his scoring is down, maybe playing with injuries.
Entering the league, he was VERY skinny, but I question his effort during the off season for training, developing his game, and staying in NBA caliber shape.
Endurance and not being in NBA shape, is limiting his legs, and while giving much effort on defense/rebounding, he just has a problem playing in both ends.
I like his effort on the defensive end and also Amare has also been much improved since Woodson took over.
Like Woodson has said, lets concentrate on DEFENSE and REBOUNDING, and worry about offense by playing defense and looking for the open man.
Melo's effort on defense and passing, willingness to pass/share the basket ball/ looking for the open man has been there.
Playing Point/Forward in the beginning of the season really opened up his passing ability, and he has been great at finding TC for the alley hoops and cuts.
Overall, the team has been playing with OPTIONS and counters, something Dantoni never did well.
The team has been using the post option with Amare and TC, a lot more than Dantoni's era.
Even though they might not be good players or have any post moves, they are utilizing the post game much more to attack the basket, spread the floor, and to initiate the offense.
Over all, TC has been getting so many alley oops for easy baskets that gain momentum, and Melo has been one of the ones utilizing Chandler as that weapon.
Outside of TC and JJ, no one else sets GOOD screens, which is very important in breaking down our opponents defense, and making easy shots.
I think our guards/forwards, should also be setting much more screens, which would help free up other players for the team.
Woodson's approach and ability to get the team to be on the same page, deserves much credit, holding his players/team accountable.
Prioritizing what he expects out of his players, effort, and intensity, gave us an identity for each player and as a team.
1) Defense
2) Rebounding
3) SHARE the basketball, look for the open man
4) utilizing the post option and feeding the cutters
Sharing the basketball and getting EVERYONE in sync on the defensive end deserves makes the game unselfish to watch and brings a playoff atmosphere at the right time.
All players are touching the ball and it is just natural to play better on both ends when each players feel like they are contributing.
Stats are very over rated in the game and can be very misleading, especially versus the importance of team chemistry...
With JJ, TC, and Iman injured, they are very crucial anchors, as our defensive leaders.
JJ is injured again and TC has been playing hurt, I think we could use another good body to secure us.
Hickson or Turiaf would have been nice additions, while Jordan and Jorts just are still learning on as rookies.
They can play 2nd/3rd unit roles, but they are not good enough defensively to contribute as a starter or even a consistent 2nd unit.
