Kings should make space for Cam

It’s no secret Cameron Oliver has had some challenges in his return to the League, and Derek Rucker might just know why.

The former MVP says while Oliver has been productive, coming off the bench just isn’t working for him or the Kings and the strategy needs to be revisted.

“Maybe this is the genesis of everything and why we are seeing this type of attitude at times from Oliver,” Rucker said on NBL Now.

“I’ve always maintained that (Keli) Leaupepe should be the one coming off the bench - but that’s a philosophical coaching perspective where I see it differently from Brian Goorjian … but does it give you a kick tonight when you need it most?”

Rucker believes making Oliver a starter could unlock his full potential, provided the man himself is prepared to make some changes of his own.

“It’s the body language, it’s the consistent bickering at teams, at the opponents when he gets a bucket. It’s always getting mired into some type of to-and-fro that I know bothers (head coach) Brain Goorjian,” Rucker said.

“I think it’s the intangibles. Because if you look at his numbers they are solid. He provides them scoring, he provides them with defensive rebounds – which is an area Sydney has struggled.”

Rucker says Goorjian’s pedigree as a coach, and Oliver’s superstar talent, means the Kings can easily bounce back from a winless Round 6 with a win over United.

“[Oliver] is vital, he is a true superstar in our League and he can change the fortunes of the Sydney Kings,” he said.

The Kings will take on Melbourne United in a Halloween special from 7:30pm AEDT tonight live on ESPN.