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TSN Basketball Analyst

Archive

1. JASON THOMPSON (Raptors): I view Thompson as a solid insurance pickup for the Raptors. He was a steady performer in his seven-year stint with the Sacramento Kings. With Luis Scola struggling right now and DeMarre Carroll still rehabbing his knee injury, the Raptors need to hold the fort at this spot the best they can. Patrick Patterson has done a nice job coming off the bench playing major minutes, yet I'm sure that when Carroll is healthy things will shake up a bit at the power forward spot with some smaller lineups.

2. ANTHONY BENNETT: If he's not already at a moment of truth in his career he's very close to it. Bennett is a tweener in terms of position, and he's got to figure out how he has to play his game to be an effective pro. There is a huge price that has to be paid to survive in the NBA. Bennett has to decide if he's willing to pay it.

3. CAVS: My impression after watching them in person on Friday in Toronto and on countless occasions on TV is that they seem to take turns offensively on whose time it is to get shots. We’re into March, but they are still figuring out each other. There’s one reason for Cavs fans not to panic. When LeBron James is on the floor they're very good. When he's not they're just okay. If I'm head coach Tyron Lue, I play James 43-45 minutes per game in the playoffs and let the other guys figure it out around him.

4. JOE JOHNSON (Heat): This was a smart acquisition by Miami given the major question marks about the return of Chris Bosh. In today's NBA he can play at the power forward spot when you go small and he usually finds a way to be effective. He gives the Heat another legitimate offensive player. Pat Riley always seems to find a way. They're still a dangerous team.    

5. TREY LYLES (Jazz): The Canadian forward is starting to get consistent minutes in Utah and is playing with confidence. I like the energy he brings to the floor. He was a bit inconsistent in his short time at Kentucky, but his best days are ahead of him. A defined role and realistic expectations have him in a place that provides an opportunity for growth. It’s a good situation for him.