2007 NBA DRAFT - ODEN and PORTLAND CRIPPLED (1 Viewer)

[Colin Dowling]

Resign Lewis to a reasonable deal.

If by "reasonable" you mean "less than the max."...not gonna happen. The Orlando Capellas are throwing max dough at him, I'm pretty sure.

I saw that he turned down a 2 year $25 million extension in Feb. The owner, before the draft, said he was committed to re-signing him. Now, I'm sure he's happy to walk away if he can't trade him...

They should be trying to do a sign and trade with Lewis. Durant is a better version, younger, and (currently) cheaper. Random brainstorm: If Vince Carter goes to Charlotte, why not dangle Lewis as a sign and trade to Jersey for Marcus Williams?

With the Nets current salaries, I don't know if any sign and trade would work with them...Kidd and Jefferson are the only two guys making anything on that team.

Jason Collins, Cliff Robinson, and Marcus Williams would be just shy of 8 million. I don't know how the max contract payouts work, but would that get them in the ball park?

 

[saintfool]

They should be trying to do a sign and trade with Lewis. Durant is a better version, younger, and (currently) cheaper. Random brainstorm: If Vince Carter goes to Charlotte, why not dangle Lewis as a sign and trade to Jersey for Marcus Williams?

Two problems with it... ) They already have Earl Watson/Luke Ridnour; and 2) Williams is the only depth NJ has behind Kidd. They were walking about trading Kidd for a reason. They must see Marcus as the future.

 

[TommyGilmore]

With Randolph gone(or coming off the bench), the Blazers could have on offense like Phoenix and maybe a defense like San Antonio. Martell Webster, F Jones, Pryzbilla, Jack and Randolph(Udoka) would make a pretty good second unit.

Jones, Pryzbilla, and Udoka are all fodder and will be lucky to be on the team 2 years from now.

 

[Sammy3469]

Resign Lewis to a reasonable deal.

If by "reasonable" you mean "less than the max."...not gonna happen. The Orlando Capellas are throwing max dough at him, I'm pretty sure.

I saw that he turned down a 2 year $25 million extension in Feb. The owner, before the draft, said he was committed to re-signing him. Now, I'm sure he's happy to walk away if he can't trade him...

They should be trying to do a sign and trade with Lewis. Durant is a better version, younger, and (currently) cheaper. Random brainstorm: If Vince Carter goes to Charlotte, why not dangle Lewis as a sign and trade to Jersey for Marcus Williams?

With the Nets current salaries, I don't know if any sign and trade would work with them...Kidd and Jefferson are the only two guys making anything on that team.

Jason Collins, Cliff Robinson, and Marcus Williams would be just shy of 8 million. I don't know how the max contract payouts work, but would that get them in the ball park?

I beleive the salaries have to be within 80% of each other...so those 3 guys don't even get close. Seattle wouldn't want Collins either with Collison, Swift, and Wilcox already there.

 

[saintfool]

I beleive the salaries have to be within 80% of each other...so those 3 guys don't even get close. Seattle wouldn't want Collins either with Collison, Swift, and Wilcox already there.

you are forgetting sene and petro as well....

 

[NOONAN]

With Randolph gone(or coming off the bench), the Blazers could have on offense like Phoenix and maybe a defense like San Antonio. Martell Webster, F Jones, Pryzbilla, Jack and Randolph(Udoka) would make a pretty good second unit.

Jones, Pryzbilla, and Udoka are all fodder and will be lucky to be on the team 2 years from now.

Jones played with a repaired wrist last year-couldn't shoot at all. He may be done, but lets see next year. Pryzbilla missed significant time due to injury, but is a hustle player when healthy. You can't teach 7 feet tall. Udoka is a great role player(ever seen him play?). He is not someone who needs 15-20 shots a game, but can hit a clutch 3 when needed to open up the interior. He will go to the floor for loose trash and scrap. Every team needs a scrapper.

 

[Arsenal of Doom]

Love the suggestion from the Dan Patrick show that the bottom two teams play each other after the season for the right to draft #1. I think it could use some tweaking, but could be fun....

Several problems with that though...including but not limited to the fact that some guys might not try very hard in that game if their place on the team might be affected by who is projected at #1....

I don't get too worked up about the lottery but if they do change it I think they should go to a tiered lottery system. Group the selection order into picks (1,2,3) - (4,5,6) - (7,8,9) - (10,11,12) - (13,14). Within each group the lottery odds are decided by having the most wins. So the team with the third worst record would actually have the best chance at the top pick, while the team with the worst record can't pick lower than #3. While it doesn't completely eliminate the potential for tanking it does significantly mitigate it as teams are rewarded for having a better record. The team with the 4th worst record in particular might have some motivation to try to get into the bottom 3 tier, but if they miss they boost their odds of falling to #6.

Not as fun as making them play for it...but I think the idea you propose actually has merit.

Think about how much different the late season games would between the teams within those tiers. Right now they are a snooze fest where neither team has an incentive to win, but under the tiered system they would be almost be like playoff games. I agree that it wouldn't be as exciting as one single game, but I think this would deliver a few more interesting and competitive games every year.

I would seed it according to "record against playoff teams". That way, if you're team is truly bad and gets the crap kicked out of it by the Spurs/Pistons/Etc. all season, you get a higher pick that can (hopefully) genuinely improve your team. But your record against the other crummy (non-playoff) teams isn't factored in, so a late season game between the Bucks and Celtics is still money well spent for fans who want to catch a game.

The only probelm with this is that it could really affect the bubble playoff teams. The bad teams really have no incentive to try to win against the playoff caliber teams at the end of the season. A Bucks and Celtics contest might still be interesting, but there is still no reason for either of them to win against the Magic (using last seasons standings).

 

[saintfool]

I didn't see this in the thread but it looks like Hibbert is returning to Georgetown while Green will remain in the draft. Link

 

[_4_]

Love the suggestion from the Dan Patrick show that the bottom two teams play each other after the season for the right to draft #1. I think it could use some tweaking, but could be fun....

Several problems with that though...including but not limited to the fact that some guys might not try very hard in that game if their place on the team might be affected by who is projected at #1....

I don't get too worked up about the lottery but if they do change it I think they should go to a tiered lottery system. Group the selection order into picks (1,2,3) - (4,5,6) - (7,8,9) - (10,11,12) - (13,14). Within each group the lottery odds are decided by having the most wins. So the team with the third worst record would actually have the best chance at the top pick, while the team with the worst record can't pick lower than #3. While it doesn't completely eliminate the potential for tanking it does significantly mitigate it as teams are rewarded for having a better record. The team with the 4th worst record in particular might have some motivation to try to get into the bottom 3 tier, but if they miss they boost their odds of falling to #6.

Not as fun as making them play for it...but I think the idea you propose actually has merit.

Think about how much different the late season games would between the teams within those tiers. Right now they are a snooze fest where neither team has an incentive to win, but under the tiered system they would be almost be like playoff games. I agree that it wouldn't be as exciting as one single game, but I think this would deliver a few more interesting and competitive games every year.

I would seed it according to "record against playoff teams". That way, if you're team is truly bad and gets the crap kicked out of it by the Spurs/Pistons/Etc. all season, you get a higher pick that can (hopefully) genuinely improve your team. But your record against the other crummy (non-playoff) teams isn't factored in, so a late season game between the Bucks and Celtics is still money well spent for fans who want to catch a game.

The only probelm with this is that it could really affect the bubble playoff teams. The bad teams really have no incentive to try to win against the playoff caliber teams at the end of the season. A Bucks and Celtics contest might still be interesting, but there is still no reason for either of them to win against the Magic (using last seasons standings).

I really do like the idea of the tiers...there would be some issues with it, but no system is perfect...

 

[kbleck]

Portland Fan here: My take on what might happen here.

In 24 hours after the lottery the Blazers sold 3000 season tickets. There is big hype going on here and since the blazers are the only major sport in this town people are pretty excited to see a good team come back to PTown.

The past 10 years we have been dealing with pot smoking, wife beating, dog fighting thugs and finally we have a solid core of young stars.

The only two players that are not from that mold are ZBo and Miles. Miles is all but done. They were stupid to give this guy with huge potential so much cash but I see them cutting bait on this dead fish asap. Zach and Miles hang out at the strip bars here in town and just get into trouble. (alleged sexual conduct issues)

Portland is all about getting character guys now and that is what Pritchard will be looking at between Oden and Durrant. Also they will need to figure out what guy is going to be a "Nate" Player. Nate isnt the easiest coach to work with. (See Miles) So if you dont have the attitude then you wont be a Nate player.

I personally think Durant is more of a Nate player than Oden by his work ethic but Oden is just a freak.

Blazer Roster:

G - Roy - Untouchable

G - Dickau - will have to fight for a roster spot

G - Jack - very unlikely to be traded (solid Defensive player)

G- Rodriguez - could be packaged in a trade but he is BIG Nate guy

GF - Jones - probably be back if healthy (went to UofO and crowd favorite)

GF - Webster - Might be on the way out in a package. (great potential but has been hanging out with Miles, and just not that clutch player yet)

F - Aldridge - Nearly untouchable\

FC - Lafrenz - probably be back (Kansas guy and Pritchard went to Kansas)

F - Miles - GONE he will be traded for a roast beef sandwich

F - Outlaw - up and coming scorer - could be packaged in a trade if Blazers take Durant

F - Udoka - will stay solid 3pt thread and great defender. Kobe container (crowd favorite, went to univerity of Portland, Local guy)

F - Randolph - Will be traded IF they can get something in return (Pritchard wont GIVE him away)

C - Przybilla - will stay here solid role player

C - Schenscher - will fight for a spot if

C - Magloire - most likely will get money from some other team.

Probably the way it will go

5 - Oden

4 - Aldridge

3 - Randolf (Outlaw,Webster)

2 - Roy (Jones,Udoka)

1 - Jack (Rodriguez)

If they take Durant

5 - Pryzbilla

4 - Aldridge

3 - Durant

2 - Roy

1 - Jack

Aldridge isnt a 5 in my book but could play the 5 if necessary.

I really think the Oden/Durant choice will depend on if they can get rid of Randolf. I would say 70% Oden 30% Durant at this moment but the real decision will be made off of character and ethics.

 

[Colin Dowling]

I think Oden has to be the pick for that team. I prefer Durant as a player, but I think Lamarcus has a lot of good things on the way and Roy is a good-getting-better scorer.

 

[_4_]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

 

[TommyGilmore]

Blazer Roster:G - Roy - UntouchableG - Dickau - will have to fight for a roster spotG - Jack - very unlikely to be traded (solid Defensive player)G- Rodriguez - could be packaged in a trade but he is BIG Nate guyGF - Jones - probably be back if healthy (went to UofO and crowd favorite)GF - Webster - Might be on the way out in a package. (great potential but has been hanging out with Miles, and just not that clutch player yet)F - Aldridge - Nearly untouchable\FC - Lafrenz - probably be back (Kansas guy and Pritchard went to Kansas)F - Miles - GONE he will be traded for a roast beef sandwichF - Outlaw - up and coming scorer - could be packaged in a trade if Blazers take DurantF - Udoka - will stay solid 3pt thread and great defender. Kobe container (crowd favorite, went to univerity of Portland, Local guy)F - Randolph - Will be traded IF they can get something in return (Pritchard wont GIVE him away)C - Przybilla - will stay here solid role playerC - Schenscher - will fight for a spot if C - Magloire - most likely will get money from some other team.Probably the way it will go5 - Oden4 - Aldridge3 - Randolf (Outlaw,Webster)2 - Roy (Jones,Udoka)1 - Jack (Rodriguez)

I agree with most of this except:- no way Randolph plays the 3. He's never played the 3 as a pro. I see him starting the season as the #4, with Aldridge backing up both 4 & 5 (and eventually taking over as starter). I just hope it doesn't turn into a "Jermaine O'Neal" situation (where O'Neal was traded because there wasn't enough playing time for him).- I like Udoka, Jones & Dickau, but none of them are essential for the roster and they'll ALL be fighting for spots. Scrappers are a dime a dozen.- as much as I'd love to get rid of Randolph, LaFrentz & Miles....they all have HUGE contracts. Even Przybilla has a guaranteed $26 million over the next 4 years.

 

[_4_]

Przbilla has 4 years at $26 million? ####....I think that is almost as bad as Gadzuric or Foyle...

 

[Spiderman]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

Or a crazy one...Oden will be better than top 5, I think he'll be top 2 after 5 years.

 

[Spiderman]

Resign Lewis to a reasonable deal.

If by "reasonable" you mean "less than the max."...not gonna happen. The Orlando Capellas are throwing max dough at him, I'm pretty sure.

I saw that he turned down a 2 year $25 million extension in Feb. The owner, before the draft, said he was committed to re-signing him. Now, I'm sure he's happy to walk away if he can't trade him...

They should be trying to do a sign and trade with Lewis. Durant is a better version, younger, and (currently) cheaper. Random brainstorm: If Vince Carter goes to Charlotte, why not dangle Lewis as a sign and trade to Jersey for Marcus Williams?

Doesn't Seattle have some financial issues right now ? If that's true, I think they make an offer to Lewis (less than the max to say they tried), and let him go to Orlando or whereever. In a way, though, getting Durant is the perfect replacement - he comes with tremendous upside and hype, and can probably contribute right away.Seattle needs to figure out their point guard spot. I like Luke Ridnour but they can't seem to decide between him and Earl Watson. They also still need another big man. Wilcox is explosive but inconsisent, and Collison is a nice hustle player, but I don't see him as anything more than a 3rd guy in a rotation.

 

[tommyGunZ]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

I don't understand what your're saying here? Are you implying that Durant is more ready for the NBA than Oden? And are you insinuating that Oden will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years?If so, I strongly disagree. Oden is more NBA ready right now, and he's a top 5 center. Right now.

 

[_4_]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

I don't understand what your're saying here? Are you implying that Durant is more ready for the NBA than Oden? And are you insinuating that Oden will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years?If so, I strongly disagree. Oden is more NBA ready right now, and he's a top 5 center. Right now.

Absolutely Durant is more NBA ready. And that is not my evaluation it is the evaluation of scout after scout who have evaluated them. The thought of finding links bores me to death....I shouldn't have to bother. You can believe what you want to believe - I am sure there is a team out there paying you for your opinion.

 

[Spiderman]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

I don't understand what your're saying here? Are you implying that Durant is more ready for the NBA than Oden? And are you insinuating that Oden will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years?If so, I strongly disagree. Oden is more NBA ready right now, and he's a top 5 center. Right now.

Absolutely Durant is more NBA ready. And that is not my evaluation it is the evaluation of scout after scout who have evaluated them. The thought of finding links bores me to death....I shouldn't have to bother. You can believe what you want to believe - I am sure there is a team out there paying you for your opinion.

No debate with this...most scouts believe Durant is more ready to play in the league, but that Oden will become the best player in the draft.The center position in the NBA is pretty weak so I think he fills out his body he'll be dominant. Already, Oden should be a defensive force - shot blocker, and rebounder. I do think he has a good array of moves on offense, but we will see his offensive game get better as he bulks up.

 

[_4_]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

I don't understand what your're saying here? Are you implying that Durant is more ready for the NBA than Oden? And are you insinuating that Oden will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years?If so, I strongly disagree. Oden is more NBA ready right now, and he's a top 5 center. Right now.

Absolutely Durant is more NBA ready. And that is not my evaluation it is the evaluation of scout after scout who have evaluated them. The thought of finding links bores me to death....I shouldn't have to bother. You can believe what you want to believe - I am sure there is a team out there paying you for your opinion.

No debate with this...most scouts believe Durant is more ready to play in the league, but that Oden will become the best player in the draft.The center position in the NBA is pretty weak so I think he fills out his body he'll be dominant. Already, Oden should be a defensive force - shot blocker, and rebounder. I do think he has a good array of moves on offense, but we will see his offensive game get better as he bulks up.

Though I don't think he will block so many shots as he will alter shots - he is quick, long and a decent but not tremendous leaper. It is to be seen whether or not he can be physically dominant in the NBA - at least his first year or two - frankly, if you watched him play as a college Freshman, you saw Brian Butch outplay him - that speaks volumes.

 

[HellToupee]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

I don't understand what your're saying here? Are you implying that Durant is more ready for the NBA than Oden? And are you insinuating that Oden will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years?If so, I strongly disagree. Oden is more NBA ready right now, and he's a top 5 center. Right now.

Absolutely Durant is more NBA ready. And that is not my evaluation it is the evaluation of scout after scout who have evaluated them. The thought of finding links bores me to death....I shouldn't have to bother. You can believe what you want to believe - I am sure there is a team out there paying you for your opinion.

I don't agree. Oden's defensive presence alone will make him more NBA ready than Durant.

 

[tommyGunZ]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

I don't understand what your're saying here? Are you implying that Durant is more ready for the NBA than Oden? And are you insinuating that Oden will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years?If so, I strongly disagree. Oden is more NBA ready right now, and he's a top 5 center. Right now.

Absolutely Durant is more NBA ready. And that is not my evaluation it is the evaluation of scout after scout who have evaluated them. The thought of finding links bores me to death....I shouldn't have to bother. You can believe what you want to believe - I am sure there is a team out there paying you for your opinion.

No debate with this...most scouts believe Durant is more ready to play in the league, but that Oden will become the best player in the draft.The center position in the NBA is pretty weak so I think he fills out his body he'll be dominant. Already, Oden should be a defensive force - shot blocker, and rebounder. I do think he has a good array of moves on offense, but we will see his offensive game get better as he bulks up.

Though I don't think he will block so many shots as he will alter shots - he is quick, long and a decent but not tremendous leaper. It is to be seen whether or not he can be physically dominant in the NBA - at least his first year or two - frankly, if you watched him play as a college Freshman, you saw Brian Butch outplay him - that speaks volumes.

Was that when Oden was playing with a cast on one hand and shooting FT with his left?

 

[tommyGunZ]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

I don't understand what your're saying here? Are you implying that Durant is more ready for the NBA than Oden? And are you insinuating that Oden will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years?If so, I strongly disagree. Oden is more NBA ready right now, and he's a top 5 center. Right now.

Absolutely Durant is more NBA ready. And that is not my evaluation it is the evaluation of scout after scout who have evaluated them. The thought of finding links bores me to death....I shouldn't have to bother. You can believe what you want to believe - I am sure there is a team out there paying you for your opinion.

I don't agree. Oden's defensive presence alone will make him more NBA ready than Durant.

Agreed. When scouts say someone is "NBA ready", it usually means that player can defend his position. There is no question that Durant's offensive game is further along than Oden's, but I think there are big questions right now as to whether Durant can guard at the NBA level.There are no questions whatsoever about Oden's NBA ready defense.

 

[_4_]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

I don't understand what your're saying here? Are you implying that Durant is more ready for the NBA than Oden? And are you insinuating that Oden will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years?If so, I strongly disagree. Oden is more NBA ready right now, and he's a top 5 center. Right now.

Absolutely Durant is more NBA ready. And that is not my evaluation it is the evaluation of scout after scout who have evaluated them. The thought of finding links bores me to death....I shouldn't have to bother. You can believe what you want to believe - I am sure there is a team out there paying you for your opinion.

No debate with this...most scouts believe Durant is more ready to play in the league, but that Oden will become the best player in the draft.The center position in the NBA is pretty weak so I think he fills out his body he'll be dominant. Already, Oden should be a defensive force - shot blocker, and rebounder. I do think he has a good array of moves on offense, but we will see his offensive game get better as he bulks up.

Though I don't think he will block so many shots as he will alter shots - he is quick, long and a decent but not tremendous leaper. It is to be seen whether or not he can be physically dominant in the NBA - at least his first year or two - frankly, if you watched him play as a college Freshman, you saw Brian Butch outplay him - that speaks volumes.

Was that when Oden was playing with a cast on one hand and shooting FT with his left?

No, and yes. Then No and No. Then Butch went down before the half with a dislocated elbow ending the Badger's season.

 

[saintfool]

Doesn't Seattle have some financial issues right now ? If that's true, I think they make an offer to Lewis (less than the max to say they tried), and let him go to Orlando or whereever. In a way, though, getting Durant is the perfect replacement - he comes with tremendous upside and hype, and can probably contribute right away.Seattle needs to figure out their point guard spot. I like Luke Ridnour but they can't seem to decide between him and Earl Watson. They also still need another big man. Wilcox is explosive but inconsisent, and Collison is a nice hustle player, but I don't see him as anything more than a 3rd guy in a rotation.

Ownership wants a new stadium or a better deal, otherwise they will relocate. The NBA doesn't want them to leave Seattle but can't keep them there. They will be in Seattle for 1 year maybe.I like Watson actually. He outplayed Ridnour on both ends of the floor. He's not exciting but he can be effective. But Seattle needs help. Their bench stinks and the frontline is suspect. Wilcox is more hustle than anything. The three-headed monster at the Center position is a blight. Petro/Sene/Swift are untested at best. Collison would be a bench player on almost any other team...

 

[JMon348]

Resign Lewis to a reasonable deal.

If by "reasonable" you mean "less than the max."...not gonna happen. The Orlando Capellas are throwing max dough at him, I'm pretty sure.

I thought they were going after Vince?

 

[saintfool]

Resign Lewis to a reasonable deal.

If by "reasonable" you mean "less than the max."...not gonna happen. The Orlando Capellas are throwing max dough at him, I'm pretty sure.

I thought they were going after Vince?

Vince has to opt out of his contract first...

 

[Capella]

I don't think the Magic have much of an interest for Vince. I bet the market for him will have cooled by the time he opts out. Guy is a loser in NBA terms.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Resign Lewis to a reasonable deal.

If by "reasonable" you mean "less than the max."...not gonna happen. The Orlando Capellas are throwing max dough at him, I'm pretty sure.

I thought they were going after Vince?

Vince has to opt out of his contract first...

I think Lewis does as well (unless he already has)

 

[saintfool]

I don't think the Magic have much of an interest for Vince. I bet the market for him will have cooled by the time he opts out. Guy is a loser in NBA terms.

Charlotte, I believe, is interested in the guy. Perfect place for him, I think.

 

[saintfool]

I think Lewis does as well (unless he already has)

I think that happens once the season is officially ends. Lewis will opt out though. He turned down a 2-year extension in Feb. Durant seems to be the player for Seattle in the draft. He'll have no place on that team. He can hope for sign & trade but where he'd go is anyone's guess...

 

[Capella]

I don't think the Magic have much of an interest for Vince. I bet the market for him will have cooled by the time he opts out. Guy is a loser in NBA terms.

Charlotte, I believe, is interested in the guy. Perfect place for him, I think.

Well I guess that would make sense. He can go score 25 pts on a 25-win team.

 

[saintfool]

I don't think the Magic have much of an interest for Vince. I bet the market for him will have cooled by the time he opts out. Guy is a loser in NBA terms.

Charlotte, I believe, is interested in the guy. Perfect place for him, I think.

Well I guess that would make sense. He can go score 25 pts on a 25-win team.

25 wins?! In the Eastern conference, that makes them playoff bound...

 

[Master of Past and Present]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

I don't understand what your're saying here? Are you implying that Durant is more ready for the NBA than Oden? And are you insinuating that Oden will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years?If so, I strongly disagree. Oden is more NBA ready right now, and he's a top 5 center. Right now.

Absolutely Durant is more NBA ready. And that is not my evaluation it is the evaluation of scout after scout who have evaluated them. The thought of finding links bores me to death....I shouldn't have to bother. You can believe what you want to believe - I am sure there is a team out there paying you for your opinion.

No debate with this...most scouts believe Durant is more ready to play in the league, but that Oden will become the best player in the draft.The center position in the NBA is pretty weak so I think he fills out his body he'll be dominant. Already, Oden should be a defensive force - shot blocker, and rebounder. I do think he has a good array of moves on offense, but we will see his offensive game get better as he bulks up.

Though I don't think he will block so many shots as he will alter shots - he is quick, long and a decent but not tremendous leaper. It is to be seen whether or not he can be physically dominant in the NBA - at least his first year or two - frankly, if you watched him play as a college Freshman, you saw Brian Butch outplay him - that speaks volumes.

Was that when Oden was playing with a cast on one hand and shooting FT with his left?

No, and yes. Then No and No. Then Butch went down before the half with a dislocated elbow ending the Badger's season.

In what game did Butch outplay Oden? According to ESPN box scores, the three meetings went like this:1-9-07

Oden 3-6 field, 4-9 FT, 7 rebs, 10 points, 6 blocks

Butch 0-3, 0-0, 4 rebs, 0 pts

2-25-07

Oden 4-8, 3-5, 5 rebs, 11 pts, 4 blocks

Butch 1-1, 0-0, 3 rebs, 2 pts - hurt this game

3-11-07

Oden 5-9, 2-2, 10 rebs, 12 pts, 4 blocks

Butch did not play

 

[packersfan]

Oden never got outplayed by Butch but he often had a lot of problems with Jason Chappell. He struggled to get good post position and was often rooted out of the post by the much smaller and not as strong Chappell. Oden's offensive game rarely looked good against the Badgers (defensively, no questions there). Don't get me wrong - I like Oden quite a bit and think he's going to be a great player but he didn't always look good offensively against the Badgers. Conley was BY FAR the best player on the court for the Buckeyes and without him, I don't think Ohio State beats Wisconsin twice in three games last season.

 

[Capella]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

I don't understand what your're saying here? Are you implying that Durant is more ready for the NBA than Oden? And are you insinuating that Oden will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years?If so, I strongly disagree. Oden is more NBA ready right now, and he's a top 5 center. Right now.

Absolutely Durant is more NBA ready. And that is not my evaluation it is the evaluation of scout after scout who have evaluated them. The thought of finding links bores me to death....I shouldn't have to bother. You can believe what you want to believe - I am sure there is a team out there paying you for your opinion.

No debate with this...most scouts believe Durant is more ready to play in the league, but that Oden will become the best player in the draft.The center position in the NBA is pretty weak so I think he fills out his body he'll be dominant. Already, Oden should be a defensive force - shot blocker, and rebounder. I do think he has a good array of moves on offense, but we will see his offensive game get better as he bulks up.

Though I don't think he will block so many shots as he will alter shots - he is quick, long and a decent but not tremendous leaper. It is to be seen whether or not he can be physically dominant in the NBA - at least his first year or two - frankly, if you watched him play as a college Freshman, you saw Brian Butch outplay him - that speaks volumes.

Was that when Oden was playing with a cast on one hand and shooting FT with his left?

No, and yes. Then No and No. Then Butch went down before the half with a dislocated elbow ending the Badger's season.

In what game did Butch outplay Oden? According to ESPN box scores, the three meetings went like this:1-9-07

Oden 3-6 field, 4-9 FT, 7 rebs, 10 points, 6 blocks

Butch 0-3, 0-0, 4 rebs, 0 pts

2-25-07

Oden 4-8, 3-5, 5 rebs, 11 pts, 4 blocks

Butch 1-1, 0-0, 3 rebs, 2 pts - hurt this game

3-11-07

Oden 5-9, 2-2, 10 rebs, 12 pts, 4 blocks

Butch did not play

 

[sts911911]

I don't think the Magic have much of an interest for Vince. I bet the market for him will have cooled by the time he opts out. Guy is a loser in NBA terms.

Not sure why there is so much hate for Vince Carter, the guy has had more success and put up better stats in the playoffs than Tracy McGrady. Is Carter a franchise player? No, but it seems people are hating on him so much he is now becoming an underrated player.

 

[_4_]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

I don't understand what your're saying here? Are you implying that Durant is more ready for the NBA than Oden? And are you insinuating that Oden will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years?If so, I strongly disagree. Oden is more NBA ready right now, and he's a top 5 center. Right now.

Absolutely Durant is more NBA ready. And that is not my evaluation it is the evaluation of scout after scout who have evaluated them. The thought of finding links bores me to death....I shouldn't have to bother. You can believe what you want to believe - I am sure there is a team out there paying you for your opinion.

No debate with this...most scouts believe Durant is more ready to play in the league, but that Oden will become the best player in the draft.The center position in the NBA is pretty weak so I think he fills out his body he'll be dominant. Already, Oden should be a defensive force - shot blocker, and rebounder. I do think he has a good array of moves on offense, but we will see his offensive game get better as he bulks up.

Though I don't think he will block so many shots as he will alter shots - he is quick, long and a decent but not tremendous leaper. It is to be seen whether or not he can be physically dominant in the NBA - at least his first year or two - frankly, if you watched him play as a college Freshman, you saw Brian Butch outplay him - that speaks volumes.

Was that when Oden was playing with a cast on one hand and shooting FT with his left?

No, and yes. Then No and No. Then Butch went down before the half with a dislocated elbow ending the Badger's season.

In what game did Butch outplay Oden? According to ESPN box scores, the three meetings went like this:1-9-07

Oden 3-6 field, 4-9 FT, 7 rebs, 10 points, 6 blocks

Butch 0-3, 0-0, 4 rebs, 0 pts

2-25-07

Oden 4-8, 3-5, 5 rebs, 11 pts, 4 blocks

Butch 1-1, 0-0, 3 rebs, 2 pts - hurt this game

3-11-07

Oden 5-9, 2-2, 10 rebs, 12 pts, 4 blocks

Butch did not play

Did you watch the games? It isn't all about the stats - it is being outplayed. Butch, Landry, Krabbenhoft and Steimsma took turns frustrating the "Big man". Took him completely out of his game. Game 1 to the Badgers. Badgers were leading and Butch was muscle-ing Oden all over the court (+ 3 boards and a bucket in 3 minutes for those of you that whack off to statistics) in game 2 which Ohio State won by 1 point (while being outrebounded significantly) on their home court (Wisconsin only was sent to the line 6 times ). One point. Butch plays that game (for the then recently dubbed #1 Badgers) and Wisconsin wins by 10 or more AT Ohio State. Unless you saw the games, you can keep your yapper flap in check. The more I think about it, the less I think Oden is NBA ready.

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

Wow.

 

[tommyGunZ]

Oden never got outplayed by Butch but he often had a lot of problems with Jason Chappell. He struggled to get good post position and was often rooted out of the post by the much smaller and not as strong Chappell. Oden's offensive game rarely looked good against the Badgers (defensively, no questions there). Don't get me wrong - I like Oden quite a bit and think he's going to be a great player but he didn't always look good offensively against the Badgers. Conley was BY FAR the best player on the court for the Buckeyes and without him, I don't think Ohio State beats Wisconsin twice in three games last season.

Do you think Oden having a broken right hand had anything to do with his inability to dominate offensively?

 

[tommyGunZ]

The Portland GM was on ESPN radio today, and actually hinted that he preferred the speed and athleticism of Durant - but wouldn't commit (or admit) either way....It will take a pretty strong willed management team to pass up the kid ready for the NBA today for the one that will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years.

I don't understand what your're saying here? Are you implying that Durant is more ready for the NBA than Oden? And are you insinuating that Oden will likely be a top 5 center in 4-5 years?If so, I strongly disagree. Oden is more NBA ready right now, and he's a top 5 center. Right now.

Absolutely Durant is more NBA ready. And that is not my evaluation it is the evaluation of scout after scout who have evaluated them. The thought of finding links bores me to death....I shouldn't have to bother. You can believe what you want to believe - I am sure there is a team out there paying you for your opinion.

No debate with this...most scouts believe Durant is more ready to play in the league, but that Oden will become the best player in the draft.The center position in the NBA is pretty weak so I think he fills out his body he'll be dominant. Already, Oden should be a defensive force - shot blocker, and rebounder. I do think he has a good array of moves on offense, but we will see his offensive game get better as he bulks up.

Though I don't think he will block so many shots as he will alter shots - he is quick, long and a decent but not tremendous leaper. It is to be seen whether or not he can be physically dominant in the NBA - at least his first year or two - frankly, if you watched him play as a college Freshman, you saw Brian Butch outplay him - that speaks volumes.

Was that when Oden was playing with a cast on one hand and shooting FT with his left?

No, and yes. Then No and No. Then Butch went down before the half with a dislocated elbow ending the Badger's season.

In what game did Butch outplay Oden? According to ESPN box scores, the three meetings went like this:1-9-07

Oden 3-6 field, 4-9 FT, 7 rebs, 10 points, 6 blocks

Butch 0-3, 0-0, 4 rebs, 0 pts

2-25-07

Oden 4-8, 3-5, 5 rebs, 11 pts, 4 blocks

Butch 1-1, 0-0, 3 rebs, 2 pts - hurt this game

3-11-07

Oden 5-9, 2-2, 10 rebs, 12 pts, 4 blocks

Butch did not play

Did you watch the games? It isn't all about the stats - it is being outplayed. Butch, Landry, Krabbenhoft and Steimsma took turns frustrating the "Big man". Took him completely out of his game. Game 1 to the Badgers. Badgers were leading and Butch was muscle-ing Oden all over the court (+ 3 boards and a bucket in 3 minutes for those of you that whack off to statistics) in game 2 which Ohio State won by 1 point (while being outrebounded significantly) on their home court (Wisconsin only was sent to the line 6 times ). One point. Butch plays that game (for the then recently dubbed #1 Badgers) and Wisconsin wins by 10 or more AT Ohio State. Unless you saw the games, you can keep your yapper flap in check. The more I think about it, the less I think Oden is NBA ready.

Is that you Michael Finley? Don't hate on Oden b/c he took OSU to the finals while the Badgers proved how ridiculously overrated they were with yet ANOTHER early NCAA exit.

 

[saintfool]

Did you watch the games? It isn't all about the stats - it is being outplayed. Butch, Landry, Krabbenhoft and Steimsma took turns frustrating the "Big man". Took him completely out of his game. Game 1 to the Badgers. Badgers were leading and Butch was muscle-ing Oden all over the court (+ 3 boards and a bucket in 3 minutes for those of you that whack off to statistics) in game 2 which Ohio State won by 1 point (while being outrebounded significantly) on their home court (Wisconsin only was sent to the line 6 times ). One point. Butch plays that game (for the then recently dubbed #1 Badgers) and Wisconsin wins by 10 or more AT Ohio State. Unless you saw the games, you can keep your yapper flap in check. The more I think about it, the less I think Oden is NBA ready.

i think you forgot to close with Game 1 - Oden played with cast. I'm pretty sure that had more to do with his lack of production than Butch. Game 2 - No one played well offensively. 49-48 was the final score. Highest scorer had 13 pts. Let's look at the biggest games of his life (sorry the the conference games don't count there), shall we? Against #3 Florida - in the nat'l championship game - he tallied 25 pts, 12 rebounds and 4 blocks. Against #8 Georgetown and Hibbert - the other big man in the tourney- in the game before, he had a respectable 13/9 statline. #5 Memphis? 17/9. #25 Tennessee? His worst game with 9/9.He's a work in progress, to be sure. His defense is solid. His offense will improve. It's not like he's Olowakandi or anything. Could he have improved by playing more college? Hell yeah.

 

[_4_]

Did you watch the games? It isn't all about the stats - it is being outplayed. Butch, Landry, Krabbenhoft and Steimsma took turns frustrating the "Big man". Took him completely out of his game. Game 1 to the Badgers. Badgers were leading and Butch was muscle-ing Oden all over the court (+ 3 boards and a bucket in 3 minutes for those of you that whack off to statistics) in game 2 which Ohio State won by 1 point (while being outrebounded significantly) on their home court (Wisconsin only was sent to the line 6 times ). One point. Butch plays that game (for the then recently dubbed #1 Badgers) and Wisconsin wins by 10 or more AT Ohio State.

Unless you saw the games, you can keep your yapper flap in check. The more I think about it, the less I think Oden is NBA ready.

i think you forgot to close with Game 1 - Oden played with cast. No cast - Oden had the cast removed in November I'm pretty sure that had more to do with his lack of production than Butch.

Game 2 - No one played well offensively. 49-48 was the final score. Highest scorer had 13 pts. The Badgers went into the game ranked #1 - when they lost Butch 3 minutes in, their season was over. Ohio State still only beat them by a point that game. Ridiculous. I argued that the Badgers didn't even deserve an NCAA bid as they were a .500 team without Butch (26-3 with him, 4-3 without him). They stood no chance in the tournament, and at best should have been a 8 or 9 seed.

Let's look at the biggest games of his life (sorry the the conference games don't count there), shall we? Against #3 Florida - in the nat'l championship game - he tallied 25 pts, 12 rebounds and 4 blocks. Against #8 Georgetown and Hibbert - the other big man in the tourney- in the game before, he had a respectable 13/9 statline. #5 Memphis? 17/9. #25 Tennessee? His worst game with 9/9. Oden is a good player. There is no disputing that. Is he NBA ready? Nope. Did Butch (and the Badgers) muscle and frustrate him? Yup. There is no question Oden, in time, will be a very, very good to great NBA center (if he develops a passion for the game and works on his offense). Time will tell.

He's a work in progress, to be sure. His defense is solid. His offense will improve. It's not like he's Olowakandi or anything. Could he have improved by playing more college? Hell yeah.

 

[_4_]

Is that you Michael Finley? Don't hate on Oden b/c he took OSU to the finals while the Badgers proved how ridiculously overrated they were with yet ANOTHER early NCAA exit.

See my previous post. I told anyone who would listen that the team that received the tournament bid didn't deserve it - with a healthy Butch yes, without, no.

 

[saintfool]

Game 1 - Oden played with cast. No cast - Oden had the cast removed in November I'm pretty sure that had more to do with his lack of production than Butch.

Game 2 - No one played well offensively. 49-48 was the final score. Highest scorer had 13 pts. The Badgers went into the game ranked #1 - when they lost Butch 3 minutes in, their season was over. Ohio State still only beat them by a point that game. Ridiculous. I argued that the Badgers didn't even deserve an NCAA bid as they were a .500 team without Butch (26-3 with him, 4-3 without him). They stood no chance in the tournament, and at best should have been a 8 or 9 seed.

If Game 1 Oden had his cast off then this comment bit from the AP story makes no sense.

Until the final minute, Wisconsin's front line had played effective defense against the 7-foot Oden, who finished with 10 points, seven rebounds and six blocked shots.

"Most guys like him will get better, so I'm glad this happened early," Ryan said.

Matta said he's still "living for the day" when Oden can get the cast removed from his right wrist after having surgery in the offseason.

Not that it is a big deal but I think you're confused on that point. He hadn't played against an opposing team until November (the UNC game, I believe). I'm not going to go through every single game to find which game it came off but, clearly, this is not the game it happened.Game 2 - I don't care about Wisconsin. What matters in that particular game no one fared well. It was an ugly game. End of story.

Oden maybe his best and worst ball in the tourney against the best in the country. Great game against Florida which had a superb frontline. Poorer game against Hibbert. The fact of the matter is was #6 in his conference in scoring and led it in rebounding. Surely his averages were affected by the injury. He could have inflated his averages if the team around him was worse (think David Robinson at Navy). You make it sound like he's the second coming of Shelden Williams....

 

[_4_]

I am not going to look for it again, but I verified via an online ESPN article dated 12/05/06 that stated Oden had the cast removed 2 1/2 weeks prior - he didn't play Wisconsin until January.

 

[RedRaiders]

http://blog.oregonlive.com/behindblazersbe..._of_nature.html

Here are Oden's measurables.

 

[packersfan]

Oden never got outplayed by Butch but he often had a lot of problems with Jason Chappell. He struggled to get good post position and was often rooted out of the post by the much smaller and not as strong Chappell. Oden's offensive game rarely looked good against the Badgers (defensively, no questions there). Don't get me wrong - I like Oden quite a bit and think he's going to be a great player but he didn't always look good offensively against the Badgers. Conley was BY FAR the best player on the court for the Buckeyes and without him, I don't think Ohio State beats Wisconsin twice in three games last season.

Do you think Oden having a broken right hand had anything to do with his inability to dominate offensively?

Not in terms of how easily he was often rooted out of the post. That's a strength issue and it was shocking (to me) to see how ineffective he often was against the Badgers in that regard. Now the Badgers do play outstanding defense but there's no excuse for a player of Oden's talent and strength to struggle in that regard the way he often did. That had nothing to do with his injured hand in my opinion.Speaking of the Buckeyes, Chad Ford's latest mock on ESPN has Mike Conley going to the Bucks at six. I can't see Conley falling that far but if Horford is off the board and the Bucks draft Conley drinks will be on me that night.

 

[Britney Spears]

http://blog.oregonlive.com/behindblazersbe..._of_nature.html

Here are Oden's measurables.

WOW. S,

 

[Aaron Rudnicki]

http://blog.oregonlive.com/behindblazersbe..._of_nature.html

Here are Oden's measurables.

WOW. S,

The Oregonian has secured the official weights, measurements and testing results from the Orlando predraft camp, and wait until you get a load of the freak of nature called Greg Oden.

For starters, his numbers blow Kevin Durant out of the water.

There are several startling revelations in the numbers, and the one that immediately pops out is the bench press. Players were rated on how many times they could bench press 185 pounds. Oden didn't attempt the bench press in order to prevent an injury to his right wrist, which has recently recovered from injury.

But get this: Only one player was unable to bench press 185 even once - Kevin Durant.

There is more.

Oden is faster than Durant in the 3/4-court sprint, quicker in the lane-agility drill, and has better numbers in the running and standing vertical leaps. And, Oden has a mind-boggling 7.8 body-fat percentage ... most big men are north of the 12 percent range. For instance, other top-rated big men such as Washington's Spencer Hawes (13.0), Duke's Josh McRoberts (13.7) and Pitt's Aaron Gray (10.8) don't compare.

Let's get to the specifics.

Oden is 6-foot-11 without shoes, 7-feet with shoes.

He weighs 257 pounds.

His wingspan is 7 feet, 4.25 inches (fourth best in the draft). His standing reach is 9 feet, 4 inches (the highest of anyone in the draft). His standing vertical is 32 inches, his running vertical 34 inches.

The lane agility drill, where a player runs through cones alternating between running backward, sideways and forward, is 11.67 seconds. And his 3/4 court sprint was 3.27 seconds.

The thing that jumps out is Oden's speed and agility.

We all know Oregon's Aaron Brooks is fast. Brooks finished the 3/4 court sprint in 3.2 seconds. Oden was 3.27 seconds. Durant, meanwhile, finished in 3.45.

Oden's 11.67 in the agility drill speaks volumes to the footwork so many scouts rave about. Durant did the same drill in 12.33.

Durant's specifics are as follows:

Height: 6-foot-9 without shoes, 6-foot-10.25 with shoes. Weight: 215.

Wing span: 7-foot-4.75 (second longest in the draft - Maryland's Ekene Ibekwe is 7-6). Standing reach: 9-2.

Body fat: 6.6. Standing vertical jump: 26.0 inches; running vertical jump, 33.5 inches. Lane agility: 12.33 seconds and 3/4 court sprint, 3.45 seconds.

Portland general manager Kevin Pritchard declined to comment on the numbers, in part because he had just received them himself.

But really, there is no need for comment. The numbers speak volumes.