I voted no and said the same thing last year. The truth is while Rudy is the best player on this team our championship aspirations rest of the shoulders of Donovan. He needs to mature and refine his game. I had hoped he would have made a better improvement this year but it is important to remember he is still (relatively) young. This is his 5th year. Lebron had a finals appearance in his 4th year, but didn't get back until his 8th year. He also didn't make the playoffs his first two years. Durant didn't see the playoffs until his 3rd year, had his first finals appearance his 5th year, and first championship his 10th year. Steph didn't even make the playoffs until his 4th year and won his first championship in year 6. We all know Jordan made (and won) his first finals appearance in year 7. Kobe (year 4) and Dwyane (year 3) each won titles relatively early in their careers but had the luxury of playing with prime Shaq, and Rudy is obviously no Shaq. Magic won early as well, but played with Kareem.
Most players need some time in this league to figure it out and to refine their game. While I am frustrated by Donovan this year and do worry that his size may put a ceiling on his potential, he is going to to keep getting better over the next few years.
In my mind, the team should really be looking at 2023-24 as their best shot for a title. That gives them this year and next to get more playoff experience, refine their game, perhaps change coaches, and to turn over their roster with some slightly younger, better fitting pieces.
