O'Quinn might win most improved player this year the way things are going. KP is still hitting the front of the rim in the 4th, still needs to get in better shape. Noah is looking better, LT is getting back to hitting timely jumpers. He's a glue guy, and Thomas is starting to find his role. The bench is getting deeper as more players are starting to step up.

Melo looks like he is finding his jumper, doesn't feel the pressure anymore to be the number one scoring option, even if it turns out that way.

Its good Baker is around in case Rose has to miss some games. Pleased with Hornacek's coaching, substitutions, plays out of time outs. Like how Jennings and KP communicate.

jrodmc wrote:I cannot believe they put that NBDL rook on Melo. Looked like Melo was playing one on one with his son.

Whiteside is a monster, but his defensive lapses for someone that huge and atheletic would drive me insane. Sort of like Melo does to all the haters.

I swear, he just stood there and watched Jennings make that one layup. If you're sure he's going to pass, then at least flash some D at the man to make his shot slightly awkward. Flash some D. See what I did there?

Noah and KOQ make one monster center.

fishmike wrote:good observations. I think thats the first appearance of last year's Lance. Muscle, defense and timely hoops. When he plays like that he's like a good middle reliever. He eats up innings (minutes) and keeps you in it until the big guns come back.

Our center rotation is great. KOQ/Noah split the 48 minutes. They combined for 11-14 FGs, 17 rebs, 5 assists, 22 points and 8 fouls. Meanwhile Whiteside shoots 3-9 from the line. Thats just great production.

Obviously a great game by Melo. Nice to take care of business and get another win.

The only thing I would call out is - and maybe this could be said of the whole team - is why didn't they try to wrap this guy up or foul him such that he clearly doesn't get a basket. I'd guess that Noah and KOQ are the only 2 guys strong enough to do so, and KOQ had plenty of opportunities. Holiday tried to block Whiteside from behind when he was directly under the rim? I hope he got chewed out.