In the last few weeks, Mickael Pietrus has been flying high for the Golden State Warriors, winning eight out of eleven, and Pietrus has started six of those games. In that stretch of 11 games, the 6-7 French guard-forward from Guadeloupe has put up 11.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.7 steals, 1.4 assists, and shooting 39% from three. Much improved on his season stats of 6.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.1 steals and 0.8 assists.

Known as Air France, or the French Jordan, Pietrus started out the season miserably; started to complain about his inconsistent minutes and playing out of position.

Mickael is generally a quiet guy but in his fifth year in Oakland, he’s had his share of spouting off about his teammates’ selfishness (earlier in his career when the Warriors were less-successful), complained about his minutes (this season and last) and has reportedly asked to be traded.

Nellie is known for his odd subbing patterns, but Pietrus is the kind of player Nelson loves to play — 6-5 to 6-9, combo-position, athletic, aggressive, and able to hit the three on a consistent basis, so what’s the deal?
So why is Pietrus playing better? Common thoughts involve the Warriors showcasing him so as he can be shopped during this offseason and well, it is a contract year. However, neither one of those reasons make complete sense considering the Warriors are fighting for their playoff lives and let’s not forget that the Warriors traded Jason Richardson at least in part so Pietrus could grow, considering Mickael had a career year statistically last season.

The San Francisco Chronicle suggests the motivation is family.

Or could it be because Pietrus enjoys playing defense, not exactly the Warriors motto “Some players say they don’t like the defense,” Pietrus said. “For me, the defense is fun, once you get the steal and get your teammates all excited about dunks and our fast break. I enjoy that, and when you block a shot. I want to do like Dikembe Mutombo (wagging an index finger at the blockee), but I don’t have the long fingers.”

Or maybe it’s simply because Mickael Pietrus is just playing better. Here’s hoping he continues his brilliant play because the guy has a lot of talent.

Source: Pietrus Shaped by Family Background, Not Greed (San Francisco Chronicle), Video: Pietrus Takes it Strong to the Rack (YouTube)