08-05-2023, 12:24 PM
(08-05-2023, 08:39 AM)mvossman Wrote: I wasn't triggered by your comments so much as they provided a useful opportunity to say something that has been on my mind.
My biggest issue with Bagley from the beginning is matter of fit. He has the same syndrome as Powell. He is a 5 on offense, but a 4 on defense. If he manages to become an average defender, it will very likely be at the 4. Its hard to see him ever becoming an average defensive center with his limited rim protection. On the other end, I am of belief that you are hamstringing yourself offensively with two bigs on the floor that can't shoot. That means Bagley needs to play with a floor spacing, rim protecting center. Those are rare (we happen to have one, but he struggles to stay on the court). I don't think he will ever be good enough to warrant building a roster around him, and otherwise his fit will be sub optimal even if he reaches best case.
The problem is you tried to “share something on your mind” by adding an exaggeration while missing the point I was trying to make.
I agree Bagley is not a 5 on defense. I also agree that he hasn’t proven himself to be a stretch big. He shot ~40% on 3’s in his one college year but has only flashed in the pro’s (season high ~35%). However, IMO his problem is not on the offensive end.
I also agree with KillerLeft that Bagley (+ his dad) may be his own worst enemy which I suggested. I don’t know to what degree ego may be a limiting factor currently but I do understand that playing for Sac could be frustrating.
You seem to feel like I am suggesting that the Bagley of today is a player to build around or even a starter on a playoff capable team today…I am not. What I am suggesting is that if he is willing, there may be something worth developing. Bagley was drafted primarily for his offense, measurables, and projections. If it is true that he was still lacking basic defensive fundamentals, the NBA is probably not the best place to learn those when you are a #2 pick.
I think Bagley is a buy low guy for a team that has the $ room, willingness, and patience to develop him properly. Is he willing to swallow his pride to do that? I’m not sure but I bet his investor advisor hopes so.