TP to the OP.
Like Bird a lot. I saw this on Celtics Reddit yesterday and almost posted it in this Jabari Bird thread.
http://forums.celticsblog.com/index.php?topic=94020.msg2401327#msg2401327This is what I said in the OP of that thread:
He got big praise from Tommy and CBS post-game.
Physically and mentally mature (23 years old and a 4 year college player). Tough minded. CBS was impressed with both his D and his rebounding in pre-season games and practices, lauding his ability to cover shooters cutting. He did a pretty good job on Reddick tonight. And CBS characterized him as "not being afraid".
Jaylen probably had influence with DA and CBS in drafting him, so he already has chemistry with at least one key player on the team, which also helps.
AND, he can shoot the 3 with that sweet stroke!!
If he comes along (and CBS' praise of his D means he will get more time), maybe that means that we can focus on a big with the DPE as opposed to a wing who can shoot.
This kid, Bird, is another victim of the sucky Cal coach, Cuonzo Martin. He was a top recruit coming out of HS, and Martin's inability to coach made Bird "waste" 3 years of development. Love his athleticism. If he starts stroking that 3 like he can, we got ourselves a steal.