other than me knows this? I know we have more recourses than Golden State did with Gil, thats all I know.

Plus EG is like a father figure to Andray, and Dray's mom loves EG too - so we have that going for us! :D Plus he has to know the fans love him, he gets the whole crowd going whenever he steps on the floor!

[hands11]

He brings a lot of energy and makes hustle plays, we dont really need his scoring at this point. He'll get more comfortable on offense the more he plays...

Or just keep him on the bench til the playoffs and he'll be our secret weapon:)

We need him intigrated in the offense so he can be on the floor longer.
Im not talking Gil or Caron integrated but something closer to Haywood, Etan integrated.

To be a great team, everyone has to be a scoring threat in some way.

[twenty-eight]

We need him intigrated in the offense so he can be on the floor longer.
Im not talking Gil or Caron integrated but something closer to Haywood, Etan integrated.

To be a great team, everyone has to be a scoring threat in some why.

I understand your point....the point i'm trying to make is that wont happen with out consistent minutes....it's the only way to get experience...and feel comfortable


Haywood and Etan avg what 5 shots a game?


I think we both understand what the other is trying to say....I think youre thinking more of the long term and him getting real minutes and becoming a real contributor. At this point I just want him to get ten minutes a game and have him feel his way through it.....

[hands11]

His contract is up at the end of they year...we gotta resign him

really.... :laugh: I hope EG reads this thread so now he knows...

[twenty-eight]

really.... :laugh: I hope EG reads this thread so now he knows...

:laugh:I'll link EG to this in an e-mail...****...i mean, its OFFICAL!


I think we're both on the same page.....

The night you started this thread...I was minutes way from starting the same exact thread with the exact title and all:cheers:

[hands11]

I understand your point....the point i'm trying to make is that wont happen with out consistent minutes....it's the only way to get experience...and feel comfortable


Haywood and Etan avg what 5 shots a game?


I think we both understand what the other is trying to say....I think you're thinking more of the long term and him getting real minutes and becoming a real contributor. At this point I just want him to get ten minutes a game and have him feel his way through it.....

actually, I looking for him to pick and practice a shot/move and make it, so he can get more comfortable in the pro game, and get more minutes. He could even just get on a role one game. He has been taking some open shots, they just haven't fallen. I think he just needs a little luck to go his way. I think he can make the shots he has been taking.

I'm saying, I cant wait till they do start falling because I want him on the floor longer. Just like AD stayed on the floor longer and Hayes got his minutes also.

I want him D first, but I can wait till we see some points also.

[hands11]

:laugh:I'll link EG to this in an e-mail...****...i mean, its OFFICAL!


I think we're both on the same page.....

The night you started this thread...I was minutes way from starting the same exact thread with the exact title and all:cheers:


Should be interesting to see what EG comes up with for a contract.

How much and how long. Seems like EG usually signs people earlier rather then later. I wouldnt be surprised if we hear something as early as tomorrow.
But more likely, I think before season ends. Maybe around the all-star break before the playoff run.

[twenty-eight]

in 14 minutes tonight...

10 points
8 rebounds
2 steals
3 blocks

[method man]

Should be interesting to see what EG comes up with for a contract.

How much and how long. Seems like EG usually signs people earlier rather then later. I wouldnt be surprised if we hear something as early as tomorrow.
But more likely, I think before season ends. Maybe around the all-star break before the playoff run.

The time to offer extensions has already passed. I think we are going to re-sign Blatche to a 1-year deal for a small salary because this gets him the best possible payday too because he will get more minutes next year.

[LightAgent]

I fell asleep during the game...mad I missed his performance. The part I did see the team looked out of sinc

[hands11]

The time to offer extensions has already passed. I think we are going to re-sign Blatche to a 1-year deal for a small salary because this gets him the best possible payday too because he will get more minutes next year.

Are you saying opinion or fact. I didn't know there was a contract extension deadline. Honest question. Your statement confused me so now Im not sure if there is something I don't know about contract extension.

If it is option, I can see it happening that way. I hope no not.
I'm he is young. I looking for 2-5 yr contract. 2-3 mil a year. If he ends up being as good as I think, he will be 22-25 with 4-15M in his pocket and ready for a 8-15M a year contact.

Im going to go watch the game that I taped just to see the Kid in action.

[hands11]

in 14 minutes tonight...

10 points
8 rebounds
2 steals
3 blocks

This team will be built around Gil, Caron and Blatche.

[twenty-eight]

This team will be built around Gil, Caron and Blatche.

Yup. I agree. I've said this 100 times now and I'm going to say it again(SORRY!) It will be a great day when Jamisons contract ends and we can sign him to solid deal. To be our 5th or 6th man and only make 6-8 million.

did O' Koren give Blatche most of his mins last night?

[hands11]

Finally, we will get to see Mr Blache.

You may be watching a changing of the guard. If he can take full advantage of this opprotunity he can force AJ to the bench.

Im pulling for the kid.

[LiveStrongSkins]

Hopefully he can get back in the good graces of Jordan. He seems to have been buried again. If the door remains closed than there is more than meets the eye.

[CMonster]

Finally, we will get to see Mr Blache.

You may be watching a changing of the guard. If he can take full advantage of this opprotunity he can force AJ to the bench.

Im pulling for the kid. While I will not be shocked if Blatche comes out and given opportunity and confidence makes himself a permanent addition to the heavy rotation.....if he bumps Jamison to the bench then we will win at least the Eastern Conference for sure.

Despite Jamison being a defensive liability, what he has adds in leadership and chemistry appear to be more valuable than his 19 and 8.

Blatche will be the piece that puts us over the top. Will that happen now or will it take another year or two? I'm looking forward to finding out.

[mboyd784]

While I will not be shocked if Blatche comes out and given opportunity and confidence makes himself a permanent addition to the heavy rotation.....if he bumps Jamison to the bench then we will win at least the Eastern Conference for sure.

Despite Jamison being a defensive liability, what he has adds in leadership and chemistry appear to be more valuable than his 19 and 8.

Blatche will be the piece that puts us over the top. Will that happen now or will it take another year or two? I'm looking forward to finding out.

Let the truth be known!

[Jesus, Mary & Joe Gibbs]

Blatche doesn't play.

[hands11]

While I will not be shocked if Blatche comes out and given opportunity and confidence makes himself a permanent addition to the heavy rotation.....if he bumps Jamison to the bench then we will win at least the Eastern Conference for sure.

Despite Jamison being a defensive liability, what he has adds in leadership and chemistry appear to be more valuable than his 19 and 8.

Blatche will be the piece that puts us over the top. Will that happen now or will it take another year or two? I'm looking forward to finding out.


Let me add, we will still have AJs leadership regardless of if he is a starter or coming off the bench. No one talking coming off the bench for 4 mins. Hes going to get his burn. I just dont think most nights it should be 40 min.

For one he D. For 2, that knee is starting to be a problem. Personally, I think it has to do with his slow feet. If he was more on his toes, he wouldnt be hit like that.

As for the piece to put us over the top. Some of us have been saying that for a while.

[XxSpearheadxX]

**Clutching my picture of AJ**

Don't listen to them tawn, its all gonna be okay...

[hands11]

Ok, I see were there are some posters questioning how good this kid will be based on his PT so far. Let me address that again.

I'm been thinking about this more. I actually posted something like this in preseason and got jumped. I don't think EJ likes playing the younger guys much. He would rather go with vets. As for a Skins vs Wiz comparison, EJ is actually similar to Gibbs in that way. He has his leaders and he rides them.

What about Hayes when he was a rookie. Well, back then the team wasn't established and didn't have a lot of leaders. This is a different team.

Because of the gun shot last year, this is basically Blatches rookie year.
Additionally, our post game hasn't been very established over the years. Plus he isnt just a young player, he is young out of HS. Etan was hurt several years and Haywood was on and off. So Brendan and Etan have gotten most the burn there to solidify the post. AJ is one of EJs boys so he gets 40mins a night.

Then in a pinch who does EJ turn to, players like Booth or Ruffin, if he was here. I wont be surprised to see EJ go with Booth and Etan or Booth and Haywood like he did last night.

I believe EJ has been focused on this team solidifying with the vets it has and becoming a top team in the conference. This is were I have parted with him somewhat in his goal. I thought it was more important to grow a champion and I believe that involves having a solid D ( as does MAD ) and that means AJ shouldn't be a starter. That means you needed to get Blatche more burn so he could grow, he has the talent. That mean protecting AJ with less mins since he Gil and Carson log league leading mins. Gil and Caron are more able to handle that, AJ is a little older and I dont trust his legs to stand up to it.

Now hopefully Blatche gets a few games with 10 mins + to grow. I was hoping this could have happened while AJ was still able to play so we would have his scoring and his 3, but now we have to do it without, which makes it harder. That's were I disagree with EJs decision to not getting him more mins during the season.

[arenasisgod]

Looking forward to his contributions tonight in Toronto.

[twenty-eight]

He had a great game tonight against the Sonics. Great job, dray:applause::applause:

[mboyd784]

He had a great game tonight against the Sonics. Great job, dray:applause::applause:

+1. Once he gets the game mentally, he could be devastating!

[DoGood28]

+1. Once he gets the game mentally, he could be devastating!

That reverse layup was sick.

[CMonster]

Tonight was VERY VERY exciting in the development of Blatche. Hopefully, Blatche will start instead of arvis Hayes. I'm running out of patience with Hayes.

[Diablo23]

Very nice stat line.. Hopefully he continues to develop with the playing time he should be getting now.

[DoGood28]

I'm running out of patience with Hayes.

Yeah, me too. I WANT to like him but he is killing us out there.

[mboyd784]

That reverse layup was sick.

Love the energy on the boards, too. And NO fouls in the 2nd half. Good stuff!

[method man]

Are you saying opinion or fact. I didn't know there was a contract extension deadline. Honest question. Your statement confused me so now Im not sure if there is something I don't know about contract extension.

If it is option, I can see it happening that way. I hope no not.
I'm he is young. I looking for 2-5 yr contract. 2-3 mil a year. If he ends up being as good as I think, he will be 22-25 with 4-15M in his pocket and ready for a 8-15M a year contact.

Im going to go watch the game that I taped just to see the Kid in action.

This is my opinion. The deadline for contract extensions for guys on their rookie contracts was in the preseason. If I am Blatche, I would rather sign a 1-year minimum deal with an option for the 2nd because once I get playing time next season, my value skyrockets and I go from getting a Scalabrine contract 4-year 16 mil contract to some team spending, at least, the mid level exception on me (5 years 30 mil).

[method man]

Oh yeah. I hate to be a killjoy but don't crown Blatche yet. You gotta remember that outside of Wilcox, the rest of the Sonics' frontcourt is the worst in the NBA. If Blatche can get 25 mpg and put up 12 and 7 until the ASB then I will be a believer.

[clathel]

DAH-DAAAANG!!!!!!!!.....Blatche did great in only 17 minutes....if he played 40 like that I would praise the basketball gods forever....I'd kneel down and thank them for sending us an incredible talent and giving us the next 5 championships....If he becomes Brenda and takes days off then I will figure it is the basketball gods laughing at us and curse them forever.

[Warhead36]

His play will continue to be up and down as is the case for most young guys. Remember Gil's first year with us? Lots of huge plays but lots of turnovers as well. It happens. But as long as his good outweights the bad and he give us some consistent solid production we should be good. :)

[CMonster]

Oh yeah. I hate to be a killjoy but don't crown Blatche yet. You gotta remember that outside of Wilcox, the rest of the Sonics' frontcourt is the worst in the NBA. If Blatche can get 25 mpg and put up 12 and 7 until the ASB then I will be a believer. Do you realize what you are saying?

Kevin Garnett averaged 17 and 8 as the number one option in his second season. Dwight Howard averaged 15 and 9 in his second season. Jermaine Oneal averaged 4 and 3 in his second season.

[arenasisgod]

I'm very pleasantly surprised at the dirty work he seems willing to do underneath. I don't think anyone expected this ball handling, three-point shooting big to be mixing it up underneath, getting offensive boards and put backs. No way would I see him developing an almost Ruffin-esque game. The fouls are expected, and there are going to be nights like the Toronto game where gets 5 whistles and sits because of them. But even if he's wispy, he still swats shots, which CANNOT BE TAUGHT! He's Haywood with offensive moves, maybe

[jps36]

His contract is up at the end of they year...we gotta resign him

We actually have a team option for Blatche's third year. So if we want him mad enough, he will be staying in DC.

[phishisthegreatstuff]

I'm pretty sure Ernie will want to resign him...but for some reason if he slips away that would be terrible.

[CMonster]

Blatche will be resigned to a long term deal asap.

He played so much better than his numbers against the Sonics. Blatche will make us "The Big Four". Judging by this last game, it will be very soon.

[method man]

Do you realize what you are saying?

Kevin Garnett averaged 17 and 8 as the number one option in his second season. Dwight Howard averaged 15 and 9 in his second season. Jermaine Oneal averaged 4 and 3 in his second season.

Why does everyone bring up JO? I remember people here calling Kwame the next JO.

Daid Lee puts up 11 and 11 in his second season AS A BACKUP. Assuming Blatche gets tested with the starting spot and assuming he gets 25 mpg, is it really unfair to expect Blatche to get 7 boards a game on a team where your best rebounder is your SF? Blatche should easily get 7 a game with 25 mpg with those long arms if he has any basketball skill. 12 points is not unreasonable either. Right now, we are a team looking for its 3rd option. AD is not consistent enough and DS is too passive. Haywood has only shown flashes of offensive talent. Blatche should get 12 points (with at least 6 points coming off dunks and putbakcs and the other 6 coming off jumpers and FTs).

[thelarkascend1ng]

pretty excited to see if blatche keeps this up from here on out.

[CMonster]

Why does everyone bring up JO? I remember people here calling Kwame the next JO.

Daid Lee puts up 11 and 11 in his second season AS A BACKUP. Assuming Blatche gets tested with the starting spot and assuming he gets 25 mpg, is it really unfair to expect Blatche to get 7 boards a game on a team where your best rebounder is your SF? Blatche should easily get 7 a game with 25 mpg with those long arms if he has any basketball skill. 12 points is not unreasonable either. Right now, we are a team looking for its 3rd option. AD is not consistent enough and DS is too passive. Haywood has only shown flashes of offensive talent. Blatche should get 12 points (with at least 6 points coming off dunks and putbakcs and the other 6 coming off jumpers and FTs). David Lee played 4 years of college basketball....so yes there's an enormous difference and Kwame Brown is in his SIXTH year and averages 7 and 6.

Feel free to keep going on record doubting Blatche. He's going to be the real deal.

[Big C]

i didnt get to watch the game cuz i have a huge test tomorrow but it seems he had a really good game. i hope he can keep it up!

[method man]

David Lee played 4 years of college basketball....so yes there's an enormous difference and Kwame Brown is in his SIXTH year and averages 7 and 6.

Feel free to keep going on record doubting Blatche. He's going to be the real deal.

Look I seriously hope Blatche can become good enough to take over for Jamison but I am just saying not to reacto so quickly to one game. Remember Kwame putting up sweet numbers the first few games of his second season? That was because teams did not adjust to him for a few games. Blatche is in the same situation. With teams having so little data on him, he will still be under-the-radar for at least one more week. While he is under the radar, he should easily put up 12 and 7. If he can do that, then crown him.

[CMonster]

Look I seriously hope Blatche can become good enough to take over for Jamison but I am just saying not to reacto so quickly to one game. Remember Kwame putting up sweet numbers the first few games of his second season? That was because teams did not adjust to him for a few games. Blatche is in the same situation. With teams having so little data on him, he will still be under-the-radar for at least one more week. While he is under the radar, he should easily put up 12 and 7. If he can do that, then crown him. Not true. Kwame had a few good games, but never showed any basketball IQ or instincts or coordination.

Blatche flashes things you can't teach. He will at least be a solid starter and might be an all-star.

Grunfeld might have TWO 2nd round all stars.

[Big C]

Look I seriously hope Blatche can become good enough to take over for Jamison but I am just saying not to reacto so quickly to one game. Remember Kwame putting up sweet numbers the first few games of his second season? That was because teams did not adjust to him for a few games. Blatche is in the same situation. With teams having so little data on him, he will still be under-the-radar for at least one more week. While he is under the radar, he should easily put up 12 and 7. If he can do that, then crown him.

i agree with you. the kid had a career high 14 tonight, while i am very pleased that he played well im not going to believe instantly that he is the real deal. hes had some very poor games this year also so lets see some more of this on a consistant basis before we get carried away

[Mr. Grundle]

Just watched the replay of the game and wow, Blatche looked like a different player...like a switch was flipped or something. Before, he looked unsure of himself and a bit lost. Tonight he was aggressive, he was confident, he looked like he felt he belonged. If that is a sign of things to come then we could have a very bright future.

[Jesus, Mary & Joe Gibbs]

Blatche showed some promise last night but still has a LONG way to go until you go crowning him the next KG and what not...

He's still looked tremendously poor on defense and missed two close range layups...

He's gonna be a really long term project and I hope we see all of this rawness rub off eventually...

[RonArtest15]

I missed the game last night, but I just checked the Box Score. Now, I know that sometimes the box doesn't paint the best picture, but how long can Eddie Jordan go with Jarvis Hayes in the starting line-up? For all of Blatche's deficiencies, would it be too much to have him get a starting nod one of these days w. AJ being out? I am really not sold on Jarvis being more than a 7th or 8th man coming off of the bench. We need more production out of that position with Jamison being injured. There is too much weight being placed on the shoulders of Gil and Caron. I'm sorry, but I just thinkg that he is crippling the team by being ineffective....anyone else feel this way?

[Diesel70ChipOnWhite]

Blatche showed some promise last night but still has a LONG way to go until you go crowning him the next KG and what not...

He's still looked tremendously poor on defense and missed two close range layups...

He's gonna be a really long term project and I hope we see all of this rawness rub off eventually...

Im not quite sure what game you were watching but to say that Andray looked tremendously poor on defense would be the same as saying that Gilbert had a great shooting night. Andray was all over the court last night, keeping balls alive, swatting shots and grabbing rebounds. While I agree with you, that to say he is the next KG is still a long way off, your second comment is off by a few.

[RedskinsNation]

Blatch looked great last night. (I call him baby Darius Miles.) Sure he missed some gimme layups but that doesnt discredit his overall performance. I love Gil to death but all the drives he does that he ends up dribbling the ball off his foot or losing it coming down the lane out of control dont ruin his performances.

Blatche can be a difference maker. He's 6-11 & athletic as h**l which is something we dont have. Haywood is big, so is Etan but these guys arent athletic like Blatche...like i said above this guy's game/athleticism remind me of Darius Miles which isnt a bad thing.

We need that athletic/dynamic presence to block shots, catch oops, stuff putbacks & most importantly rebound. Its only is 2nd year but I think we can afford to have patience with him especially considering all the other good players we have on this team.

Lets GO WIZARDS!!!

[Spaceman Spiff]

Anyone who is doubting Blatche's skills/instincts just isn't watching.

He's still learning. He'll make mistakes. But he's getting better.

[XxSpearheadxX]

Im not quite sure what game you were watching but to say that Andray looked tremendously poor on defense would be the same as saying that Gilbert had a great shooting night. Andray was all over the court last night, keeping balls alive, swatting shots and grabbing rebounds.

Andray's Pick and Roll defense in the 3rd quarter was the reason they shut down a super hot Ray Allen in the second half.
Anyone bringing up KG is doing Andray a disservice, thats not fair man.

KG is a rare athletic specimen - Dray will be special in his own way, the game comes as easily to AB as any big man I've ever seen.
Andray, do your thing boy do your thing...

http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j270/hardii01/Bdunk-1.jpg
hes had some very poor games this year also so lets see some more of this on a consistant basis before we get carried away
I wouldn't say I'm getting carried away, but I don't remember these very poor games though....

[PamelaBrandy]

Great game !!!!!!!!!
May I go off subject and ask if anyone knows why Portland game is not being televised?

[twenty-eight]

Great game !!!!!!!!!
May I go off subject and ask if anyone knows why Portland game is not being televised?

I was going to create a thread and ask...anyone know why:whoknows:

[r2k64]

Great game !!!!!!!!!
May I go off subject and ask if anyone knows why Portland game is not being televised?
I believe ABC is to blame. They don't allow anybody to broadcast any other NBA game while they show the games that are going on ABC. I guess they want the best ratings possible for people to tune into the National games.

[ACW]

I believe ABC is to blame. They don't allow anybody to broadcast any other NBA game while they show the games that are going on ABC. I guess they want the best ratings possible for people to tune into the National games. http://wizards.aolsportsblog.com/2007/01/29/the-nba-will-not-let-you-watch-this-game/ It's the deal NBA and ABC made together. So, those not at the game won't be able to see Arenas maybe score 60 :mad: :mad: :doh:

[Big C]

I wouldn't say I'm getting carried away, but I don't remember these very poor games though....

pretty much every game he has ever played save a handful have been pretty poor. not safe with the ball, not hitting shots, etc.

and in regards to saying it was ok to miss the layups to whoever said that, if that was jared jeffries he would have been picked apart

[BayouBrave86]

The Wizards defense is terrible with Jarvis Hayes in the lineup trying to guard the 3 or 4. We got destroyed in that 3rd quarter when he was in. I re-watched the 3rd last night and once Calvin Booth came in, we outscored the Sonics 30-11 in the 3rd. Andray was in the final few minutes of the third and we outscored them 11-1, due to alot of his hustle. He only made one really glaring mistake in his time in the third and that was a bad pass which lead to a Ray Allen steal, but Arenas ended up nixing that anyway by batting the ball out of bounds. Sure the bigs weren't that great for the Sonics, but the rotation of Booth, Haywood, and Blatche provided the best defense of the night. By the way, I wasn't able to catch the first half but where was Darius and Etan all game? For the record though, Blatche needs to get playing time like he did last night for the rest of the time Jamison is out.

[PCRoughrider]

I hope you all don't expect Blatche to play like he did last night, every night. He's very young and he's going to be up and down.

AJ position is going to have to be filled by a number of different players and we won't necessarily know who it's going to be from one game to the next. On an occasional day, it might be Hayes (but when his shot isn't dropping, he practically worthless). It might be Blatche or Thomas or Daniels or Booth (heaven forbid) but it's not going to be one person.

[ACW]

Heaven forbid Booth? He was pretty damn good last night. Agree about Blatche not having every game like that-hell, even a superstar like Gil has an off night every now and then.

[method man]

I don't get why everyone says he is so athletic. He is not. He has AJ's problem of having average footspeed. If he is going to succeed in this league, he will have to add on a little more muscle and play like a Dwight Howard or Amare (dunk, dunk, dunk) except with the occasional jumper. With his size and length, he has the potential to become a very nice run n gun center, especially if he can learn to defend the post like Amare has.

[XxSpearheadxX]

I don't get why everyone says he is so athletic. He is not. He has AJ's problem of having average footspeed. If he is going to succeed in this league, he will have to add on a little more muscle and play like a Dwight Howard or Amare (dunk, dunk, dunk) except with the occasional jumper. With his size and length, he has the potential to become a very nice run n gun center, especially if he can learn to defend the post like Amare has.

He is very athletic - for a 7 footer. A guy like Amare or KG is athletic for any position.

You really think his footspeed is average? Compared to above-average-explosiveness of small forwards maybe, but he is well within Chris Bosh level of Athleticism. There are maybe 1 or 2 PF in this league that Dray couldin't take off the dribble on the regular.

Also meth, there is a differnece between footspeed and athleticism/explosiveness. Tyson Chandler is as explosive a leaper as there is in the league, but his footspeed is way slow (mainly because of coordination.)

Andray is miles ahead of AJ in the athleticism department, one being above-average and one below average.

pretty much every game he has ever played save a handful have been pretty poor. not safe with the ball, not hitting shots, etc.

and in regards to saying it was ok to miss the layups to whoever said that, if that was jared jeffries he would have been picked apart

Are you for real? Pretty poor? He barely has gotten off the bench, and has never turned the ball over more than Etan or Brendan, all before he could buy a beer - EJ has a very high standard for turnovers, so he doesn't stand for it. If Andray was playing on half the teams in the league he'd be averaged 10 and 5 minimum - as the team rode to a lotto pick. Dray's problem has always been running the offense right and conditioning (and getting shot).

I've watched every Wizards game save for 4 in the last 5 years (after that I don't remember how many I've missed) - so to say that if Jared Jeffries EVER ****ing played like Dray did last night we would be giving him crap is nutso, Dray made the NBA top 10 plays last night because of that reverse layup (one of three he converted)

[ACW]

Can't disagree about him needing to add more muscle though (ditto for Booth).

[XxSpearheadxX]

Can't disagree about him needing to add more muscle though (ditto for Booth).

Well Blatche has a massive frame and will easily get to 265-270, and it will be scary.

Booth on the other hand is so unathletic that if he gained a pound he wouldn't make it up the floor. Plus he's like 34.

[arenasisgod]

I've watched every Wizards game save for 4 in the last 5 years (after that I don't remember how many I've missed) - so to say that if Jared Jeffries EVER ****ing played like Dray did last night we would be giving him crap is nutso, Dray made the NBA top 10 plays last night because of that reverse layup (one of three he converted)
Another thing Blatche did that was very un-Jared like was make all four of his free throw attempts. And if you didn't think that reverse layup was athletic, you're nuts. Show me another big who can make that play. Jared can't make a layup when he's running to the basket uncontested.

[ACW]

Well Blatche has a massive frame and will easily get to 265-270, and it will be scary. Well, I'm no gymrat, but I'm guessing that means he can gain muscle (265-270 like you said) and not lose any athleticism? That be SWEET! An athletic, 265-270 pounder w/ LONG reach? Kickass! :D

[hands11]

Yeah, me too. I WANT to like him but he is killing us out there.

Well, it is time for Hayes to visit the wizard and get a heart. His problem isnt talent, it's heart. I can pull a posts dating back to 3 yrs when I said this was his problem. Since it still is, I wonder if he will every get it. It doesnt get any better then this. This isnt 3 yrs ago when the team didnt have a Gil, tough juice or AJ to follow.

Hayes needs to drive to the hoop more now that AJ is out. Earlier in the season when he was just making it back and we only needed a 3 point specialist off the bench, I said that's what he needed to refine and focus on. Now we are almost in the all star break and one of our top players went down. He was put in the starting roation. That means you have to ball, not just shot quick 3 pointers like a puss.

EJ isnt the type to not give him another chance, but I always wanted Blatche starting to begin with so bring it on baby.

[hands11]

This is my opinion. The deadline for contract extensions for guys on their rookie contracts was in the preseason. If I am Blatche, I would rather sign a 1-year minimum deal with an option for the 2nd because once I get playing time next season, my value skyrockets and I go from getting a Scalabrine contract 4-year 16 mil contract to some team spending, at least, the mid level exception on me (5 years 30 mil).

Hopefully he isn't just all about the money. We have a nice balanced cap short of AJs contract which will get fixed soon. Gil, Caron, and Haywood are all signed for under what they could be paid. DS is a one year deal where he is underpaid also. Hopefully he sees what is being built here and wants to be paid a fair amount but doesn't go after top dollar.

[hands11]

Oh yeah. I hate to be a killjoy but don't crown Blatche yet. You gotta remember that outside of Wilcox, the rest of the Sonics' frontcourt is the worst in the NBA. If Blatche can get 25 mpg and put up 12 and 7 until the ASB then I will be a believer.

Who we were playing has little to do with his development at this point. Its all about his talent and him getting into the flow and becoming more comfortable. You haven't seen nothing yet. This kid has mad skills for his height. He is fluid, he is fast, and he can jump and shoot all the way to the 3 line. He is an aggessve defender on the perimeter and he can block shots. Just wait till he gets the pro game more and and is more confident. Oh, and just wait till his teamates start feeding him more.

Baby Garnett baby.

[hands11]

Blatche will be resigned to a long term deal asap.

He played so much better than his numbers against the Sonics. Blatche will make us "The Big Four". Judging by this last game, it will be very soon.

Big nothing. That's called a TEAM. Kill the big three. We are better then that.

[DoGood28]

Well, it is time for Hayes to visit the wizard and get a heart. His problem isnt talent, it's heart. I can pull a posts dating back to 3 yrs when I said this was his problem. Since it still is, I wonder if he will every get it. It doesnt get any better then this. This isnt 3 yrs ago when the team didnt have a Gil, tough juice or AJ to follow.

Hayes needs to drive to the hoop more now that AJ is out. Earlier in the season when he was just making it back and we only needed a 3 point specialist off the bench, I said that's what he needed to refine and focus on. Now we are almost in the all star break and one of our top players went down. He was put in the starting roation. That means you have to ball, not just shot quick 3 pointers like a puss.

EJ isnt the type to not give him another chance, but I always wanted Blatche starting to begin with so bring it on baby.

Now that you mention it, I can't recall seeing Jarvis make a honest attempt at driving the hoop once this season.

[hands11]

Look I seriously hope Blatche can become good enough to take over for Jamison but I am just saying not to reacto so quickly to one game. Remember Kwame putting up sweet numbers the first few games of his second season? That was because teams did not adjust to him for a few games. Blatche is in the same situation. With teams having so little data on him, he will still be under-the-radar for at least one more week. While he is under the radar, he should easily put up 12 and 7. If he can do that, then crown him.

Im not judging it from one game at all. Im judging it from an evaluation of talent and skills. Add to that, and evaluation of maturity and mental capacity.

This kid is not Kwame. He isn't in the same situation Kwame was in either. To a large degree, Kwame got a bum deal. I wouldn't want to be the first #1 pick out of HS by the hand of MJ on a team that sucked for 20 yrs and had no real heart and a revolving door at coach.

[hands11]

i agree with you. the kid had a career high 14 tonight, while i am very pleased that he played well im not going to believe instantly that he is the real deal. hes had some very poor games this year also so lets see some more of this on a consistant basis before we get carried away

Well, I see you when your back here telling us we were ahead of the game and your just a John come lately like the Haywood doubter.

Have some vision brother. Can't you see the talent that is there?

[hands11]

Blatche showed some promise last night but still has a LONG way to go until you go crowning him the next KG and what not...

He's still looked tremendously poor on defense and missed two close range layups...

He's gonna be a really long term project and I hope we see all of this rawness rub off eventually...

No way. I was there. He was awesome on D. He got out on the guards and turned them back. He was communicating with his teamates on rotations and then making the switch back. He helped us extend our defense out to the perimeter, something you won't get with AJ.

The D changed in the 3rd quarter when Booth came in, then Blatche came in and kept it going. That's what turned the game. I saw the whole court, not just what was on Comcast.

The missed put backs are normal for new players. He has to get more comfortable. I was yelling at him to dunk that shet. But making that reverse move showed a lot of confidence. And last game he was confident enough to make 2 3's, one didn't count because an illegal D was called.

That is a lot of game. A 6-11 young, fast, athletic kid that can hit the 3 or make a reverse layup who can defend the perimeter and block shots. Dame brother, what are you waitng for. It doesnt get much better then that.

I wouldn't be surprised in any game coming up that it just clicks for him and he bangs down 20-25 and has a monster game. It's there, it just needs to come together and come out. He needs the minutes. Give him 3 games of 25mins and you will have a star. Hey, Caron is a believer. Im in good company.

Go ahead, sit on the sidelines. We will be waiting for you.

[CMonster]

Well, I see you when your back here telling us we were ahead of the game and your just a John come lately like the Haywood doubter.

Have some vision brother. Can't you see the talent that is there? I'm not going to let those that can't see ruin my excitement.

Not everyone can see the intangibles and future development.

As for those of us that can, let's enjoy the development of another allstar/franchise-caliber player. :cheers:

[hands11]

I missed the game last night, but I just checked the Box Score. Now, I know that sometimes the box doesn't paint the best picture, but how long can Eddie Jordan go with Jarvis Hayes in the starting line-up? For all of Blatche's deficiencies, would it be too much to have him get a starting nod one of these days w. AJ being out? I am really not sold on Jarvis being more than a 7th or 8th man coming off of the bench. We need more production out of that position with Jamison being injured. There is too much weight being placed on the shoulders of Gil and Caron. I'm sorry, but I just thinkg that he is crippling the team by being ineffective....anyone else feel this way?

He isn't crippling the team, EJ is. Arvis plays because the coach puts him in. That's on EJ. I couldn't believe what I was hearing EJ say in the post game. He was playing that critical cool coach thing pointing out what Blatche did wrong instead of pumping the kid up. I thought that was just stupid. I know he wants the kid to stay focused on fixing his mistakes, but that wasn't the place to do it. Seemed he was more covering his butt justifying why the kid hasn't seen more time because the cat got out of the bag, we saw the talent.

[CMonster]

A 6-11 young, fast, athletic kid that can hit the 3 or make a reverse layup who can defend the perimeter and block shots. :notworthy :notworthy I wouldn't be surprised in any game coming up that it just clicks for him and he bangs down 20-25 and has a monster game. It's there, it just needs to come together and come out. He needs the minutes. Give him 3 games of 25mins and you will have a star. Hey, Caron is a believer. Im in good company. Yup.

It pretty much clicked for him in 17 minutes against the Sonics. He would have had at least 2 more points, 2-3 more rebounds and another assist if the bounces had gone his way. That's a MONSTER stat line in 17 minutes.

[hands11]

Blatch looked great last night. (I call him baby Darius Miles.) Sure he missed some gimme layups but that doesnt discredit his overall performance. I love Gil to death but all the drives he does that he ends up dribbling the ball off his foot or losing it coming down the lane out of control dont ruin his performances.

Blatche can be a difference maker. He's 6-11 & athletic as h**l which is something we dont have. Haywood is big, so is Etan but these guys arent athletic like Blatche...like i said above this guy's game/athleticism remind me of Darius Miles which isnt a bad thing.

We need that athletic/dynamic presence to block shots, catch oops, stuff putbacks & most importantly rebound. Its only is 2nd year but I think we can afford to have patience with him especially considering all the other good players we have on this team.

Naaahh, he is a baby KG. I called that one a long time ago. Don't give me that baby Miles stuff. You just made me taste my dinner again. Blatche is more then that. Miles is a foul. Blatche is more mature then that.

Lets GO WIZARDS!!!

[MonkFan8]

It's pretty clear Blatche is going to make a significant impact with this team over the next few seasons (and hopefully beyond). Don't confuse the mistakes he makes with a lack of talent. It's clearly there, he just needs more PT to hone those skills.

Here's a quote from Gil regarding BlatcheAndray practices well every day. He just needs the opportunity to play and gain some confidence.

[hands11]

I don't get why everyone says he is so athletic. He is not. He has AJ's problem of having average footspeed. If he is going to succeed in this league, he will have to add on a little more muscle and play like a Dwight Howard or Amare (dunk, dunk, dunk) except with the occasional jumper. With his size and length, he has the potential to become a very nice run n gun center, especially if he can learn to defend the post like Amare has.

:laugh: :laugh: :doh: You have to be kidding me. What are you watching?
He has the same problem as AJ. OK, you just totally discredited yourself.

As for the weight. I have some homework for you.

A Blatche
Height?
Weight?

K Garnett
Height?
Weight?

Let me know what you find.

[hands11]

It's pretty clear Blatche is going to make a significant impact with this team over the next few seasons (and hopefully beyond). Don't confuse the mistakes he makes with a lack of talent. It's clearly there, he just needs more PT to hone those skills.

Here's a quote from Gil regarding Blatche


Sweet. So that's Caron, now Gil. Well, since I think Caron, Gil and Blatche are our future, now all we need to do is knock EJ in the head a few times until he gets it also. :D

[fixer26er]

:laugh: :laugh: :doh: You have to be kidding me. What are you watching?
He has the same problem as AJ. OK, you just totally discredited yourself.

As for the weight. I have some homework for you.

A Blatche
Height?
Weight?

K Garnett
Height?
Weight?

Let me know what you find.

He's not that athletic and he does lack footspeed, but he makes up for that with his length.

He may be the same size as KG, but KG is an athletic freak. I wouldn't compare him to KG, I think the best comparison for Blatche's upside is Lamar Odom.

[hands11]

He's not that athletic and he does lack footspeed, but he makes up for that with his length.

He may be the same size as KG, but KG is an athletic freak. I wouldn't compare him to KG, I think the best comparison for Blatche's upside is Lamar Odom.

yeah, well, he is bigger and heavier then Odom and if that what you want to compare him to, then give him some more PT. Id take Odom on my team anyday.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/stats?statsId=3327

[fixer26er]

yeah, well, he is bigger and heavier then Odom and if that what you want to compare him to, then give him some more PT. Id take Odom on my team anyday.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/stats?statsId=3327

I'd take Odom too. I was just trying to point out that Blatche wasn't an uber athlete. That doesn't mean he can't be a good player.

[method man]

:laugh: :laugh: :doh: You have to be kidding me. What are you watching?
He has the same problem as AJ. OK, you just totally discredited yourself.

As for the weight. I have some homework for you.

A Blatche
Height?
Weight?

K Garnett
Height?
Weight?

Let me know what you find.

He doesn't have good lateral foot quickness. That is why he gets so many fouls. He tries to use his arms to compensate for his lack of lateral quickness. Garnett is totally different from Blatche. Garnett's athleticism is a lot better than Blatche's. He can also legitly handle the ball and was able to do so right out of high school. When Blatche handles the ball, he gets turnovers. Honestly, I see EJ's vision for Blatche and he is hoping for a mix of Bosh and Amare.

[Mr. Grundle]

Did someone actually compare Blatche to Kwame Brown? :doh: :laugh:

Andray is still very raw, but if he's proved anything, it's that he is the exact opposite of Kwame. Kwame was a physical speciman, nothing more. Andray actually has BASKETBALL skills. Tall, long, athletic...Kwame was all these things. But Blatche has things Kwame will never have, like hand-eye coordination, ball-handling skills, a jump shot, and passing skills. You know...the things that make good basketball players.

Some of the little things he did impressed me the most last night. He got out and ran on the fast breaks. He played great help defense. He stood at the top of the key and swung the ball around perimeter to hit a teammate for an open jumper. This is a result of having instinct for the game of basketball.

It was clear from Day 1 that Kwame had no instinct for the game, and as a result he would and could not develop into a great player. Blatche has the instincts, so he at least has the possibility. Now the fun part....we get to sit back and watch and see if it happens.

[MoochieDC_86]

I just cant wait until the Day when Blatche and Pecherov are starting at the 4 and 5 for us!

[hands11]

He doesn't have good lateral foot quickness. That is why he gets so many fouls. He tries to use his arms to compensate for his lack of lateral quickness. Garnett is totally different from Blatche. Garnett's athleticism is a lot better than Blatche's. He can also legitly handle the ball and was able to do so right out of high school. When Blatche handles the ball, he gets turnovers. Honestly, I see EJ's vision for Blatche and he is hoping for a mix of Bosh and Amare.

Well you can see what you want and so can I. I watched him 2 days ago, live. He has good lateral quickness. He gets fouls for a number of other reasons.

One is, we don't play that kind of aggressive D as a team so his aggressiveness stands out. A team like Chicago hacks you and gets late to the charge all game but the whole team does it so they get away with a lot. That is common.

2nd, he hasn't played many games yet so he is learning the pro game and getting his game legs under him. Games are at a different speed then practice. Everyone knows that.

As for comparing him to an KG. Well KG came to a team that sucked and had a green light to shot and screw up all he wanted. I remember seeing him his first year. He chucked up a lot of shots. He probably had more shots in one game then Blatche has taken his whole career. Blatche is on a team that is ranked in the top of the East. Totally different situation.

Also. the kid was shot in the chest out of HS so Im not sure we are seeing his whole game yet. Kind of a unique experience. I dont know of another player to really compare him to because of that.

I think he handles the ball very well.

Besides, this isnt all about what he is doing right now. Part of it is, part is what I think he will become.

Situations are different. You have to take everything into account. The simple comparisions don't work.

[method man]

Well you can see what you want and so can I. I watched him 2 days ago, live. He has good lateral quickness. He gets fouls for a number of other reasons.

One is, we don't play that kind of aggressive D as a team so his aggressiveness stands out. A team like Chicago hacks you and gets late to the charge all game but the whole team does it so they get away with a lot. That is common.

2nd, he hasn't played many games yet so he is learning the pro game and getting his game legs under him. Games are at a different speed then practice. Everyone knows that.

As for comparing him to an KG. Well KG came to a team that sucked and had a green light to shot and screw up all he wanted. I remember seeing him his first year. He chucked up a lot of shots. He probably had more shots in one game then Blatche has taken his whole career. Blatche is on a team that is ranked in the top of the East. Totally different situation.

Also. the kid was shot in the chest out of HS so Im not sure we are seeing his whole game yet. Kind of a unique experience. I dont know of another player to really compare him to because of that.

I think he handles the ball very well.

Besides, this isnt all about what he is doing right now. Part of it is, part is what I think he will become.

Situations are different. You have to take everything into account. The simple comparisions don't work.

1) Maybe it is that he is near the bottom of all the HS PF's that have come out in terms of athleticism that I see him as having problems with lateral quickness but if you see his vertical leap, the dude doesn't really get off the ground either.

2) If we weren't an aggressive D, we would not get so many steals a game.

3) He doesn't handle the ball well. That and poor lazy passes are the reasons why he gets so many turnovers.

4) I just want to see him have a good consistent stretch of games before we start calling him a future starter.

[hands11]

Well, Ill be here when you finally come around but I wouldnt count on laggers for foresight.

[ACW]

Blatche was one of the few bright spots tonight-TONS of energy.

[hands11]

Post Spurs game.

Well, he didn't start. Hayes did. And he didn't get into the game until 3:27 left in the 1st quarter when we were already way down.

He ran with AD, Gil, CB and Etan. Im glad he got PT with them.

Then he ran with AD, Gil, Sagiala and Etan. Running 2 rusty players at the same time was a very questionable move.

A lot of his mins the second half were a waste since EJ pulled all the starters and turned it into garage ball. Leaving in AD, DS, Caron and Haywood would have allowed the kid to build his game more. Instead, it was basically a waste of minutes. EJ is a fool even in a blow out.

Blatche ended up with a career high in rebounds with 12 in 24 mins

5 were offensive.2 assists. 4 fouls 1 TO and an elbow in the sack.

2-11 from the field was said to see. He had some open looks but they were just to strong. I think those will fall more as he get more comfortable on the floor. He has a good stroke. 2-2 from the line were he looks great.

His creative play for the game was a nice behind the back pass to Etan, that Etan wasn't ready for.

I would have liked him to have taken someone off the dribble, specially in garbage time. He set it up several times but never followed threw with the move. Instead I got to see Taylor shot 5 shots in 8 minutes. How did that advance our cause.

In garage time, they should have just let Blatche take all the shorts. No one else on the court was as important as his development.

[CMonster]

Blatche needs to play at least 25 minutes from here on out, even when Jamison gets back. He's the team's best rebounder by far, passes the ball well, runs the floor (the Wiz are at their best when running) and plays good defense with shotblocking.

Even though he's a shell of what he will become, he's already a major contributor. He should start at the 4 for now and play often alongside Haywood against teams with big lineups (.....uhhhhh, like the Spurs).

[hands11]

Blatche needs to play at least 25 minutes from here on out, even when Jamison gets back. He's the team's best rebounder by far, passes the ball well, runs the floor (the Wiz are at their best when running) and plays good defense with shotblocking.

Even though he's a shell of what he will become, he's already a major contributor. He should start at the 4 for now and play often alongside Haywood against teams with big lineups (.....uhhhhh, like the Spurs).


Did you see that one poster saying he had slow feet. :laugh:

I have no clue what is wrong with his eyes. Blatche is amazing quick footed for his size.

[hands11]

Testing testing.. 1 2 3

Trying out a new sig

[sportsfan882]

Did someone actually compare Blatche to Kwame Brown? :doh: :laugh:

Andray is still very raw, but if he's proved anything, it's that he is the exact opposite of Kwame. Kwame was a physical speciman, nothing more. Andray actually has BASKETBALL skills. Tall, long, athletic...Kwame was all these things. But Blatche has things Kwame will never have, like hand-eye coordination, ball-handling skills, a jump shot, and passing skills. You know...the things that make good basketball players.

Some of the little things he did impressed me the most last night. He got out and ran on the fast breaks. He played great help defense. He stood at the top of the key and swung the ball around perimeter to hit a teammate for an open jumper. This is a result of having instinct for the game of basketball.

It was clear from Day 1 that Kwame had no instinct for the game, and as a result he would and could not develop into a great player. Blatche has the instincts, so he at least has the possibility. Now the fun part....we get to sit back and watch and see if it happens.
Huh? He has all of the physical specimens and is very atheltic but he is lost out on the basketball court. He doesn't know what to do when he gets the ball, can't shoot, fouls way too much, and is better off not dribbling. Just because he has one good game does not make immediately make him our starting PF for the next 10 years. Yes, Blatche should improve with time, but currently he is not deserving of major minutes.

[MonkFan8]

Huh? He has all of the physical specimens and is very atheltic but he is lost out on the basketball court. He doesn't know what to do when he gets the ball, can't shoot, fouls way too much, and is better off not dribbling. Just because he has one good game does not make immediately make him our starting PF for the next 10 years. Yes, Blatche should improve with time, but currently he is not deserving of major minutes.In my eyes, that's not really the issue. No one is expecting him not to make mistakes, but who would you rather have in there?

AJ has gone down, and we all now recognize exactly what he means to the team. Now you're faced with a situation, Booth, Blatche or Jarvis? In the long term, giving Blatche as much PT as possible should be the most benificial. If the second person off the bench was capable of making more out of the valuable minutes Blatche has earned, then by all means they should be playing. However, that's just not the case right now.

[TK]

Testing testing.. 1 2 3

Trying out a new sig
1) There's a thread in the Graphics forum for sig testing.

2) Had you bothered to look at your post directly before this one, you'd have noticed that your sig updates in all of your previous posts. Thus eliminating the need to spam a sig test post into a thread.

[Mr. Grundle]

Huh? He has all of the physical specimens and is very atheltic but he is lost out on the basketball court. He doesn't know what to do when he gets the ball, can't shoot, fouls way too much, and is better off not dribbling. Just because he has one good game does not make immediately make him our starting PF for the next 10 years. Yes, Blatche should improve with time, but currently he is not deserving of major minutes.

Huh? I don't think you understood my post. I never said Blatche was ready for major minutes. I was comparing his potential to Kwame's, because someone compared him to Kwame. I said Blatche understands and has instincts for the game of basketball. For that reason he has a CHANCE to be a good/great player in this league. Kwame Brown has no instinct for the game, does not understand the game, is not coordinated enough to play the game, and doesn't have the heart or ability to improve his game, so he has NO CHANCE to ever be a good/great player. From what I've seen from Blatche so far, he has all these things.

I don't know how you have been watching, but he can shoot. He's already proven he can hit free throws and even 3-pointers....Kwame can't. He can handle the ball in the open court VERY well for a guy his size. He can pass. He can block shots. Yes, he fouls alot, but is it really hard to believe that these NBA veterans are able to draw fouls from a kid who is basically straight off the playground?

He'll get better with time, because he has the ability and potential to. Kwame doesn't. If you can't see that then I don't know what else to say.

[ACW]

You know who Blatche kind of reminds me off-tall, athletic, long reach? Joakim Noah (and I can say this because I saw Noah in the Final Four games live-I went/go to Mason; that was a fun month).

[hands11]

1) There's a thread in the Graphics forum for sig testing.

2) Had you bothered to look at your post directly before this one, you'd have noticed that your sig updates in all of your previous posts. Thus eliminating the need to spam a sig test post into a thread.

Whats with the attitude and accusations?. I didn't realize testing a sig was spamming, secondly I didnt know there was a designated place to test then and third, the image in my above post was manually inserted in just that post. Its wasn't part of my sig.

Hey, I tried to do a look up on sigs using the help, I didn't see anything in there about testing them in a specific place and I didnt see anything in there that help me understand how to insert an image. So I went off line via PM to try to get someone to help me.

So before you go jumping on someone with activation of there lack of effort, how about giving them the benefit of the doubt and just provide the information that would help.

[hands11]

Hell ya, Blatche gets his first start against Portland.

Im listening on the radio and all I keep hearing is Blatche this and Blatche that. Awesome. :cheers: :applause:

Welcome again to the NBA MR Blatche.

[LiveStrongSkins]

11 points and 10 boards and 4 blocks in a game in which he still sat for a good portion of the game. He is flat out exciting. If he can continue this when Jamison gets back then we can be scary.

[TheREALJBird]

Great play from Blatche in limited action. He's a play maker, and there's only upside for him at such a young age. I'll be excited to see what he does down the road

[G.A.C.O.L.B.]

So the wrong thread. I suck.

[G.A.C.O.L.B.]

Blatche looked great. I am now a believer.

[CMonster]

I'm all over this thread so I don't have to claim to be converted.

Blatche continues to make me drool when I think about the future. He's not more than 20%-25% of the player he's going to become in 2-5 years. Think about how much Gilbert is improving in year 7 of his career.

Blatche has almost no idea what he's doing and is averaging 9 and 8 over his last 5 games. His natural feel for the game is rare. Some of those pretty layups overshadowed his ability to find soft spots in zones and see the floor. His natural basketball IQ is off the charts and he's just getting comfortable.

Haywood was horrendous tonight, but it's clear that the Haywood/Blatche front court creates a lot of problems defensively. I think that a Gil/CB/AJ/AB/BH lineup might be a very very tough lineup to deal with both offensively and on the boards. Add DS, AD, ET and a healthy Songaila and the playoff rotation looks very very tough if healthy and playing well.

[Winslowalrob]

Haywood was horrendous tonight, but it's clear that the Haywood/Blatche front court creates a lot of problems defensively. I think that a Gil/CB/AJ/AB/BH lineup might be a very very tough lineup to deal with both offensively and on the boards. Add DS, AD, ET and a healthy Songaila and the playoff rotation looks very very tough if healthy and playing well.

Now THAT would be a monster lineup... four legit all-star caliber players (provided that Blatche actually gets better and AJ doesnt go all Steve Francis on us). Which makes me wonder: why can't Caron play SG? What are the differences between an SG and an SF?

[Jesus, Mary & Joe Gibbs]

They played against a PITIFUL Philly team...
Blatche looked good blocking shots and grabbing rebounds...
He's got potential...
I'm not crowning him though...
Not yet at least...

[The End]

I dunno, He looked pretty damn good last night and he was matched up against one of the premire shot blockers in the NBA. But also notice that we made our run and pulled away in that game in the 2nd half when he was on the bench.

[LightAgent]

He added energy and pressure to his teamates to perform at a higher level because he is about to push some people down the bench

[XxSpearheadxX]

They played against a PITIFUL Philly team...
Blatche looked good blocking shots and grabbing rebounds...
He's got potential...
I'm not crowning him though...
Not yet at least...

Philly has been doing pretty well lately, but they were without Steven Hunter. Don't act like that 76rs team is one of the worst ever, they aren't that bad.

Either way it is a 20 year old blatche against real NBA talent, and he's still good.

I may have to adjust my prediction of 10-5-2-2 at the beginning of the season to 10-5-2-2 as a starter, but I'm standing by Andray-the kid has rare rare instincts to go along with his numerous physical gifts.

[LiveStrongSkins]

I dunno, He looked pretty damn good last night and he was matched up against one of the premire shot blockers in the NBA. But also notice that we made our run and pulled away in that game in the 2nd half when he was on the bench.

That had alot more to do with better shot selection from the guards. The second unit didnt jack up shots trying to find rhythm like Arenas and Butler.

[ACW]

QUESTION: Would Blatche be able to gain weight w/o losing any of his athleticism? A 265-270 lb. Blatche w/ the athleticism he has now would be a BEAST.

[kevin11]

I said this in the game thread, but, I think it is time for AB to have a nickname??

[Chachie]

QUESTION: Would Blatche be able to gain weight w/o losing any of his athleticism? A 265-270 lb. Blatche w/ the athleticism he has now would be a BEAST.

That's way too heavy for him. His frame wouldn't effectively support that.

[MoochieDC_86]

I think 7 feet 255ish is the weight for Blatche

[mboyd784]

I said this in the game thread, but, I think it is time for AB to have a nickname??

Too bad "Plastic Man" (Stacey Augmon) is already taken.

[LightAgent]

Mr. Fantastic

[mboyd784]

Mr. Fantastic

Sounds kinda gay and I hate all gayness!

[LightAgent]

Sounds kinda gay and I hate all gayness!

I was talking about the rubber guy from fantastic 4 get it instead of the big 3

[hands11]

Now THAT would be a monster lineup... four legit all-star caliber players (provided that Blatche actually gets better and AJ doesnt go all Steve Francis on us). Which makes me wonder: why can't Caron play SG? What are the differences between an SG and an SF?

He can play SG. There isnt any problem.

We will see him there some when AJ returns. Well lets say we should.

But for now what I want to see is

AD, Gil, CB, AB, Haywood

Gil is no PG.

[hands11]

QUESTION: Would Blatche be able to gain weight w/o losing any of his athleticism? A 265-270 lb. Blatche w/ the athleticism he has now would be a BEAST.

He doesnt need to add weight. He is fine. It will happen over time though. 5-10 lbs may in a year I. But he is already bigger then KG. We did a post on this already.

He is already listed at 248lbs 6-11

I didnt see him getting pushed around. He is long, quick, and nimble.

His rebounding technique is excellent. He finds a body and he boxes out great.

Sixers. 23Min 5-7FG 5-5:10 rbs 1ast 1st 4bks 3pf 11pts.

Well, Im sure we will have a few new converts but you better hurry, the bus is filling fast. Id actually say, if you dont get it yet, you dont know much about basketball talent.

[hands11]

Its to early for a nickname like that. That comes after you start 20-30 games and do it game in and game out.

So now he is Bleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeaathe.

He will get the usually Young Gun and The Kid references for now.

[ACW]

As for nicknames, I'll just go w/ Dr. 'Dray :laugh:

[hands11]

Well, the kid got his second start in a row and racked up a double-double in 23mins.

I would have to say, aside from the world ending, he will/should start the rest of the games until AJ returns and hopefully beyond.

We are now playing good D and that is in no small part because of his efforts on the court. And the kid is a spark. First play he got the steal and finished with 2 on the other side. He was all over the place. And his D helped the whole D produce better.

This is what I wanted all along and why I said we needed to start him over AJ or to move AJ to make a space for him. AJs has a lot of value and talents but D isn't one of them. He is a big reason why were last in the league. But Blatche can cover his back to mask that.

Well, now everyone can see what I was talking about since he finally got his starts and has produced right out of the gate. If he keeps this up, and I think he will, he is going to make EJ have to adjust his line ups which is going to force us to address other issues.

The easy way to adjust is to keep Gil at PG. Maybe with a line up of
Gil, CB, AJ, Blatche, and Haywood, Gil will look better because having AJ on the court balances his game out more so he doesn't have to be a real PG. AJs D wont hurt as much because Blatche and Haywood can cover. He is still going to be a mismatch against a SF though. DS sitting isn't a big deal, I always said he was an off the bench SG on this team because I think Gil is our #1 SG. This is what will most likely happen. I have to watch a few more game like this but as I brought up before, there my not be room on this team for DS moving forward if he wants to start and wants starter money.

Secondary or other starting line ups can look like
AD/PG?, Gil, CB, Blatche, Haywood/Etan/SAG

This may well be the future as AJ gets on in years.

Blatche at the 4, opens a world of option for us.

Welcome to the world of starting minutes Bleeeeeeeeeeeeeeatche.

He is the main reason I get excited to watch the games now. I cant wait to see what step he takes next.

[method man]

Andray has to realy work on his 3 point shooting. He is impressing me with his rebounding but to create space for Caron and Gil, he needs to become a decent 3-point shooter.

[hands11]

Andray has to really work on his 3 point shooting. He is impressing me with his rebounding but to create space for Caron and Gil, he needs to become a decent 3-point shooter.

I think he already has one. He just hasn't had a chance to take enough of them in the faster passed game speed to get comfortable.

I'm pretty sure he has the shot. We will see it as he gets more ops and have success.

We are just at the very beginning stages of seeing what he can do. With every success, he will get more confident. So will his teammates. Then he will take another step.

I predict he will be a bigger star then AJ ever was. I'll even go as far as to say, he could end up being the center piece this team is built around.

Sure, that may take some time, but I can see it happening. A lot will have to do with his maturity level and how he is as a person. I don't know his personality well enough yet.

If he ends up anything like CB and AJ are regarding maturity, look out.

[Warhead36]

He's already a damn good rebounder and shot blocker, two fairly difficult skills to teach. All he needs is a jump shot which shouldn't be too hard for him. He's got range but lacks consistency.

I think he's got a great chance of being a great bench/role player, a good chance at being a solid starter, and an average chance at being a star. But once again EG lands a diamond in the rough in the 2nd round. :)

[hands11]

January-3rd-2007, 10:33 PM
Come. I not talking double double just yet, but adding a player like him to the rotation helps this team a lot. Also, him getting regular PT is helping him develop a lot. I kid has mad raw skills so he has big shoes to fill out.

Now consider this. Gil had to develop in more of a vacuum. This team was mostly rudderless. Blatche will get to grow with Gil, Caron, and AJ guiding him and he gets to grow in a winning environment that doesnt completely relying on his skills to win. I would expect his development to happen a lot faster because of these factors. I wouldn't be surprised at all if we see him improve quickly over the next month. Ill even go this far. I would be surprised if he did log a 10+ pts 10+ rbs 3+ blocks with in the next 30 days.

Sixers. 23Min 5-7FG 5-5:10 rbs 1ast 1st 4bks 3pf 11pts.

ok, it was 42 days.
ok, I guess we can talk double doubles now. :laugh:

[Winslowalrob]

Just a question to all the EJ haterzz, if Blatche turns into an all-star under EJ like Gibby, Larry, Caron, and AJ did, will that mean that EJ can develop good players?

[CMonster]

Just a question to all the EJ haterzz, if Blatche turns into an all-star under EJ like Gibby, Larry, Caron, and AJ did, will that mean that EJ can develop good players? Interesting point you make here.

While I agree that EJ's rotation and lineups are sometimes poor (very poor since AJ went down) I don't have much animosity for him since his players produce and like him and chemistry is good.

But as far as getting ALL the credit....let's give it where it's due. Ernie Grunfeld has made ALL the right moves and stockpiled the Wiz with young talent.

Even though Grunfeld didn't draft Arenas, he did draft Michael Redd and Blatche in the 2nd. The guy clearly can see talent.

[hands11]

Just a question to all the EJ haterzz, if Blatche turns into an all-star under EJ like Gibby, Larry, Caron, and AJ did, will that mean that EJ can develop good players?

Take it to an EJ thread please. There are plenty.

[Chachie]

Take it to an EJ thread please. There are plenty.


LOL! So YOUR the only one allowed to "inject" EJ into a thread, Hands?

:silly:

[hands11]

LOL! So YOUR the only one allowed to "inject" EJ into a thread, Hands?

:silly:


Nahh. :D EJ can be mentioned but when someone is addressing " the EJ haters" that's something that can go in one of many other threads about EJ haters.

This thread is for MR BLATCHE

[Nighthawk]

I have to agree that EG deserves all the credit. He's the one making the moves and bringing in and/or keeping or letting go of the players.

Now, that means if a player tanks, then he'll also get the blame but as of right now, he deserves only credit.

[hands11]

And now the conversation turns from should he start while AJ is out, to should he start once he returns.

The kid is making a strong case.

We are a better balanced team with him on the court. The defense is completely different with him in the post. He and Haywood can really clog up the middle. Wood has the 7 ft lenght, and Blatche has almost the same length at 6-11 with long arms but he has nimble feet and is totally athletic. Phil even backed me up with his comment about how great his lateral movement is. Sorry, whoever you were that was telling me he had slow feet.
He moved those feet and got right in front of KG for a charge. Awesome play.

He gets out on D out top and can recover. He should have gotten more then 26 minutes against KG. It wouldn't have been as close a game. KG wasnt doing much against him.

A few more good outings like this and EJ is going to have to make room for he kid in the starting line up.

"Next prediction. He will start after AJ returns at some point this season. I would make the arguement, right away is best. Specially with AJ coming off and injury and needing to work himself in. So if this happens, and it works, it will stay that way or EJ will find room for AJ at SF."

This is why I was saying, this is Blatches opportunity to change the starting line. It seem clear that he is taking full advantage of that opprotunity and is moving in one direction, up.

This is so awesome. The is the piece we have been missing. Now we can have a good D. Now we can go deeper in the playoffs.

Stay toned. Blatche is just getting started. Wait till he get more comfortable with his shot. You saw some of it tonight. 2 good looking outsides shot, one from 3 land. We saw the sweet reverse layup in another game. He gets the put backs already. It will starting all coming together.

Once he has that first 20 pt game, the roof gunna come off this sucker.

[desioreo87]

"Next prediction. He will start after AJ returns at some point this season. I would make the arguement, right away is best. Specially with AJ coming off and injury and needing to work himself in. So if this happens, and it works, it will stay that way or EJ will find room for AJ at SF."

Hands you are going way overboard. Blatche is certainly the answer on defense but you can't underestimate the leadership and offensive ability that AJ brings to the team.

If blatche continues to play this well I would really like him to be the primary 6th man or if he starts the lineup has to be: GA, CB, AJ, AB, BH in that order

[hands11]

January-11th-2007, 05:37 PM
Should be interesting to see what EG comes up with for a contract.

How much and how long. Seems like EG usually signs people earlier rather then later. I wouldnt be surprised if we hear something as early as tomorrow.
But more likely, I think before season ends. Maybe around the all-star break before the playoff run.


So you'll ready for the news? EG may be pulling some strings shortly. I just don't know how much longer he would want to wait.

[hands11]

Hands you are going way overboard. Blatche is certainly the answer on defense but you can't underestimate the leadership and offensive ability that AJ brings to the team.

If blatche continues to play this well I would really like him to be the primary 6th man or if he starts the lineup has to be: GA, CB, AJ, AB, BH in that order


Read the thread my friend. I don't go over board. The things I said are happening.

Well see. It will all be here in black and white. Well see who ends up being right.

Your, if he starts, scenario is one of the options I posted. I could see EJ doing that. Its going to real hard for EJ to get to the point that he bring EJ off the bench but it is his best posting on a "great team." He won a 6th man award already so we know he would be good at it. He is a great offensive player who plays poor D. That is the definition of a great 6th man.

Hey, I love AJs game and leadership skills and have said over and over, I hope he is the first name-worthy Wiz to retire here. I hope we resign him. I totally get his value.

[Mr. Grundle]

I predict severe disappointment and hatred towards EJ from hands11 once Jamison is back healthy.

[redskinsfan85]

AB is just coming into his own now...the big thing about him is that he's KEEN to learn and get better. He's not lazy...(and doesn't turn lazy).

[Nighthawk]

The Prodigy was on tonight. I was totally surprised how well he did against KG until I found out KG was his idol growing up and he's tried to style his game after him. You could see the surprise and frustration on KG's face as the game progressed. Blatche looked like he was having fun out there.

It'll be great to see how he does against him in Minnesota later this week.