Haddadi's role improves, replaces Thabeet as backup center

[La Bomba]

Griz coach Lionel Hollins announced Tuesday night that Haddadi would supplant rookie Hasheem Thabeet as the backup to starting center Marc Gasol.

 

"I just made a decision that I'm going with Hamed just like I made the decision that I'm going with Marcus (Williams at point guard)," Hollins said. "You just feel something and you want to see something and you want to change. You run with it and see what happens. How long will this last? I don't know."

 

Haddadi entered the game for Gasol with 11:06 remaining in the second period. The 7-foot Iranian displayed an immediate contrast to Thabeet.

 

Haddadi played credible defense against Lakers forward Pau Gasol. Offensively, he appeared aware and in tune with the Grizzlies' schemes such as when he received the ball near the basket and fed Darrell Arthur for an easy layup. Haddadi soon grabbed an offensive rebound and immediately scored a put-back goal.

 

He also completed a 3-point play after he pump faked and scored a layup while being fouled by Gasol.

 

Haddadi finished with six points and two rebounds in his 17th appearance this season.

 

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2010/feb/24/haddadis-role-improves/

[Legacy]

How do you assess his play in your opinion, Sublime?

[The Artesticle]

How do you assess his play in your opinion, Sublime?

He is good.

[La Bomba]

How do you assess his play in your opinion, Sublime?

He's really awkward when he's on the court because he's so lanky and doesn't really have any post moves, but he is a great rebounder and a pretty good defensive player. Glad we finally made him the second string center.