Success in professional sports is all about where you play. The right system. The right culture. The right medical staff. Everything matters, but not all good franchise are good fits for every player.
You could argue that LSU’s Cam Thomas, Javonte Smart and Trendon Watford may have landed in the perfect situation for what each of them needs to succeed in the NBA.
Cam Thomas was drafted 27th overall by the Brooklyn Nets Thursday night. The Nets are a team that cares about one thing and one thing only: scoring. Hall of Fame player-turned-head-coach Steve Nash gives his players free rang to shoot and create in space.
Cam Thomas should fit right in.
The least likely to get drafted out of the three was Javonte Smart. And he didn’t, but Smart ended up signing a contract with the Miami Heat. One of the most well-run NBA franchises in the last two decades. Known for their ability to be patient with their prospects, the Heat are a guard centric organization that develops hard working players with a good attitude.
Javonte Smart is a classic pickup for the Heat and will spend some time developing his game in the G-league.
Trendon Watford was a frustrating player to watch at LSU. There were games he looked like an NBA lottery pick and others he seemed invisible. Well, Watford’s deal with the Portland Trail Blazers as an undrafted free agent mirrors the latter.
Watford signed a two-way deal with Portland. For those unfamiliar with a two-way contract, it goes like this. Basically, Watford can spend up to 45 days with a team, the Blazers, and then sign a contract with the teams G-League affiliate.
It’s a tougher situation, but it’s an opportunity. The NBA is telling Watford, “Your play on the court tells us you need a kick in the pants.” Some young guys do. Watford has all the ability in the world to have a decade-long career in the NBA, but he has to want it.
Lack of effort on defense, inbound plays and half-court offense have put Watford in this position. However; this is what’s best for him. Back the young puppy into a corner and make a dog out of him.