our defense has been pretty meh to bad all preseason. having vando out there for 20+mpg would change that, imo. as it stands, we're going to just get outscored on some nights, even by inferior teams (are we playing sacramento early?).
Could have used his def in Durant tonight. Prince had some good steals with quick hands but Vando has the size and length.
Yeah that bench is short on defense. Vando has a role after all I think we play Sac in like the 4th game
With how our overall defensive performances have been looking, AD and pre-season games notwithstanding, it appears Vando is a need, not luxury, as well.
Jarred has his role, he's been in the league long enough, to get an idea of what he brings to the table. He's a disruptor, hustle guy, he's not going to go out and lock down high end scorers, but he can make plays that win you games.
Yes, I agree, I just mean for the first game it would be a luxury to have Vando back. It’s not happening but I like Prince and Rui. We are very thin at PG and no Vincent would be a disaster against Denver and Murray.
Max and Reddish haven't played all that well in pre-season - think we need Vando particularly in the regular season
yeah; the defense was not impressive in the preseason, and i think that will be a season-long thing. the offense will be good, though. you mean like when he ate booker's lunch last year?
they also let some no-calls go on him on offense. not sure what he did to the refs, but they don't like him out of the box.
So apparently Ham said something after the last practice which suggested that Prince is only starting because Vando is out?
Well .... not like that exactly. Post Jovan Buha @jovanbuha "Darvin Ham says Taurean Prince will start at small forward on opening night. He says it’s partly circumstantial due to Jarred Vanderbilt’s injury."
He doesn't want to commit and keep both hungry. Prince will naturally start so will have the opportunity to take the place, but while knowing if he doesn't grab it, Vando can take his place. I like it, keep that 5th slot open throughout the season. Rui can get in the fold too. Have continuity but not be afraid to change. Plugging in Vando or Rui for Prince doesn't affect the continuity Ham is smart in is communication. He grew a lot the past year. Just like when he said AD was going to shoot 6 threes a game. That wasn't literal. Was meant to empower AD and show he trusts his shot while keeping teams guessing. I doubt he shoots 6 threes in the season. He averaged under 3 a game during preseason. That should be his line
PLUS it seemed like Vando indeed was our best shot last year, even with Schroder here, and bothering the most potent 1 - 3 scorers on the other team. Look who they sicced him on once he arrived and did seem best equipped to do that. Dennis was good of course but very short.