Is it that Nicolas Batum entering his final season in the NBA? After the message posted by his partner on social networks this summer, the Clippers winger was questioned several times in France on the subject. And on Monday, it did not fail, an American colleague also asked him the question about his future.
“It’s my last year of contract, my 16th year, so we’ll see what happens at the end of the season. I’ve done a lot of things in the NBA. I’m trying to focus on this season, and we’ll see what happens after this season. Maybe I’ll stay, maybe not. I do not know yet “ he replied like the good Norman that he is.
Holder or replacement, it doesn’t matter!
Same type of response when asked if he is ready to apply for a starting place at position 4.
“You know me, I don’t care… I’ll do whatever I’m asked” replies the captain of the Blues. “My philosophy as a player is to do whatever the coach wants me to do. If he wants me to be a starter, I will be. If he wants me to play point guard, I will. Interior, replacement… It’s not my job, it’s his. I just want to go out on the field, be competitive and give my all in training and in matches. If he wants me to start the matches, fine, I will start. If he thinks it’s best for the team for me to come off the bench, I’ll come off the bench, just like him. I do not really care. »
“It’s weird because last year, at this time, we were being talked about as favorites”
On a collective level, Batum is happy to find a complete group since Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are fit, and he recognizes that this role of outsider could be a good thing.
“It’s weird because last year, at this time, we were being talked about as favorites, but we’re not really being talked about this year.” notes Batum. “I think it’s a good thing. We have something to prove, and it’s up to us now. We know we have a chance to go all the way, but we saw last year that you can have a good squad, have a good training camp and not have success because things happen. produced during the season. But this year is different. I think we are all healthy and everything is fine. This is our first camp with Russ (Westbrook) and Mason (Plumlee). It will be easier than last year. I know that people will expect us to be among the best but I think that around ten teams can compete for the title, maybe even more. At least 10.”
