Highlight Performance:
Shawn Marion, DAL– With Dirk out, Marion stepped up in a big way Monday Night, posting 29 points, 4 rebounds, and even hit 4-6 shots from long range (Not to mention he has THE weirdest shot I personally have ever seen). After scoring 22 a few nights ago and scoring 14 along
Although his shot is unorthodox, Marion is still producing on a nightly basis.
with 12 rebounds on Saturday, Marion has clearly shown he is the guy that is going to see the biggest increase in value following Dirk’s absence. If he’s available, he’s worth a short-term audition without question.
Performance to Forget:
JaVale McGee, WAS– The 7-footer was extremely quiet Monday Night, scoring just 2 points along with 2 rebounds and 2 blocks. Although McGee’s value is clearly tied to his blocking skills, he is still averaging around 11 points a game and 9 rebounds, so this showing was a bit of a disappointment. I do expect him to bounce back, as he is a very talented center with enormous blocking capabilities.
Players to Watch:
Richard Hamilton, BOS– “Rip” posted his second straight 20-point game, scoring 22 points and even throwing in 10 assists. He has been efficient since returning from his various ailments, and is definitely a player of interest from this point forward. The Bulls picked up Hamilton to be their starting shooting guard, and he was expected to post around 15 points a game, along with a handful of rebounds and assists. I do not expect the high assist totals to continue, however, being that he played 42+ minutes, he seems healthy again and primed to have some solid games from this point forward barring another injury.
Injuries:
Mickael Pietrus, BOS– Shoulder, Status Unknown (Unfortunately right after I name him a “player to watch”)
Rodney Stuckey, DET– Groin- Day-to-day
Wes Johnson, MIN– Illness, Day-to-day
MarShon Brooks, NJ– Achilles, Day-to-day
Nick Collison, OKC– Ankle, Day-to-day
Marcus Camby, POR– Groin, Day-to-day