I'll say this, the reason I started watching the Kings was because of Jimmer as I've always been a huge fan, and frankly I like rooting for underdogs, especially someone as nice as Jimmer. But even though Jimmer is what I came to see, I also found it fun to root for Kings as well (even though I'm a born Lakers fan. Please don't hate). As I said, I like rooting for the underdogs, so I guess the Kings fit this category well.
The problem I saw was this. When Jimmer was drafted, it came with a huge fan base and unrealistic expectations. Some of the players took the "jimmer mania" personal (rightfully so) so they tested him in practice (totally understandable). So what does Jimmer do? He tried to be a good teammate and defer the shot and basically played very passively. So passively that he lost some of his confidence and virtually went away from what got him to the NBA in the first place - his shooting. At the same time, I'm sure the speed of the NBA was a little shocking to him as well. Some of this is on Jimmer, as his personality is just so mild manner that while MT and IT were demanding minutes by being vocal leaders with a little edge to them along with their gameplay, Jimmer just seemed very passive in comparison as he tried to fit in. He definitely looked like a deer in headlights his first year.
Last year Jimmer's overall game improved (you're probably thinking his game had nowhere to go but up. Heh, that's true, but stay with me here). Even though his fan base may be crazy (yes, I'm a little crazy) his teammates also really started to like him. I mean, it is hard not to like the guy. I think with that, his confidence also grew.
I do think that Smart yanked him around a lot and and at the same time there was really no such thing as player development - which Jimmer probably needed more then anybody. So I write this off as both a terrible coach and horrible management.
So now we are on to this year. I fully expect Jimmer to make a bigger impact and help the Kings improve this year. So far, it looks like his game (and confidence) has ratcheted it up another notch this year. Maybe not starter material, but a 12-15 min crowd spark off the bench doesn't seem like a huge stretch.
But, one thing I can't get my head around is this. How is Malone going to find minutes for Mclemore, Thorton, and Jimmer? I mean, say Mclemore starts. Is Jimmer really going to come in before Thorton? If so, there goes 8 mil and trade value, not to mention that Thornton may just go postal.
If Thorton starts, then Mclemore definitely comes in and Jimmer is left biting his nails on the bench. I mean he's good at that, but after playing well, you would think he would deserve some minutes.
Anyway, I don't envy Malone's position and I'm sure at some point a guard or two will be traded for hopefully a much needed big. If not, just to clear some space for current player development.
Brick, Entity, Pedrino and others who don't care for Jimmer (I'm sure you like him personally). Just please give him a chance to prove himself this year before totally writing him off. Perhaps he won't totally change your mind, but maybe he might have more to offer then you thought once his role has finally been established. I'm not expecting greatness, just some steady play.
Yes, I want to see Jimmer play. Not because I want to see him pump up his stats and be the college superstar that he was. But I sincerely think he can fill a needed role and help contribute to this team's progress. Hey, maybe I'm just wishful thinking. It sure wouldn't be the first time.