He has to part of a failed trade or something. I failed to see why it was worth buying a pick and a roster spot for him. Made the same traveling errors repeatedly, can't shoot, even free throws look weird.
He’s very raw. But with his frame and apparent feel for the game, he could eventually develop into a solid piece in 2-3 years. Maybe he’s a hard worker and soaking up the knowledge of Lebron and Rondo unlock his potential. Or he never cracks a minute of significant NBA playtime. Overall, don’t see why we traded for him yet alone why we gave him a guaranteed roster spot before Svi.
I’d be annoyed if anyone of actual note was selected after him, but they don’t seem to have been, except by us with Svi. But Bonga himself, RAW as hell. Like wow, dude doesn’t even know what traveling is, has trouble not getting ahead of his own feet, can’t shoot, can’t finish. His only real skill is his size which allows him to see over the defense to make passes, go after offensive boards, attempt to alter shots in the lane.
This isn't the German league anymore... Bonga is going against players that are physically mature and much better competition. Keeps his composure out there but ya he is raw looks overmatched. Then again he is just a kid.
Basically this and also he's absolutely got to take open shots. He shuffles his feet almost every time, but I implore everyone to be patient. He's been here for like 2 days or something. He's got great vision and incredibly unique size. I'm really excited about this kid's potential, he just needs time to marinate and learn this type of game.
he's a year away from being a year away. those foot shuffles will get cleared up, and a lot of the other stuff is just lack of familiarity with the other players and the system. just gotta trust the scouting department at this point. they clearly think he has something special.
Never heard of Julian Wright...must be why. Bonga is acclimating himself to new teammates and style of play which makes him look passive.
Some of that are habits he already had in Germany, notably passing up open shots. If he's going to make it in the NBA, he needs to make those corner threes. He has time to get stronger and learn to finish in the lane. He's already got the bones for competent defense and creating as a guard. I definitely see what the FO sees in him, but he's a project nonetheless.
Slow release on his shot which could be problematic... Appears coachable with a good demeanor about him. Bonga still has to fill out physically.
https://theathletic.com/425104/2018...ac-bonga-wouldnt-be-the-first-for-the-lakers/ The kid grew up watching tapes on Magic that his coach laid out for him as a template. The Lakers apparently didn't just promise to draft him, but promised to bring him over. Magic definitely saw some of himself in the kid.
It's astonishing hearing how high we were/are on this guy. I hope he pans out just to see what Magic sees of him in his mind.
Ah...that's a bit of a reach. Johnson at the same age was making a mockery of defenders on the open floor. Something that innate can't be replicated. It doesn't mean it can't be grown and fostered but... Ehhhh (shakes head). I hope I'm wrong.
No the article is clear that he doesn't thing Bonga will be Magic or even like Magic as a player. It's simply that Magic saw a point guard in a big man's body and that he wanted to foster those talents.
Of course, just tempering the expectations. Bonga has the tools that can be polished. He sees the floor well and would rather hit the open player. Bonga just has to fill up that frame. Right now a stiff wind could blow him over. Bring Bonga along slowly, put him in situations for success.
