Many people were confused by the Warriors drafting yet another lanky, 6'10'' power forward when they chose Ekpe Udoh from Baylor back in June. Now in December, Udoh’s development may be the most important factor in turning around Golden State’s season.
In the two weeks since his debut against the Miami Heat, Udoh has gone from garbage-time big man to a legitimate part of the rotation. This is due in part to the absence of Andris Biedrins due to injury. However, Udoh has taken full advantage of the time he has had thus far.
His stats won’t jump off the page at you. A couple buckets and a couple boards do not look like the line for a would-be savior, but his game is unlike any other frontline player on the roster.
His defensive instincts are already more advanced than Biedrins, David Lee, Lou Amundson or Brandan Wright. The sheer commodity of his style of play makes him valuable to the Warriors.
In his last three games, Udoh has been credited with three blocks per game while averaging just over twenty minutes per contest. His energy level is unquestioned and his 7'4'' wingspan ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NBA
Article written by Ryan Norris
Ekpe Udoh: The Golden State Warriors Rookie Is Moving Up the Depth Chart
December 27th, 2010 by Ryan Norris Leave a reply »
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