Progress Stunted; Will Jeff Green Step Up?
Jeff Green, it is time for you to step up. One of the biggest concerns entering the 2010-2011 season for the OKC Thunder is the lack of growth and progress of Jeff Green.
In Green’s first two years as a pro he showed great promise and potential to become a star. But this past season was a definite step back. Granted, Green was OKC’s most consistent CLUTCH performer, although his points, rebounds and assists were all down. Offensively it’s safe to say he struggled compared to what he’s capable of doing.
Don’t get me wrong. Green had a lot of great accomplishments throughout the season as well. Who could forgot his driving slam over Josh Smith against the Hawks which was ultimately the game clincher and all the BIG 3 point baskets he hit in the fourth quarter. How about Also, his FG percentage was up, blocks were up, turnovers went down, and steals were up too.
Jeff Green is a power forward for the Thunder but he’s a tweener. It was very apparent last year as he drifted around the perimeter way too much for a 4 (PF). Instead of using his quickness and spring to get around bigger defenders, he took only 11 less three pointers than his first two years combined.
Yes, he is a stretch 4, but he does not need to live on the perimeter launching up jumpers all day. Jeff Green’s game needs to be more molded after Lamar Odom than Rashard Lewis. He’s not the shooter Lewis is and he’s even more athletic than Odom is.
This year is a make or break year for Green. This year will provide us with a good picture of whether he is capable of taking it to the next level or if he’s better suited for a 6th man role, similar to Lakers forward Lamar Odom.
It wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing if he does pan out to be a 6th man as it would give the Thunder an added dimension and versatility off the bench. It just means he hasn't fulfilled the expectations that were put before him.
Many OKC fans believe Serge Ibaka aka Air Congo is the future at power forward for the Thunder. Air Congo showed a lot of potential last year in the playoffs against the Lakers.
He made life very difficult for Pau Gasol and their front line with his energetic play. Ibaka is an explosive leaper with a solid jumper out to 15 feet. He’s still very raw and very young (20). He’s oozing potential thus posing the question.... Jeff Green! Will you step it up?
