05-07-2007, 02:18 PM
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#1 (permalink)
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Legend
Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: Hickville, Indiana
Age: 17
Posts: 14,897
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Season In Review: Ike Diogu
Quote:
2006-07 REVIEW: Considered by many analysts to be the key to the Golden State trade because of his untapped potential, Diogu produced in bursts but not consistently. His overall averages with the Pacers (5.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, 45.4 percent shooting) were deceptive. In nine games in which he played at least 20 minutes, Diogu averaged 14.0 points, 8.1 rebounds and 48.4 percent shooting. When he didn't get long rotations, he struggled to produce. The No. 9 pick in the 2005 NBA Draft, Diogu's progress undoubtedly has been slowed by playing for three very different head coaches (Mike Montgomery, Don Nelson and Rick Carlisle) in two seasons as a professional – with a fourth on the way.
STRENGTHS: A skilled low-post player, Diogu uses his bulk well in terms of establishing excellent post position. Though slightly under-sized at 6-8, he has long arms a relentless approach to attacking the basket. A deceptively quick jumper, Diogu has plenty of spring. He also has a solid mid-range game. He was an effective 3-point shooter in college (38.7 percent in three season) but has yet to register his first NBA attempt. A very effective offensive rebounder, Diogu also has the potential to become a productive shot-blocker.
WEAKNESSES: He needs a strong counter-move to use against taller, active defenders that can take away his first approach to the basket, a way to finesse those types rather than attempting to overpower them. His footwork could stand improvement, both in terms of maintaining a strong base and in defensive positioning. Because of a tendency to reach, foul trouble also has been problematic. Diogu is convinced he just needs a steady diet of minutes to break through. In order to earn those minutes, however, Diogu must show he can be effective in ways other than scoring.
OUTLOOK: Because of his combination of youth and potential, Diogu is considered a vital piece in the team's offseason retooling. Unless moves are made to thin out a deep crop of frontcourt players, however, he'll have to make substantial improvement to earn a more prominent place in the rotation.
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http://www.nba.com/pacers/news/0607_review_diogu.html
I give Ike a B+ for the time he was with Indy. He showed both defensive and offensive promise, with his ability to block shots with his long arms, and score on opponents with his strength. He also has a nice jump shot. My problems with Diogu are his tendencies to become an offensive black hole, lack of real post moves, and a lack of man defensive ability.
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