Right after that nice slam, I see lackadaisical confused play. He's not ready for the big time yet. But that frame would have anyone drooling if he can figure out how to put it all together.
He's no brain surgeon, for sure, but he's benefited from this stint in the D-league. I think he needs time with an NBA coach now.
12 and 8 with a block in 25 minutes tonight. He's giving some consistent numbers now. I agree that he doesn't always know what he's doing on the court, but the fire that he showed on that putback and running the floor is pretty different from where he was early on. He's much more engaged now.
Good stuff. Do you know exactly when the D-League ends, Trodgers? I think it's April, right? I thought it was January.
I didn't see any athleticism, awareness, or coordination from him in preseason like I did on that put-back dunk. He still moves like an awkward big man, but he looks like he's at least progressed some physically from when we cut him. Hopefully that leads to a bench spot with us, I'd still rather have him as a 3rd big than Sacre.
Good article breaking down Upshaw's game last night (with GIFs): http://www.silverscreenandroll.com/...es-highlights-video-stats-film-analysis-87ers In 16.8 minutes, he's averaging 6.4 points and 4.7 boards, but over his last four games, he's totaled: 79 minutes (19.8 per game) 43 points (10.8 per game) 32 rebounds (8.0 per game) His per36 minute numbers are on the rise, too: 13.8 points 10.1 rebounds
I don't know how to feel about this guy any more. I could be flippant and say it's nice I guess that he is finally getting in NBA game shape (?). After being released from his 2nd college program 9-10 months ago? Or maybe he was way overhyped because of the level of competition in his conference, or just because he could block shots and not do much of anything else. Haven't seen the Defenders games so it does sound from what you're faithfully reporting to us that he is finally making good progress toward making an NBA squad.
He played a specialized role at UW. They played a zone and funneled dribblers to him to block. He's had to learn how to help in a more traditional set.
Upshaw earned the start, played 27 minutes (season high), scored 14 points (season high), with 13 rebounds (season high) (4 offensive), 1 assist, and 5 blocks (season high). He has pushed his scoring up to 5.27, Passing 1.55, and Hustle up to 3.68. He's at 78 overall offensive efficiency. He's now up to 6.9 PPG and 5.2 RPG and 14.3 PP36 and 10.9 RP36 And over his last five: 21.2 MPG 11.4 PPG 9.0 RPG
D-fenders will be on NBATV today at 1 PM Eastern. If you're looking for your fix of Kelly and Black, they might be available, too. Michael Stockton (yes, that Stockton) plays for the Canton Charge, their opponents today.
Tarik struggling. Kelly just got a T. Upshaw not dressed. D-Fenders down double digits in the fourth.
Is Michael a "pasty gangsta" too? Because of his dirt......errr.....chippy play Jim Rome used to call his pops that.
Upshaw went on that awesome run, and then he suddenly stopped playing right before the D-league Showcase. Word is he's dealing with a "viral infection," and will miss the Showcase. I'm no conspiracy theorist, but wait, yes, I am, at least when it comes to sports. D-fenders about to start, btw.
