I'm watching the draft presser now. (
http://www.nba.com/suns/draft-central-2016)
Recap, for those who haven't caught it:
McD: Between those two guys [Bender and Chriss] we went back and forth and deliberated. It was split almost right down the middle among our staff. Among the front office, the coaching staff, ownership.
I would sure like to know who wanted whom.
McD also said a lot about agents controlling the draft process. Not letting their guy work out for certain teams. Not releasing medical info, etc. He claims that we had against calling us saying "My guy want sot be in PHX" because Watson has the reputation for being a great player development coach and giving good hugs.
Obviously, he will put the best light on things, but we did get a ton of guys in for workouts.
Watson believes all three rooks already have some NBA ready skills. It's just a matter of using them right and developing them right. "Our time frame is a little bit quicker than others." Thinks they can be on the floor together becasue they can both shoot and defend the perimeter.
McD: "Lack of depth at PG hurt us last year"
No, injuries hurt us. We don't need 4 starting PGs. Sometimes you just have bad luck. You collect your draft pick and move on.
Interviewer: "With such young guys, how do you manage expectations?"
McD: "These guys might surprise some people... They have unique talents and abilities. Does that translate to winning games? I don't know. Historically it doesn't when you're laying young players." Next sentence: "But you saw what Watson did with a depleted roster last season finishing 9-15."
Do you expect to win or not?!
OK, then he says he does not expect to win 48 games (like a few years ago), but they will try to exceed expectations. Fair enough.
Watson thinks Chandler will be excited to play with the new guys.
McD: Looking to add one more PF via free agency. Not trying to have the youngest team in the L. Trying to win as many as we can.
Me: <pulls out hair>
McD: Chriss is not immature. He is inexperienced. Bender is not a mystery. We know him well and are very comfortable with him. Yes, they can play together.
Most used word: Unique. These are three unique talents.
The league needs heroes, villains... and clowns. -- Aztec Sunsfan