Last Updated: Sep 7th, 2005 - 07:28:04 The Grizzlies Report By Robert Ducklo
for HOOPSWORLD.com
Jul 5, 2005, 09:00
The remake of the Grizzlies has begun with last weeks draft and the beginning of negotiations with potential free agents. The Griz had a better than expected draft and have begun whats bound to be the most difficult free agent negotiations in team history. Heres a recap of the draft and a look ahead at the potential upcoming deals:
The Draft
After years of complaints about Jerry Wests drafts (Drew Gooden, Troy Bell), Griz fans seem pleased with the two newcomers that West selected this year. Hakim Warrick and Lawrence Roberts fit the mold of previous West draft picks each has four years of college experience, they both are considered good guys and they both are good athletes (especially Warrick).
Interestingly, despite what you may have read, Roberts initially may have a better opportunity to get on the court. Though undersized at 69, Roberts is a rebounder who knows what his job will be to rebound the ball and play tough in the paint. Maybe most importantly, trading for Roberts may give West the opportunity to deal Lorenzen Wright or Jake Tsakalidis if the right deal arises.
Warrick is a more interesting situation. When you look at it dispassionately, Warrick seems to be a natural small forward and there are few minutes available at that position with Shane Battier and James Posey sharing duties there. Some have said that Warrick could play like a smaller Stromile Swift, in which case hed be behind Pau Gasol and Brian Cardinal at the power forward. Yet, Warrick seems to have that Stromile Swiftian freakish athleticism with a less, uh, fragile, mental state. One cant help but be impressed when watching the absurd highlights that Warrick has compiled and his attitude has been an asset rather than a liability. So, worst case, you have a good player who can fill in in the case of injuries. Best case you have one of the steals of the draft. | |
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