In his third season from Latvia Andris Biedrins is putting it all together.  After struggling early in his career with foul trouble, poor free throw shooting and defensive lapses the 20 year old center appears to be ready to take his game to another level.  After limited playing time in his first two years under Mike Montgomery, Andris has show Don Nelson that not only is he capable of contributing but Nelson said that "He might be the best center I have ever coached".  Biedrins is currently leading the league in field goal percentage at nearly 68% and is nearly averaging a double double with 10.7 ppg and 9.8 rpg.  Maybe the most impressive improvement in his game is his defense.  He is averaging nearly 3 blocks per night and is quickly becoming a force in the middle.  He has managed to play extremely aggressive defense without getting himself in foul trouble this year and the result has been increased playing time and consistent production. 

Part of the credit for his evolution should go to the teachings of Don Nelson and the new coaching staff.  When I spoke to Andris during training camp he was excited to be receiving instructions on how to improve his game for the first time in his young career.  "This year after each game they say to us, you didn't do that, that, so you can see what you are doing wrong, and not just your mistakes, they will tell you how you made the mistake so you don't make the same mistake the next game". When asked how that was different than Mike Montgomery's teaching style, he said that "last year they didn't say anything".  Thankfully, it now appears that Biedrins is getting the propper direction and he is making the most of it.