New Jackson bobblehead named Warriors co-captain.
No, no. I’m kidding of course. But, even with all of the Warriors young talent, the elephant remains in the room. Everyone who watched this team regularly knows that Baron brought much more then his great stats to the team. That’s why, in my estimation, his departure gives rise to one of biggest unknowns for the 2008-09 season. Who will lead this team?
Earlier this week, Matt Steinmetz blogged about Jax’s “turnaround” since joining the Dubs.
Jackson came to the Warriors in January 2007, accompanied by a violent and criminal past. It didn’t end well in Indiana, with Jackson being virtually run out of town. After the brawl at the Palace, he became one of the most reviled players in the NBA.
Eighteen months later, Jackson is one of the faces of the Warriors’ franchise, his likeness and voice are featured in radio and television spots, he’s won both team- and NBA-sponsored community service awards, and next week he’ll launch his charitable foundation.
In all seriousness, I really like Stephen. A bunch. And, while I (along with many FTBers) have questioned his propensity for a prideful game of 1-on-5, his moxie is priceless. Jax shows tremendous toughness, and is a proven winner on a championship team. However, I will venture to say that his leadership role needs to be balanced. And not with a bobblehead.
So, who’s it gonna’ be? Monta, the point leader? Corey, the veteran leader? Ronny, the cheerleader? What say you? Comment boxes are standing by.
Gd.
I think the other leadership will be really one-dimensional. Mullin made it known that he liked Maggette for his work ethic and commitment to the gym. That will be good for the young skinnies, but as for a more well-rounded type of leader, I do think Jackson can step up there, and definitely Nellie will have to be more of a “father-figure” coach without Baron there.
I don’t think Ellis is ready. He’s Luke Skywalker and Baron was Obi Wan. He still needs to go to Dagobah and kick it with Yoda for a while.
Comment by matthewmeschery | 08.16.2008 | 8:40 am
Maybe we should buy one of these and send it to Monta. He could just keep The Beard in his travel bag for those long road trips.
Comment by Gd. | 08.16.2008 | 9:23 am
As long as he doesn’t swallow it.
Comment by matthewmeschery | 08.16.2008 | 12:25 pm
Indeed, I noticed the choking hazard warning too. I also see that this Baron Davis figure requires some assembly. Um, perhaps Keith Smart could expand his coaching duties?
Comment by Gd. | 08.16.2008 | 5:38 pm