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2012-2013 Clipper Player Previews: Trey Thompkins

For three weeks this preseason, we'll be publishing Player Previews for each of the 15 players currently under contract with the Clippers. In some cases there may not be much difference from last season's Exit Interviews, but the team does have seven new faces, and there were some significant developments over the off-season for some of the returning players as well, so let's get caught up with all of them before the season starts. Today's edition, second year forward Trey Thompkins.

By Newtybar
Kirby Lee-US PRESSWIRE

Trey Thompkins career stats (1 season)

PPG

RPG

BPG

MPG

PER

2.4

1.0

0.1

5.0

12.1

Since we love curses around here, I'm going to call it the "Curse of the Bulldogs." Like his Georgia Bulldog counterpart, Trey Thompkins has yet to see any significant minutes. Fans were robbed of their chance to see if our sophomore made any improvement after "developing" on the pine for the majority of his rookie season.

If preseason is "meaningless," then summer league is beyond meaningless. What we got to see was two and a half quarters of beyond meaningless minutes before Trey hyperextended his knee. He looked fairly good in that one game; in twelve minutes of action he scored seven points, grabbed one rebound and blocked one shot.

Despite the apparent development of DeAndre Jordan, the Clippers front line remains relatively thin. Trey could be of great help if he puts in some work. Last year he had trouble staying on the floor aside from garbage minutes because he looked lost on defense and offense. He didn't have a clue about where to be, which is semi-reasonable considering the lack of training camp and practice due to the shortened lockout season. Now he has a year under his belt and a training camp, I expect him to at least know the plays.

Chris Paul says he sees a lot in Trey of what he saw of David West. While, I wouldn't go that far, I do see a player that can step into a Channing Frye type role. With a solid jump shot and deep range, he step in and be the Clippers "stretch four." He was a physical player in college, but hasn't developed the strength to bang down low at the pro level. I would have loved to see him bulk up, but am not sure that is happening this season. He's not known for his work ethic, his "drive" is what caused Trey to slip out of the first round in the draft.

He's had another setback in rehab to his knee, so it is doubtful he will see any time in preseason, but I hope we get to see some meaningful minutes from him this season. I love his goofy demeanor. He's the ultimate towel waiver, him and Turiaf will probably make the best cheerleaders in the NBA this season. I also love how he's a fan of the underdog. His favorite wrestler is Ultimate Warrior, not Hollywood Hulk Hogan. However, as important as that is, the Clippers don't need fun loving cheerleaders, they need front court depth.

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