Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Newcomers: Ike Diogu

Ike Diogu is already being thought of as a bust after failing to live up to expectations of being a lottery pick by the Golden State Warriors. Truth is Diogu is a player that has been hampered by injuries and a lack of playing time in his first three seasons in the league. After leaving Arizona State for the NBA at the conclusion of his Junior year Ike left as the only player in Pac-10 history to lead the conference in points, rebounding, and blocks. Garnering Pac-10 player of the year honors, (not necessary a tell-tale sign of NBA success, see Sam Clancy) he seemed tailor-made for the NBA. Now after 3 years in the league and two trades you have to wonder why a lottery pick has been traded so many times. Work ethic may be a factor, the team's system as well. He wasn't suited for Don Nelson's style of run and gun offense and Indiana was in a state of turmoil during his time there. Injuries have plagued him throughout his career and could play in a role in explaining why Ike hasn't shown nearly the skills he had during his collegiate career.

On the Blazers he will fill a much needed void coming off the bench. Last year one of the biggest weaknesses the Blazers had was rebounding, specifically on the defensive end. Being able to bring in Pryzbilla and Ike to hold down the low post will be a dramatic step up from last season when the Blazers commonly went small with the second unit many times having Travis Outlaw play the 4 and Channing Frye at the 5. Now the options for McMillion will be greatly improved with how he wants to go with the 2nd unit. Diogu is probably already the Blazers second best player behind Lamarcus Aldridge as their back to the basket low post scorer. His minutes will be limited to start, but if Ike can get a scoring groove on the low post and rebound strongly he may end up playing 4th quarter minutes at the 5 if Oden see's foul trouble, or if the Blazers need more scoring. The potential for success is there for Ike, we'll have to see if he responds to his third shot on an NBA team.

No comments: