Having been with the Miami Heat for eight years as their assistant coach, David Fizdale has had the chance to know their players on a deeper level. He was known to have a good relationship with all of them, and understands each ones role within the team.
There are some who may not receive a lot of playing time, but is equally as valuable to a team, just like their starters. A great example of that is Udonis Haslem, who serves as team captain, and is considered the heart and soul of the Heat. He has spent his entire professional career with the South Beach team, and is relied upon to mentor their young players, as well as a source of inspiration inside the locker room. That said coach Fizdale gave JaMychal Green that comparison, calling him the Grizzlies’ version of Haslem.
https://twitter.com/CAGrizBeat/status/913458580430495745
Green just recently signed a two-year extension worth $17 million, after months of uncertainty regarding his future. Now that a deal has been struck, both parties can breathe a huge sigh of relief, and start focusing once again on bringing out the best in his game.
The 27-year-old Alabama product is a four year NBA veteran, who has played for the Grizzlies the past three seasons. He had his best campaign last year, and averaged solid numbers of 8.9 points, 7.1 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 27.3 minutes per game. Without Zach Randolph now, he is expected to be their undisputed starter at the power forward spot, and will have the opportunity to surpass his numbers from a year ago.
However, more than his production, it could be his leadership qualities and level of maturity that makes him a key piece for the Grizzlies future. If the second year head coach can help mold him to be like Haslem, the money they’ll pay Green could appear to be a bargain, as his impact would be felt on and off the court, and he may even become their captain as well in the coming years.
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