I waited for Marcus Morris for a good thirty minutes after the game, in the lockerroom. He never emerged and I’m guessing had already left by the time I got there. To me, his play in garbage time was a main story.
During his six minute span in the fourth, with the game completely out of hand, we saw some of what he can do and what the Rockets hope he one day does against NBA regulars. He posted up on the mid-block and hit a smooth turnaround. He hit a mid-range jumper. He showed some very impressive handles, crossing his man over on two different possessions and getting to the rim.
To be effective, Morris has to have the ball in his hands. Fans need to understand that and also understand that that’s why he hasn’t gotten regular minutes and has also been in the D-League. He’s not a bust; he just can’t help this current team at the moment. As I explained the other day, Morris isn’t a guy like Patterson or Parsons who can do other things to earn minutes and contribute. He’s learning a new position defensively and he isn’t a good rebounder. In fact, he looks to be a very poor rebounder so far. He’s very limited athletically; he doesn’t seem to have much of a burst either laterally or vertically.
The Rockets value Morris as a scorer. And if tonight was any indication, he has the tools. The touch seems there and he should get more comfortable in the post. As I said earlier, the ball-handling was a very pleasant surprise. But realize, it will take time. They won’t run isos for a rookie in the middle of a playoff push.
It will be interesting to see what the future brings. Parsons seems more than entrenched at the small forward spot. If you got the production he’s giving from a veteran, you’d be pleased; this from a second round rookie is unheard of. That leaves just the backup spot for Morris with Chase Budinger to beat.
One of the toughest things about not having a superstar is that you still can’t sort everything out. Everyone is always on the block until that long-awaited move is made. Then you can fill holes around that framework and build chemistry. In the meantime, some guys stay in limbo.
