“I just want to hoop freely. That’s kind of the biggest thing for me, just going somewhere, whether it’s here or anywhere else, just taking that next evolution to the game where you’re not just a rim runner. You’re a pick-and-pop guy sometimes. You can get rolling with what the defense gives you. I wanna be that dude.”
Read more here:
https://www.sacbee.com/sports/nba/sacramento-kings/article231871293.html#storylink=cpy
He still just doesn't get it. Joerger utilized him in ways that no other coach would have and gave him ample opportunities to broaden his game. Dude acts like he was nothing but a rim runner while he was here. He is delusional.
I totally agree with you. As someone that was on board with drafting Willie, but sometimes defended him against the unreasonable while also being among many frustrated by his lack of consistency — he and his agent have lost me with this recent attitude and comments.
I mean, WCS was one of the KINGS standout players and reasons for their hot start to the season. And that’s becuase he took advantage of the opportunity the coach gave him. But then the production fell off. Not because of the coach, but because WCS wasn’t playing as well. So then his minutes and opportunities took a hit. That’s on him. And been the story of his 4 year career.
As you said, he’s been given more opportunity on offense in SAC than likely most others would have trusted him with. While he’s still been a good switch defender, his shot blocking and rim protection has never been what it could or should be.
I remember someone on this board making the point that once WCS hurt his hand a few seasons back, he’s been reluctant to play as aggressively on that end and really go for it. I agree with that. IMO, that’s been the most disappointing part of his game.
Whatever he does offensively is a bonus. He’s often surprised me with his passing and ability to score off the dribble and from 15-20 feet. I think he’s progressed well considering what he showed on that end before entering the NBA.
But the defense end was always his calling card and what was gonna make him super valuable. And he’s regressed on in that regard. I’ve been one to forgive the rebounding because he’s often asked to guard guys out on the perimeter and isn’t always camped near the basket.
To me, the 8.4 rpg he averaged last season is adequate considering the factor above and that facet has never been a strength of his game. So I wont rail him on that. It’s far better than the 4.5 and 5 the first two seasons. But the defense and consistency isn’t something to be overlooked as easily. Not 4 years into a career.
Now top it all off with these comments and attitude? Nope. Can’t buy into it.
That all said, I don’t want Vlade to let him go for nothing just because he doesn’t want to be here anymore. That doesn’t help the team. Regardless how the overly negative detractors feel, Willie has value. I’d rather see Vlade exercise the option and then try to work some kind of deal to trade him to a team that believes they can utilize his skill set. If that can’t be accomplished with only a 6+ million contract, then let him go at season’s end.
But I think it’s be a mistake to let him go for nothing now.
