I figured since 2 of our guys are down there, we should probably keep an eye on them.

And then there is Mateen.

Keep his ass out of here, he's got his own thread.

http://www.nba.com/dleague/fayetteville/

Roster: (Acker is not shown yet)
http://www.nba.com/dleague/fayetteville/roster/index.html

The Patriots take on the Roanoke Dazzle http://www.nba.com/dleague/roanoke/ tonight at 7:30 pm in Fayetteville.

Got OGT?

I think Alex Acker will do pretty well in the NBDL. I just hope they play him as a two guard because I think the idea of having him as a point is a joke.


I was watching some footage of some NBDL games the other day and the stands was like a Nets game.......empty.

SUPPORT THE NBDL!

(and the WNBA)

It defeats the purpose of sending him down to the D-League if he is not going to play the point at least some of the time.

Fayetteville assignment should benefit Johnson
By Sammy Batten
http://www.fayettevillenc.com/article?id=227710


Amir Johnson had an unusual reaction when he was informed that he would be leaving the NBA’s best team to come to Fayetteville and play in the Development League.

Johnson, a 6-foot-9 rookie with the Detroit Pistons, had played in just one game this season when summoned last week to the office of the team’s president of basketball operations, Joe Dumars. Dumars told Johnson the Pistons were considering sending him to the D-League, the NBA’s minor league.

“When he told me, I was really happy because it was a chance for me to get some playing time. I was excited,’’ Johnson said Thursday as he made final preparations for his Fayetteville debut today against the Roanoke Dazzle at the Crown Coliseum.

Johnson will be one of four players in a Fayetteville uniform who have appeared an NBA game this season. The others include point guard Mateen Cleaves (Seattle), guard Melvin Sanders (San Antonio) and forward Kaniel Dickens (L.A. Clippers).

A fifth, guard Alex Acker, is expected to arrive in town today, according to Detroit’s director of player development, Ryan Hoover. Hoover, who accompanied Johnson to Fayetteville, did not know if Acker would suit up for the Patriots today. Fayetteville is the D-League affiliate for the Pistons.

Fresh out of high school

Johnson, who won’t turn 19 until May 1, is the youngest player in that group. In fact, a year ago at this time he was leading Westchester High School in Los Angeles to a state championship.

Mr. Basketball for California and McDonald’s All-America honors followed for Johnson. So did a ton of college scholarship offers, including one from Louisville, where he orally committed. But like many in recent years, Johnson decided to make the jump directly from high school to the professional ranks.

“For me, I had three options: college, prep school or NBA,’’ Johnson said. “Why not choose the NBA? It’s like the highest level you can go. It wasn’t a difficult decision for me.’’

The Pistons rewarded that decision by making him a second-round pick and the 56th selection overall in last year’s NBA draft.

Learning from the best

The situation in Detroit has been positive for Johnson. He’s been exposed to the NBA lifestyle, he’s gotten the opportunity to suit up for one of the leading contenders for the world championship and he’s been tutored by some of the league’s best big men in Rasheed Wallace and Ben Wallace.

But because the Pistons are so talented, there was a limited supply of playing time for Johnson. His only appearance of the season came Jan. 24 against Minnesota.

“The Pistons are a great team to be with,’’ Johnson said. “Everyone in the organization has taken me under their wing, from the coaches to the players, everybody. The team has a swagger when they go out on the court. They know they’re going to win, and that’s exciting to be part of that.

“But now I think they want to see me get out there on the court and show what I’ve learned. And I’m fine with that. I’m really anxious to get out there tomorrow night. I’m going to be playing hard.’’

Hoover said the Pistons felt the timing was right to send Johnson to the D-League for several reasons, one of which was the Patriots’ schedule. The team will play 15 games over the next 28 days and that will give Johnson more opportunities to see action.

“There comes a point in an NBA season where it’s such a grind,’’ Hoover said. “There are 82 games and these guys only practice for approximately 45 minutes, if that. So with this coming month, with you guys (the Patriots) playing game after game after game, that was very appealing to us. He can get out on the floor and run and have fun and just get that experience on that court.’’

Filling a void inside

Johnson’s arrival came at an opportune time for the Patriots. Power forward Sherrod Ford, who had averaged 13 points in 15 games with Fayetteville, left the team to accept a contract to play professionally in Berlin, Germany.

Patriots coach Mike Brown has been impressed with Johnson’s talent in the three workouts since he arrived. He’s hoping the additions of Johnson and Acker can help Fayetteville (6-24) pull itself out of the D-League cellar.

“It’s coming together,’’ Brown said. “We’ve just got to put together a string of victories. Everyone is ahead of us, so our thing is to constantly gain ground. And those teams, amongst themselves, are going to be knocking each other off. But we just need to take care and win our games.’’

I don't know if it was posted here, but Glyniadakis was waived about a week ago from Roanoke. Who knows where he is now.

Acker needs to play the point there. I would also like to see Amir play SF. Those are the positions they would probably have to play here in the NBA, so why play them at something else?

I dont know if this is old but Cleaves put up 35 pts and 9 assists.

Amir is a beast... 0 points (0-1FG), 0 rebounds, 2 PFs, 1 TO so far.

[smilie=anxious.gif]

EDIT: Make that 3 fouls

The do call fouls like friggin crazy in the D-Leagues though - like they're going out of style. Probably tyring to break the kids of any bad habits and make them work on their footwork and such instead of "cheating" that they could maybe get away with in the NBA.

Also Amir practicing with the Wallace Bros and Co. probably plays a little more physical that most. I'm sure he'll come around with playing time. He's going to be down there for the month at least - 15 games.

Alex Acker is playing as well, has 6 points and a rebound in zero minutes(??).

I thought there wasn't going to be a three point line in the NBDL? Was that the CBA maybe???

Acker now has 10 points on 3-4 shooting and 4-4 fro the line. Johnson is parked on the bench with his fouls it seems.

.....so we sent amir and alex down so they could play 10 minutes per game?

nevermind. They're back in the game and they're both playing very well.

Acker: 21 points on 6-10 shooting (only 1 assits)

Amir: 9 and 5 since re-entering the game with 3 fouls.

Patriots win, 132-120.

Amir Johnson 18 minutes 5-12 FGs 6-8 FTs 16 points, 8 boards and 5 fouls.

Alex Acker- 21 minutes 8-13 FGs 2-3 3-pointers 10-10 FTs 28 points, 3 boards 1 assist.

Mateen with another 34-point, 12-assist game, as a side note.

Both have pretty impressive statlines really. Acker looks to have played 2-guard though and his one asist is disappointing.

Amir did all his damage in 13 minutes, as he was o'fer across the board(3 fouls) after his first finve minutes.

Then you see Mateen Cleaves dominating and it puts everything into perspective...

I think that's pretty good considering it's their first game on the team. Acker's got quite a shot and didn't miss once from the freethrow line.

The reason why Amir has been called for fouls is because he's been playing with the Pistons, as Kilo said.

For the minutes that they played, it looks like they did a solid job.

Anyone care to expand more on their play? Do they even play defense in the DLeague? How did Amir's shot look?

And what positions did they play? I am guessing that Acker played SG because he only had 1 assists but what about Amir? Did he play SF or PF?

Sun, Mar 5
Patriots @ Florida
5:00 pm

GAME TIME

http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20060305/FAYFLA/livestats.html

The Flame is (are?) going down!!

[smilie=hitlerdance:

[smilie=hitlerdance:

[smilie=hitlerdance:

[smilie=hitlerdance:

http://www.nba.com/media/dleague/barrett_184_060302.jpg

Glenn's Keys:
1. Contain Bracey Wright.

2. Keep Duane Erwin and George Leach off the glass.

3. Defend the 3! The Flame is shooting .338 from downtown this year.

4. Run some Jap plays.

Fayetteville blows 'em out 113-93.

Alex Acker - 16m|14points(6-9)|5rebounds|5Assists
Amir Johnson - 19m|16points(6-7)|9rebounds|2blocks

Fayetteville blows 'em out 113-93.

Alex Acker - 16m|14points(6-9)|5rebounds|5Assists
Amir Johnson - 19m|16points(6-7)|9rebounds|2blocks

Didn't Fayetteville suck before Acker and Amir went down there?

Fayetteville blows 'em out 113-93.

Alex Acker - 16m|14points(6-9)|5rebounds|5Assists
Amir Johnson - 19m|16points(6-7)|9rebounds|2blocks

Didn't Fayetteville suck before Acker and Amir went down there?

Yea, they were awful. Like 6-24 before they went down. They're 2-0 since [smilie=applause.gi:

Mateen Cleaves has also really helped them out.

Glenn's Keys:
1. Contain Bracey Wright.

2. Keep Duane Erwin and George Leach off the glass.

3. Defend the 3! The Flame is shooting .338 from downtown this year.

4. Run some Jap plays.LMFAO!!!HSA#))U*(FE*#P$@!!!

For the minutes that they played, it looks like they did a solid job.

Anyone care to expand more on their play? Do they even play defense in the DLeague? How did Amir's shot look?

And what positions did they play? I am guessing that Acker played SG because he only had 1 assists but what about Amir? Did he play SF or PF?


Johnson’s arrival came at an opportune time for the Patriots. Power forward Sherrod Ford, who had averaged 13 points in 15 games with Fayetteville, left the team to accept a contract to play professionally in Berlin, Germany.
http://www.fayettevillenc.com/print?id=227710&type=article

So what position is Amir playing?

Should we rotate Jason Maxiell down should Kelvin Cato get activated anytime soon?? Kid looks terrible in garbage minutes and I think he could use the extended time as well.

Florida was playing without it's top 3 scorers, but I'm not sure why.

The Patroits are running in Florida's gym again tomorrow night. I'm looking for another blowout.

The league talent level is absolute shit. I don't think anything can be learned from watching kids play down there. Any league that Pape Sow and Mateen Cleaves can dominate should fold.

^^Hey now, Pape could be a player.

Mateen on the other hand... Yeah I know what you're getting at now.

Anybody got any pics of Amir and Acker in action during the past 2 games?

Isn't it possible that Mateen is no longer a complete waste of space?

I'm sure he's not NBA starter material but isn't it possible he could be a decent third string PG?

Or did he not work on his game the last 5 years at all?

BTW:

Amir is killing 'em - gotta love that.

Are there any "highlight" vids?

Isn't it possible that Mateen is no longer a complete waste of space?

I'm sure he's not NBA starter material but isn't it possible he could be a decent third string PG?

Or did he not work on his game the last 5 years at all?

BTW:

Amir is killing 'em - gotta love that.

Are there any "highlight" vids?
Im curious about amir's one on one game. His ability to finish off a set up seems solid so far. but who knows.

I'm curious about all of Amir's game. All I know is that he's a good dunker.

Amir has a fantastic shooting touch. He just has a horribly-low release on his shot.

In addition to his leaping ability, he has excellent hands.

If he ever puts on 20 lbs, he could be everything Jonathan Bender could have been if he wasn't injury-prone. He's got all the same tools.

Amir has a fantastic shooting touch. He just has a horribly-low release on his shot.

In addition to his leaping ability, he has excellent hands.

So I assume that you watched them play?

Can you tell me what postion Amir is playing? Based on this article, I am assuming that he is going to play PF.


Johnson’s arrival came at an opportune time for the Patriots. Power forward Sherrod Ford, who had averaged 13 points in 15 games with Fayetteville, left the team to accept a contract to play professionally in Berlin, Germany.
http://www.fayettevillenc.com/print?id=227710&type=article

Amir has a fantastic shooting touch. He just has a horribly-low release on his shot.

In addition to his leaping ability, he has excellent hands.

So I assume that you watched them play?

Can you tell me what postion Amir is playing? Based on this article, I am assuming that he is going to play PF.

I watched him play several times in summer league, plus a little in preseason.

I have to assume he's playing power forward in the NBDL, but in the NBA, Amir is a small forward. He'll never have the bulk to bang down low, nor have I seen any post moves from him.

What I have seen from him does make me wonder why the hell he dropped to round 2. Yes, he'll need 2 years to become a legit NBA contributor, but his upside really isn't that different from Travis Outlaw, who is in the same boat. Amir's got an NBA body, he's very gifted physically, I don't get how he dropped so low.

Two obstacles I see from Amir: develop a better handle, and a higher release on his shot. If he puts those two things together, he'll be an active player on our roster.

Supposedly he's worked on his shot quite a bit, copying Rasheed's high release with solid results.

Also it was said around draft time that he had the body that could really bulk up once a professional S&C coach/trainer got a hold of him. If he can get up to 240 without impacting his athleticism he could be a player in the NBA.

The kid is supposed to be a gym rat, so if he fails it will not be for lack of putting the work in. The D-Leagues is a step up in competition for Amir, but isn't worth Ackers time really.

Acker has personal reasons to be there. He is a free agent after this year is over and this is his chance to audition for a contract. The Pistons also want him to be there to be a companion of Amir.

I believe we have a team option, and the way Dumars raves about the kid, you have to figure it will be picked up. Playing time is always better than riding the inactive list I guess, though I hope he is getting some PG minutes.

This would be a nice break for Amir's mother as well, as she's probably gone home for the month, after leaving the rest of the family behind to live with Amir in Detroit. Did his mother travel on roadies??

FWIW a poster over at RGM did see the game and said Amir looked pretty lost and a lot skinnier than the rest of the players, though Acker looked really good.

I saw both players in person at the Summer league (2 games).

Acker: From what I saw Acker looked pretty much NBA ready as a SG that can handle the ball. He is just very smooth. He just has a knack for getting to spots where he can score. His shot was pretty much automatic when I saw him. I think it will just take him a bit to adjust to running an offense and the superior athleticism/quickness in the NBA.

Overall I think Acker is probably as close to a sure thing you're gonna find out of a 60th pick. I just can't see a guy with his shooting stroke, those long arms, handles, and general court savvy not being at least a solid player in this league. IMO, we'd be better off giving him some time at the shooting guard spot, and developing the point guards skills as he goes. I think forcing to run the offense right away will definately slow down his transition to the NBA.

Amir: Obviously his athleticism is why he's in the NBA. The guy can fly for his 6-9/6-10 height. If he grows to a true 6-10/6-11 I don't see why he couldn't be a PF in the vein of Chris Bosh (notice I italicized "in the vein". Don't want to look like a huge homer here). Obviously he'll have to get bigger and stronger, but he really looks like he will. Especially with the work ethic everyone says he has.

As for the bad with Amir.... He just looks kind of awkward out there. He's pretty "herky jerky" in the post (yes, that's the technical term), and his shooting mechanics are laughable. Hopefully Kilo is right that he changed his shot. I'd imagine with his old shot mechanics he would get swatted constantly. I did notice a month or so back during a Flip interview on TV that it looked like Amir was in the background shooting jumpers with a higher release. I only noticed it for a second though, so I can't be sure.

Contrary to Kstat, I didn't really notice the "excellent hands" though. He seemed to fumble the ball quite a bit when he got it, and just looked a little out-of-sync with himself. Maybe it's just a case of him still growing into his body.

Overall, if he develops that jumpshot and handles, who knows how good the kid can be. His ceiling is through the roof, but he's got a lot to work on. I'd say give him 2-3 more years before we expect anything out of him.

Great analysis there, FP22. [smilie=2thumbsup.g:

KSTAT, so your saying Amir plays the 3? I thought he was more of a 4 and would be to slow to play the 3.

Anyone have any vids? Slasher?

KSTAT, so your saying Amir plays the 3? I thought he was more of a 4 and would be to slow to play the 3.

Anyone have any vids? Slasher?

I read it somewhere that they project him as a DMiles type at the 3.

I believe that he is playing the three nowbecause he is to physically slight to bang with the big boys in practice and such and that they are hedging their bets just in case he can't bulk up. If he can add solid muscle/weight, then the skills he's learning as a SF will only benefit him when he moves over to become a PF. How much do you think Bosh weighed in his first year of college?? Bosh could play the four there because he was playing/practising against other 18-19-20 yr olds with underdeveloped bodies, Amir is playing/practicing against fully grown men, and the Pistons are looking out for his physical and mental well-being.

FP, I said he had excellent hands in that he had a great shooting touch and he almost never fumbles a rebound.

If you read my post I SAID he had to improve his ballhandling skills.


KSTAT, so your saying Amir plays the 3? I thought he was more of a 4 and would be to slow to play the 3.

He's not slow at all. He can keep up with most NBA small forwards.

Amir is never going to be quite strong enough to bang down low with power forwards, nor does he have any NBA post moves.

At small forward, he's bigger that almost anyone, and he can use his size to slahs and score in the paint, as well as get a lot of boards.

he has to be quicker than Corliss keeping up with SF's.

he has to be quicker than Corliss keeping up with SF's.

He's a lot quicker than Corliss.

His only obstacle is his ballhandling skills. He's got plenty of speed.

How many 18 yr olds have NBA post moves???

The Champagne Room is filled with that shit.

The Champagne Room is filled with that shit.

ball handeling skills and post moves??

The Champagne Room is filled with that shit.LOLOLOLOL

i do hope Amir works on that jumper....he shoots it like a middle school kid with the ball down by his chin. that was footage from back in summer league, so i'm guessing NBA assistant coaches went to fix that immediately.

Alex: 24 min, 4 pts (1-9 FG, 2-3 FT), 1 board, 5 Ast, 5 TOs
Amir: 19 min, 8 pts (2-5 FG, 4-4 FT), 7 boards, 1 blk

Yikes.... Did Acker just have the worst game in the history of the D-League?

i do hope Amir works on that jumper....he shoots it like a middle school kid with the ball down by his chin. that was footage from back in summer league, so i'm guessing NBA assistant coaches went to fix that immediately.

The positive part is that he DOES have a very nice shooting touch, and hopefully he'll keep that when he changes his release.

Yikes.... Did Acker just have the worst game in the history of the D-League?

Tired legs

The Champagne Room is filled with that shit.
you mean cheerleaders with pig tails? [smilie=arrgh.jpg]
http://www.members.cox.net/sandijo/8893.jpg

The Champagne Room is filled with that shit.
you mean cheerleaders with pig tails? [smilie=arrgh.jpg]
http://www.members.cox.net/sandijo/8893.jpgI love cheerleaders with pigtails that look like that.

Thu 9 Florida 7:30pm (135-95 W)
Alex: 29 min, 13 pts (5-10 FG, 1-2 3FG), 3 boards, 4 Ast, 2 steals 1 TO
Amir: 28 min, 22 pts (9-15 FG, 4-4 FT), 10 boards, 1 blk, 4 steals

Very nice game from Amir tonight. Solid game from Alex as well. And how about a 40 point win!? Wow..

Nothing Acker will do in the D-League will impress me, as it's probably a step down from where he was playing last year in Division-1 NCAA. Amir Johnson on the other hand is damn impressive considering he's an 18 yrs old high schooler.

What kind of numbers have other 2005 draftees put up in their stints in the NBA-DL?? I know Green was down, Miami's next phenom Dorrell Wright was down...

Thu 9 Florida 7:30pm (135-95 W)
Alex: 29 min, 13 pts (5-10 FG, 1-2 3FG), 3 boards, 4 Ast, 2 steals 1 TO
Amir: 28 min, 22 pts (9-15 FG, 4-4 FT), 10 boards, 1 blk, 4 steals

Very nice game from Amir tonight. Solid game from Alex as well. And how about a 40 point win!? Wow..
Well maybe this proves that they are capable players. Its just a matter of what it translates to in the pro level. But if they make that sissy squad better near unbeatable, thats a good thing. I think Amir is a guy who can come in and do things off raw athletics either way. Its Acker who really needs to get some time balling on any level period. He needs to start getting any sign of nervousness out his system.

Nothing Acker will do in the D-League will impress me, as it's probably a step down from where he was playing last year in Division-1 NCAA. Amir Johnson on the other hand is damn impressive considering he's an 18 yrs old high schooler.

What kind of numbers have other 2005 draftees put up in their stints in the NBA-DL?? I know Green was down, Miami's next phenom Dorrell Wright was down...
i'm partially impressed. But athletics wise, he's probally the most athletic guy in the DLeague. Amir=KG down there. I still think its solid effort on both their parts. Dont be too hard on Acker when you dont give Darko a hard time. [smilie=arnold.gif] ...

What kind of numbers have other 2005 draftees put up in their stints in the NBA-DL?? I know Green was down, Miami's next phenom Dorrell Wright was down...

Gerald Green- 11 Games, 11.9ppg, 4.9rpg
Dorell Wright- 6 games, 12.2ppg, 3.8rpg

If Amir keeps balling, I wonder if he might get a chance to grab some backup minutes behind Tay once we get the #1 seed locked up?

http://www.fayettevillenc.com/article?id=228254


Patriots continue late-season surge

By Sammy Batten
Staff writer

Florida Flame coach Jeff Malone was so desperate for help late Thursday evening that he was considering fantasy options.

“I’m going to call Miami and see if they can send (Dwyane) Wade and Shaq (O’Neal) to us,’’ said Malone, referring to the stars of the Flame’s NBA affiliate, the Miami Heat.

But even those two NBA All-stars might not have been able to save the Flame from the Fayetteville Patriots.

Eight of 10 players scored in double figures and the Patriots converted 58.8 percent of their shots to blow out Florida 135-95 before a crowd of 807 at the Crown Coliseum.

The triumph was the third in four games for Fayetteville (9-25), which is trying to escape the cellar in the NBA Development League standings.

“This was one of our better games of the year,’’ said forward Erik Daniels, who along with forward Kevin Johnson and guard Darnell Miller are the only players who have been with the Patriots since the season began in November.

“Everybody is starting to get used to playing with each other. We’ve got ourselves a nice little nucleus now. We’re pretty deep and everybody can do a lot of things. We’ve still got plenty of time. Anything is possible.’’

The top four in the eight-team league qualify for the playoffs. Fayetteville has 14 games remaining in the regular season, including six of the next seven at home. But the Patriots must pass Tulsa (16-20), Albuquerque (18-19), Arkansas (19-19) and Roanoke (19-19) to reach fourth place.

Florida (21-16) is tied for second place, but has lost six of its past seven games. The Flame has struggled in the absence of its top three players, Bracey Wright, Theron Smith and Andre Barrett.

Barrett was called up to the NBA’s Phoenix Suns on March 1, while Wright (foot) and Smith (knee) are out with injuries. Together, they produced nearly 54 points a game.

Fayetteville was so dominant Thursday that Malone jokingly asked Wright, who was on the bench in street clothes, if he wanted to play.

The Flame didn’t need any help early as they led for most of the first quarter. But a 21-4 run turned a one-point deficit at the 3:08 mark of the first quarter into a 37-21 advantage for the Patriots with 10:05 left in the second.

Patriots make stops
Fayetteville coach Mike Brown said defense was the big difference in that run, and in the victory.

“On the defensive end, we were able to stop people and that led to a lot of easy baskets,’’ Brown said. “We were talking to each other tonight, and that’s an essential part of good defense.’’

The final 40-point advantage was the largest lead of the game for Fayetteville and gave the Patriots their biggest margin of victory this season. The previous high was a 20-point win against Florida on March 5.

Amir Johnson, who is on assignment from the NBA’s Detroit Pistons, paced Fayetteville with 22 points and 10 rebounds.

The teams are scheduled to meet again at the Crown on Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

wow only 807 people. I would so go to a few games if we had a team up here. Tickets are real cheap why would i not go?

I'm sure I'd make it to a few games myself.

A town like Flint would go nuts over an NBDL team with affiliation to the Pistons.

Sat 11 Florida 7:30pm (101-82 W)
Alex: 26 min, 9 pts (3-10 FG, 2-2 FT), 4 boards, 1 Ast, 1 stl, 1 blk
Amir: 29 min, 18 pts (6-8 FG, 1-1 3FG, 5-5 FT), 6 boards, 4 blk

Amir is 23-25 from the line in 5 games (92%), and he even hit a three today.

[smilie=2thumbsup.g:

4 blocks? thats new from Amir.

As for the FTs, that doesn't really surprise me. The kid has a great shooting touch.

The one thing that suprises me is the fact that before Amir and Acker went down there, Fayetteville sucked ass. They were the worst team in the NBDL and now all of a sudden, they are a force to be reckoned with.

How much of it has to do with Amir and Acker, I don't know.

The one thing that suprises me is the fact that before Amir and Acker went down there, Fayetteville sucked ass. They were the worst team in the NBDL and now all of a sudden, they are a force to be reckoned with.

How much of it has to do with Amir and Acker, I don't know.

Within the past 2 weeks the've added Mateen, Amir, and Acker. That is probably their best 3 players. To add 3 starters suddenly is a big difference.

I wonder how this league compares to college basketball....

A town like Flint would go nuts over an NBDL team with affiliation to the Pistons.
I agree.

They did put a CBA team in the Birch Run Expo Center. Why would a little city like Birch Run get a CBA team? I have no idea. They moved out of there quite quickly.

A town like Flint would go nuts over an NBDL team with affiliation to the Pistons.

Grand Rapids would be even better...

I watched some d-league on nba tv, pretty interesting to watch.

So far most of the games our rooks have played were against Florida... this team has lost 3 of their starters recently due to injury or being called up... they have no size up front...
It might be premature to label the kids even a mild success.
I was glad to hear that they're likely to spend the rest of the year in Fayetteville (per Blakely)...

The only value of them coming back up would be if we locked up HCA so they could get some PT... which prolly won't happen 'til the last week of the season.

I wonder how this league compares to college basketball....
Better talent.. but a much more selfish style of ball... they're all trying to be the one called up...
I usually try to catch a couple games a week... I'd say that passing typically comes when the guy is double teamed.

A town like Flint would go nuts over an NBDL team with affiliation to the Pistons.

Grand Rapids would be even better...

I watched some d-league on nba tv, pretty interesting to watch.

I second the awesomeness that would be the result of having an NBDL team in Grand Rapids affiliated with the Pistons.

Amir had another very solid game. Also, Acker has a great game in mateen's absence.

Amir had another very solid game. Also, Acker has a great game in mateen's absence.

Amir was in the starting lineup at PF and had 21 pts, 5 boards on 9-12 shooting in 27 minutes.
Acker did not start but did play 40 minutes, scoring 23 pts, dishing 8 assists, 5 boards, and notching 3 steals.

Patriots beat the 2nd place Austin Toros 120-110, who recently lost Marcus Fizer to the Sonics.

Amir had another very solid game. Also, Acker has a great game in mateen's absence.

Amir was in the starting lineup at PF and had 21 pts, 5 boards on 9-12 shooting in 27 minutes.
Acker did not start but did play 40 minutes, scoring 23 pts, dishing 8 assists, 5 boards, and notching 3 steals.

Patriots beat the 2nd place Austin Toros 120-110, who recently lost Marcus Fizer to the Sonics.

http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20060312/AUSFAY/boxscore.html

not too shabby.

They had Julius Hodge who was sent down from the Nuggets while Acker stepped right in for Cleaves. Good to see our booys can win even without Cleaves.

Tue 14 Austin 7:30pm (99-94 W)
Alex: 33 min, 14 pts (6-17 FG, 1-5 FT), 4 boards, 6 Asts, 3 steals, 1 blk
Amir: 30 min, 17 pts (8-14 FG, 1-4 FT), 6 boards, 3 blk, 2 steals

Amir's doing really good down there. He's getting some nice PT and nice points. Dont think they have lost yet.

I think they lost once. but not sure.

Either way it's obvious Amir has game.

Acker is worth hanging onto as well.

I think Acker much like Tay will need to develop a more aggressive nature in the pros. But IMO Amir might already have it. The guy much like maxiell goes for the highlight reel in garbage time. So i would like to see how him and maxiell develop for us. Amir i still think will have a better development and a more quicker one than Darko IMO.

If Amir keeps balling, I wonder if he might get a chance to grab some backup minutes behind Tay once we get the #1 seed locked up?

Reposted from last week, because I'm still wondering.

I think long-term Acker is either gonna be a spot-up shooter or a towel boy in the league.

I doubt he can become a defensive stopper, or a good enough ball handler to be a leagit back up PG.

Every game I've seen him play he looks terrified when he's handling. Not a good sign.

Fuck Acker though.

I'm thinking that next season Amir, Maxiell and Delfino are gonna be sick off the bench.

Sure Amir hasn't done shit in the league but after his time in the NBDL and an off-season of training I wouldn't be surprised if he developed into a possible rotation player.

I certainly expect Delfino to improve enough that Flip will have no choice but to play him (hell, Delfino is just about there already)

So that would make Evans the odd man out, IF Amir and Delfino develop enough.

Having Maxiell around is just gravy, since we have Dice.

LOL@Pharaoh for thinking Flip Saunders will play Amir Johnson, Carlos Delfino and Jason Maxiell when he'll likely have Mo Evans, Fred Hoiberg and Antonio McDyess at his disposal.

LOL@Kilo for not reading:


Amir ... possible rotation player.

I certainly expect Delfino to improve enough that Flip will have no choice but to play him (hell, Delfino is just about there already)

So that would make Evans the odd man out, IF Amir and Delfino develop enough.

Having Maxiell around is just gravy, since we have Dice.

It could POSSIBLY happen.

I could POSSIBLY have a threesome in the next 5 minutes.

It's not likely - but 5 minutes is a long fucking time

We need to trade evans. We win the Title i suspect Dice maybe retires or takes an Elden Campbell emergency injury/playoff role. Just a guess though and we gavent won anything yet so first things first.

I highly doubt that Dice retires after this season.

LOL@Kilo for not reading:


Amir ... possible rotation player.

I certainly expect Delfino to improve enough that Flip will have no choice but to play him (hell, Delfino is just about there already)

So that would make Evans the odd man out, IF Amir and Delfino develop enough.

Having Maxiell around is just gravy, since we have Dice.

It could POSSIBLY happen.

I could POSSIBLY have a threesome in the next 5 minutes.

It's not likely - but 5 minutes is a long fucking time

Any updates?

I did log off within 5 minutes of posting that so ....





















No, I didn't have a threesome. I drank 3 beers and went to bed.

Fri 17 Tulsa 7:30pm (120-110 W)
Alex: 48 min, 25 pts (6-20 FG, 13-13 FT), 8 boards, 8 Asts, 4 steals
Amir: 31 min, 24 pts (9-13 FG, 6-8 FT), 5 boards, 1 blk

Acker played 48 and Cleaves was a DNP-CD. I'm guessing Detroit called the Patriot coach and told him to play Evans. Acker was a chucker extraordinaire tonight. I can't believe he outrebounded Amir...

Acker played 48 and Cleaves was a DNP-CD. I'm guessing Detroit called the Patriot coach and told him to play Evans. Acker was a chucker extraordinaire tonight. I can't believe he outrebounded Amir...

They lost their starting SG to the Spurs, so that's probably why Acker had to shoot alot. He started 1 for 10 though, so he must have finished pretty strong.

Acker played 48 and Cleaves was a DNP-CD. I'm guessing Detroit called the Patriot coach and told him to play Evans. Acker was a chucker extraordinaire tonight. I can't believe he outrebounded Amir...
almost had a triple double. nice game outside of the bad shooting.

Sun 19 Tulsa 5:00pm (106-102 W)
Alex: 48 min, 18 pts (5-15 FG, 7-8 FT), 7 boards, 6 Asts, 2 steals, 1 block, 4 TO
Amir: 34 min, 22 pts (9-14 FG, 4-6 FT), 10 boards, 1 blk, 1 ast, 7 TO

That makes it 8-2 since the rooks arrived.

7 turnovers, sheesh. Come on, Amir.

Is Amir playing small forward or the four in the D-League?? I wonder if we have designs on keeping him a three because we'll need somebody equally as big and athletic to guard Lebron James for the next decade.

Hope he's working on shooting threes as well, otherwise he'll never get into the game reguardless...

Hope he's working on shooting threes as well, otherwise he'll never get into the game reguardless...
damn things are fucked up around here because thats probally true. [smilie=arrgh.jpg]

Is Amir playing small forward or the four in the D-League?? I wonder if we have designs on keeping him a three because we'll need somebody equally as big and athletic to guard Lebron James for the next decade.

Hope he's working on shooting threes as well, otherwise he'll never get into the game reguardless...

I'm pretty sure he's playing the 4 in the D-League. He has been listed anywhere from 6-9 210lbs to 6-10 220lbs and he's only 18 years old. So, who knows how much he might grow in a few years. I think they'll model him after Rashard Lewis/Chris Bosh type of players. One of those tweener post-up/jumpshooting athletic big men. I just hope Amir continues to add strength and improve his jumper/ball handling.

thanks for the updates, FP22 :D

A weird thing happens in my brain because 6'10" sounds a lot taller than 6'9" and really ups his potential.

A weird thing happens in my brain because 6'10" sounds a lot taller than 6'9" and really ups his potential.
and odds are he could gain up to an inch in height within the next 3 years. maybe anyways. [smilie=artist.gif]

Ya know this Bosh comparison ain't half bad... I believe Bosh's predraft bio was that he wasn't big/strong enough to play Pf and he lacked a consistent outside shot...
What Amir showed me in the SL was that he's wirey strong... he wasn't getting pushed around down low by heavier bigs.

Not sure where I read this but someone in the Piston org was surprised at Amir's outside shooting (as in better than advertised).

I was hoping he would go down there as a SF and work on his perimiter game.... we've got PF covered for a few years... unless Dice or Sheed are moved.

A weird thing happens in my brain because 6'10" sounds a lot taller than 6'9" and really ups his potential.
and odds are he could gain up to an inch in height within the next 3 years. maybe anyways. [smilie=artist.gif]

Ya never know [smilie=artist.gif]. People do grow.

NICE. [smilie=2thumbsup.g:

2005 Patriots Regular Statistics


PLAYER AVERAGES

Player..................G-GS-MPG-FGP-3PP-FTP-OFF-DEF-TOT-APG-SPG..BPG..TO..PF..PPG
Mateen Cleaves 10 9 34.0 .493 .459 .738 .30 2.70 3.00 7.2 1.40 .10 2.60 3.70 20.0
Amir Johnson __10 5 27.2 .640 1.00 .759 2.90 4.40 7.30 .7 .80 1.80 2.20 4.10 18.8
Alex Acker ____10 3 33.4 .404 .343 .860 1.10 3.60 4.70 4.7 2.20 .60 2.80 2.30 17.5

Obviously NBDL defenses aren't very challenging if Amir is shooting %64 from the field....

On that token, Acker's stats have been a big disappointment. He isnt shooting or passing very well. He is getting a lot of steals, which at least shows he's playing passing lanes well.

grading on the stats, Amir is an A- while Acker is a C.

NICE. [smilie=2thumbsup.g:

2005 Patriots Regular Statistics


PLAYER AVERAGES
REBOUNDS
Player..................G-GS-MPG-FGP-3PP-FTP-OFF-DEF-TOT-APG-SPG..BPG..TO..PF..PPG
Mateen Cleaves 10 9 34.0 .493 .459 .738 .30 2.70 3.00 7.2 1.40 .10 2.60 3.70 20.0
Amir Johnson __10 5 27.2 .640 1.00 .759 2.90 4.40 7.30 .7 .80 1.80 2.20 4.10 18.8
Alex Acker ____10 3 33.4 .404 .343 .860 1.10 3.60 4.70 4.7 2.20 .60 2.80 2.30 17.5

Mateen > Acker [smilie=arrgh.jpg]

Obviously NBDL defenses aren't very challenging if Amir is shooting %64 from the field....

64% is easily the league's best. Next best is some guy who scores about 7 points per game shooting 60%.



On that token, Acker's stats have been a big disappointment. He isnt shooting or passing very well. He is getting a lot of steals, which at least shows he's playing passing lanes well.


I agree mostly, but remember Acker was playing a lot of 2 guard before.

I agree mostly, but remember Acker was playing a lot of 2 guard before.

Then it would be nice to see him shoot better than %40 from the floor against NBDL defenses.

I agree mostly, but remember Acker was playing a lot of 2 guard before.

Then it would be nice to see him shoot better than %40 from the floor against NBDL defenses.

17, 5, 5 and 2 are extremely solid and well-rounded stats.

No one should be too worried about his FG percentages at this point in his career.

He can score, rebound, create and force turnovers (as a whole) better than most anyone in that league. His offensive efficiency will come with more experience.

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060322/SPORTS03/603220375/1051/SPORTS03


ROOKIE DIARY: Alex Acker

Nothing finer than being in Carolina

March 22, 2006

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When we last left Pistons guard Alex Acker, he was languishing on the bench with the Pistons. All that has changed since Detroit assigned him to the Fayetteville (N.C.) Patriots in the NBDL. Acker is averaging 17.5 points and 4.7 assists a game and has helped the Patriots win eight of the 10 games since he arrived through Monday.

It's going really well down here. It's everything I wanted -- just to play and get on the court. There's not a lot going on here in Fayetteville, but I wanted to come to a place where I can just concentrate on basketball. And there's really not that much to do here right now but go to the mall and once you do that, you're basically chilling in your room, watching TV.

At our games, it's nothing like at the Palace. We play in a pretty big arena, and unfortunately the crowd tops out at about 100 people, and they're all spread out. You can call a play and hear the call clear. There's no noise at all. There's no heckling when you shoot free throws.

I've started three games so far. I'm playing both guard spots since Mateen (Cleaves) got injured. We run a lot of different plays, but it's pretty much the same offense. It's just different in how well they execute it down here from the Pistons up there.

At first, I was scared that they wouldn't welcome us. When I got off the plane the first day, they had a game that night and I didn't know if I would be able to play. But the coach was like, "Are you ready to play?" and I was like, "Yeah, I'm ready, man."

Then I turned a corner and I saw my jersey with No. 6 and "Acker" on it, and I got excited.

It's nice having Amir (Johnson) here -- someone you can relate to. And Mateen Cleaves, he's been giving me a lot of advice and pointers. Amir and I have played well together on the screen and rolls. The Pistons keep asking me, how are you doing, is everything all right, are you eating good? And we're all right. We're playing -- so we want to stay here. It's a good experience.

As told to Krista Latham

. And Mateen Cleaves, he's been giving me a lot of advice and pointers./quote]

Oh Lord...

"No, Alex, man, I saw you waving the towels up in Detroit. You can't do it like that, man--get into it. Like this...

I was watching NBA TV's weekly NBDL show, and they had a segment on Acker and Johnson.

They had a bunch of college kids from Va Tech doing the interviews, so it was understandibly 2nd-class, but both guys seemed happy about being sent down, Amir especially. Amir made the comment that it was nice to be in a place with better weather.

The highlights that I saw were a bit disappointing. Not a single defender was really in any of them. All uncontested jumpers byt Acker and Amir throwing down a lot of uncontested dunks and alley-oops.

Amir looks like he put on some muscle, though. He was definately playing power forward.

I was watching NBA TV's weekly NBDL show, and they had a segment on Acker and Johnson.

They had a bunch of college kids from Va Tech doing the interviews, so it was understandibly 2nd-class, but both guys seemed happy about being sent down, Amir especially. Amir made the comment that it was nice to be in a place with better weather.

The highlights that I saw were a bit disappointing. Not a single defender was really in any of them. All uncontested jumpers byt Acker and Amir throwing down a lot of uncontested dunks and alley-oops.

Amir looks like he put on some muscle, though. He was definately playing power forward.

Yea, I saw it as well. It figures they would rather show the fast break dunks than the fundamental stuff. There were only a handful of highlights too.

From Lathum's Piston/Mavs stuff


BACK IN THE D: The stars of the Fayetteville Patriots, Pistons rookies Alex Acker and Amir Johnson, returned to the Palace on Tuesday after spending nearly a month in the NBDL.

They'll return Thursday, although the Patriots are out of the playoffs.

"Going down there, they're looking at me like I'm a veteran, even though I'm a rookie," said Acker, who played 48 minutes at point guard last week. "I'm like, 'I'm still a rookie!' But it was a good experience."

BACK IN THE D: The stars of the Fayetteville Patriots, Pistons rookies Alex Acker and Amir Johnson, returned to the Palace on Tuesday after spending nearly a month in the NBDL.

They'll return Thursday, although the Patriots are out of the playoffs.

"Going down there, they're looking at me like I'm a veteran, even though I'm a rookie," said Acker, who played 48 minutes at point guard last week. "I'm like, 'I'm still a rookie!' But it was a good experience."

48 minutes?

Was it OT?

Did anyone see Amir Johnson's performance at McDonald's dunk competition late last night? He had some sick dunks. He's a straight up freak athlete.

48 minutes?

Was it OT?

No, he played 3 straight full games. I think that played a significant role in his shooting percentage dropping like a rock.

Amir with 12 points (5 of 6) and 5 boards...

... with 1:57 left in the FIRST QUARTER.

Fri 31 Albuquerque 7:30pm (106-89 W)
Alex: 37 min, 20 pts (7-12 FG), 6 boards, 5 Asts, 1 steal, 2 blks, 5 TO
Amir: 36 min, 21 pts (6-10 FG, 9-10 FT), 10 boards, 2 ast, 2 stl, 1 TO

Good night for the rooks. Alex had a few too many TOs, but most came in the 1st quarter, so he obviously cleaned up that problem.

http://www.nba.com/media/dleague/Amir-Johnson334.jpg

thanks for the updates, FP22 :)

Damn, still skinny as hell. I was hoping he would start bulking up a bit. Looks to be a Tayshaun Prince redux.

Damn, still skinny as hell. I was hoping he would start bulking up a bit. Looks to be a Tayshaun Prince redux.

Well, he's not going to get huge no matter what. Just hope he's adding strength and keeping that athleticism. He'd be best trying to be like a Chris Bosh type. Extremely athletic with a jumper. Bosh is extremely skinny as well, but he's doing pretty good I'd say [smilie=applause.gi:

i dont think he should bulk up. i think using his agility will be good for him. he could very well be an evevtual SF. we'll have to wait and see. I do think thats where Flip wants him if he can get him there..

Sat 1 Albuquerque 7:30pm (88-106 L)
Alex: 47 min, 31 pts (12-23 FG), 4 boards, 5 Asts, 4 steal, 3 TO
Amir: 36 min, 13 pts (4-5 FG, 5-5 FT), 4 boards, 3 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk, 6 TO

Acker is a machine the amount of minutes he plays. Though he did play a ton of minutes for his College team.

Amir didn't have that good of a game, 6 TO's is unacceptable.

48 minutes?

Was it OT?

No, he played 3 straight full games. I think that played a significant role in his shooting percentage dropping like a rock.

Another game with 47 minutes.

Why is he playing so many minutes? Injuries? Call-ups?

Final Game:

Sat 8 @ Florida 7:00pm (95-107 L)
Alex: 39 min, 12 pts (5-13 FG), 7 boards, 5 Asts, 3 TO
Amir: 41 min, 25 pts (10-12 FG, 5-8 FT), 14 boards, 4 ast, 2 blk, 1 stl, 1 TO, 4 PF

FINAL OVERALL STATS

Amir Johnson
18 Games
Minutes: 27.6
Points: 17.3
Percentages: 67.2% FG, 100% 3FG, 70.4% FT
Rebounds: 7.2
Assists: 1.17
Steals: 0.88
Blocks: 1.47
Turnovers: 2.33
Fouls: 3.55

Alex Acker
17 Games
Minutes: 35.3
Points: 17.8
Percentages: 43.5% FG, 36.8% 3FG, 81.8% FT
Rebounds: 4.8
Assists: 4.8
Steals: 2.0
Blocks: 0.6
Turnovers: 2.93
Fouls: 2.4

Game-by-Game Stats
March
Fri 3 Roanoke 7:30pm (132-120 W)
Alex: 21 min, 28 pts (8-13 FG, 10-10 FT), 3 boards, 1 Ast, 2 stls, 1 blk
Amir: 18 min, 16 pts (5-12 FG, 6-8 FT), 8 boards, 1 ast, 2 stls, 1 blk

Sun 5 @ Florida 5:00pm (113-93 W)
Alex: 16 min, 14 pts (6-9 FG, 2-3 3FG), 5 boards, 5 Ast
Amir: 19 min, 16 pts (6-7 FG, 4-4 FT), 9 boards, 2 ast, 2 blk

Tue 7 @ Florida 7:00pm (90-99 L)
Alex: 24 min, 4 pts (1-9 FG, 0-3 3FG), 1 boards, 5 Ast, 5 TOs
Amir: 19 min, 8 pts (2-5 FG, 4-4 FT), 7 boards, 1 blk

Thu 9 Florida 7:30pm (135-95 W)
Alex: 29 min, 13 pts (5-10 FG, 1-2 3FG), 3 boards, 4 Ast, 2 steals 1 TO
Amir: 28 min, 22 pts (9-15 FG, 4-4 FT), 10 boards, 1 blk, 4 steals

Sat 11 Florida 7:30pm (101-82 W)
Alex: 26 min, 9 pts (3-10 FG, 2-2 FT), 4 boards, 1 Ast, 1 stl, 1 blk
Amir: 29 min, 18 pts (6-8 FG, 1-1 3FG, 5-5 FT), 6 boards, 4 blk

Sun 12 Austin 5:00pm (120-110 W)
Alex: 40 min, 23 pts (8-15 FG, 5-6 FT), 5 boards, 8 Asts, 3 stl, 1 blk
Amir: 27 min, 21 pts (9-12 FG, 3-4 FT), 5 boards, 2 asts, 1 blk

Tue 14 Austin 7:30pm (99-94 W)
Alex: 33 min, 14 pts (6-17 FG, 1-5 FT), 4 boards, 6 Asts, 3 steals, 1 blk
Amir: 30 min, 17 pts (8-14 FG, 1-4 FT), 6 boards, 3 blk, 2 steals

Wed 15 @ Roanoke 7:00pm (114-115 L)
Alex: 40 min, 29 pts (10-24 FG, 7-9 FT), 7 boards, 3 Asts, 4 steals
Amir: 29 min, 25 pts (10-14 FG, 5-8 FT), 6 boards, 3 blk, 1 ast

Fri 17 Tulsa 7:30pm (120-110 W)
Alex: 48 min, 25 pts (6-20 FG, 13-13 FT), 8 boards, 8 Asts, 4 steals
Amir: 31 min, 24 pts (9-13 FG, 6-8 FT), 5 boards, 1 blk

Sun 19 Tulsa 5:00pm (106-102 W)
Alex: 48 min, 18 pts (5-15 FG, 7-8 FT), 7 boards, 6 Asts, 2 steals, 1 block, 4 TO
Amir: 34 min, 22 pts (9-14 FG, 4-6 FT), 10 boards, 1 blk, 1 ast, 7 TO

Tue 21 Tulsa 7:30pm (106-120 L)
Alex: 48 min, 19 pts (7-20 FG, 2-2 FT), 6 boards, 7 Asts
Amir: 19 min, 12 pts (5-6 FG, 2-2 FT), 6 boards, 6 PF

Thu 23 @ Austin 8:30pm (101-116 L)
Alex: 39 min, 18 pts (9-17 FG), 3 boards, 2 Asts, 2 stls
Amir: 31 min, 12 pts (6-9 FG, 0-2 FT), 4 boards, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk

Sat 25 @ Albuquerque 3:00pm (86-98 L)
Alex: 15 min, 6 pts (3-7 FG), 3 boards, 5 Asts, 6 PF
Amir: 33 min, 11 pts (5-8 FG, 1-3 FT), 8 boards, 2 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk

Sun 26 @ Albuquerque 9:00pm (84-99 L)
Alex: DNP
Amir: 9 min, 7 pts (3-7 FG, 1-2 FT), 7 boards, 2 ast, 1 blk

Fri 31 Albuquerque 7:30pm (106-89 W)
Alex: 37 min, 20 pts (7-12 FG), 6 boards, 5 Asts, 1 steal, 2 blks, 5 TO
Amir: 36 min, 21 pts (6-10 FG, 9-10 FT), 10 boards, 2 ast, 2 stl, 1 TO

April
Sat 1 Albuquerque 7:30pm (88-106 L)
Alex: 47 min, 31 pts (12-23 FG), 4 boards, 5 Asts, 4 steal, 3 TO
Amir: 36 min, 13 pts (4-5 FG, 5-5 FT), 4 boards, 3 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk, 6 TO

Fri 7 Roanoke 7:30pm (115-106 W)
Alex: 45 min, 23 pts (10-20 FG), 6 boards, 5 Asts, 2 steal, 4 TO
Amir: 21 min, 19 pts (7-7 FG, 5-9 FT), 2 boards, 2 blk, 1 TO

Sat 8 @ Florida 7:00pm (95-107 L)
Alex: 39 min, 12 pts (5-13 FG), 7 boards, 5 Asts, 3 TO
Amir: 41 min, 25 pts (10-12 FG, 5-8 FT), 14 boards, 4 ast, 2 blk, 1 stl, 1 TO, 4 PF

For Amir to shoot %67.5 from the floor for 18 games is remarkable. I don't care what league he's playing in.

I really, really hope we activate him as soon as we clinch the league's best record.

Are they playing him as a small forward or power forward? He's getting a handful of boards and in his last, hes gotten 14...thats great

From what I can tell, He's been playing power forward.

I caught most of the Patriots game on NBA TV today. Unfortunately they showed 1 of the 2 games that Amir fouled out in (in only 21 minutes at that).

He had some great highlight reel type plays. 23 points on 9-of-9 shooting. Unfortunately, most of them were dunks so I didn't get to see much as far as jumpshots go. He did have a few nice post moves, and his opponents were generally all too slow for him resulting in quick fouls. But he didn't really score any field goals one-on-one in the post from what I saw (I missed the first quarter where he scored 7 points)

I also noticed that the box score said he had 2 blocks but he must have had at least 4 or 5. Two of them in pretty spectacular fashion.

One thing that I did notice was that he had pretty suprising body control for a big man. On one possession he drove toward the lane where Peter John Ramos was standing to block his shot (dude's about 7-3, 280). He went up, spun around D-wade style, took a hit, and nearly got a backwords/over-the-head layup to go.

He also looked like he had some pretty solid passing skills considering the D-League isn't exactly known for it's team-oriented play.

Obviously the athleticism is his biggest standout feature. He had to avoid hitting his head on the backboard on an alley-oop attempt and he could still jump over just about anyone on the floor. I'm thinking he might need some real NBA time to test the rest of his skills fully since he never really has to use them to dominate these players.

As for Acker, he looked good. It looked like he was playing mostly SG in this one. He has a nice running floater in the lane, and a nice stroke from the outside. He and Amir seem to have good chemistry because Alex was always the guy dishing to him off pick and rolls, and even a couple alley-oops.

nice to hear the rooks playing well.

imagine if Amir turns out to be a player.....what a fantastic pick.

nice to hear the rooks playing well.

imagine if Amir turns out to be a player.....what a fantastic pick.
He'll be easier to work in than darkhead. has more athleticism, agility, and is quicker. also his ability to block shots with authority will(I remember him damn near jumping way up over darko to help block that shot in the minny game).

His athleticism will help him get in quicker. i'm sure they'll try to get him seriously ready to play the 3 next year along with the 4. But to get any mcdonalds game kid at pick 60 is a steal imo.

Well, this bodes well for Amir...

D-League Stats
Gerald Green (20 yrs old out of HS): 26.5mpg, 12.6ppg (43.0% FG)
Amir Johnson (18 yrs old out of HS): 27.7mpg, 17.3ppg (67.2% FG)

Since Wally World went down with an injury it has given Gerald a chance to play. In the last 5 games he is averaging:

22.6mpg, 14.4ppg (54.9% FG).

And he just put up 22 points on the Pacers. Now I know that doesn't necessarily mean Amir could jump in and play great, but it's good to see that these players don't necessarily go to the NBA and flop after playing well in the D-League. Gerald has actually played better.

http://www.nba.com/media/pistons/amir_patriots_005.jpg

http://www.nba.com/media/pistons/amir_patriots_001.jpg

http://www.nba.com/media/pistons/amir_patriots_002.jpg

http://www.nba.com/media/pistons/amir_patriots_003.jpg

http://www.nba.com/media/pistons/amir_patriots_004.jpg

Don't the Patroits ever wear "those terrific road blues"?

I've come to the conclusion that Amir isn't going to get much better playing in the NBDL.

He's so athletic that there isn't a guy in the NBDL that can guard him.

His shots were either layups, dunks, or alley oops all night. NBDL big men arent equipped to deal with his kind of athletic ability. Roanoke is a playoff team in the NBDL and Amir took them apart easily.

Amir isnt very strong, but he's an excellent finisher after contact. He went up for an alley-oops and got hacked on the catch, but still has the strength to put it down and-1.

Amir just isnt going to get better when he has nobody forcing him to shoot outside the paint. It is far too easy for him to just stay inside the paint and just jump over the guy guarding him.

does his game so far resemble anyone in the NBA currently? or is it hard to say since the defense sucks and he's just getting by on his athleticism?

does his game so far resemble anyone in the NBA currently? or is it hard to say since the defense sucks and he's just getting by on his athleticism?

Sounds like a young DMiles or Gerald Wallace to me.

Its really hard to make a comparison because he's so skinny yet he plays a power game.

Id have to say Jermaine Oneal, although he's a little shorter. He reminds me a lot of JO at 18. Nice touch, very raw offensively, extremely athletic around the rim, very skinny. He's a lot like JO in that his body just hasnt filled out enough for him to dominate at an NBA level physically.

He wont ever handle the ball like Miles or Gerald Wallace, I dont think.

I have zero doubt that Amir someday will be a starting-calibur NBA player. He clearly has the talent and feel for the game.

If Amir gows just a little more to 6'10, I think A Jermaine Oneal-type of game is within his range.

Oneal doesnt have these hopes though. [smilie=anxious.gif]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8kru6JIrSY

Thats from high school slam dunk competition. To be so tall, he looks a lil' like D. wilkins on his dunks. Also nice touch on the FT line dunk.

Isn't Amir going to be a SF in the NBA?

I thought I read that somewhere.

How is he gonna learn perimeter skills by dominating the paint in the minors?

That was my thinking, too.

Ask Melo.

Of course, watching him play in the NBDL, he did some things in the paint I didn't think he could do.

I'm beginning to lean towards a future for him at PF, with an immidiate future at SF until his body fills out.

This kid is comfortable mixing it up in the paint and finishing with authoriy. He's also athletic enough to go over and around big men, even at an NBA level.

I also wonder if he'll ever be able to handle the ball as a SF should.