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TSN Basketball Analyst

Archive

1. Kobe Bryant (Lakers)

When I do word association with this guy, the word that comes up is relentless. What an amazing competitor. You look at guys who have played in the past 10-15 years and nobody was a better competitor. He was cold-blooded; a winner; a champion. Thanks for a terrific run. I'm really looking forward to next Monday, Dec 7 ,in Toronto.

Fingers crossed he returns for All-Star Weekend in Toronto in February for a deserving farewell.  

2. Festus Ezeli (Warriors)

There's so much focus on their offence, but this guy brings terrific energy and toughness to their front line. His willingness to play rugged defence, block shots and rebound on both ends is an underrated element of their success, yet critical. He's a true professional that gives it his all each game.    

3. Zaza Pachulia (Mavericks)

Pachulia is averaging close to a double-double and making folks come to grips with the frustration of losing the DeAndre Jordan free agent sweepstakes. The man plays hard and rugged. He's been consistently productive for them and a reliable element for Rick Carlisle.   

4. Paul Millsap (Hawks)

When I think of career consistency in Utah and now Atlanta-you're looking at it. Does he wow you? No. You don't need sizzle, you need the substance of daily winning habits that he has. Millsap is a skilled post guy who is effective equally in the lane and on the perimeter. His reliability as a defender and rebounder are what coaches just love.     

5. Otto Porter Jr. (Wizards)

I like his overall improvement. He's a long athletic defender who makes it difficult on the perimeter to get easy looks. Nice lateral quicks and his wing span is impressive. His offensive game is getting more polished along with his confidence and he shoots it from deep effectively when his feet are set. Porter Jr. has taken on the added minutes and looks good doing it. 

   

6. Doug McDermott (Bulls)

McDermott is getting more minutes and settling in to a solid groove. He's a terrific shooter who was a big time scorer in college at Creighton. Injuries were an issue a year ago, but is now able to establish a nightly rhythm on the court. Only time will tell how good he can become, but he has the size and skill to be a good one. McDermott has his opportunity and his usage of it will define his development.