AD was writhing on the baseline for enough time to tweet it, but he got up just fine with 32 sec left in regulation, played through the OT, and made plays. Wouldn't be shocked if he sat tomorrow vs. OKC just because.
I agree, Complacent. But I'd rather have Keldon on the floor at the 4 than Bates-Diop in crunch time like tonight. The most frustrating thing about this season is that it looks like the key rotation guys have all gotten somewhat better, but they're not good enough. Dejounte is more aggressive. White has improved his playmaking and shooting. Vassell is a legit scoring threat. Walker seems like a more consistent scorer with a higher ceiling than I thought he had. Keldon is fantastic going to the basket. And the defense is better all around. But none of them are THE GUY and a few are probably a third guy at best.
Also this team still only has one legit post player. Poeltl is a solid post scorer and he's passing now. I hoped that they'd give Luka a shot to be the PF, but they cut him. Then I figured between McDermott and Young, there would at least be solid PF play and shooting. At this point, any hope lies with Landale or a healthy Collins.
Dejounte is a legit starting PG in this league and a #3 guy. Keldon may be a grow into a #3 guy. Vassell could be too. Poeltl as well. But those four and even a likely #1 pick like Banchero isn't enough to build a contender. That's why I want Primo to get more run. He looked really good in the preseason and in what little garbage time he's gotten. But the rotation is so clogged at the guard spots from only drafting guards that he's behind a bunch of guys. Tre Jones looked great in summer league and should get a shot at backup PG, but he can't get on the floor.
The front office has to figure out if Primo is a guy who can grow into one of two best players on a contender. They've got to figure out if Vassell is a legit 3 and D starter or reliable backup. Somehow they've got to figure out how to turn nice good players into stars either by development or trades. I just hope what we're seeing now is just taking inventory before making moves and not a long term commitment to mediocre players.