Re: Rick Fox

[arsilva@ix.netcom.com]

J. Mark Estepp wrote:
> 
> >As for Rick Fox, let's hope he leaves soon!  I can't recall ever seeing a
> >professional basketball player not be able to hit an 18 foot jumper, while
> >open.  He never hits them either!  Also, he can't make good decisions on
> >the break, never converts on 3-on-2's, and he cannot finish on the break
> >either.  He is also a journeyman and is very limited offensively.  There is
> >a reason why the Celtics cannot unload Fox.  Granted, he is vastly overpaid
> >for being an average player, but no one wants him anyway.  Defensively,
> >which supposedly was his claim to fame in North Carolina and led to his
> >pick in the 1st round as a draft choice, he is slightly average.  He is too
> >heavy to keep up with quicker small forwards, and too short for power
> >forwards.  He's a classic "tweener"...what is he...a small forward?  Not at
> >230 pounds.  Is he a power forward?  Not at 6'7''.  Is he a shooting guard?
> >Can't hit an outside shot and he can't handle the ball.  Where does that
> >put him?  On the bench usually.
> >
> >John Diaz
> >
> 
> John, I totally disagree with you about Fox.  In years past he has never
> been a favorite of mine, but this year I am truly impressed with his
> leadership and class on the court. He is no superstar, but if the C's are
> going to build from scratch, with young lottery picks added to W3, they need
> Fox there.  I say keep him.  Sure he is overpaid.  They all are.
> 
> Defensively, he is right at the top of the steals stats, competing with
> little point guards.  He also has great hands for stripping the ball.  The
> C's are going to need vereran leadership, and he is it.
>	

I have to agree with Mark on this one. You must be thinking of the Rick Fox of 
a couple of years ago. He is playing with a lot more focus than in recent 
years. I think he does lead the league in steals for forwards. He played at 
the two and didn't embarass himself in the beginning of the year. Him and 
Wesley have been solid contributors throughout the season. I think they both 
are an essential part of the rebuilding process. Last year I would've said 
they both must go but not this year.

Art Silva