For Nick Young, it’s one step forward. For Gabe Pruitt it’s two steps back. The duo from USC have had quite divergent rookie seasons in the NBA. With All-Star Gilbert Arenas out due to surgery resulting from a torn MCL, the Washington Wizards’ Nick Young has suddenly found himself a hole to fill, a lot of playing time, and a lot of chances to prove himself. So far Young has been answering the call in a big way. Filling in for Arenas, Young has averaged 10.6 points in his last 10 games. As quoted on USA Today:

“I don’t want to glorify what’s going on,” Young says. “I came in here and (Gilbert) showed me the ropes, showed me the game. It’s sad to see him go down. But he told me the opportunity is knocking.”

On the other hand there’s the Boston Celtics’ “Smiling” Gabe Pruitt, who may not be smiling so much today…

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After playing very well (averaging 21.5 points and 5.5 assists) in a couple games for the Utah Flash, the Celtics development league affiliate, he was brought to Boston to play with the big boys. But after playing 13 minutes against the Knicks, Pruitt only managed two points, one rebound and four assists. Now he’s back to the Flash for some more “development”.

It seems although Pruitt has the talent, he doesn’t yet have the confidence to prove himself in the NBA.

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