Are we really going there? So now 10-day contract Johnson is Green with better hustle, rebounding, and passing? Green had a bad game, I get it, but call me the next time Johnson puts up 39 points or leads his team in scoring over the course of a season. I understand that Green isn't perfect, but I think we should let Johnson play a full season before we declare him a better version than Green...or AB, for that matter.
Of course, JG being 4 inches taller and bigger makes him a lot more talented. No doubt. Far better. I've watched his huge games and very few could do what he does.
The disparity in their talent is not lost on me (at least I think not).
Despite the very considerable difference in talent (one being a lottery pick and potential star, one being a D-league call up), however, there are similarities in their skill sets and limitations. Their limited ball handling sticks out to me.
Which is why it's frustrating to see the more talented guy not do the little things that other guys do. My point is it's not a matter of skill but hustle and heart.
When JG doesn't score, he does't do much else. Hustling for rebounds and making plays on D would be nice.
When teams scout Johnson the way they scout Green now, Johnson could very well fizzle into obscurity. But there's no quick get around when you fight for rebounds and make it tougher on your opponent. They may close out on Chris Johnson better after learning his tendencies but they can't stop him from being in the thick of rebounding battles.
It's frustrating seeing JG flirt with but ultimately failing to take the next step. The 4, 5 game stint where JG had at least 5 rebounds gave me hope. Now he's regressed. Even Stevens notes JG plays better when he's aggressive on the boards.
It's not like I'm detracting JG's value. Quite the opposite. As is right now he's a good player but you can't help but hope for more.
I like his hustle, doesn't always work out but he plays hard. He reminds me of a young Avery Bradley.
Chris Johnson is older by a few months haha.
