http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070715/SPORTS03/707150629/1048/SPORTS
Nice article on Rodney Stuckey and his family (both of them). If you noticed, both family's were at the draft with him. Gives a good background on him, and lets you see what type of character person the Pistons are getting.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Friday, July 6, 2007
The Pistons Hidden Gem
http://www.nba.com/pistons/news/langlois_blog_070705.htm
Keith Langlois has a very good blog article on Pistons.com about Cheick Samb, a 2nd round pick of the Pistons in the 2006 draft, acquired for Mo Evans.
To sum it up, Samb was discovered a few years back in the back channels of Sennegal, a poor country in Africa. Scouts went to find his older brother, a supposed basketball star in the making. However, the boys' mom insisted on Cheick being signed along with his brother. Soon after, the scouts took notice, and Samb became an NBA prospect.
Samb played in Spain last year, and I would venture to say he will stay there for another year. He has already put on a ton of weight (maybe 30 pounds at least), and has all the athletic ability and tools needed to be succesful. He could be a steal, and the athletic center the Pistons need in the very near future.
Keith Langlois has a very good blog article on Pistons.com about Cheick Samb, a 2nd round pick of the Pistons in the 2006 draft, acquired for Mo Evans.
To sum it up, Samb was discovered a few years back in the back channels of Sennegal, a poor country in Africa. Scouts went to find his older brother, a supposed basketball star in the making. However, the boys' mom insisted on Cheick being signed along with his brother. Soon after, the scouts took notice, and Samb became an NBA prospect.
Samb played in Spain last year, and I would venture to say he will stay there for another year. He has already put on a ton of weight (maybe 30 pounds at least), and has all the athletic ability and tools needed to be succesful. He could be a steal, and the athletic center the Pistons need in the very near future.
Neifi Perez?????
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2927670
How does this guy become the first MLB player busted under the banned stimulant program? We know it wasnt for steroids, because that brings a 50 gamer. This one was for something along the lines of amphetamines.
Basically, Neifi Perez is straight stupid. The rules are obvious, and you arent going to get away with it when testing agents are knocking on your door at any random moment.
I find it very funny that Perez gets busted. He is the favorite whipping boy for everyone in and around Detroit, never understanding how he ever gets any playing time. It is about the only complaint fans ever have with Jim Leyland. Perez is awful. The only good play he has ever made in a Tigers uniform is a good double play turn in the 8th inning of Justin Verlander's no-hitter.
The man is batting below .200. If Leyland reinstates him to the team at the conclusion of the suspension at the expense of someone like Ryan Raburn, it will be a shame. Perez has done nothing to deserve a spot here, and has tarnished the Tigers in the process. He also dropped the all too famous I-have-been-advised-by-my-lawyer-not-to-talk line. Whatever.
I think his teammates summed it up best. "The rules are in the book......you pay" said Carlos Guillen. Magglio Ordonez backed him up with thoughts along the same lines. Perez has burned his bridges in Detroit, and probably (hopefully) wont ever be in a Tiger uniform ever again.
How does this guy become the first MLB player busted under the banned stimulant program? We know it wasnt for steroids, because that brings a 50 gamer. This one was for something along the lines of amphetamines.
Basically, Neifi Perez is straight stupid. The rules are obvious, and you arent going to get away with it when testing agents are knocking on your door at any random moment.
I find it very funny that Perez gets busted. He is the favorite whipping boy for everyone in and around Detroit, never understanding how he ever gets any playing time. It is about the only complaint fans ever have with Jim Leyland. Perez is awful. The only good play he has ever made in a Tigers uniform is a good double play turn in the 8th inning of Justin Verlander's no-hitter.
The man is batting below .200. If Leyland reinstates him to the team at the conclusion of the suspension at the expense of someone like Ryan Raburn, it will be a shame. Perez has done nothing to deserve a spot here, and has tarnished the Tigers in the process. He also dropped the all too famous I-have-been-advised-by-my-lawyer-not-to-talk line. Whatever.
I think his teammates summed it up best. "The rules are in the book......you pay" said Carlos Guillen. Magglio Ordonez backed him up with thoughts along the same lines. Perez has burned his bridges in Detroit, and probably (hopefully) wont ever be in a Tiger uniform ever again.
Chauncey is Locked Up
http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070706/SPORTS03/70706062
Finally it is official, after Chris McCoskey first broke it on Tuesday (albeit a bit premature). The Pistons get excellent value in this contract. $15 million a year average is very fair, and are fortunate other teams didnt have the cap room to make a strong push and jack the price up.
Finally it is official, after Chris McCoskey first broke it on Tuesday (albeit a bit premature). The Pistons get excellent value in this contract. $15 million a year average is very fair, and are fortunate other teams didnt have the cap room to make a strong push and jack the price up.
Sunday, July 1, 2007
Rip Trade Close???
I posted a little while ago about possible changes for the Pistons, but could Rip Hamilton acutally be very close to being dealt to Seattle? Sooner than we actually thought? WXYT 1270 is saying a trade could be close, and beat writer Frank Hughes in Seattle for the Tacoma News Tribune as picked up on this too (http://blogs.thenewstribune.com/sonics?title=trade_rumor&more=1&c=1&tb=1&pb=1).
The deal would be for Chris Wilcox (who is ideal for the Pistons in the middle) and probably Earl Watson. This could also explain why the Pistons are going after Gerald Wallace.
I actually like this trade, and have always thought Rip needs to be the one that is dealt. What does everyone else think?
The deal would be for Chris Wilcox (who is ideal for the Pistons in the middle) and probably Earl Watson. This could also explain why the Pistons are going after Gerald Wallace.
I actually like this trade, and have always thought Rip needs to be the one that is dealt. What does everyone else think?
Pistons Makeover?
The drafting of Rodney Stuckey and Arron Afflalo may only be a minor start for Joe Dumars this offseason. Everyone knows the Pistons need a backup to Tayshaun Prince at SF, and an athletic big to roam the paint alongside Rasheed Wallace.
Well, ESPN.com dropped an interesting tidbit in saying one of the teams to be making a push for Bobcats free agent swingman Gerald Wallace is, yes, the Pistons(http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2922746). Wallace is one of the "big 3" free agents, along with our own Chauncey Billups and Seattle's Rashard Lewis (who looks like he may be on his way to the Orlando Magic).
Wallace would obviously need to come in a sign and trade deal, since the Pistons have no room under the salary cap. It would be interesting to see what Charlotte would take back. The only player who would truly interest them is Tayshaun Prince, but I dont think Dumars would give him up, at least not in this deal. Charlotte may have been interested in Rip Hamilton, especially since Michael Jordan traded him away in Washington and would love to correct his mistake. However, the Bobcats just traded for SG Jason Richardson on draft night, eliminating the possibility they would want Rip. And for the record, I would rather have Wallace than Rip. Wallace is a more explosive athlete, and can create his own shot. He is also younger. Rip has basically maxed out his ability, and seems to be on a dangerous edge of losing his poise by getting frustrated and playing out of character too often.
A 3-way trade may have to be constructed, since a straight swap couldnt be done most likely. Also, keep an eye on Seattle, as Dumars has always liked Chris Wilcox, and tried to make a run at him when on the Clippers a few seasons back. He could be moved to C, and help out the Pistons in the middle.
Since the Toronto Raptors signed Jason Kapono today, this takes them out of the Grant Hill sweepstakes. First of all, Kapono got $24 million from Toronto. Is anyone else as stunned as I am by this? Jason Kapono???? Anyway, Hill's next destination is basically either Phoenix or Detroit. I predict he goes to Phoenix, especially after seeing the Pistons flame out for a 2nd straight season. If he isnt landed, I would fully expect Morris Peterson to be a Piston, since he wanted to be here at the trade deadline, and is a native of Michigan.
Well, ESPN.com dropped an interesting tidbit in saying one of the teams to be making a push for Bobcats free agent swingman Gerald Wallace is, yes, the Pistons(http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2922746). Wallace is one of the "big 3" free agents, along with our own Chauncey Billups and Seattle's Rashard Lewis (who looks like he may be on his way to the Orlando Magic).
Wallace would obviously need to come in a sign and trade deal, since the Pistons have no room under the salary cap. It would be interesting to see what Charlotte would take back. The only player who would truly interest them is Tayshaun Prince, but I dont think Dumars would give him up, at least not in this deal. Charlotte may have been interested in Rip Hamilton, especially since Michael Jordan traded him away in Washington and would love to correct his mistake. However, the Bobcats just traded for SG Jason Richardson on draft night, eliminating the possibility they would want Rip. And for the record, I would rather have Wallace than Rip. Wallace is a more explosive athlete, and can create his own shot. He is also younger. Rip has basically maxed out his ability, and seems to be on a dangerous edge of losing his poise by getting frustrated and playing out of character too often.
A 3-way trade may have to be constructed, since a straight swap couldnt be done most likely. Also, keep an eye on Seattle, as Dumars has always liked Chris Wilcox, and tried to make a run at him when on the Clippers a few seasons back. He could be moved to C, and help out the Pistons in the middle.
Since the Toronto Raptors signed Jason Kapono today, this takes them out of the Grant Hill sweepstakes. First of all, Kapono got $24 million from Toronto. Is anyone else as stunned as I am by this? Jason Kapono???? Anyway, Hill's next destination is basically either Phoenix or Detroit. I predict he goes to Phoenix, especially after seeing the Pistons flame out for a 2nd straight season. If he isnt landed, I would fully expect Morris Peterson to be a Piston, since he wanted to be here at the trade deadline, and is a native of Michigan.
The New Buick Open Champion
So who is this guy? Good Question. Well, his name is Brian Bateman, and he made a clutch birdie on the 18th hole, to avoid a playoff with Jason Gore, Justin Leonard, and Woody Austin.
Bateman is one of those guys who fights to even stay on the tour. Most of his events have ended in being cut this year, including just last week at the Travelers Championships. Batemen is a Louisiana native, and is a huge LSU Tigers fan. He is also a huge wine lover, and collects many different kinds, while also traveling to northern California a lot to get the best of the best. Congrats to the champ, but have fun with Tiger trying to steal that title back next year.
http://www.pgatour.com/2007/tournaments/r035/07/01/bateman070107/index.html
Bateman is one of those guys who fights to even stay on the tour. Most of his events have ended in being cut this year, including just last week at the Travelers Championships. Batemen is a Louisiana native, and is a huge LSU Tigers fan. He is also a huge wine lover, and collects many different kinds, while also traveling to northern California a lot to get the best of the best. Congrats to the champ, but have fun with Tiger trying to steal that title back next year.
http://www.pgatour.com/2007/tournaments/r035/07/01/bateman070107/index.html
Schneider Leaves.....But Rafalski Signs
Many fans will probably be sad to see the Red Wings lose Mattheiu Schneider, especially to Anaheim of all teams, but the blow is lessened somewhat. Brian Rafalski was quickly signed to replace him, but in the end could seem like the better deal.
Schnieder is 38, while Rafalski is 34 and has many more years left on the tires. Rafalski is also a Michigan native, being born in Dearborn and spending his childhood in Allen Park.
The rest of the offseason should be fairly quiet, but you never know. Hasek and Bertuzzi should be signed back soon, and maybe a few low priced free agents could be added here and there.
http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070701/UPDATE/707010378
Schnieder is 38, while Rafalski is 34 and has many more years left on the tires. Rafalski is also a Michigan native, being born in Dearborn and spending his childhood in Allen Park.
The rest of the offseason should be fairly quiet, but you never know. Hasek and Bertuzzi should be signed back soon, and maybe a few low priced free agents could be added here and there.
http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070701/UPDATE/707010378
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Hail Mary at Michigan Stadium
I know this can be painful for many people to read/see all over again, but the college football writers at ESPN have compiled a list of the 100 most dramatic plays ever in college football. The Kordell Stewart hail mary for Colorado checked in at #3, behind only the Doug Flutie hail mary, and the Stanford/Cal circus.
How about Lloyd Carr just opening up the offense more this coming season and letting the NFL caliber offense cause serious damage? Another National Championship sure would soften the blow even more of a play like that years ago.
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/features/the100?intro=5
How about Lloyd Carr just opening up the offense more this coming season and letting the NFL caliber offense cause serious damage? Another National Championship sure would soften the blow even more of a play like that years ago.
Huge Signing for MSU
Draymond Green has committed to the Michigan State Spartans. A monster pickup for Tom Izzo, which will make two straight recruiting classes that are insanely loaded. This year has Durrell Dummers, Chris Allen, and Kalin Lucas. Next year adds Delvin Roe, Draymond Green, and Korie Lucious. MSU is destined for a return to the Final Four in the very near future. http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070629/SPORTS07/706290383/1055/SPORTS
Crazier Look?
So who had the more stunning fashion statement on their draft day: Jalen Rose, always the showman, sporting the rose colored suit, or Joakim Noah and..........well, I dont know what you call it?
Where Do Pistons Go From Here?
Now that the draft is finally complete, Joe Dumars still has a TON of work to do.
The backcourt is rounding into shape now, with some quality reserves finally in place with Rodney Stuckey and Arron Afflalo. Lindsey Hunter will probably be back, Flip Murray will be dealt one way or another, and Alex Acker is still up in the air.
The obvious areas for improvement are two big ones: to find a backup for Tayshaun Prince, and get a younger athletic center. Finding the backup for Tayshaun shouldnt be that hard you would hope. Grant Hill is a very strong possibility. If the Pistons dont land him, dont be surprised to see Dumars go after Mo Peterson. Getting an athletic center will be hard. The Pistons are kind of hampered by the Nazr Mohammed deal. Dale Davis and Chris Webber are free agents, and will probably move on. So how many good centers are on the market? Uh, none. The best is Mikki Moore, the former Pistons. I think everyone can agree he is not the long term answer.
I think the biggest surprise could be Rip Hamilton being traded. It may not be popular around here, but I believe he is the one guy Joe could ship out, as he isnt afraid to do something drastic. Rip's value is as high as it will ever be. He isnt the type of players that can take games over, and needs to rely on others to create his offense. He also can force the offense too much when frsutrated (which happens more and more), and is totally ineffective when trying to take someone one on one.
One team that could be a great trade partner for Rip is the Denver Nuggets. He would fit in perfectly with Iverson and Anthony, and the Pistons could get some much needed frontcourt help from Denver. Maybe either Nene or Marcus Camby, packaged with a young SF like Linas Kleiza could get a deal done. That would allow the Pistons to plug in the big man they sorely need, while having options in free agency along with Stuckey and Afflalo to replace Rip. Just throwing it out there.
Some other thoughts from draft night:
-New York is a boom or bust team. They have a ton of guys now who need to shoot the ball a ton, with Marbury, Richardson, Crawford, Z-Bo, and Curry. I dont know how there will be enough basketballs to go around. This team could score a ton of points, but will also play exactly, oh, i dont know, zero defense. However, if they focus well enough, they very well could be a playoff who scare some people next April.
- Boston is a total mess, thanks to Danny Ainge. Does this guy ever have a plan? He blew up a team that made the Eastern Conference Finals, to re-build only to get a team that now will be able to reach the 2nd round at its peak? It was a bad fit with Pierece and a bunch of young guys before, but now its Pierce and Allen with a bunch of young guys. Weird.
- Have fun seeing Portland or Seattle in the Finals a lot in the years to come.
- Anyone seen the Atlanta Hawks new uniforms? Go to www.hawks.com to check it out. I actually like the new uniforms, although they were pretty good before. I liked the red, and too many teams go to blue now too. Lets just cross our fingers and hope the 76ers are the next to change their uniforms.
The backcourt is rounding into shape now, with some quality reserves finally in place with Rodney Stuckey and Arron Afflalo. Lindsey Hunter will probably be back, Flip Murray will be dealt one way or another, and Alex Acker is still up in the air.
The obvious areas for improvement are two big ones: to find a backup for Tayshaun Prince, and get a younger athletic center. Finding the backup for Tayshaun shouldnt be that hard you would hope. Grant Hill is a very strong possibility. If the Pistons dont land him, dont be surprised to see Dumars go after Mo Peterson. Getting an athletic center will be hard. The Pistons are kind of hampered by the Nazr Mohammed deal. Dale Davis and Chris Webber are free agents, and will probably move on. So how many good centers are on the market? Uh, none. The best is Mikki Moore, the former Pistons. I think everyone can agree he is not the long term answer.
I think the biggest surprise could be Rip Hamilton being traded. It may not be popular around here, but I believe he is the one guy Joe could ship out, as he isnt afraid to do something drastic. Rip's value is as high as it will ever be. He isnt the type of players that can take games over, and needs to rely on others to create his offense. He also can force the offense too much when frsutrated (which happens more and more), and is totally ineffective when trying to take someone one on one.
One team that could be a great trade partner for Rip is the Denver Nuggets. He would fit in perfectly with Iverson and Anthony, and the Pistons could get some much needed frontcourt help from Denver. Maybe either Nene or Marcus Camby, packaged with a young SF like Linas Kleiza could get a deal done. That would allow the Pistons to plug in the big man they sorely need, while having options in free agency along with Stuckey and Afflalo to replace Rip. Just throwing it out there.
Some other thoughts from draft night:
-New York is a boom or bust team. They have a ton of guys now who need to shoot the ball a ton, with Marbury, Richardson, Crawford, Z-Bo, and Curry. I dont know how there will be enough basketballs to go around. This team could score a ton of points, but will also play exactly, oh, i dont know, zero defense. However, if they focus well enough, they very well could be a playoff who scare some people next April.
- Boston is a total mess, thanks to Danny Ainge. Does this guy ever have a plan? He blew up a team that made the Eastern Conference Finals, to re-build only to get a team that now will be able to reach the 2nd round at its peak? It was a bad fit with Pierece and a bunch of young guys before, but now its Pierce and Allen with a bunch of young guys. Weird.
- Have fun seeing Portland or Seattle in the Finals a lot in the years to come.
- Anyone seen the Atlanta Hawks new uniforms? Go to www.hawks.com to check it out. I actually like the new uniforms, although they were pretty good before. I liked the red, and too many teams go to blue now too. Lets just cross our fingers and hope the 76ers are the next to change their uniforms.
Nice Number Hot Rod
So anyone notice something interesting about the number Rodney Stuckey is wearing? Ill give you a hint: a certain someone in Chicago may be offended......
Oh and by the way, according to everyone at Eastern Washington, Stuckey's nickname is "Hot Rod".
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Arron Afflalo Highlights
Here is a highlight package of Arron Afflalo, including his game winning shot to beat main rival USC this year. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKFyvW_Bq9k
Stuckey is Perfect
http://broadband.nba.com/cc/playa.php?content=video&url=http://boss.streamos.com/wmedia/nba/nbacom/draft/2007_stuckey_r_15.asx
Above is the video of David Stern announcing the Rodney Stuckey pick, along with some analysis.
First of all, I absolutely love this pick......LOVE it. Rodney Stuckey is a playmaker, which is exactly what the Pistons need. One of the Pistons main weaknesses is an inability to penetrate, and get to the hoops off the dribble. Mainly all the players are shooters, and it hurts in the playoffs when someone is needed to take the ball to the rim and get the hard basket (see: James, LeBron).
I dont understand why at first many fans were disappointed in Joe Dumars passing over Nick Young to get Stuckey. I think a big reason for this is because people have heard of Young, and seen him play. How many times has someone in Michigan seen Rodney Stuckey play? I'm guessing never.
Nick Young is a terrible defender, doesnt have that killer attitude, and has alarmingly bad numbers when it comes to steals. He is a shooter, so he is limited.
Stuckey on the other hand can do it all. He is lightning quick, can take it to the rim, is becoming a good shooter, etc. He can play PG or SG, and is relentless on the court. If Stuckey was playing for Washington in the PAC 10, and not Eastern Washington, he would have been a lock to go very high in the lottery. Pistons fans will love this guy.
Above is the video of David Stern announcing the Rodney Stuckey pick, along with some analysis.
First of all, I absolutely love this pick......LOVE it. Rodney Stuckey is a playmaker, which is exactly what the Pistons need. One of the Pistons main weaknesses is an inability to penetrate, and get to the hoops off the dribble. Mainly all the players are shooters, and it hurts in the playoffs when someone is needed to take the ball to the rim and get the hard basket (see: James, LeBron).
I dont understand why at first many fans were disappointed in Joe Dumars passing over Nick Young to get Stuckey. I think a big reason for this is because people have heard of Young, and seen him play. How many times has someone in Michigan seen Rodney Stuckey play? I'm guessing never.
Nick Young is a terrible defender, doesnt have that killer attitude, and has alarmingly bad numbers when it comes to steals. He is a shooter, so he is limited.
Stuckey on the other hand can do it all. He is lightning quick, can take it to the rim, is becoming a good shooter, etc. He can play PG or SG, and is relentless on the court. If Stuckey was playing for Washington in the PAC 10, and not Eastern Washington, he would have been a lock to go very high in the lottery. Pistons fans will love this guy.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Furrey Either Loves Cornbread, or Has Bad Photos of Millen Somewhere
“I know that everybody says that every single year. ‘We’re going to be better.’ ‘We’ve got a different coach.’ ‘We’re going to be a better team.’ But right now, on paper, we look like we should win 10 to 12 games, easily. The question is: Can we get off to the start we want to get off on? Can we maintain that? Can we not get complacent? Can we keep hungry?"
Wow.
First Kitna, now Furrey. I suggest Lions players stop this now. They are being laughed at nationally, on PTI, on ESPN Radio, Sportscenter, simply everywhere.
Also a little mention in this article of Kevin Curtis, who the Lions tried to get, but lost out on to Philadelphia. In the end it probably is good that he didnt sign here, as there wouldnt be any room after the Calvin Johnson selection. http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070627/BLOG21/70627026/1048/SPORTS
Wow.
First Kitna, now Furrey. I suggest Lions players stop this now. They are being laughed at nationally, on PTI, on ESPN Radio, Sportscenter, simply everywhere.
Also a little mention in this article of Kevin Curtis, who the Lions tried to get, but lost out on to Philadelphia. In the end it probably is good that he didnt sign here, as there wouldnt be any room after the Calvin Johnson selection. http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070627/BLOG21/70627026/1048/SPORTS
Dmitri Young an All-Star? Wow.....
Dmitri Young could actually be an All-Star for the Washington Nationals in a few weeks. I find this utterly incredible considering he went to spring training on a minor league contract this year.
I have a hard time though believing Dmitri has really turned it all around. He said this last year once he made it back from rehab, then promptly went back to complaining. The last straw was when he fell asleep during a rain delay, then refused to go on the field to warm-up when Jim Leyland ordered the team to do so.
Lets hope he proves me wrong though. He is a good guy at heart, and has a lot of skill left in him. http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/john_donovan/06/27/dmitriyoung.allstar/index.html
I have a hard time though believing Dmitri has really turned it all around. He said this last year once he made it back from rehab, then promptly went back to complaining. The last straw was when he fell asleep during a rain delay, then refused to go on the field to warm-up when Jim Leyland ordered the team to do so.
Lets hope he proves me wrong though. He is a good guy at heart, and has a lot of skill left in him. http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/john_donovan/06/27/dmitriyoung.allstar/index.html
Allan Houston Comeback?
The Pistons are mentioned as one of the teams Allan Houston may return to. Imagine if Joe Dumars goes after Houston and Grant Hill. I am having flashbacks to the early 90's. If Flip is fired in favor of Doug Collins and teal comes back, I dont know what I will do. http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/knicks/2007/06/27/2007-06-27_allan_eyes_another_shot.html
Rember Him? Korleone Young
Since its draft time, who can forget about Korleone Young, the Pistons 2nd round pick out of high school years ago. The New York Daily News ran an article on the draft, and a good part of it gives us a Korleone update. I almost fell off my chair when his mom said they have "no regrets" about how it all turned out. http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/2007/06/24/2007-06-24_from_boys_to_men.html
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Bad Blood: Cincinnati vs. MSU
Interesting take from a war being staged by new Cincinnati coach Brian Kelly vs. MSU and new coach Mark Dantonio. The article below is PG compared to the things being said on the Cincinnati and MSU football message boards at various sites.
Brian Kelly, of course, was the head coach the past 3 season at Central Michigan. Many believed he finished a close 2nd to Mark Dantonio for the Michigan State job. In an ironic twist, Cincinnati hired him to replace Dantonio.
Anyway, a current player decided he doesnt want to play for Kelly, and attempted to follow Dantonio to MSU. To put it lightly, Kelly wanted no part of that. In case people dont know, Kelly can be a very arrogant and cocky person. Dont cross him, or you will pay. However, he is a hell of a football coach, just look at what he did with Grand Valley and CMU.
Kelly wouldnt sign a scholarship release for the player, Trevor Anderson, to transfer to MSU. However, he said he could go to Michigan or Eastern Michigan among others. Either it can be viewed as Kelly doing the right thing, or trying to stick it to MSU for not hiring him. Here is the Cincinnati Enquirer link to it all, showing the dirty, almost non-reported shady activity that goes on in Division l athletics. http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070620/SPT0101/706200391/1064
By the way, look out for Central Michigan this year in football and basketball. The football team won the MAC last year, and even while losing a 1st and 2nd round pick to the NFL, brings back another sickly stacked team. They could be scary for a while. As for basketball, Ernie Zeigler has only been coach for 1 year, but has put his stamp on recruiting very quickly. This team has the best returning player in Giordan Watson with a host of top flight recruits, including JC superstar Nate Minnoy. Ill write more on CMU in the future, as this "small" school up north who nobody follows could be creating an athletic dynasty in the MAC.
Brian Kelly, of course, was the head coach the past 3 season at Central Michigan. Many believed he finished a close 2nd to Mark Dantonio for the Michigan State job. In an ironic twist, Cincinnati hired him to replace Dantonio.
Anyway, a current player decided he doesnt want to play for Kelly, and attempted to follow Dantonio to MSU. To put it lightly, Kelly wanted no part of that. In case people dont know, Kelly can be a very arrogant and cocky person. Dont cross him, or you will pay. However, he is a hell of a football coach, just look at what he did with Grand Valley and CMU.
Kelly wouldnt sign a scholarship release for the player, Trevor Anderson, to transfer to MSU. However, he said he could go to Michigan or Eastern Michigan among others. Either it can be viewed as Kelly doing the right thing, or trying to stick it to MSU for not hiring him. Here is the Cincinnati Enquirer link to it all, showing the dirty, almost non-reported shady activity that goes on in Division l athletics. http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070620/SPT0101/706200391/1064
By the way, look out for Central Michigan this year in football and basketball. The football team won the MAC last year, and even while losing a 1st and 2nd round pick to the NFL, brings back another sickly stacked team. They could be scary for a while. As for basketball, Ernie Zeigler has only been coach for 1 year, but has put his stamp on recruiting very quickly. This team has the best returning player in Giordan Watson with a host of top flight recruits, including JC superstar Nate Minnoy. Ill write more on CMU in the future, as this "small" school up north who nobody follows could be creating an athletic dynasty in the MAC.
Chauncey Billups
On PTI yesterday, Michael Wilbon and Tony Kornheiser said odds should be about 70% that Chauncey Billups leaves the Pistons for another team this summer. They said the Pistons imploded, and Chauncey will want to get out. I just hate when people make wild statements with no logical basis behind it.
Look, there could be a chance Chauncey doesnt come back, but its very small. What Wilbon and Kornheiser implied is that Chauncey wants out, and doesnt want to be part of the Pistons organization anymore. That is totally false, and the PTI guys are wrong for assuming this. Chauncey is happy being in Detroit as it is where his career exploded to the national spotlight. He definitely wants to stay, with all things being equal. He even said after the elimination to Cleveland that the Pistons were still better than the Cavs, and that he still believed in his guys. Assuming a fair offer is made by Joe Dumars, which is probable, I cant see how Chauncey would leave.
Terry Foster had a terrific interview with the Billups' today. Good quotes from Chauncey's wife, Piper, and the family saying how they are established and dont want to go anywhere. http://detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070626/SPORTS0102/706260396/1127
Look, there could be a chance Chauncey doesnt come back, but its very small. What Wilbon and Kornheiser implied is that Chauncey wants out, and doesnt want to be part of the Pistons organization anymore. That is totally false, and the PTI guys are wrong for assuming this. Chauncey is happy being in Detroit as it is where his career exploded to the national spotlight. He definitely wants to stay, with all things being equal. He even said after the elimination to Cleveland that the Pistons were still better than the Cavs, and that he still believed in his guys. Assuming a fair offer is made by Joe Dumars, which is probable, I cant see how Chauncey would leave.
Terry Foster had a terrific interview with the Billups' today. Good quotes from Chauncey's wife, Piper, and the family saying how they are established and dont want to go anywhere. http://detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070626/SPORTS0102/706260396/1127
Pistons and the Draft
Here is a fantastic article from John Hollinger of ESPN.com, with a statistical analysis predicting success of prospects in the NBA Draft. I will guarantee you every NBA GM reads this article whether they agree or not. Bottom line, no formula for predicting success of draftees is exact, but this comes just as close as anything I have ever seen.
There is some more good news from this article too. Hollinger predicts very good results for Eastern Washington guard Rodney Stuckey, who is most closely associated in mock drafts with the Pistons at #15. Hopefully he will still be there at #15, the Pistons need him in the worst way.
http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/draft2007/insider/columns/story?columnist=hollinger_john&page=ProRater
There is some more good news from this article too. Hollinger predicts very good results for Eastern Washington guard Rodney Stuckey, who is most closely associated in mock drafts with the Pistons at #15. Hopefully he will still be there at #15, the Pistons need him in the worst way.
http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/draft2007/insider/columns/story?columnist=hollinger_john&page=ProRater
Monday, June 25, 2007
Go Watch the Buick Open
Yes, I know Tiger Woods isnt going to be there. Ditto for Phil Mickelson and Vijay Singh. However, still go and support the Buick Open this week in Grand Blanc, especially if you have never gone.
Watching a PGA Tour event in person is one of the coolest things in all of sports. You can go to any hole you want, at any part of that hole. You can chit chat with golfers as they are walking by, and get up close with any of them.
Vartan Kupelian had a great article about this in the Detroit News today. http://detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070625/SPORTS04/706250305/1004/SPORTS. Even without Woods, its still fun to see the massive following John Daly has and the support he receives, the up and coming Camillo Villegas and his awkward way of reading putts, the always steady Jim Furyk, the very personable Stephen Ames. It will be well worth it.
Watching a PGA Tour event in person is one of the coolest things in all of sports. You can go to any hole you want, at any part of that hole. You can chit chat with golfers as they are walking by, and get up close with any of them.
Vartan Kupelian had a great article about this in the Detroit News today. http://detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070625/SPORTS04/706250305/1004/SPORTS. Even without Woods, its still fun to see the massive following John Daly has and the support he receives, the up and coming Camillo Villegas and his awkward way of reading putts, the always steady Jim Furyk, the very personable Stephen Ames. It will be well worth it.
Kobe Trade Rumors.....
Lets pretend for a moment the trade rumors of Kevin Garnett going to the Lakers to join Kobe Bryant fall through (which is likely). Could Joe Dumars really make a run at either one of these two.
First, I am going to have to rule out Minnesota and getting Garnett. A proposed Mohammed for Jaric or Hudson trade was discussed at the deadline, but Kevin McHale didnt want to deal with the Pistons. This most likely relates to his bitter breakup with former coach Flip Saunders, with McHale still holding a grudge and not wanting to help his former friend.
A trade for Kobe though, is quite realistic. Say the Lakers come to the conclusion that they must indeed ship him out. One idea I have had, and was finally discussed on WXYT today by Scott Anderson and Tony Ortiz, is a package centered around Rip Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince. They also included Lindsey Hunter and the #15 pick, while I think we would have to give up more such as the #15 pick, along with either Jason Maxiell or Amir Johnson, and maybe more after that. But thats beside the point. It would be a tremendous deal because the Pistons only lose two players who contributed much last year. And then someone like Ortiz (resident Matt Millen cornbread eater) says this cant happen because the Pistons would lose too much. Excuse me? And then he says you cant win with a superstar and no supporting cast. Hello? Chauncey Billups, Rasheed Wallace, Antonio McDyess, possibly Grant Hill are not exactly no names. These guys can play, and a backcourt of Billups and Bryant would be straight not fair.
At this point, the callers basically ridiculed Ortiz. Does TO realize that Tayshaun Prince contributed, oh, nothing against Cleveland??? Listen, you have to give up something to get something. Kobe Bryant is the NBA's best player. Losing Rip and Tayshaun to get Kobe is well worth it, no matter who you get to plug in at SF. I loved when Ortiz said you have to win with teams and not stars, only for Anderson to point out that Cleveland just did beat the Pistons with a 1 man team. And then he points out imagine what the Pistons could do with the best player, and another two All-Stars. Yeah Tony, good call on this one. And then Ortiz says you need to be like the Spurs where it is an all around good team. Has he ever heard of Tim Duncan??? Oh well, I guess he should just stick to his day job of covering the Lions and the Matt Millen cornbread.
To end this discussion though, Joe Dumars needs to do everything possible to look into trading for Kobe Bryant. This Pistons have proved the last 2 seasons they cant win with the status quo. They need a player who can take a game over, create his shot, and drive the lane, something nobody currently can do. If they dont make a strong move to address weaknesses, other teams will pass the Pistons on by, especially if someone like Chicago can land Bryant or Garnett.
First, I am going to have to rule out Minnesota and getting Garnett. A proposed Mohammed for Jaric or Hudson trade was discussed at the deadline, but Kevin McHale didnt want to deal with the Pistons. This most likely relates to his bitter breakup with former coach Flip Saunders, with McHale still holding a grudge and not wanting to help his former friend.
A trade for Kobe though, is quite realistic. Say the Lakers come to the conclusion that they must indeed ship him out. One idea I have had, and was finally discussed on WXYT today by Scott Anderson and Tony Ortiz, is a package centered around Rip Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince. They also included Lindsey Hunter and the #15 pick, while I think we would have to give up more such as the #15 pick, along with either Jason Maxiell or Amir Johnson, and maybe more after that. But thats beside the point. It would be a tremendous deal because the Pistons only lose two players who contributed much last year. And then someone like Ortiz (resident Matt Millen cornbread eater) says this cant happen because the Pistons would lose too much. Excuse me? And then he says you cant win with a superstar and no supporting cast. Hello? Chauncey Billups, Rasheed Wallace, Antonio McDyess, possibly Grant Hill are not exactly no names. These guys can play, and a backcourt of Billups and Bryant would be straight not fair.
At this point, the callers basically ridiculed Ortiz. Does TO realize that Tayshaun Prince contributed, oh, nothing against Cleveland??? Listen, you have to give up something to get something. Kobe Bryant is the NBA's best player. Losing Rip and Tayshaun to get Kobe is well worth it, no matter who you get to plug in at SF. I loved when Ortiz said you have to win with teams and not stars, only for Anderson to point out that Cleveland just did beat the Pistons with a 1 man team. And then he points out imagine what the Pistons could do with the best player, and another two All-Stars. Yeah Tony, good call on this one. And then Ortiz says you need to be like the Spurs where it is an all around good team. Has he ever heard of Tim Duncan??? Oh well, I guess he should just stick to his day job of covering the Lions and the Matt Millen cornbread.
To end this discussion though, Joe Dumars needs to do everything possible to look into trading for Kobe Bryant. This Pistons have proved the last 2 seasons they cant win with the status quo. They need a player who can take a game over, create his shot, and drive the lane, something nobody currently can do. If they dont make a strong move to address weaknesses, other teams will pass the Pistons on by, especially if someone like Chicago can land Bryant or Garnett.
Pistons Draft Targets?
Andy Katz of ESPN.com cites, according to very well placed sources, the Pistons draft targets in this order for #15: Al Thornton, Rodney Stuckey, Nick Young, and then Thaddeus Young http://insider.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=2916144&name=katz_andy.
Cant say I would be disappointed in any of these guys. Thornton is the freak athlete who can get by his man and back up Tayshaun, which we need. But, odds are pretty good he will be gone at that point.
I think Stuckey is perfect for a top guard off the bench, especially if the Pistons can get Grant Hill to spell Tayshaun. This kid is the real deal, and could turn into a star.
Both Young's are works in progress. Nick Young can step in, but needs to learn the nuances of the game more. Thaddeus Young is just overall raw, but could be a great slasher soon.
Cant say I would be disappointed in any of these guys. Thornton is the freak athlete who can get by his man and back up Tayshaun, which we need. But, odds are pretty good he will be gone at that point.
I think Stuckey is perfect for a top guard off the bench, especially if the Pistons can get Grant Hill to spell Tayshaun. This kid is the real deal, and could turn into a star.
Both Young's are works in progress. Nick Young can step in, but needs to learn the nuances of the game more. Thaddeus Young is just overall raw, but could be a great slasher soon.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Tigers are Baseball's Best
Its getting to be that time of year when people can finally start debating which team in baseball is the elite, the one everyone needs to try and catch. On Friday I listened to a little bit of Mike & Mike in the Morning, on ESPN Radio. They were debating this very topic, and answered a few different teams such as the Indiana, Mets, Angels, Red Sox, etc. That is until Peter Gammons came on the program.
Gammons came on and said the team that is the biggest lock to reach the World Series is the Detroit Tigers, and that should be quite clear for any baseball fan. I just dont see any realistic way a person could say otherwise.
Lets start with the guys who arent players, namely GM Dave Dombrowski and Manager Jim Leyland. These guys are among the top tier in their jobs, maybe right at the top of the ladder. Dombrowski built the Tigers on power pitching, and has shown a deft ability to make dynamic trades and not be afraid to pull the trigger. Leyeland brings of a fiery Lou Pinella type, yet is able to relate with each player, even though he could be twice their age.
The pitching for the Tigers was well documented in 2006, and has taken a slight step back. However, dont put much stock in that, as it should vastly improve as the season goes on. Kenny Rogers just made his return from the disabled list, and calmly pitched 6 innings against Altlanta allowing only 2 hits. Yes, 2 hits. I think its fair to say Rogers is back in perfect form.
And then we have Justin Verlander. Verlander was drafted in 2004, and debuted in 2006 as the Rookie of the Year. He was overpowering with a 100 mph fastball, and helped pitch the Tigers into the World Series. This season, he has put up All-Star caliber numbers with a 9-2 record, a 2.78 ERA, and a whopping 85 strikeouts. The kid is plain sick, and its not even fair.
Jeremy Bonderman is the other Tiger pitcher to dominant this season, likely an automatic choice for the All-Star team along with Verlander. After having no decision in his first 5 starts of the year, Bonderman has since won 8 straight starts, while striking out 76 and only walking a mere 16!
The Tigers rotation now includes prize rookie Andrew Miller, a fireballer who will overwhelm hitters. Miller was only drafted a year ago, and will be a rotation fixture with Bonderman and Verlander for years to come. Nate Robertson is the other starter just coming back from a tired arm. Although he has struggled the past month, Robertson threw 6 no-hit innings in his rehab start. He is a gutsy pitcher who is as intense as anyone out on the mound.
The Tigers bullpen is where the serious question marks are raised. Last year, the bullpen was carried mainly by Jamie Walker, Fernando Rodney, Joel Zumaya and Todd Jones. Well, Jamie Walker has since left as a free agent to Baltimore, Zumaya suffered a serious finger injury to keep him for 12 weeks or more, Rodney was broken down and been a mess, and Jones has been, well, Jones, always a pitcher who keeps fans holding their breath. The only dependable reliever really has been Tim Byrdak, a career minor leaguer who was called up in May. The Tigers still have hope though. Zumaya should be back in August. One would think Rodney has to clear up his control issues sooner or later. Chad Durbin has been moved from the rotation to the bullpen, and has been pitching well all year. Another promising flamethrower has been called up from the minors in Eulogio de la Cruz. Wil Ledezma was traded for lefty specialist Macay McBride. And dont ever discount Dombrowski making a big trade to help at the trade deadline, as he has a large pool of pitching prospects at his disposal.
And now, we come to the heart of why the Tigers are so dominant. Thier offense is on pace to be one of the best ever, and leaves teams shaking their heads as they blow through. As a team, the Tigers are batting .295. They have had a ridiculous 429 RBI, with a stunning 444 runs scored. No other team is even close to those numbers.
The Tigers are led by Magglio Ordonez, who would probably be named AL MVP if the award were given today. Ordonez has a monster .383 batting overage with a not even fair .659 on base percentage. And having 68 RBI at this point in a season is extremely rare.
Placido Polanco and Carlos Guillen are a great double play duo up the middle, as well as tremendous 2 and 5 hitters respectively. Polanco almost never strikes out, and can roll out of bed and get a hit. Polanco bats .342, while only striking 16 times all year. Guillen already has 52 RBI himself, while cheking in by batting .318.
And where are the other holes in this lineup. Gary Sheffield is one of the scariest players ever in baseball. Brandon Inge has very deceptive power and is a clutch hitter. Craig Monroe is clutch himself, and when hot, can be one of the most deadly hitting outfielders in the American League. Ivan Rodriguez can spray the ball all over the field, and keeps racking up hits like never before. Curits Granderson is one of the best up and coming stars in the game, and although needs to cut down on his 65 strikeouts, can use all 5 tools and do anything the manager asks. Sean Casey, although while not having much power, is one the best gap hitters in the game. Not to mention, he very well could be the best clubhouse guy in baseball, always maintaining a lose atmosphere and treating everyone with respect. As for the bench, Marcus Thames provides plenty of power, Omar Infante is versatile enough to play any position and hit good at any moment like Polanco when called upon. There just isnt any weaknesses.
When one looks at the Tigers, with the dominant starting pitching to along with the undisputed best offense in the game, it should be a no-brainer. This team won the American League last year, so they know what it takes. No other team simply has the resources or depth to keep pace right now. The Tigers have quickly surpassed Cleveland in the standings, and should safely finish in 1st by the end of the year. And who will stop this team with a lethal offense, and plenty of great starting pitching, when it comes to short playoff series when these things are most important? If I were in Vegas right now, I would put as much money down on the Tigers as I could. The team is locked and loaded, and ready to blow by everyone in baseball on the way to a World Series.
Gammons came on and said the team that is the biggest lock to reach the World Series is the Detroit Tigers, and that should be quite clear for any baseball fan. I just dont see any realistic way a person could say otherwise.
Lets start with the guys who arent players, namely GM Dave Dombrowski and Manager Jim Leyland. These guys are among the top tier in their jobs, maybe right at the top of the ladder. Dombrowski built the Tigers on power pitching, and has shown a deft ability to make dynamic trades and not be afraid to pull the trigger. Leyeland brings of a fiery Lou Pinella type, yet is able to relate with each player, even though he could be twice their age.
The pitching for the Tigers was well documented in 2006, and has taken a slight step back. However, dont put much stock in that, as it should vastly improve as the season goes on. Kenny Rogers just made his return from the disabled list, and calmly pitched 6 innings against Altlanta allowing only 2 hits. Yes, 2 hits. I think its fair to say Rogers is back in perfect form.
And then we have Justin Verlander. Verlander was drafted in 2004, and debuted in 2006 as the Rookie of the Year. He was overpowering with a 100 mph fastball, and helped pitch the Tigers into the World Series. This season, he has put up All-Star caliber numbers with a 9-2 record, a 2.78 ERA, and a whopping 85 strikeouts. The kid is plain sick, and its not even fair.
Jeremy Bonderman is the other Tiger pitcher to dominant this season, likely an automatic choice for the All-Star team along with Verlander. After having no decision in his first 5 starts of the year, Bonderman has since won 8 straight starts, while striking out 76 and only walking a mere 16!
The Tigers rotation now includes prize rookie Andrew Miller, a fireballer who will overwhelm hitters. Miller was only drafted a year ago, and will be a rotation fixture with Bonderman and Verlander for years to come. Nate Robertson is the other starter just coming back from a tired arm. Although he has struggled the past month, Robertson threw 6 no-hit innings in his rehab start. He is a gutsy pitcher who is as intense as anyone out on the mound.
The Tigers bullpen is where the serious question marks are raised. Last year, the bullpen was carried mainly by Jamie Walker, Fernando Rodney, Joel Zumaya and Todd Jones. Well, Jamie Walker has since left as a free agent to Baltimore, Zumaya suffered a serious finger injury to keep him for 12 weeks or more, Rodney was broken down and been a mess, and Jones has been, well, Jones, always a pitcher who keeps fans holding their breath. The only dependable reliever really has been Tim Byrdak, a career minor leaguer who was called up in May. The Tigers still have hope though. Zumaya should be back in August. One would think Rodney has to clear up his control issues sooner or later. Chad Durbin has been moved from the rotation to the bullpen, and has been pitching well all year. Another promising flamethrower has been called up from the minors in Eulogio de la Cruz. Wil Ledezma was traded for lefty specialist Macay McBride. And dont ever discount Dombrowski making a big trade to help at the trade deadline, as he has a large pool of pitching prospects at his disposal.
And now, we come to the heart of why the Tigers are so dominant. Thier offense is on pace to be one of the best ever, and leaves teams shaking their heads as they blow through. As a team, the Tigers are batting .295. They have had a ridiculous 429 RBI, with a stunning 444 runs scored. No other team is even close to those numbers.
The Tigers are led by Magglio Ordonez, who would probably be named AL MVP if the award were given today. Ordonez has a monster .383 batting overage with a not even fair .659 on base percentage. And having 68 RBI at this point in a season is extremely rare.
Placido Polanco and Carlos Guillen are a great double play duo up the middle, as well as tremendous 2 and 5 hitters respectively. Polanco almost never strikes out, and can roll out of bed and get a hit. Polanco bats .342, while only striking 16 times all year. Guillen already has 52 RBI himself, while cheking in by batting .318.
And where are the other holes in this lineup. Gary Sheffield is one of the scariest players ever in baseball. Brandon Inge has very deceptive power and is a clutch hitter. Craig Monroe is clutch himself, and when hot, can be one of the most deadly hitting outfielders in the American League. Ivan Rodriguez can spray the ball all over the field, and keeps racking up hits like never before. Curits Granderson is one of the best up and coming stars in the game, and although needs to cut down on his 65 strikeouts, can use all 5 tools and do anything the manager asks. Sean Casey, although while not having much power, is one the best gap hitters in the game. Not to mention, he very well could be the best clubhouse guy in baseball, always maintaining a lose atmosphere and treating everyone with respect. As for the bench, Marcus Thames provides plenty of power, Omar Infante is versatile enough to play any position and hit good at any moment like Polanco when called upon. There just isnt any weaknesses.
When one looks at the Tigers, with the dominant starting pitching to along with the undisputed best offense in the game, it should be a no-brainer. This team won the American League last year, so they know what it takes. No other team simply has the resources or depth to keep pace right now. The Tigers have quickly surpassed Cleveland in the standings, and should safely finish in 1st by the end of the year. And who will stop this team with a lethal offense, and plenty of great starting pitching, when it comes to short playoff series when these things are most important? If I were in Vegas right now, I would put as much money down on the Tigers as I could. The team is locked and loaded, and ready to blow by everyone in baseball on the way to a World Series.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
More Draft......
Since I talked about the Portland Trail Blazers yesterday, I figured I would talk about the rest of the draft lottery here. Like I said, its one of the most intriguing drafts ever, one that can set many teams up for a loooooong time.
Not a whole lot needs to be said about Seattle. I mean, they have by far the easiest position of anyone in the 1st round. Not hiring a GM until just over 2 weeks before the draft didnt really matter, since anyone who a heartbeat would know what to do. Whoever Portland passes over, Oden or Durant, Seattle just has to run up to the podium with their card and turn it in for the player who is left. Pretty easy move to make, and all that it will do is set the team up for the next 15 years with a superstar, and hopefully save the franchise in a great basketball city. What a shame it would be for the league to lose a team in Seattle.
Now we come to Atlanta. And, well, nobody knows what the hell Atlanta is ever thinking. Billy Knight is like a cat with 9 lives. He makes dumb decision after dumb decision, while making Atlanta a consistent bottom feeder. I know ownership is in an absolute mess with former owner Steve Belkin trying a takeover......but the situation is terrible, and someone needs to think for the basketball product and make front office changes. Anyway, Billy Knight has always been fascinated by big, real big, PG's. This allowed him to pass on Chris Paul. Yet, Deron Williams, who fits the bill for Knight, was inexplicably passed over for Marvin Williams. Yes, MARVIN WILLIAMS. Knight keeps reaching for forward prospects with all the athletic skills, who arent polished. And even though there is a top 5 caliber PG available in Mike Conley, they will pass him over most likely since he is too much like Paul, and doesnt fit wants Knight wants. Mainly, Conley is a small, quick jitterbug who like to run in the open floor. While Conley would be perfect for the Hawks, they are still going to take Al Horford. Horford will give them a solid low post factor, which probably is their 2nd biggest need. Although Horford should develop into a nice player, one would think Knight has learned from his mistakes and just take an available true PG while he has another chance.
The Memphis Grizzlies are an interesting story. They are in flux, with Jerry West moving out, and Chris Wallace coming in. Oh, and Chris Wallace also happened to be the Boston Celtics GM until this week, meaning he has all the knowledge of the team picking right behind his new one, the Grizzlies. I basically see Memphis taking whoever Atlanta doesnt pick between Horford and Conley. I could see Corey Brewer or Brandan Wirght slipping in here, but it isnt likely. Memphis really does need a PG, so they must take Conley if he is there. They have Damon Stoudimere, but he is old and could be traded soon. Chucky Atkins is a free agent and will leave. Kyle Lowrey barely played in his rookie year due to injury. They have some intruing forwards as it is, with Pau Gasol, Alexander Johnson, Hakim Warrick, Rudy Gay, etc. This team needs a young PG to build around, to push the tempo with these young athletic players. Marc Iavroni will play uptempo like Phoenix, and lord knows the PG means everything in this system. So, for Jerry West and Chris Wallace, this is a no-brainer: take Conley, and dont even hesitate.
Things start to get shaky here with the Boston Celtics sitting at pick #5. The early scuttlebutt was them zoning in on Yi Jianlian. I just dont like that for Boston. They have enough projects. They need a guy to come in who is proven, and can help out right away. I would like to see them draft Corey Brewer. Paul Pierce has morphed into a SF, so SG is wide open. I think Corey Brewer could fill in right away at SG. Brewer is what this team needs so bad. He can defend better than almost anyone, and will be an All-Star one day due solely to his defense. He is vastly underrated, and Boston would be nuts to pass him up. Then again, Danny Ainge is making this pick, so everyone could be thrown a curveball.
The Milwaukee Bucks are an interesting case. They dont need any guards (assuming Mo Williams is re-signed, which needs to happen). They obviously have a center, in #1 overall pick Andrew Bogut two years ago. So this team basically is taking a forward, and I think its likely a SF since Charlie Villanueve is still young and developing at the PF spot. Bobby Simmons is a shaky proposition for them currently at SF, after being hurt and not playing well after landing a big deal. Ruben Patterson is a free agent and probably wont be back. Soooooooo, I see the Bucks selecting either Jeff Green or Brandan Wright. Green is polished, and the sure thing. Wright is a wild card with loads of potential, but the ultimate boom or bust type of guy. I see GM Larry Harris taking Brandan Wright though. They have enough talent to take a risk, and this franchise needs a potential stud.
Minnesota has many options here. I just cant for the life of me believe that GM Kevin McHale is actually considering Spencer Hawes. Look, Hawes may be a good player one day. But this draft has future stars littered everywhere, and Hawes' ceiling just isnt that high. In the end, I see McHale surprising everyone and taking Joakim Noah. Minnesota just needs a center in the worst way. They need a guy with an energetic motor that Garnett will love (assuming he is still there come October). Noah is unselfish, and is a nice compliment to guys like Randy Foye and Ricky Davis who will shoot a ton. Many think Noah will flop in the NBA. I say no way. Guys like that who go all out will always do the little things, get under opponents skin, and find ways to win while becoming a fan favorite along the way.
At #8, Charlotte is in a tough spot. They would have loved Noah, but Minnesota snatched him up. They dont seemingly need anyone at any position, so I think they take the best player left, and that is Jeff Green. Adam Morrison looks like a future 6th man, and Green can help out a ton in the scoring department. He is also fundamentally sound and would be a great addition, and could really help this team out who could surprise people a lot this year. They should be very happy with Green if he is there.
I guess for Chicago this pick is almost too easy. Yi Jianlian, and it is pretty obvious. Could he flame out, a la Tskithvilli? Maybe. But he goes to a city China wants him to, and the Bulls do love him a lot. They actually have a need for him too. They could use another big man, who can do it all, and Yi does that. He isnt the strongest defender yet, but Scott Skiles will make sure to change that. This is the one situation where he could develop in the best way possible. He probably would be taken earlier, if it wasnt for the China blocking workouts with teams like Minnesota, Milwaukee, Memphis, Charlotte, etc.
Sacramento at #10 is a team that doesnt seem to know what is going on. It took them 2 months to find a coach, mainly because the Maloof ownership still squabbled with GM Geoff Petrie on whom to hire, even after they said Petrie would have sole authority due to the brothers botching the Eric Musselman hiring last year when they went above Petrie's control. Reggie Theus is the new coach, and will bring energy to the team. However, this team needs to be blown up. Ron Artest is a time bomb. Mike Bibby and Brad Miller have aged rapidly quick. Kevin Martin is a good player, but that is about it. They need to go young, and dump Artest and Bibby in any way possible. They also have a big enormous hole at the 4/5 spot. I think they will take Spencer Hawes, even though I am not a big fan. I'm not sure how much Theus will be on board with this, but Petrie makes the decision here. He wont be ready to contribute a ton this year, but Sacramento doesnt need him now. They need him to be ready when re-building is finished to team with Martin and others for success. If I were Sacramento, I would take Acie Law, to get the PG of the future. But im not the GM, and Petire takes Hawes.
The Atlanta Hawks must now take the PG for the future, dont they? I mean, if Billy Knight uses two lottery picks on guys other than PG's, he needs to be deported. Amazingly, I think he would take Javaris Crittendon over Acie Law. It baffles me to no end. Its as if GM's like him believe guys who have played 4 years of college have developed all they could and cant get any better. HELLO, guys like Law are only 22! Thats only 3 years older than Crittendon. And what has Crittendon ever proved? Yes, he is a big guy, fitting what Knight wants. But, he isnt a very good distributer, dribbles too much a la Steve Francis, and commits way too many turnovers. Oh well, there are always guys like Hawes and Crittendon who are overrated, and Billy Knight seems like the perfect sucker for one of them. Can you believe he in the last few years will have passed on Paul, Williams, Conley, and Law, yet the guy he takes is a project who may flop right out? Only in Atlanta.
If Julian Wright is still available here for the Philadelphia 76ers, they would be nuts not to take him. Rodney Carney, the pick a year ago, will never amount to much, and will always be a bench player. Wright is explosive, and is a downright steal. This pick almost seems too obvious. He is a huge upgrade over Korver and Carney. Philly has to do this. Has to.
Again, at #13, I think we have quite another obvious pick. How can it not be Nick Young. This team simply needs a shooter to put with Chris Paul in the backcourt. Devin Brown was an adequate fill-in last year, but isnt the future. Peja Stojakovic can be a good shooter, but is aging and will always have injuries. Picking Nick Young sets the Hornets up for the future in the backcourt. And with Tyson Chandler in the middle, this team could sneak up on a lot of people extremely soon.
Rounding out the lottery is the Clippers, and this comes down to two guys: Al Thornton or Acie Law. Shaun Livingston's career is in jeopardy, making Law a great pick. But then again, there is a whole at SF, and Thornton would bring instant explosiveness this team could use. If it was up to me, I think Law is a no-brainer. Anyone who watched him in college knows he is a stud. Ironically, if he was a sophomore, he would probably be a top 6 pick because he would have more "potential". Whatever. Law is one of the most clutch college players ever, and is one of the fiercest competitors around. I believe Elgin Baylor is leaning this way to, but it wouldnt stun me to see Al Thornton slide in there.
Not a whole lot needs to be said about Seattle. I mean, they have by far the easiest position of anyone in the 1st round. Not hiring a GM until just over 2 weeks before the draft didnt really matter, since anyone who a heartbeat would know what to do. Whoever Portland passes over, Oden or Durant, Seattle just has to run up to the podium with their card and turn it in for the player who is left. Pretty easy move to make, and all that it will do is set the team up for the next 15 years with a superstar, and hopefully save the franchise in a great basketball city. What a shame it would be for the league to lose a team in Seattle.
Now we come to Atlanta. And, well, nobody knows what the hell Atlanta is ever thinking. Billy Knight is like a cat with 9 lives. He makes dumb decision after dumb decision, while making Atlanta a consistent bottom feeder. I know ownership is in an absolute mess with former owner Steve Belkin trying a takeover......but the situation is terrible, and someone needs to think for the basketball product and make front office changes. Anyway, Billy Knight has always been fascinated by big, real big, PG's. This allowed him to pass on Chris Paul. Yet, Deron Williams, who fits the bill for Knight, was inexplicably passed over for Marvin Williams. Yes, MARVIN WILLIAMS. Knight keeps reaching for forward prospects with all the athletic skills, who arent polished. And even though there is a top 5 caliber PG available in Mike Conley, they will pass him over most likely since he is too much like Paul, and doesnt fit wants Knight wants. Mainly, Conley is a small, quick jitterbug who like to run in the open floor. While Conley would be perfect for the Hawks, they are still going to take Al Horford. Horford will give them a solid low post factor, which probably is their 2nd biggest need. Although Horford should develop into a nice player, one would think Knight has learned from his mistakes and just take an available true PG while he has another chance.
The Memphis Grizzlies are an interesting story. They are in flux, with Jerry West moving out, and Chris Wallace coming in. Oh, and Chris Wallace also happened to be the Boston Celtics GM until this week, meaning he has all the knowledge of the team picking right behind his new one, the Grizzlies. I basically see Memphis taking whoever Atlanta doesnt pick between Horford and Conley. I could see Corey Brewer or Brandan Wirght slipping in here, but it isnt likely. Memphis really does need a PG, so they must take Conley if he is there. They have Damon Stoudimere, but he is old and could be traded soon. Chucky Atkins is a free agent and will leave. Kyle Lowrey barely played in his rookie year due to injury. They have some intruing forwards as it is, with Pau Gasol, Alexander Johnson, Hakim Warrick, Rudy Gay, etc. This team needs a young PG to build around, to push the tempo with these young athletic players. Marc Iavroni will play uptempo like Phoenix, and lord knows the PG means everything in this system. So, for Jerry West and Chris Wallace, this is a no-brainer: take Conley, and dont even hesitate.
Things start to get shaky here with the Boston Celtics sitting at pick #5. The early scuttlebutt was them zoning in on Yi Jianlian. I just dont like that for Boston. They have enough projects. They need a guy to come in who is proven, and can help out right away. I would like to see them draft Corey Brewer. Paul Pierce has morphed into a SF, so SG is wide open. I think Corey Brewer could fill in right away at SG. Brewer is what this team needs so bad. He can defend better than almost anyone, and will be an All-Star one day due solely to his defense. He is vastly underrated, and Boston would be nuts to pass him up. Then again, Danny Ainge is making this pick, so everyone could be thrown a curveball.
The Milwaukee Bucks are an interesting case. They dont need any guards (assuming Mo Williams is re-signed, which needs to happen). They obviously have a center, in #1 overall pick Andrew Bogut two years ago. So this team basically is taking a forward, and I think its likely a SF since Charlie Villanueve is still young and developing at the PF spot. Bobby Simmons is a shaky proposition for them currently at SF, after being hurt and not playing well after landing a big deal. Ruben Patterson is a free agent and probably wont be back. Soooooooo, I see the Bucks selecting either Jeff Green or Brandan Wright. Green is polished, and the sure thing. Wright is a wild card with loads of potential, but the ultimate boom or bust type of guy. I see GM Larry Harris taking Brandan Wright though. They have enough talent to take a risk, and this franchise needs a potential stud.
Minnesota has many options here. I just cant for the life of me believe that GM Kevin McHale is actually considering Spencer Hawes. Look, Hawes may be a good player one day. But this draft has future stars littered everywhere, and Hawes' ceiling just isnt that high. In the end, I see McHale surprising everyone and taking Joakim Noah. Minnesota just needs a center in the worst way. They need a guy with an energetic motor that Garnett will love (assuming he is still there come October). Noah is unselfish, and is a nice compliment to guys like Randy Foye and Ricky Davis who will shoot a ton. Many think Noah will flop in the NBA. I say no way. Guys like that who go all out will always do the little things, get under opponents skin, and find ways to win while becoming a fan favorite along the way.
At #8, Charlotte is in a tough spot. They would have loved Noah, but Minnesota snatched him up. They dont seemingly need anyone at any position, so I think they take the best player left, and that is Jeff Green. Adam Morrison looks like a future 6th man, and Green can help out a ton in the scoring department. He is also fundamentally sound and would be a great addition, and could really help this team out who could surprise people a lot this year. They should be very happy with Green if he is there.
I guess for Chicago this pick is almost too easy. Yi Jianlian, and it is pretty obvious. Could he flame out, a la Tskithvilli? Maybe. But he goes to a city China wants him to, and the Bulls do love him a lot. They actually have a need for him too. They could use another big man, who can do it all, and Yi does that. He isnt the strongest defender yet, but Scott Skiles will make sure to change that. This is the one situation where he could develop in the best way possible. He probably would be taken earlier, if it wasnt for the China blocking workouts with teams like Minnesota, Milwaukee, Memphis, Charlotte, etc.
Sacramento at #10 is a team that doesnt seem to know what is going on. It took them 2 months to find a coach, mainly because the Maloof ownership still squabbled with GM Geoff Petrie on whom to hire, even after they said Petrie would have sole authority due to the brothers botching the Eric Musselman hiring last year when they went above Petrie's control. Reggie Theus is the new coach, and will bring energy to the team. However, this team needs to be blown up. Ron Artest is a time bomb. Mike Bibby and Brad Miller have aged rapidly quick. Kevin Martin is a good player, but that is about it. They need to go young, and dump Artest and Bibby in any way possible. They also have a big enormous hole at the 4/5 spot. I think they will take Spencer Hawes, even though I am not a big fan. I'm not sure how much Theus will be on board with this, but Petrie makes the decision here. He wont be ready to contribute a ton this year, but Sacramento doesnt need him now. They need him to be ready when re-building is finished to team with Martin and others for success. If I were Sacramento, I would take Acie Law, to get the PG of the future. But im not the GM, and Petire takes Hawes.
The Atlanta Hawks must now take the PG for the future, dont they? I mean, if Billy Knight uses two lottery picks on guys other than PG's, he needs to be deported. Amazingly, I think he would take Javaris Crittendon over Acie Law. It baffles me to no end. Its as if GM's like him believe guys who have played 4 years of college have developed all they could and cant get any better. HELLO, guys like Law are only 22! Thats only 3 years older than Crittendon. And what has Crittendon ever proved? Yes, he is a big guy, fitting what Knight wants. But, he isnt a very good distributer, dribbles too much a la Steve Francis, and commits way too many turnovers. Oh well, there are always guys like Hawes and Crittendon who are overrated, and Billy Knight seems like the perfect sucker for one of them. Can you believe he in the last few years will have passed on Paul, Williams, Conley, and Law, yet the guy he takes is a project who may flop right out? Only in Atlanta.
If Julian Wright is still available here for the Philadelphia 76ers, they would be nuts not to take him. Rodney Carney, the pick a year ago, will never amount to much, and will always be a bench player. Wright is explosive, and is a downright steal. This pick almost seems too obvious. He is a huge upgrade over Korver and Carney. Philly has to do this. Has to.
Again, at #13, I think we have quite another obvious pick. How can it not be Nick Young. This team simply needs a shooter to put with Chris Paul in the backcourt. Devin Brown was an adequate fill-in last year, but isnt the future. Peja Stojakovic can be a good shooter, but is aging and will always have injuries. Picking Nick Young sets the Hornets up for the future in the backcourt. And with Tyson Chandler in the middle, this team could sneak up on a lot of people extremely soon.
Rounding out the lottery is the Clippers, and this comes down to two guys: Al Thornton or Acie Law. Shaun Livingston's career is in jeopardy, making Law a great pick. But then again, there is a whole at SF, and Thornton would bring instant explosiveness this team could use. If it was up to me, I think Law is a no-brainer. Anyone who watched him in college knows he is a stud. Ironically, if he was a sophomore, he would probably be a top 6 pick because he would have more "potential". Whatever. Law is one of the most clutch college players ever, and is one of the fiercest competitors around. I believe Elgin Baylor is leaning this way to, but it wouldnt stun me to see Al Thornton slide in there.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
NBA Draft 8 Days Away.....
The NBA Draft is just over a week away, and the speculation is nuts. I swear, some of the stuff I hear is absurd, some is actual good ideas, and yet by draft night stuff will happen thats beyond absurd, and things that seem obvious wont happen (Hello Atlanta).
So lets talk about what Portland should do. Everyone in the state of Oregon is basically screaming for them to take Oden, and all the basketball "experts" are saying the same. You know, the big guys always win, scorers are a dime a dozen, Durant is too weak, those silly lines. Well, let me tell you something. The Trail Blazers may be downright foolish to take Oden over Durant. Yes, I know Oden is supremely athletic, and a great guy to boot. But does he really love basketball? He is always talking about things he loves to do outside the sport, and it doesnt seem like it is his true passion. Also, he has never faced stiff competition before, and could be in for a rude awakening in the NBA.
Anyone who has watched Texas this year though, knows that Durant is just sick when it comes to talent. He is a freak of nature, and impossible to stop. He can drive, dribble, shoot, block shots, basically do it all. Its like an evil cross between Kevin Garnett and Dirk Nowitzki that the NBA has never seen before. In 1984 Portland picked the "safe" big man in Sam Bowie over Michael Jordan. Well, do they dare make the same mistake twice? Durant has potential to be special. Make that very special. A kind of special that the league has never seen. He is like that guy in a pick-up game that you would never expect to be dominant. Doesnt look to be strong or especially good, but is smart, athletic, and competitive. There is always the skinny guy who gets every rebound, and it defies all logic. Maybe he cant put up a 185 pound bench press yet, but he still manages to outrebound almost everyone with his wire-like decptive basketball strength. Durant has the ability to be a dominant superstar, a marketing genius(with Nike in Portland's backyard, and we all know scorers sell more shoes than big guys), another in the long line of Jordan-Magic-Bird etc. abilities. And did I mention Durant is a gym rat? The kid lives basketball. He is unstoppable as it is, and isnt even close to reaching how good he eventually will be. It is straight scary.
Greg Oden is going to be a great player to, dont get me wrong. Alright, yes you couldnt go wrong with him, but thats beside the point. You can be even greater with Durant. What also is scary is that Oden reportedly has some serious injury issues. NBA teams are concerned with his right wrist, which still isnt fully back to 100% from an injury last summer. Even more concerning in my view is his bad back. Will be breakdown too quick? Look, I dont know. But it is something to be concerned about.
Portland also needs to look at the fit of their team. They are basically begging people to come play ther SF position for them. If they draft Oden, then Zach Randolph needs to be dumped. So why make it harder for yourself? LaMarcus Alridge is better suited for Center, which is exactly where Oden needs to be. Randolph put up eye popping numbers this season of 23.6 PPG and 10.1 RPG. That is fantastic for an NBA PF. He should of made the All-Star team. Basically, the Trail Blazers DONT NEED another big man.
At SF, the Trail Blazers have Ime Udoka. He is a local guy, and did an acceptable job starting during the season, doing all the little things for the team. Other than him, they have Martell Webster and Travis Outlaw, both of whom came out of high school, and are still very raw. Outlaw is athletic as heck, but still cant shoot a lick. Webster can shoot with anyone, but still has to learn all the other basketball nuances.
Can you imagine a lineup that involves Brandon Roy, Kevin Durant, Zach Randolph, and LaMarcus Aldridge????? No matter who the PG is, and currently Jarrett Jack and Sergio Rodriguez look pretty good, this team cant fail. Alll the key players are young, with potential to make this club a powerhouse for years to come.
Kevin Pritchard has all the makings to be a great GM. Deep down, I know his heart wants Durant. But will he give into the coaches, the media, etc. in going with Oden? Pritchard saw what Durant did to his alma matter, the Kansas Jayhawks this year. He ate them alive, and Kansas was a team loaded with future NBA players. Even in the Big 12 tournament Durant put up 24 points in the first half, before spraining his ankle and not being able to contribute a lot in the seconed.
All I know is that I hope this turns out well for Portland. It is an awesome city for basketball, with some of the best fans the NBA has ever seen. They unfairly got saddled with the "Jail Blazers" of the early 2000's, after some extremely good teams from the late 90's, along with the 2000 version, which was the best team that year, just stacked with obscene talent......and to this day I am still wondering how they blew a 20+ point lead to the Lakers in Game 7 of the Western Finals, and choking away an easy NBA Championship (although the Pacers would have put up a decent fight). I love their uniforms, love their fans, their history.......the list goes on. Nate McMillen is a GREAT coach, and Portland is lucky to have him.
So Portland, take Kevin Durant. Dont be ridiculed even more for passing on the next great superstar that will redefine the NBA. All you have to do is put in a tape of any Big 12 game from last season, and it will be quite clear how good he is. When was the last time a player dominated college basketball like that? I sure cant remember, probably not since the days of UCLA and Lew Alcindor. Kevin Durant wont be contained in the NBA, and I pray Portland fans wont be crushed by another Jordan type pass in the draft, only to see the player involved this time right up the road in Seattle. Think hard Portland, you know what to do.
So lets talk about what Portland should do. Everyone in the state of Oregon is basically screaming for them to take Oden, and all the basketball "experts" are saying the same. You know, the big guys always win, scorers are a dime a dozen, Durant is too weak, those silly lines. Well, let me tell you something. The Trail Blazers may be downright foolish to take Oden over Durant. Yes, I know Oden is supremely athletic, and a great guy to boot. But does he really love basketball? He is always talking about things he loves to do outside the sport, and it doesnt seem like it is his true passion. Also, he has never faced stiff competition before, and could be in for a rude awakening in the NBA.
Anyone who has watched Texas this year though, knows that Durant is just sick when it comes to talent. He is a freak of nature, and impossible to stop. He can drive, dribble, shoot, block shots, basically do it all. Its like an evil cross between Kevin Garnett and Dirk Nowitzki that the NBA has never seen before. In 1984 Portland picked the "safe" big man in Sam Bowie over Michael Jordan. Well, do they dare make the same mistake twice? Durant has potential to be special. Make that very special. A kind of special that the league has never seen. He is like that guy in a pick-up game that you would never expect to be dominant. Doesnt look to be strong or especially good, but is smart, athletic, and competitive. There is always the skinny guy who gets every rebound, and it defies all logic. Maybe he cant put up a 185 pound bench press yet, but he still manages to outrebound almost everyone with his wire-like decptive basketball strength. Durant has the ability to be a dominant superstar, a marketing genius(with Nike in Portland's backyard, and we all know scorers sell more shoes than big guys), another in the long line of Jordan-Magic-Bird etc. abilities. And did I mention Durant is a gym rat? The kid lives basketball. He is unstoppable as it is, and isnt even close to reaching how good he eventually will be. It is straight scary.
Greg Oden is going to be a great player to, dont get me wrong. Alright, yes you couldnt go wrong with him, but thats beside the point. You can be even greater with Durant. What also is scary is that Oden reportedly has some serious injury issues. NBA teams are concerned with his right wrist, which still isnt fully back to 100% from an injury last summer. Even more concerning in my view is his bad back. Will be breakdown too quick? Look, I dont know. But it is something to be concerned about.
Portland also needs to look at the fit of their team. They are basically begging people to come play ther SF position for them. If they draft Oden, then Zach Randolph needs to be dumped. So why make it harder for yourself? LaMarcus Alridge is better suited for Center, which is exactly where Oden needs to be. Randolph put up eye popping numbers this season of 23.6 PPG and 10.1 RPG. That is fantastic for an NBA PF. He should of made the All-Star team. Basically, the Trail Blazers DONT NEED another big man.
At SF, the Trail Blazers have Ime Udoka. He is a local guy, and did an acceptable job starting during the season, doing all the little things for the team. Other than him, they have Martell Webster and Travis Outlaw, both of whom came out of high school, and are still very raw. Outlaw is athletic as heck, but still cant shoot a lick. Webster can shoot with anyone, but still has to learn all the other basketball nuances.
Can you imagine a lineup that involves Brandon Roy, Kevin Durant, Zach Randolph, and LaMarcus Aldridge????? No matter who the PG is, and currently Jarrett Jack and Sergio Rodriguez look pretty good, this team cant fail. Alll the key players are young, with potential to make this club a powerhouse for years to come.
Kevin Pritchard has all the makings to be a great GM. Deep down, I know his heart wants Durant. But will he give into the coaches, the media, etc. in going with Oden? Pritchard saw what Durant did to his alma matter, the Kansas Jayhawks this year. He ate them alive, and Kansas was a team loaded with future NBA players. Even in the Big 12 tournament Durant put up 24 points in the first half, before spraining his ankle and not being able to contribute a lot in the seconed.
All I know is that I hope this turns out well for Portland. It is an awesome city for basketball, with some of the best fans the NBA has ever seen. They unfairly got saddled with the "Jail Blazers" of the early 2000's, after some extremely good teams from the late 90's, along with the 2000 version, which was the best team that year, just stacked with obscene talent......and to this day I am still wondering how they blew a 20+ point lead to the Lakers in Game 7 of the Western Finals, and choking away an easy NBA Championship (although the Pacers would have put up a decent fight). I love their uniforms, love their fans, their history.......the list goes on. Nate McMillen is a GREAT coach, and Portland is lucky to have him.
So Portland, take Kevin Durant. Dont be ridiculed even more for passing on the next great superstar that will redefine the NBA. All you have to do is put in a tape of any Big 12 game from last season, and it will be quite clear how good he is. When was the last time a player dominated college basketball like that? I sure cant remember, probably not since the days of UCLA and Lew Alcindor. Kevin Durant wont be contained in the NBA, and I pray Portland fans wont be crushed by another Jordan type pass in the draft, only to see the player involved this time right up the road in Seattle. Think hard Portland, you know what to do.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Kobe Trade Coming Soon?
Earlier this weekend, I was starting to wonder why there wasnt anymore talk of Kobe Bryant and his trade demand. There was the huge eruption of Kobe news for a couple days a few weeks ago, and then everything seemingly disappeared. On the day he demanded a trade, he also went on the radio in Los Angeles, saying he was just frustrated and wasnt totally sure he wanted to leave. So what was it? Did he want out? Did he really want to stay? Media and fans kind of shrugged their shoulders, threw their hands up, and basically said forget it and went along watching the rest of the playoffs.
Until today......
The Los Angeles Times reports Kobe stuck to his trade demand in a meeting with owner Jerry Buss and wants out. Well, that certainly sends some serious shockwaves through the NBA community once again. And exactly how does the owner and star player, both of whom live in the Los Angeles area, have to meet up in Spain to talk? Whatever is going through the minds of these two, nobody will truly know. Yet, it makes for great banter, and the possibilities are endless to dream up.
So where will Kobe land? Kobe isn't going to any Western team. You think the Lakers ownership and management wants to see The Mamba busting their tails 4 times a year and sticking it to them? Hell no. So that eliminates half the league. In the East, the most discussed teams are New York and Chicago. Chicago makes sense. Look at the assets they have. Tyrus Thomas, Luol Deng, Ben Gordan, the #9 pick, the list goes on. These cats can play, and bust their tails on the court. There is no reason for the Lakers not to like a package that could come of this. New York on the otherhand, has the basketball equivilant of a bag of dirty gym socks. David Lee, Renaldo Balkman, or Channing Frye could be good players now or very soon. Yet, their contracts are a pittance compared to Kobe. New York needs to throw in high salaried guys like Stephon Marbury, Jamal Crawford, or Steve Francis to make this work. In other words, fat chance of that happening Knick fans
So I started to think of other teams that could make it work. Namely, the Altanta Hawks, Washington Wizards, and Detroit Pistons.
Atlanta could provide a much better opportunity than at first glance. First, they actually do have a lot to offer to the Lakers. They have a high salaried player in Joe Johnson, who is pretty damn good, unlike the Knick players. Johnson was an All-Star this past season, and can light up the stat sheet with the best of them. He knows how to score, and is a very underrated player. Playing in Atlanta tends to do that to a player. So what from the Laker side isnt to like of a package of Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, Marvin Williams, and either the 3rd or 11th pick in this draft? The Lakers get a current All-Star (and im telling you, Johnson is the real deal, just watch him play), and two young horses who have loads of potential. Not to mention a lottery pick in one of the strongest and deepest drafts ever. From the Hawks side, its great for very obvious reasons. On top of that, they will still have plenty of cap room to woo Chauncey Billups, Rashard Lewis, or an up and comer like Mo Williams. Not bad is it?
Washington can offer the Lakers an already household name, a player who is already one of the most marketable in the league, and would blow up even more in LA. Gilbert Arenas is only 26, and is the type of electrifying star LA needs. But that is where the easy part ends. Washington would obviously have to move Caron Butler or Antawn Jamison as well, since these guys are all shooting guards or small forwards, and you cant have three of them for only two spots. I cant see Washington moving Butler, as he is still young and improving. Jamison has a monster contract, but only one year left on it. Would LA really want to take it on? That is questionable. Maybe a three-way traded can be organized. The parts are there, but completing it may be the hardest task.
Finally, the Detroit Pistons are a team nobody is talking about. However, they have a ton of assets, and could sneak in the backdoor and steal Kobe away. The Pistons can start by offering up Rip Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince. Nothing to not like about that from the Laker perspective. Hamilton can run all day, and has a better mid-range game than almost anyone. Prince can defend almost anyone, and brings all the intangibles anyone could ever want. After that, the Pistons can throw in another young stud like Jason Maxiell or Amir Johnson. These guys are super athletic and hungry. Maxiell is a beast, think of a poor man's Charles Barkley pre-donuts. His wingspan is huge, goes to the rim with reckless abandon, and is deceptively good at blocking shots. Amir Johnson destroyed that the D-League this year, and only turned 20 last month. If he would have gone to college, he would probably be a top ten lottery pick this year. Johnson is near 7 feet tall, is an athletics freak, and hungry and willing to learn. This kid is always in the gym, doing whatever he can to be the best. The Pistons can throw in either the 15th or 27th pick in this years draft to seal the deal. Now, the Lakers have two established and still young players in Hamilton and Prince to put with Odom, not to mention some young pieces and/or draft picks. From the Pistons side, its simple. They get the superstar the need to take games over, and still have a good nucleus with Rasheed Wallace and Chauncey Billups sticking around. I dont think anymore playoff choke jobs to Cleveland would be happening with Kobe on board.
Will Kobe be traded this offseason? Im starting to believe that yes, it actually will happen. Besides, the NBA needs it. It needs the most premier player in the East. It needs to happen to somewhat balance the power gap between East and West. It will happen.
Until today......
The Los Angeles Times reports Kobe stuck to his trade demand in a meeting with owner Jerry Buss and wants out. Well, that certainly sends some serious shockwaves through the NBA community once again. And exactly how does the owner and star player, both of whom live in the Los Angeles area, have to meet up in Spain to talk? Whatever is going through the minds of these two, nobody will truly know. Yet, it makes for great banter, and the possibilities are endless to dream up.
So where will Kobe land? Kobe isn't going to any Western team. You think the Lakers ownership and management wants to see The Mamba busting their tails 4 times a year and sticking it to them? Hell no. So that eliminates half the league. In the East, the most discussed teams are New York and Chicago. Chicago makes sense. Look at the assets they have. Tyrus Thomas, Luol Deng, Ben Gordan, the #9 pick, the list goes on. These cats can play, and bust their tails on the court. There is no reason for the Lakers not to like a package that could come of this. New York on the otherhand, has the basketball equivilant of a bag of dirty gym socks. David Lee, Renaldo Balkman, or Channing Frye could be good players now or very soon. Yet, their contracts are a pittance compared to Kobe. New York needs to throw in high salaried guys like Stephon Marbury, Jamal Crawford, or Steve Francis to make this work. In other words, fat chance of that happening Knick fans
So I started to think of other teams that could make it work. Namely, the Altanta Hawks, Washington Wizards, and Detroit Pistons.
Atlanta could provide a much better opportunity than at first glance. First, they actually do have a lot to offer to the Lakers. They have a high salaried player in Joe Johnson, who is pretty damn good, unlike the Knick players. Johnson was an All-Star this past season, and can light up the stat sheet with the best of them. He knows how to score, and is a very underrated player. Playing in Atlanta tends to do that to a player. So what from the Laker side isnt to like of a package of Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, Marvin Williams, and either the 3rd or 11th pick in this draft? The Lakers get a current All-Star (and im telling you, Johnson is the real deal, just watch him play), and two young horses who have loads of potential. Not to mention a lottery pick in one of the strongest and deepest drafts ever. From the Hawks side, its great for very obvious reasons. On top of that, they will still have plenty of cap room to woo Chauncey Billups, Rashard Lewis, or an up and comer like Mo Williams. Not bad is it?
Washington can offer the Lakers an already household name, a player who is already one of the most marketable in the league, and would blow up even more in LA. Gilbert Arenas is only 26, and is the type of electrifying star LA needs. But that is where the easy part ends. Washington would obviously have to move Caron Butler or Antawn Jamison as well, since these guys are all shooting guards or small forwards, and you cant have three of them for only two spots. I cant see Washington moving Butler, as he is still young and improving. Jamison has a monster contract, but only one year left on it. Would LA really want to take it on? That is questionable. Maybe a three-way traded can be organized. The parts are there, but completing it may be the hardest task.
Finally, the Detroit Pistons are a team nobody is talking about. However, they have a ton of assets, and could sneak in the backdoor and steal Kobe away. The Pistons can start by offering up Rip Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince. Nothing to not like about that from the Laker perspective. Hamilton can run all day, and has a better mid-range game than almost anyone. Prince can defend almost anyone, and brings all the intangibles anyone could ever want. After that, the Pistons can throw in another young stud like Jason Maxiell or Amir Johnson. These guys are super athletic and hungry. Maxiell is a beast, think of a poor man's Charles Barkley pre-donuts. His wingspan is huge, goes to the rim with reckless abandon, and is deceptively good at blocking shots. Amir Johnson destroyed that the D-League this year, and only turned 20 last month. If he would have gone to college, he would probably be a top ten lottery pick this year. Johnson is near 7 feet tall, is an athletics freak, and hungry and willing to learn. This kid is always in the gym, doing whatever he can to be the best. The Pistons can throw in either the 15th or 27th pick in this years draft to seal the deal. Now, the Lakers have two established and still young players in Hamilton and Prince to put with Odom, not to mention some young pieces and/or draft picks. From the Pistons side, its simple. They get the superstar the need to take games over, and still have a good nucleus with Rasheed Wallace and Chauncey Billups sticking around. I dont think anymore playoff choke jobs to Cleveland would be happening with Kobe on board.
Will Kobe be traded this offseason? Im starting to believe that yes, it actually will happen. Besides, the NBA needs it. It needs the most premier player in the East. It needs to happen to somewhat balance the power gap between East and West. It will happen.
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