Apr 1, 2015
Thoughts on DeRozan, Harden and more
TSN's Jack Armstrong offers his thoughts on DeMar DeRozan, Chris Mullin, James Harden, Ricky Rubio and the final two playoff spots in the Eastern Conference in his latest edition of Five Quick Thoughts.
TSN's Jack Armstrong offers his thoughts on DeMar DeRozan, Chris Mullin, James Harden, Ricky Rubio and the final two playoff spots in the Eastern Conference in his latest edition of Five Quick Thoughts.
1. DEMAR DEROZAN (Raptors): Had a fabulous month of March. When I reflect on it, three areas jumped out at me: A) He's been so much more patient and selective as an offensive player. Reading defenses well and knows what truly works for him. B) Passing the ball as a playmaker - he's really recognizing what opportunities exist for teammates and delivering the ball at the right time to proper spots. C) Rebounding. I don't know what it is but I just see him more assertive, physical and confident in this area. He's getting results.
2. CHRIS MULLIN (St. John's): Hall of Famer takes this job at his Alma Mater and folks in NYC are pumped up about it. The former Warriors and Kings executive has never coached but as long as he puts together a staff that can recruit he'll figure it out in time. He's a smart guy with solid instincts. Not a lot of returning talent to work with but he will attract players and that's what you have to have.
3. JAMES HARDEN (Rockets): Simply put - if I had a MVP ballot in front of me today, he'd get my vote. I was on the Steph Curry bandwagon for a while but I'm now in his camp. He has carried his team every way imaginable. Really impressive.
4. RICKY RUBIO (T'WOLVES): Even though he has close to a 3-1 assist/turnover ratio, his shooting percentage numbers need to significantly improve. He's only shooting 35 and 25 per cent from the field and distance. To be a top notch point guard he has to be so much more efficient and productive. Defences lay off of him and play him for the drive often which hurts his effectiveness. Must be major point of emphasis this summer.
5. EAST SPOTS (7 and 8 SEEDS): It's going to come down to the last days of the season with five teams vying for two spots separated by 2.5 games and the Raptors will be in the thick of it with six games vs. Brooklyn, Miami, Charlotte twice and Boston twice. I like this; desperate opponents will bring out the best quality of competition which is vital as they prepare for the playoffs. Don't be fooled by the opponents records - they'll be bringing their best effort. Better not sleep on them. They'll be very hard to beat.