Oct 12, 2016
Five thoughts on Bosh, Ennis and more
TSN basketball analyst Jack Armstrong delivers thoughts on Chris Bosh’s health situation, a chance for Canadian Tyler Ennis to shine in Houston and Bradley Beal’s struggle to stay healthy
1. CHRIS BOSH (Heat): Talk about career limbo. The Miami Heat is on the hook for the remaining $75.8 million on the forward’s deal, with insurance covering a percentage of that money. The team won't clear him to play as he continues to battle blood clots, which I respect and admire. Bosh’s long-term health and family are far more important than winning basketball games. It will be an interesting to see how this impacts the Heat in terms of the salary cap. It’s unclear if Bosh’s basketball career is over, but I hope caution and common sense wins out.
2. TYLER ENNIS (Rockets): The Canadian guard was going to have a tough time breaking into the regular rotation in the near future in Milwaukee, but I see him benefiting from playing for Mike D’Antoni in Houston if he can stay healthy. The style of play will allow him to push the ball and make plays in space. I think this could be a really good situation for him. Obviously, James Harden is the man with the ball a whole lot, but opportunities will be there for Ennis.
3. BRADLEY BEAL (Wizards): He's got a sound game and a beautiful shooting touch. Staying healthy and on the floor in the Washington back court with John Wall is the key. They are a lethal combination when they play a lot of games together. Coach Scott Brooks was a good hire for a team that's in a bit of a transition. He's very good at developing guards. Beal just has to stay out there on the floor for it all to take off.
4. CHANDLER PARSONS (Grizzlies): Another guy who has had his share of health issues the past few seasons. If he's right he's a nice pickup via free agency for this offensively challenged team. He's a skilled player with a good feel for moving without the ball and can fill it up as a scorer. He will give Memphis some pop they sorely need. It was a bit of a risky signing, but if he plays a lot it will be a big payoff.
5. ROBIN LOPEZ (Bulls): He really impressed me in his time with the Knicks. He's not as skilled as his brother, but this guy plays super hard. I loved him with the Blazers as well. He doesn't cheat the game one bit. He rebounds, defends and competes. Guys with a motor like his are always good to have. You can count on him and trust him.