Dec 3, 2015; Portland, OR, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) drives to the basket on Portland Trail Blazers forward Al-Farouq Aminu (8) during the second half of the game at Moda Center at the Rose Quarter. The Blazers won the game 123-111. Mandatory Credit: Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports
4. Al-Farouq Aminu (Last Month: 4)
December Stats: 9.2 PPG/1.5 APG/5.5 RPG
Best Game of December (so far): 12/3 vs. IND – 13 points/5 assists/6 rebounds
Although Aminu had a double-double against Phoenix, his best game this month came against Indiana. Along with his complete stat line, he played unbelievable defense on MVP candidate Paul George. The Pacers all-star was held to a season low 11 points and had a -12 plus/minus. It isn’t easy to quantify exactly what Aminu brings to this team, as on an off night offensively, his defense might have made the difference in the outcome of the game.
I’ve harped on the high amount of 3 pointers he takes in some games, but in December, he has shot over five 3 pointers just one time. Compared to Nicolas Batum, Aminu’s offense game is just as inconsistent. Batum however, had a much higher ceiling when he was shooting the ball well. Speaking of Batum: After years and years of Blazers fans waiting for a breakout season, he’s finally having it on the Hornets this year. Just our luck, right?