It may seem like an unlikely comparison, but I can't shake this impression when I see Martell Webster coming back downcourt after scoring a basket: Jerome Kersey. It's more the look in his eye than a physical resemblence, although, in stature, they are very similar.

You would say the comparison ends there. Jerome was more rugged and defense-minded. Martell is a finesse shooter. I did a little research and discovered some interesting facts. Both were first round draft picks and fan favorites right off the bat. Their average point production in the first two years is remarkably close. Martell is getting more playing time than Jerome did at first, but Kersey exploded in his third year and went on to climb among the alltime leaders in games, points, rebounds, blocks and steals.

It got me thinking: Webster is struggling to find his game. What if, this summer, he really worked on his defense - every aspect - footwork, rebounding, blocks, steals. Do you not think it would pay dividends on the offensive end? It certainly didn't hurt Jerome who, in his prime, was averaging 16-19 ppg. while remaining a defensive force. It seems to me Martell needs to clear his mind and re-focus, perhaps on defense. Think of the possibilities if Martell blossomed on both ends of the court?

I know...times have changed. Team dynamics are different. Apples, oranges? Thoughts?