Story Created:
May 29, 2009
Story Updated:
May 29, 2009
LOCKE DATING GAME
Who: Robert Swift...
Why is he available: free agent
What would it take: 7 footer so you never know where the money is but should be cheap
Why would they do it: He is 7 feet
Why is this a good move: 7'1 270 huge body that is a legit big. He is only 23 years old. Was a top 15 NBA draft pick out of high school so he has talent. Great body, good skills, can run for a big. Wows people in the gym with the lights off if he clicks in could be quite a steal. Is skilled and would be cheap. Last time he played was 05-06 and he had a significant impact on the defense when he was on the floor. He has offensive skills.
Averaged 6 points 6 rebounds and blocked a shot in 21 mins a game in 05-06. Had ACL in 2006 and it usually takes two years to rehab and then he had an injury last season so this would be the year he gets healthy.
Why is this a bad move: Has been a complete bust. Injuries have derailed him, maturity is a really question mark. He takes a long time to uncoil so none of his moves are fast. Tore his ACL in 2006 and it ended his development. He re-injured the knee in 2008 so health is a major concern. Played just 8 games over a 2 year span and then just played the end of this season for Oklahoma City. He is not a quick jumper so shot blocking may be a difficulty
Overall
: This is the insanity of finding bigs. I think I might be willing to give this guy a 2 year deal and he has done nothing. At one point he had skills. His developmental track got derailed and we never found out if he was going to become a player. As a free agent you could sign whim with the expectation of playing 15 minutes a night or playing the big body against big centers. He might just develop into a player and then you have hit the jackpot. Which is why you might give him more than 2 years ok this is where it gets stupid. Someone will pay him more than the minimium salary.
