Roster Analysis - Part 3
Roster Analysis: Part 3
In Parts 1 and 2, we looked at the “We’re Stuck With Them!” and “The Expirings” groups. Part 3 will focus on the most important group to the future success of the Bobcats, “The Building Blocks.” All of these players are young and have affordable guaranteed contracts. The development of these 5 players, along with the upcoming draft picks, will determine how quickly the Cats jump back into playoff contention.
1) Gerald Henderson
Odds of Being on the Roster Next Year: 99%
Why He Will be Here: After being buried on Larry Brown’s bench for a season and a half, Hendo finally got an opportunity to play when Silas took over in December. And to everyone’s surprise Henderson played very well, regardless of what old Larry said about him. Henderson’s development over the last 3+ months has been startling. He was immediately a quality defender, given his quickness and basketball IQ. But as the season went on he developed a consistent jump shot from 20 feet, especially coming off curl screens. Considering his rapid improvement this year and his documented work ethic, Hendo has a chance to be an upper echelon SG in the league. In my opinion, he is the only player on the roster who can become an All-Star, not to mention he is on a cheap rookie contract. He isn’t going anywhere.
Why I Could be Wrong: Unless he’s needed to land a superstar (like Chris Paul) in a trade, Hendo isn’t going anywhere. And I don’t think that particular circumstance is very likely.
2) Shaun Livingston
Odds of Being on the Roster Next Year: 99%
Why He Will be Here: When the Cats signed Livingston last summer, they were taking a big chance. He is basically playing on one knee and most thought his career was over a few years ago after suffering that devastating knee injury. However, he was an incredibly reliable backup at PG this season and there have been several times during the season where you could make a case he was the best PG on this roster. He has a huge size advantage over everyone he plays and is an extremely consistent midrange shooter and a lot better finisher at the rim than most people realize. I don’t think he will ever be the starter but with 2 years at $3.5 million per left on his deal (second year is a team option), I would expect Livingston to be a Bobcat.
Why I Could be Wrong: It’s hard to imagine a scenario where Livingston isn’t a Bobcat next year. I guess we could possibly deal him if we were to acquire a top notch PG via the draft or free agency but that might affect Augustin more than Livingston.
3) DJ White
Odds of Being on the Roster Next Year: 95%
Why He Will be Here: DJ came over from Oklahoma City (along with MoPete’s corpse) at the trade deadline in exchange for Nazr Mohammed. He was rarely used for the Thunder and I think it’s safe to say very few of us knew much about him. White, however, has been a very pleasant surprise for the Cats. He is a decent defender and rebounder and has a consistent jump shot out to about 20 feet. He still has one year left on his rookie contract right at $2 million so he is a pretty good bargain for a young developing player. I fully expect him to be in Charlotte next season.
Why I Could be Wrong: Again, it’s hard to fathom too many scenarios where DJ isn’t a Bobcat, unless he is a throw-in for a bigger trade.
4) Tyrus Thomas
Odds of Being on the Roster Next Year: 95%
Why He Will be Here: The Bobcats made a pretty significant investment in Tyrus last summer and his first full season with the Cats quickly became considerably less than a full season. He tore his meniscus in early January, which effectively ended his season, although he attempted a return in late March. T-Time is an incredible athlete, shot blocker, and has improved the range on his shot (although he shoots it way too much). Although his potential is high, he is a bit high maintenance and betting on him maturing and developing is a gamble. He wore out his welcome in Chicago and hasn’t shown much of a desire to improve his game around the basket. With 4 years and $33 million left on his contract, I doubt too many teams will be willing to take on that commitment given this summer’s financial landscape.
Why I Could be Wrong: Honestly, I think the Cats deal him without much thought if they get a decent offer. His contract is a little too rich for a rebuilding team that isn’t sure Tyrus will work out. But like I mentioned above, I doubt we will get any calls for his services.
5) DJ Augustin
Odds of Being on the Roster Next Year: 90%
Why He Will be Here: DJ has played admirably in his first season as a starting PG this season. He has averaged 14 points a game with an assist/turnover ratio of 3:1. He is only 23 years old and is still on a rookie contract that will only pay him a touch over $3 million next season. Given his improvement at finishing in traffic, his shooting touch, and the way he protects the basketball, he is a rather cheap option for a young developing PG. With the Cats’ plan for going young, productive players on rookie scale contracts are fiscally sound investments. DJ is probably safe and will have another year to continue his development as a Bobcat.
Why I Could be Wrong: Okay, I’m about to broach a touchy and controversial subject among the Bobcats faithful. Personally, I’m not convinced that DJ is the answer at PG and I don’t think MJ and the crew are convinced either. There have been plenty of games this season where Silas has decided to lean on Livingston at the end of games and I think that speaks volumes on who he trusts more in those situations. I think he wants a bigger PG that’s a better finisher and much better defender than DJ is or will likely ever become. If the Cats get a chance to grab a PG this summer via the draft, free agency, or a trade, I think DJ becomes very available.
