Just curious of peoples opinions on this. Is DMB really that much better of the 2002 version of himself? I got the idea for this thread as I was going through some Bill Simmon's archives when I was bored at work last week. When he was doing his diary of USA v Poland he was talking about how he really liked DaMarcus and oredicted that he'd make "the leap" in summer 2004. Is Bill Simmons right?
He could be. The one thing I noticed about DMB during the Holland and Poland matches is that he has more confidence to take defenders on. I think in WC2002 and the following year, he had a little bit of timidness that I don't see anymore. As far as skill, I certainly don't think he's worlds ahead of his 2002 form, but there has been improvement. Despite my liking of the Fire, I'm hoping Beasley jumps across the pond once the transfer window opens up again.
Interesting question. DMB's primary strength is rapid acceleration and high speed. And, I suppose, the ability to get up after repeated knockdowns. While I like him, I think that he needs a dose of what Convey is going through in order to improve substantially. Convey is being told to use his head according to the needs of the situation. If that means full speed ahead, fine; if it means slow and hold, also fine. It's the mixture of things that makes great players. I haven't seen that type of maturity emerging from DMB. His greatest role may be that of a disruptor. He can certainly wreak havoc among defenders and, at the very least, this will create opportunities for his teammates.