BleacherReport on Blake

by 69knicks on Dec 24, 2010 9:06 AM PST

If you haven’t watched Blake Griffin play this season, do yourself a favor and immediately open up a new tab and watch his highlights.

Through only 29 career games, Griffin has established himself as one of the best forwards in the league and hands-down the most exciting player in basketball. Most people will note his unbelievable strength and athleticism, but there is so much more to Griffin than his physical gifts.

Blake Griffin has a good-looking release on his shot, despite the fact that he has struggled on free throws all season long. He has proven to be an above-average passer with a high basketball IQ, doling out 3.2 assists per game in his first season.

The top overall pick in 2009 is graceful, agile and has a passion for the game. Perhaps that’s why so few of us are shocked when Griffin dominates game in, game out.

On the year the 6’10” forward has delivered thunderous dunk after thunderous dunk en route to averages of 21 and 12. The fact that the Clippers are 8-21 is the main reason Griffin is not ranked higher.

First Trimester Grade: A+

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A definite A+

No argument. He has things to work on, but he will get there. Even in the first 29 games it’s amazing how he’s improved, it really shows that he works hard on his game.

by tenkaistar on Dec 24, 2010 10:18 AM PST reply actions

I'll give him an A -

Gives him room to improve

by Qlippers on Dec 24, 2010 8:31 PM PST reply actions

Definitely an A

He’s much more polished and ready then I expected.
Has a much better jumper than I thought he would have. Passes and handles the ball surprisingly well.

Things he can do to improve, and which I’m sure he’s working on:
More post moves, he seems to use that spin move quite often. Occasionally he’ll use a drop step. Right now he’s primarily using his strength to overpower his defender.

He gets pushed off the block far too easily for someone with his strength. He usually doesn’t try and get a better position until he gets the ball.

His defense isn’t quite there yet.

And of course, his foul shooting.

It seems like nitpicking to criticize a rookie that’s only played 30 or so games, and played so well, and he will improve. That’s a scary thought for anyone playing the Clippers in the future.

by Piatkowski on Dec 25, 2010 2:12 AM PST reply actions

Don't know what to say

All the expectations are there for the young rookie. We’re expecting him to become the future leader one day.

And the fact that he’s that young doing this well in the NBA is what’s scary. If he continues to grow and stay health, he’s going to be downright scary- not that he’s not already.

"Things change when something is taken away from you" -BG32

by JackduhSun on Dec 25, 2010 2:11 PM PST up reply actions

I'd give him an A.

If he can pass Gordon to become the Clip’s leading scorer this season, I’d give an A+ with a sticker of a star :) And given that he’s only about 2.5 points away from Gordon’s PPG avg., come the 2nd trimester, he may very well do just that.

OH! Those are really cool! (OH! Those are really cool!)
I can't to see what kind of shoes Michael Beasley wears! (I can't to see what kind of shoes Michael Beasley wears!)
OH! I love Michael Beasley's hair! (I can't wait to see Michael Beasley play defense!)

by (o.O) on Dec 26, 2010 5:08 AM PST reply actions