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A New Pietrus

Mickael Pietrus played poorly last season. No doubt about it. From his inability to finish at the rim to not moving around on offnese to launching ill-advised 3's, Pietrus really looked lost. But, this is a new season under a Hall of Fame coach who will know how to best utilize his talents and teach him the game. As long as he plays his role this year, Pietrus can be a solid contributor off the bench. Janny Hu reports how Don Nelson has been impressed with Pietrus so far.

"He's going to play for me," Nelson said emphatically after practice Wednesday. "He's really impressed me. He's doing what the coaches ask him to do. He's not trying to play beyond what I see him doing.

"He's been the perfect student so far."

Pietrus is also up for an extension on his rookie contract. If the Warriors don't make a deal before October 31, he becomes a restricted free agent at the end of the year. The Warriors would be crazy to extend his deal after his play last season. He'll have to prove himself to earn that contract.

Pietrus said he would not be disappointed if a new deal failed to materialize before the season. Vice president Chris Mullin said there have been no substantial conversations with Pietrus' representatives and an extension seems unlikely.

What are your projections for Pietrus this year?

Is there any reason to give him the extension?

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