11 points, 3 blocks, 6 rebounds, 1 steal, and 1 assist. Nice 2-way game for Zu. He and Larry played well together.
He needs work on his awareness. There were times the Thunder beat him to the ball because he just wasn't putting himself in the right spots. That being said, he played a very good game. Check this out: Kanter was 2/12 from the field. Kanter is known as an offensive post player and Zu did a tremendous job against him. Zu has a ton of room to grow but he looks like a real prospect. He's got a quick learning curve and an earnest demeanor.
And that's against a "just as big, but stronger" Adam's. That's a good battle for Zu. Now. Not in 3 years.
That Pau fundamental thing of not bringing the ball down... the first thing, IIRC, Bynum was taught... Zu has is down pat.
I love the confidence and self awareness Zu has. Answering questions a couple days ago he was genuinely excited when he said how much better he is now than in summer league.
He definitely benefitted from being in the D League. For me, Zu can develop his strength and really control the paint, from a defense and rebounding point of view. His finishing around the rim is almost elite without having to dunk the ball.
I really wish there was video of this but after last night's game Spectrum SportNet during the postgame show was interviewing Zu and talking about the challenge the Lakers coaches threw at him before the game on asking Zu if they wanted to send the double or if he got Kanter himself. The look on Zu's face was priceless, like a 15 year old vet like why are you asking me that. Zu said he made his 1st basket on me and then struggled the rest of the game. Quotes don't do Zu justice here, it was short, cool, and funny
