Originally Posted by
DukieInBrasil
Continuing on an idea in an earlier thread, let's look at the NBA quality of Blue Devils who left early.
Elton Brand, super-star, currently injured. Who knows how good he will be when he comes back from his ruptured Achilles, but he was an All-Star before he went down, and a constant double-double machine.
Carlos Boozer, super-star, currently rocking opponents withe Jazz. Double-double machine and will certainly be an All-Star into the future.
Mike Duleavy, star, currently blossoming withe Pacers. After a slow start to his NBA career, Mike is showing the versatility and polish that his game was predicted to have. Could be an All-Star in the East if his play continues to improve that way it has.
Luol Deng, star, currently improving the Bulls. Versatility and niiiiiiiice describe his game well. Could very well be an All-Star in the East soon.
Corey Maggette, star, currently playing excellent ball sans Brand in LA. The injury bug has definitely taken a liking to Maggette, but he is still an exciting slasher. If he had stayed injury free, he very well could have been an AS by now, he conceivably could be one still.
William Avery, no longer in the NBA. Was not able to convince anyone to give him a 2nd contract after a few mediocre years withe T-Wolves.
Jason Williams, no longer in the NBA due to a horrible motorcycle accident. Could maybe have become an AS in the East.
Shavlik Randolph, sub for the 76ers. Made the Sixers against the odds and has finally recovered from an injured ankle to pick up some minutes off the bench.
McRoberts, sub for the Blazers. Has only played sporadically.
Shaun Livingston, currently injured, but on the roster for the Clippers.
Kris Humphries, was in the NBA, not sure of current status.
I see a trend here, the guys who are leaving early now are less successful, and IMHO less likely to be successful, than the "pioneers" of leaving early. As I commented before, I think that guys are being fed a by-product of media hype of the select few who have been successful.