Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green has admitted he was stunned by Memphis Grizzlies rookie Cam Boozer.
The Memphis Grizzlies won 111-108 at the Golden State Warriors in the second game of the season for both teams. Ty Jerome scored 28 points against his former team, in between scores of a 31 and a 45 in his sensational start to the season.
The Grizzlies roster has looked talented and well balanced so far, and one of the reasons for this is the instant impression made by rookie Cam Boozer.
Boozer was the third overall pick, and the 19-year-old scored 25 points against the Warriors, demonstrating his instant adaptation to the NBA.
Speaking on his podcast, Draymond Green admitted he was stunned by Boozer’s all around game.
He said: “I had no clue he can move the way he moved. Also that he could shoot the way he shoots.
“To go up against him for the first time. Very strong, doesn’t back down from a challenge. He talks out there on the floor. I was very impressed with Cam Boozer.
“The thing that stood out most is he moves extremely well. He can handle the ball. That piece was shocking to me. I’m excited about Cam Boozer. I was very surprised.”
Green added that he did expect Boozer would be able to score – but he didn’t expect his game to be so polished so early into his career.
Who do you think is going to be the Grizzlies’ surprise of the season?
A rookie, a bench guy breaking into the rotation, or a starter ready to take a leap – you decide 👇
Green made Tim Duncan comparison
Cam Boozer has been on Draymond Green’s radar a while. Back in June around the NBA Draft, Green compared his understated style to NBA legend Tim Duncan.
“Tim Duncan never had to blow you through the roof, yet he was so great. He’s one of the greatest players we’ve ever seen. And I think that was Tim Duncan. And you look at Cam Boozer, he has a similar thing.”
So considering Green already had a high level of appreciation and respect for Boozer, it is very significant that he was left so shocked after playing against him for the first time.
Boozer has double digit rebounds in all three games this season, while his 25 points against the Warriors is his highest points total yet.
He is not the only rookie making a splash, with fourth overall pick Caleb Wilson dropping 30 points for the Bulls against the Wizards.
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