Shabazzmatazz! Muhammad lights up Reno

Shabazz Muhammad can score

Shabazz Muhammad was the most efficient player on day three of the 2014 NBA D-League Showcase in Reno, NV. The rookie, on assignment from the Rick Adelman coached, Minnesota Timberwolves, went for 24 points in 26 minutes in the Iowa Energy's 133-121 victory over the Bakersfield Jam Tuesday morning. Muhammad is a bit of a mystery to most NBA followers because he seldom gets to play. Muhammad's strong day in Reno was a reminder to not dismiss him. The "Adelman Factor" has to be considered here. The veteran coach leans toward veteran players he trusts. Rookies that play for Adelman can be bench warmers for months before seeing any meaningful minutes in an NBA contest. If you don't believe me, ask Kevin Martin about his rookie year in Sacramento.

Joining Muhammad on the Energy is Othyus Jeffers. The 28 year-old who has NBA experience is making a case that he should be back up in the "big show".  Jeffers had 19 points (6-12 FG, 6-6 FT), six rebounds, five assists, and three steals in 26 minutes.

NOTES: We were told that DeAndre Liggins will soon sign a deal with the Chicago Bulls. It hasn't happened yet but that doesn't mean that it will not happen. ...Dexter Pittman is here and he is in shape. Unfortunately, as I scouted his game, the only thing I wrote down about him was his name. ...Marshon Brooks was a one-man offensive machine for Maine. On assignment from Boston, Brooks did what he does for a team that has the non-scorer Abdul Gaddy running the point. Brooks scored 24 points and he was efficient in doing so. Maine destroyed what I thought was going to be a good Austin team, 118-92. Brooks' game is still primarily "off the bounce". He uses his one-on-one skills, and height advantage to score going toward the hoop. ...I did not see much "wing" play from Malcolm Thomas. He played either power forward or center for Austin alongside Eric Dawson.  ...Rudy Gobert was again incredibly efficient in his run for Bakersfield. The Jazz rookie BIG had eleven points, 12 boards, and three blocked shots in 24 minutes.