Stats: 17 G, 1 GS, 3.1 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 0.6 APG, 0.4 BPG, 35.0 FG%, 61.1 FT%, 6.79 PER
Preseason Expectations: James came into the season after a pretty solid summer league. That being said, even though he was came to the NBA after four years and possessed a polished game, he was still a rookie and therefore expectations were tempered. James did seem to have the type of game of an old school NBA wing, able to provide shooting, defense and some athleticism.
The Good: James was just beginning to get into some sort of a comfort level with the NBA game. He played 19 minutes and scored 10 points and six rebounds in a game against the Hawks on 12/7. If given minutes James showed he could rebound his position and score while being able to guard more physical wings.
The Bad: His lack of range didn’t hurt too bad in the college game, as he was able to bully smaller opponents. In the NBA he may need to extend his range just a little to become more effective.
The Extra: Damion James didn’t miss a game during his four year NCAA career, but he has now missed the Nets last 33 games.
Final Grade: James seemed to be on a path of becoming a player who could help the Nets, but with just a limited sample he’s going to earn an incomplete for the first half. Final Grade: Incomplete
