As we continue our Season Review series, let’s discuss the brief season of PJ Dozier.
PJ Dozier’s time with the Sacramento Kings was limited. Originally signed to a 10-day contract, followed by another 10-day contract, Dozier seemed to be a garbage time player who could provide emergency wing depth and an extra body in practice. In February the Kings waived KZ Okpala and signed Dozier for the remainder of the season. Despite limited minutes, it was clear there was something the Kings liked about Dozier.
When all was said and done, Dozier appeared in 79 minutes of game action for the Kings, totaling 22 points, 14 rebounds, 10 assists, 6 steals, and a block. On a per game basis the numbers are minimal, but on a per minute basis, Dozier was productive when he played. Not productive enough to unseat anybody else, but respectable production off the bench when called upon.
Dozier was a player I really liked before injuries derailed his career. Now, he seems to be a level-headed player who understands his role and doesn’t try to do too much. I was impressed by the way Dozier never seemed to force his shot when he played. Even knowing he had a very short window to show his skills, I noticed that Dozier often still made the extra pass to teammates when it was the smart play. It’s a silly little thing, but I appreciate the professionalism. Probably a side effect of a decade of watching fringe NBA players force terrible shots when the Kings cleared the bench in yet another blowout loss.
I don’t anticipate Dozier being part of Sacramento’s future plans, but I also wouldn’t be surprised or upset if he ended up back on the roster as a 15th man. He’s a perfectly fine bench player. He has a good reputation as a locker room guy, doesn’t make a scene about getting more playing time, and is ready when his number is called. The Kings could certainly do worse in terms of a depth player.
Whether it’s with the Kings, another team, or somewhere in Europe, I’ll be rooting for Dozier to find success.
OT: Uh oh, looks like Sasha got hurt.
https://twitter.com/BasketNews_com/status/1666893497712926720
Our options at F just got a bit more limited.
Bone edema only. He’s good.
Greg: “Someone had to write about Dozier…
I actually enjoy taking a little time to think about and write about players who otherwise don’t get much attention!
I like the idea of Dozier, but until he can be a reliable shooter (career 40% FG, 30% 3pt) I don’t think he is long for the league unless there is some other skill he is excellent at. I don’t see that happening.
4 Steals short of a quadruple double!
I have wondered whether Kings keep him a 3rd/4th PG/SF …
He id play some PG. a few years ago, he fit the profile of what Kings could use- a bigger defensive minded guard who can score. But not now.
Kings need a taller TD who plays the same offense but better on defense. Yeah, right.
PJ not the guy. This is a roster spot that can be used. Potentially, the Kings could get 4 new drafted players and two undrafted (for 2-way deals) That’s a lot of new bodies.
I suspect that one of the second-round picks is kicked down the road and one may become one of the 2 ways.
I am warming to Oscar Twieshebe- he cannot guard the pick and roll but he rebounds like a Looney. Not at 24 or 38 though.
this draft is such a crap shoot-at 24, there will be a good player available- but will it be obvious who that is at that point.
I think Monte would like TJD but at 24, that might be too high i.e. other teams don’t have him valued there.
Interesting OKC-Denver trade. Denver gets 2 second rounders including 37 in 2023, worst of OKC first rounders in 2024 + another 2024 second rounder for a protected first in 2029.
OKC must believe that in the exchange of first rounders, they get a better pick: late 2024 (to Denver) for a protected 2029 and the difference in value is worth the 2 second rounders.
OKC has so many picks, they just throw them around randomly- cannot possibly use them all and are consolidating. In this case 3 of 1.
At 37, Denver picks in front of us- to take TJD?
Badge Legend