probally having to "THINK " to much as he is trying to remember his defensive assignments, thus messing up his instictive rebounding and timing.
He was probally playing HIS old game , the first games and now Doc wants him to become more defense first oriented. AND NOT FOUL OUT
He is also being less aggressive , to keep from fouling out
He has to learn and study the players/opponents and know their games inside and out , their strenghts and weaknesses. So next time he meets them , maybe he does better . Learn what he can get away with in the NBA with refs , players and then assert his game.
ALso look at the baptism under fire , meeting the HEAT in his first game
wow...I can't imagine that being 20year old., bunch of 7 footers , ect...alot adjustments to make .
GIve him time. AL Jefferson didn't learn all his moves in the first three weeks of the NBA career ..did he ?
He is a ROOKIE
he is trying to HELP and not get in the way at the same time or make too many mistakes..
He probally never though the competition would be this hard either.