Dixon- New and Improved
posted: 9/19/2006 at 10:22 PM
We've talked so much about the rookies, and second-year players in recent days, it's been easy to overlook some of the veteran Trail Blazers. I guess it's natural to explore the unknown at this time of the year, and then get to the players you're already familiar with. With the rookies still out of town at orientation in New York, this is "Veteran Day" on the blog.
Even with the rookies gone, there were plenty of players involved in workouts at the Trail Blazers practice facility on Tuesday. Some of the players, like Desmond Mason, and Luke Jackson, are starting to report to their NBA teams, so the numbers haven't been as great. But, there were still 14 players on hand playing pick-up games at the facility.
Joel Przybilla, who arrived in town on Sunday night, took part in his first open-court games on Tuesday. The first thing I noticed about Joel is that he's lighter. He's played at as much as 265 pounds in recent years, but he told me he's worked himself down to 237. As you know, his knee gave him trouble several times last season, so he's thinking that a more steamlined frame will do nothing but help the knee from taking as big a pounding on the court. He once again did some boxing this summer to help his quickness and balance, and it also helped him get down to this weight. He blocked three shots in his first five-on-five run, and had two powerful dunks. Following his second jam, someone on the side yelled, "relax. You've got your new contract." But, that's not Joel. He said he doubled his off-season workout program despite the security of the new five-year deal, and nice raise in pay.
The star of the day, however, was Juan Dixon, who's going into his second season with the Trail Blazers. Even though we rarely see Juan play above the rim, he had two dunks during pick-up play, and even attempted to block a Przybilla dunk inside. He got a piece of the ball, well above the rim, but also got a piece of Joel, and didn't argue when a foul was called.
Dixon was also doing what he does best- hitting the mid-range jumper. His shot already looks dialed in, and he was finishing at the rim with success. He's got a way of snaking inside and rarely gets his shot blocked. He reminds me a little of Rod Strickland in that way. As he went to get some extra shooting work following the five-on-five games, we were all talking about his new found hops. One of the Blazer trainers tried to explain to me Dixon's off-season workout program, and how it greatly improved his timing and leaping ability. He said something about a biometric program, or something. I didn't understand it, but it sounded legit. I've never seen Juan so athletic, so something's working.
On hand again on Tuesday was veteran Anthony Carter. He's a free agent, and it's looking more and more like he'll be invited to Trail Blazers training camp. There's been talk about the team bringing in another veteran point guard, and Carter could be the answer. He's on a short list of guys who could provide veteran leadership, be accepting of a role, and be a solid backup when called upon. Carter is also a great character guy, with a great work ethic, and could be a valuable example for Portland's young players. Those type of players will be huge for this team.
We'll return to talking about the rookies when they get back. In the meantime, check out insidehoops.com, a great NBA site to add to your favorites. They've already got their "Rookie of the Year Watch" underway and two Blazers made the top seven.
Click here for the link. They've also got a great interview coming up with Brandon Roy, so check back with them for that.
I should also mention that Wednesday afternoon there will be must-listen radio show for Blazer fans. You know, I usually reserve the "must listen" stuff for
Courtside Monday Night, presented by L.A. Weight Loss, on KXL. But, from 3 to 5pm on Wednesday Brian Wheeler will be co-hosting "Primetime" on 1080 The Fan, along with Big Suke (who's not so big anymore, thanks to L.A. Weight Loss- dude is wasting away to nothing). Joining Wheels and Suke will be Nate McMillan, Steve Patterson, and Kevin Pritchard. Tune in.
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So once again i ask.... why are we courting point guards if we already have 2-3? i mean thats only gonna lead to congestion. and everyones raving about sergio. So whats the situation. Also, i'm still curious about sergio's high turnover stats...
Sergio is not ready. Hes really fast and great with the ball but its obvious that no one feels comfortable having him as a consistant backup. Im wondering if dan's rehab is behind if we are looking for another PG.
On the radio, you said "3-wood." In the blog, you say "5-wood." On the radio, Wheels said, "6-iron." So which is it?
Juan's new workout is more than plyometrics, I heard he has been sprinting hills, running track, and doing insane speed drills with 150 pound resistance cords attached to him. he's working out two to three times a day and following an extremely disciplined diet as well. apparently he has added several pounds of muscle to his frame also.
Good question t_dawger89. since Dan Dickau has a year of starting for New Orleans with good success I wonder if he might be part of a trade package that is all but completed. With Dan we have a range of point guards. Since Nate played the position there is no lack of teaching for the team. It would be good, if Dan is traded, to have Carter or someone like him that knows the ropes and can handle the pressure especially early in the year and if injuries occur.
First of all, I am a Blazer Believer. I want to believe the 25 point pledge, and while I searched "player code of conduct" on the Blazer website and got sidetracked. On Mike's Blog I see that Anthony Carter "might" be asked to report to camp. Now, if I recall, Anthony Carter just got a second DUII offense. Is this the type of "Veteran Leadership" that is beneficial to the team?
For the Trailblazer fans that haven't had a chance to see B-Roy play much, he's the real deal. Being from Seattle and attending many UW games over the past four years, plus watching the games I didn't attend that were on TV, he's a tremendous player. He could have easily led the nation in scoring, if he wanted too. He will more than likely be rookie of the year, and be considered the steal of the draft four or five years from now in my opinion. He has the upside of Dwayne Wade. He does everything well.
I think Dixon is a great addition to the team, and he certainly impressed me last year even while the blazers...well...you know had the worst record in the NBA. His participation is intregral to the youth movement we have embarked upon. But then you go on to say that Anthony Carter could provide "Veteran leadership", and that he's a "Great Character Guy".
Didn't he just get his second DUI a couple months ago? Not saying this is a pattern of behavior...but...isn't that a pattern of behavior?
btw...I just searched the Blazer website for "Player Code of Conduct", (which is on the 25 point pledge)...remember that? Guess what I found...FAN Code of conduct. No doubt we need some veteran leadership...
Juan's a very good player but a tweener none the less. What I do like
over the last few years is his increasing aptitude for the point guard position. People told him he couldn't be a premier 2 in the league at his size so he did what was asked and I find that very important in evaluating him as a player. I like him as a steady veteran presence at a low cost and I think a lot of the younger guys can learn alot about selflessness and tenacity from him...
Once again...it's that guy all the way from VA...Hey Kevin Pritchardm when your ready to hire me give me a call....I'm good....Go Blazers
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