Comments on Blazer’s 2008 summer league play so far:

I'll start with my thoughts on our top draft pick this year. Prior to the third game (against the T-Wolves), I don't think Jerryd Bayless hit anything from more than 10 feet.... up to that point it was all drive and draw the foul - not terrible since some of the best scorers historically are the ones who get to the line seemingly every trip down the court (Mailman, Iverson, Bird, etc.) but they could also finish and make it a 3 point play. He made a few against the T-Wolves and can shoot from his off-hand better than most. Still, he definitely needs to improve his shooting touch. I think his mid-range shot is OK but not as good as Petteri Koponen's. I think Bayless could've used a couple more years in college to refine his point guard skills. If he would've stayed and worked on that he could've been the top 4 pick he thinks he should've been. I don't think the Blazers "stole" him at 11. He can jump and get to the line and he does have very high potential but for now I say let him learn how to play point during practice and sit on the bench during games - put him in only if our offense gets stagnant. At this point I don't see him playing as a true point guard but I do think he can help us, perhaps in a 3 Guard situation with him, Roy, and Fernandez... that might be a good way to make use of his foul drawing prowess. Especially late game if we're behind by 5 - 10 points, he can help us make up some ground by getting the other team in foul trouble and getting us to the line for some free pointage.

I am honestly more impressed with the Petteri's ability than I am Jerryd's. He's a more well rounded player and is good under pressure. He can hit the 3, pass in tight lanes, make the high teardrop floater, get a few more steals, and seems more in control. I know I've only seen him in 3 games but from what I've seen we need to sign him up and let him back up Blake at the point.

I don't see anything special in Nicolas Batum. I don't think we should keep him this year. A couple more years in Europe would do him some good. In fact, I don't think anyone besides Bayless and Koponen on the summer team is NBA material except for maybe Brandon Robinson, Josh Davis, or Chris Ellis in a 10-day contract situation. Maric had a few good plays but is too slow. Hill from Arkansas looks like a solid shot blocker but is bound to be a perennial D-Leaguer.

Players on other teams that have impressed me so far:

The Wizards Andray Blotche is their best summer league player. He is a big body in the middle who gets in good position to rebound nearly every play. I think he’ll have a great year as back-up for Haywood at the Center or Jamison at the Power Forward this year.

The Kings' Quincy Douby was much better than expected, he has a nose for the basket like Jerryd but seems to finish more shots. He'll be great energy off the bench for them.

The Timberwolves have a few good players in the summer league but Kevin Love pretty much dominated us. He’ll be a solid 5 to 10 point, 5 – 10 rebound a night player in the regular season but may burn out mid-season after playing against NBA quality big guys. Chris Richards is a bruiser who will hurt other teams with his size. Not too impressed with Corey Brewer – he’s quick but out of control.

Disclaimer: When I say us or we in my blogs about the Blazers, I am referring to the Blazers organization. They are my home-town team and I consider them, as a fan, MY team. That said, I am not an unrealistic homer like many of the Blazer bandwagon jumpers around town. I am and always will be hopefully optimistic with a huge shot of reality mixed in.