Examiner.com

Who was that, and what did he do with the 2009 Beno Udrih?

A year after looking like an overpaid bust, Udrih revived his career with a spectacular 2009-2010 season. Perhaps the Kings most improved player, Udrih at times could have passed for one of the premier point guards in the NBA. On top of that, his attitude and leadership were critical in the development of his younger teammates, specifically his backcourt mate Tyreke Evans.

It was a rocky start for Udrih, who began the season picking up DNP-CD’s at the end of the Kings bench. But that soon changed. Udrih contributed in a reserve role before being inserted into the starting lineup following Kevin Martin’s injury. The results were better than anyone could have expected.

Udrih took a huge load off of Evans while flashing a polished offensive game that helped him carry the Kings on many nights. Udrih mastered the “stop-and-pop” pull-up jumper and was one of the best shooting guards by percentage in the NBA. He also showed a great ability to penetrate and create opportunities for his teammates.

When Martin returned, Udrih did not grumble – as he had done during the 08-09 season. He accepted a return to the bench, even though his production dipped significantly. However, his play early in the year was likely one factor in the Kings decision to trade Martin to Houston at the deadline. Udrih was re-inserted into the starting lineup following the deal, and he picked up where he left off.

Udrih’s production both as a starter and a reserve (he shot a slightly higher percentage off the bench) gives the Kings flexibility in how they approach the guard position in the offseason. If an upgrade is available, Udrih can be the sixth man, but after his performance this season, the Kings likely have no qualms in giving him the starting job next season.

You would be nitpicking if you tried to find fault with Udrih’s offensive play this year. He improved his shooting percentages, cut down on turnovers and posted career-highs in points, assists and three-pointers made. His 49.4% shooting from the field was third among NBA guards, behind All-Stars Rajon Rondo and Steve Nash. Defensively, Udrih is less efficient, but he exhibited a much better work ethic on the defensive end than he did last season. He finished second on the team with 1.1 steals per game.

Udrih has three years remaining on a five-year contract he signed in 2008 worth $32 million. It is a contract that is probably easier to trade now given Udrih’s success. But with Udrih proving to be so valuable to the Kings current squad, it seems unlikely that Geoff Petrie would pursue a trade. It will be hard for the Slovenian guard to improve on his exceptional 09-10 season, but if he can, the Kings will have no worries in the backcourt.