The grind will eventually get these cats, at some point. It usually does, to most guys.
And, we all are aware of Thibbs penchant to keep a tight rotation.
We were told to consider 2 things:
1) Thibbs is always adapting as a coach, and is willing to assimilate, refurbish, and incorporate new ideas and ways and means of operations...
2) Our biggest strength, with regards to our roster construction, is our depth.
These 2 things were reasons we should keep an open mind on Thibbs use of his rotations.... OK...
Now, the team was off for 9 months, while 2/3 of the league were gathered in a bubble then sent home for a few weeks rest before giving it a go again.
Not to mention the youthful makeup of our squad....
Toss in injuries and a non-existent training camp....
Keep in mind of the teams we?ve faced so far....
RJ is 20 and his legs are NBA fresh....
Randle in his prime and trained for months preparing for this role...
These 2 don?t have an injury history... With everything that?s been going on to get them to this point....
Is this indicative of Thibbs? Who he is, based on a large sample size to synthesize?
Or, is he simply in the moment, establishing a culture and M.O. He sees Randle and RJ has his pillars, his stalwarts? Are they just ahead of everybody else?
What?s happening in practice? In meetings? How are the players adapting to Thibbs?
We shall see, but if fully healthy, as we get about 20 games under their belt... I think the rotation will involve 11 players:
Randle
RJ
Rivers
IQ
Bullock
Burks
Robinson
Noel
Knox
Frank
Toppin
Of course, it should be noted, that it?s up to Toppin and Frank to get themselves more involved. I think Frank will do enough, both Practicing and producing, that he will warrant time with the second unit. Toppin, bc of draft status, will also be afforded a role... but he?ll be on a short lease. Still, I believe he?ll be in tune during practice that he will earn time.
Omar? DSJ? Izzy? Harper? Good luck!
