Empty the Bench

Getting posterized on national television can’t be easy to swallow, but everyone’s favorite NBA Russian, Andrei Kirilenko, will be damned if he’s going to let Baron Davis’ monster slam get to his head. No, what’s done is done, says Andrei, so don’t bother sticking your ass in his face:

People go all crazy,” Kirilenko said. “You dunk on me, OK, next time I’m still going to try to block your shot again. It’s a different mentality. Guys try to put their ass in your face or say something. I’m not intimidated by that stuff.”

Big ups, Andrei. Just a few short weeks ago, AK-47 was busting down in tears during a postgame interview, bemoaning his minutes and questioning his role on the Jazz. We were certain there was no wiggle room for redemption given the pressure-packed atmosphere of the playoffs. AK-47 had been struggling all year with his reduced role in the Jazz offense, so turning it around in the postseason seemed very unlikely.

Centerpiece of Baron Davis’ career highlight reel aside, Kirilenko has proven us and the rest of his detractors wrong in Round Two. TNT broadcaster Reggie Miller predicted when the series began that the 6-9 forward could be a key x-factor for the Jazz, and thus far his prophecy has been accurate. He was only so-so last night in the winning effort (foul trouble), but through four games check out these averages: 15 points, 7.25 boards, 3.75 blocks, and all kinds of hustle. Not staggering, but a significant improvement across the board compared to his regular season.

He butchers the English language better than most, so we’re not sure he fully understood his “ass in the face” remarks. Irregardless, he was trying to say that one play isn’t going to linger in his psyche and that Baron and the Warriors can F right off if they think it will. The transformation from crybaby to chest-pounder in the span of two weeks earns Andrei Kirilenko a sincere pat on the back from the ETB crew.