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Baron Davis PG/G
If you didn't know any better, you would think Baron Davis was one of
those Hawaiian dance performers who swallow fire; only difference is
Baron shoots the flames out his eyes. Baron has done virtually
everything this year; carried the team on his back on one leg like a
pirate with a treasure chest, saved 101 dalmatians out of a burning
building, and shown the naysayers a reason to shut up. His shot
selection has improved, his defense is more ferocious than a pack of
hyenas, and his leadership qualities have led him to be Don Nelson's
"mini-me." When your star point guard goes from guarding Rafer Alston
to stripping Yao Ming on the same possession, it would be hard to
criticize him. Of course, nature takes it toll and Baron had his share
of fluke injuries (strained rib) and a improbable comeback (late knee
surgery). Really, nothing can be taken away from him this year, ask
AK47.
Grade: A+
Jason Richardson G/F
Known as the emotional leader and go to guy on Mike Montgomery's team,
Jason Richardson had a roller coaster season that could be mistaken for
a teenage girl's sweet 16 party. With invitations sent out for a
promised great season and cake (Ferrari cake: a one ton cake shaped
like a Ferrari Enzo), Jason came to the party with acne and did not
receive a brand new Lexus, rather, a Hyundai Sonata. A little
disappointment? No question. Jrich suffered from a delayed surgery
pre-season and a broken hand by upcoming free agent Mikeal Pietrus
(nice Bruce Bowen kick, MP). After making a healthy return Jason's shot
was somewhat shakey, and his contribution was subpar with his
performance relative to last year. Strides have been made in his
defensive game and his ability to find Andris Biedrins steaking to the
hoop, but Jason's handles (particularly in his post game) need drastic
improvement. If Jrich isn't scoring or making plays for others, he can
suffer from Dudleavyisim, a condition where a player is on the court
but not contributing to the team effort. Simply put, Jrich's defense is
not good enough yet for him to have a bad offensive game and yet still
make a solid impact on the overall game.
Grade: C/Incomplete
Al Harrington F/C
The supposed $60 million man in the offseason was sold to Golden State
in a used car lot at a nice discount. Harrington was the face on the
mid season trade which turned around the Warriors' year. He wowed fans
earlier in the year in his appearance as a Pacer, knocking down 3
pointer after 3 pointer looking like Larry Bird after a week in South
Beach. Baby Al started off the season showing some solid offensive
games but little in the rebounding department, which would haunt the
team in the post season. Harrington, appears to have gone under the
most change in his 3 months as a Warrior. His offensive threat remains,
but it is apparent he is most effective on shooting 3's and driving by
slow-footed anchored big men (paging Big Country). His greatest
achievement has been made on the defensive end (minus the rebounding)
and by the end of the year his offensive touches trickled to a stop as
he focused on defending. Anyone who thought that Harrington was a legit
banger (not gang banger) ought to appologize to themselves; he is who
we thought he was, and that's not terrible. Could use an oxygen tank
for the 4th quarter. Nonetheless, thank god his name is $40 million Al,
not $60 million.
Grade: B-
Steven Jackson G/F
What can be said about Steven Jackson that hasn't been said before? Not much come to think of, though I never heard anyone say "he's
got a knack for shot selection.” Oh boy Jax, you are a factory of
entertainment. Under Baron Davis, Jackson image of a character on "Oz” transformed to the host on the charitable show "Extreme
Makeover; Home Edition,” granting Warrior fans dreams of getting to the
playoffs and jumping on the Mavericks" couch like Rick James.
After all, Jackson was part of a revival that led to the formable
defense the Warriors played. Though a streaky shooter, he did make many
drives at the hoop which is something a perimeter team like Golden
States forgets about. Jackson was nearly averaging 8 free throw
attempts a game in the playoffs, which is vital if easy points are
needed (they always are).
But of course, everyone wants to know when his next "I want Jell-o”
tantrum takes place as he beats the hardwood like a woodchuck. There
are only two people who can convince him to take a chill pill for next
season: one of them is Jackson himself. The other individual is not
friend Baron Davis, or Coach Nelson but, an actor on a Maui beach
speaking with a pungent cloud of smoke surrounding him: Woody
Harrelson. After all, Woody got Wesley Snipes to trust him?
Grade: A before truancies
B after subtracting points
Andris Biedrins F/C
A few more piercings and some tattoos and Andris will fit in perfectly
with the so called "thuggery" of the Warriors. On the defensive of end,
Andris has been a nuisance to opposing midgets changing shots like they
were dresses on a first date. Though unorthodox, Andris has shown this
season that he can score when given the ball in his territory. His
rebounding shows solid technique in recovering rebounds and is really
the only player on the team that can prevent opponents from scoring
100% trips down the court. Despite his rare ability on a team loaded
with runners, he has his faults, though improving. His free throw
percentage has increased despite an ugly form, leaving the Ben Wallace
and Shaq club. However, defenses can sag on him in hopes of giving him
a jump shot.
Which brings about his biggest weakness, his right hand. If his left
hand were to join Monta Ellis' right hand, they could take over the
world: Andris' lack of right hand doesn't show up as a big wart just
yet (due to a lack of touches) but it will down the line and steps must
be taken in the off season to train it.
Grade: A-
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