AJC > Sports > Hawks > Blog > Archives > 2005 > September > 19
Monday, September 19, 2005
Who’s the man in the middle?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Barring a major move prior to the start of training camp in a couple of weeks, the Hawks will begin this season with Zaza Pachulia, Jason Collier and John Edwards as the main competitors for the starting position at center. Until Esteban Batista’s height and weight can be verified (he’s been listed everywhere from 6-8 to 6-10 and from 240 to 270 pounds), we’re leaving him off the list.
But I doubt anyone fears the vision of Pachulia, Collier or Edwards in the middle of an otherwise promising lineup.
Pachulia would appear to the leader for the starting job, mostly because he has the best combination of athleticism and experience. Collier’s the safe pick, a reliable veteran you know you can depend on in a pinch but not necessarily the long-term answer. Edwards is the wild card, the guy some people believe has loads of potential. But he’s still untested. Technically he’s a second-year player but he’s basically a rookie, after having played sparingly in Indiana last season.
Ultimately, Hawks coach Mike Woodson will have to decide which guy fits best in his system, which guys best complements the rest of his starters and which guy he can count on to rebound and defend consistently against more talented competition. Should he take a chance on one of the young guys or play it safe with the veteran?
Who would you pick?
