At this time last week I didn't think I was going to be all that geeked for the upcoming NBA season. But as the preseason starts heating up, as the highlights roll in, and as I'm reminded of all the big storylines all has changed. Last year was the most I'd watched the NBA since Michael Jordan retired, and this year is likely to top that.
Most of us are all pumped to see Greg Oden's official debut, alongside this year's leading starts Derrick Rose and Michael Beasley. Not to mention, Dwyane Wade's return to good health after his impressive Olympic performance.
With countless stories to follow, there's a hidden one in Boston with the defending champs. I've read several articles noting how pleased Doc Rivers has been with rookie Bill Walker from Kansas State.
“They’re all behind, but they should be,” Rivers said. “Billy’s better because he’s used to playing the 3. He attacks the basket. He’ll live on the foul line. We’ve got to work on his handle a little bit, but if he can catch off the cuts, he’s going to live on the foul line.”
As for his outside shot, the coach said, “It’s better than I thought it was, but he has to improve it.
“I tell you, he’s good. Billy listens so well. You tell him something, he tries to do it. He’ll come ask you. He’s been great. He’s not your typical rookie that thinks he’s got it figured out already. He’s been a pleasant surprise.
“He would have gone early if he was healthy. I think he would have been mid-first (round) to definitely low first. But everyone was scared of his knee, and we were clearly in a position to take the chance.”
I don't want to make too much of one highlight, but here's Billy Walker dunking it on Theo Ratliff, one of the better shot blockers over the last five years.
Like the Celtics needed another hidden gem.
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