A Tale of Two Decisions
June 13, 2011Dan Patrick Attacks ESPN’s LeBron Credibility, Gilbert’s Tweet
June 13, 2011Last February, the Cleveland Cavaliers took a calculated risk that could wind up paying considerable dividends.
When the Celtics front office opted to alter their frontcourt depth and part with center Semih Erden (along with forward Luke Harangody for a second-round draft pick) at the trade deadline, concerns on the east coast were that the seven-footer was reeling from a bout of homesickness and was a risk to return to his native country of Turkey, ultimately leaving Boston with nothing in return.
Likely not helping matters, Erden experienced a confluence of physical ailments which would hinder his ability to play once the opportunity had been afforded post-trade. A groin pull subsequently followed by a shoulder injury would limit Semih’s contributions in Cleveland to a handful of games coupled with minimal five-on-five work at the Cleveland Clinic Courts in Independence.
Thankfully, for those that hope to see Erden in Wine and Gold beyond this season, sources close to the young Turkish center tell WFNY that despite previous concerns, he is not only taking to the city of Cleveland and its fans, but that he is “excited” for what the future holds and that the reported bout of homesickness is a non-issue.
“Semih was pretty banged up [last season],” said Erden’s agent Justin Zanik. “It started with the groin, then the shoulder – he’s adjusted nicely to Cleveland though and will be [stateside] soon.”
Having surgery on his injured shoulder approximately one month ago, Erden has spent a lot of his downtime in his hometown of Istanbul, Turkey, visiting family and mending any mental issues that come with being a 24-year-old kid who is also 5,300 miles away from home.
In his four games with the Cavaliers, Erden showed bouts of brilliance rooted in his hard work and hustle-based skill set, averaging what would be 10 points, seven boards and a blocked shot per-36 minutes. He is a true center – something that the Cavaliers lack as the position was held down primarily by Anderson Varejao and JJ Hickson, both under seven feet in stature – and continues to develop with only one season of NBA work under his belt.
Rehabilitating and preparing for a season that many hope exists, Erden already has size and youth on his side. In a city that prides itself on effort, work ethic, determination and perseverance, Erden has the potential to not only earn playing time under Byron Scott, but the capability to provide depth at a position that was ultimately depleted come the end of the 2010-11 season.
Being buried on the bench in Boston was understandably frustrating. Given a fresh start in Cleveland, the seven-foot Erden will have the chance to turn a sour situation into something of significance.
4 Comments
I’d like him next year on the Cavs in a backup role to his countryman Enes Kanter.
I bet Erden and Eyenga are fighting which nationality to draft.
“he is “excited” for what the future holds and that the reported bout of homesickness is a non-issue.”
so, we told him we’re drafting Kanter #4 🙂
If he is a solid back up to Kanter then its be terrific. A common theme in recent championships has been good deep big men. AV, JJ, Kanter and Erden would be a solid deep group at the 4/5.