http://myespn.go.com/blogs/truehoop/0-45-26/What-s-With-All-the-Good-Young-Rebounders-.html

Mahinmi’s stats were awful, but I don’t think it was an epic fail or anything. He showed some good things. I’ll grant that he underwhelmed, however.

And honestly, despite his struggles to adapt to the Spurs’ defensive system, he didn’t look lost to me on offense. He had a couple of clever passes, rolled efficiently a few times and showed purpose and resourcefulness when looking for his own shot. He obviously needs to work on his team offense and his screens, but it was a good start.

Cautious optimism is fine, but I prefer to be dangerously optimistic instead and crash down to earth if Blair eventually becomes a serviceable role player and nothing else.

most of those misses came early on close in good looks. Honestly it just looked like he was nervous, and or excited early. his “bad” first half (which included 11 boards) was short lived… he dominated that 3rd quarter and seemed to own the court.

defensively he was impressive… scola caught on fire but as soon as they put blair back in he slowed down and got noticeably frustrated.

I realize it was only one game… but I cant even begin to describe what it was like watching him in person. he had mine and my friends jaws on the floor. He looked like a more athletic boozer on offense and defense and a stronger rodman on the glass. He made some noticeable rookie mistakes…but thats expected. after some popovich polishing, blair could be a diamond.

Don’t misread me. I’m bullish on the Spurs. I love the roster; like their chances against any and all comers. I’m just saying it’s gonna take some time. That’s all.

And for the record, I’m reading a lot into the stellar preseason line. I compared Blair to Lee and Okafor after one game. That’s pretty giddy. Delirious maybe.

You’re correct about the Spurs evaluating players while the Rockets attempted to win. No question that was happening.