Despite going undrafted, the 23-year-old rook came into the season full of strength and confidence. It's hard to mark much improvement, considering he was ready to contribute in November when he cracked the rotation -- averaging 25 minutes and more than 8 points per game -- and has been consistent all season. A mini-breakout in March has pushed him to more than 11 points a game this month while getting almost 30 minutes a night.
Still, to be a difference-maker and play your best ball in the heat of a playoff run for one of the league's best teams is impressive. In some respects, Matthews reminds me of Carl Landry and DeJuan Blair; all three make plays that seem surprising given their size and bodies. But results trump everything else, and Matthews is making Jazz fans giddy with what he brings every night.
http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/insider/columns/story?columnist=thorpe_david&page=Rookies-100331