Andrew Bogut is set to galvanise the star-studded Sydney Kings' "Dad's Army" with his passing and talking, as much as his offence and famed defensive prowess.
Former NBA title-winning centre Bogut is set to have his first hitout in a Kings uniform in their opening pre-season game on Friday against the Japan national team in Sydney.
Bogut last played an NBA game in January.
"He's come in pretty good shape - he's just getting his touch back," Kings' swingman Brad Newley said.
"He helps us so much on defence and offence and just his presence."
While Bogut didn't need to be a big scorer in his last few seasons in the NBA, Sydney expects to more fully exploit his offensive talents and his passing ability.
"He's still got a lot of touch around the basket," Newley said.
"He shoots the ball a lot better than people probably think and he's a very good passer, so it's more than just the scoring what he can do, it's the creating.
"You don't take your eye off the ball otherwise you'll get one in the back of the head because he'll throw it and I know that first hand.
"He's a great passer and once we get Jerome (Randle) and Kev (Lisch) coming off his screens he's a great screen setter too, so he's a huge asset to have.
"(Daniel) Kickert as well, he's a fantastic player too and he spreads the floor.
"I've known him for a long time as well, so it's a bit like Dad's Army out there, but it's a lot of fun."
Newley and Bogut, who played together in a junior world championship-winning team are both 33, Kickert 35, Kevin Lisch 32 and Randle 31.
Guard and two-time league MVP Lisch also expects to be a beneficiary of Bogut's passing, as opposing teams look to contain the big centre down low.
"His IQ and his ability to pass the ball is amazing," Lisch said.
"It's already been evident out here in our first couple of weeks of practice."
Although Sydney have so many offensive weapons, Lisch doesn't envisage ego issues with players all wanting their share of shots.
"We don't have a selfish guy on the team so we don't have to worry about that," Lisch said.
Bogut hasn't been shy in getting messages across to his new teammates.
"What I like is he's very strong with telling things, he'll tell me things and I'll respect it," Newley said.
Australian Associated Press
