<< Before TAW hurt his knee(s?) he would be the surperior player. Griffen may or may not play again after the back surgery but he is the same size, more agile, better defensively AND can hit the open shot. Buck is better than Artest but shorter and more athletic. My opinion of course but according to me, that's three guys on the roster that renders Artest completely unnecessary. >>
NBA scouting report on Buckner
"6'4" 210 lbs. 9/16/76 The defensive specialist in a team not very much concerned about defense... Will guard anyone on the perimeter... Not the main offensive threat, of course, but someone you will have to take care of."
NBA scouting report on Griffen
"6'5' 215 lbs. 07/04/74 Superb defender on the ball... Can score, but that is not his main task in Dallas. "
NBA scouting report on TAW
"6'6" 223 lbs. 11/03/74 Underachiever... His jumper has not really improved over the past few seasons... And that is a concern when talking about a shooting guard... Has athletic skills."
NBA scouting report on Artest
"6'7'' 246 lbs. 11/13/79 You have to be worried if he is going to guard you... Steals quite a few balls... Getting better in the offensive end... His jumper and three-point shot accuracy have improved dramatically."
So, Artest is 3-5 years younger, healthier, taller, bigger, and more athletic. His upside is better, and he is showing improvement each year. I don't see the problem all of you seem to have with him, and yes, I have watched him play. Also watched Dirk the first two years in the league and saw him improve each year.
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