*NBA THREAD* Abe will be missed (36 Viewers)

[Premier]

Actually, yea you should actually watch more basketball. Almost all of Bass' game is mid-range jumpers that space the floor just fine.

Anyways, I'm not going to continue a 3-year-old argument with you. The Magic made the Finals with Lewis and came within 2 games last year. It's a shame the player dropped off the cliff this year, but it happens.

 

[No. 16]

Actually, yea you should actually watch more basketball. Almost all of Bass' game is mid-range jumpers that space the floor just fine.

Anyways, I'm not going to continue a 3-year-old argument with you. The Magic made the Finals with Lewis and came within 2 games last year. It's a shame the player dropped off the cliff this year, but it happens.

I know Bass hits mid range jumpers, but the points is if a mid-range jumper is all that is needed to spread the floor next to Howard than Gerald Wallace's mid-range/offensive game is more than enough to space the floor as well. About your second point. That's exactly it! It does happen and that's another reason why choosing to sign 28 year old 3 point specialist to a MAX contract over a 25 year old 2 way player was a bad choice. Most players tend to decline at age 30. The second part of your post is correct in that it did succeed the 1st three years, but unfortunately they both signed 6 year deals. Now we're discussing if the Magic should trade the "corpse" of Lewis for Gilbert Arenas. I don't know, maybe it's just me, but I'd rather have Gerald Wallace over those guys for the next 3.

If the Magic had pursued Wallace, they had a better player for the duration of the contract (who would be much easier to move in a trade), AND enough space to fill out their rotation with a mid-level type player.

Nelson

Carter

G-Wallace

Ryan Anderson

Howard

is better than whatever they have now.

 

[Kev4029]

Actually, yea you should actually watch more basketball. Almost all of Bass' game is mid-range jumpers that space the floor just fine.

Anyways, I'm not going to continue a 3-year-old argument with you. The Magic made the Finals with Lewis and came within 2 games last year. It's a shame the player dropped off the cliff this year, but it happens.

I know Bass hits mid range jumpers, but the points is if a mid-range jumper is all that is needed to spread the floor next to Howard than Gerald Wallace's mid-range/offensive game is more than enough to space the floor as well. About your second point. That's exactly it! It does happen and that's another reason why choosing to sign 28 year old 3 point specialist to a MAX contract over a 25 year old 2 way player was a bad choice. Most players tend to decline at age 30. The second part of your post is correct in that it did succeed the 1st three years, but unfortunately they both signed 6 year deals. Now we're discussing if the Magic should trade the "corpse" of Lewis for Gilbert Arenas. I don't know, maybe it's just me, but I'd rather have Gerald Wallace over those guys for the next 3.

If the Magic had pursued Wallace, they had a better player for the duration of the contract (who would be much easier to move in a trade), AND enough space to fill out their rotation with a mid-level type player.

Nelson

Carter

G-Wallace

Ryan Anderson

Howard

is better than whatever they have now.

Of all the types of NBA players that you would expect to continue their mid 20s production to early/mid 30s production would be jump shooting big men. Lewis has always been, and still is, a mobile PF but he was never a good athlete, nor did he do much else other than shoot well. One would expect that would continue basically until he retired, and really that hasn't changed, it just seems like he is content to sit around and watch other people do all the work.... Hes been around Vince Carter too long now.When they signed Lewis they were looking at a guy they could play full time at PF, which he has done better defensively than anybody probably thought, and Wallace was proving to be a bit of an injury risk as a PF and over the last 2-3 years the Bobcats have been playing him less at the 4 because of how he gets beat up. On top of that, Turkoglu was the starting SF and was coming off a decent stretch and was a very good fit with the team at the time. Wallace would have been forced into getting 75%+ of his time at PF and its very possible that he wouldn't have made it through the last three seasons getting that much time at PF, and you might remember how upset Wallace was at Charlotte for over playing him at PF two years ago.

Sure, Wallace's skill set may have been more useful for Orlando, but its really irrelevant because he probably would have never agreed to come to Orlando if they were pitching him as a full time power forward.

 

[Green94]

Bulls with 2 ugly losses against the best in the East. The thing that stuck out to me more than anything was Joakim getting manhandled by Dwight and Shaq.

That doesn't bode well.

 

[No. 16]

Actually, yea you should actually watch more basketball. Almost all of Bass' game is mid-range jumpers that space the floor just fine.

Anyways, I'm not going to continue a 3-year-old argument with you. The Magic made the Finals with Lewis and came within 2 games last year. It's a shame the player dropped off the cliff this year, but it happens.

I know Bass hits mid range jumpers, but the points is if a mid-range jumper is all that is needed to spread the floor next to Howard than Gerald Wallace's mid-range/offensive game is more than enough to space the floor as well. About your second point. That's exactly it! It does happen and that's another reason why choosing to sign 28 year old 3 point specialist to a MAX contract over a 25 year old 2 way player was a bad choice. Most players tend to decline at age 30. The second part of your post is correct in that it did succeed the 1st three years, but unfortunately they both signed 6 year deals. Now we're discussing if the Magic should trade the "corpse" of Lewis for Gilbert Arenas. I don't know, maybe it's just me, but I'd rather have Gerald Wallace over those guys for the next 3.

If the Magic had pursued Wallace, they had a better player for the duration of the contract (who would be much easier to move in a trade), AND enough space to fill out their rotation with a mid-level type player.

Nelson

Carter

G-Wallace

Ryan Anderson

Howard

is better than whatever they have now.

Of all the types of NBA players that you would expect to continue their mid 20s production to early/mid 30s production would be jump shooting big men. Lewis has always been, and still is, a mobile PF but he was never a good athlete, nor did he do much else other than shoot well. One would expect that would continue basically until he retired, and really that hasn't changed, it just seems like he is content to sit around and watch other people do all the work.... Hes been around Vince Carter too long now.When they signed Lewis they were looking at a guy they could play full time at PF, which he has done better defensively than anybody probably thought, and Wallace was proving to be a bit of an injury risk as a PF and over the last 2-3 years the Bobcats have been playing him less at the 4 because of how he gets beat up. On top of that, Turkoglu was the starting SF and was coming off a decent stretch and was a very good fit with the team at the time. Wallace would have been forced into getting 75%+ of his time at PF and its very possible that he wouldn't have made it through the last three seasons getting that much time at PF, and you might remember how upset Wallace was at Charlotte for over playing him at PF two years ago.

Sure, Wallace's skill set may have been more useful for Orlando, but its really irrelevant because he probably would have never agreed to come to Orlando if they were pitching him as a full time power forward.

You are right about the shooting stroke, but Lewis is producing non-shooting wise about the same level he has been since he's arrived in ORL (AST% has dropped compared to 1st 2 years, but very similar to last year), the only reason it seems like he's doing less is because he can't shoot as well (he'll probably rebound by seasons end). Again, another pitfall with committing money to players who only produce on offense.Wallace can also play out on the perimeter so he could have been the starting SG/SF with Hedo playing SG on offense and Wallace guarding the better of the two perimeter players. Wallace can guard the 2-4 positions fairly well (he handles 2-3 the best obviously) and it's not like Wallace would have had a hard time fighting with DeShawn Stevenson, Grant Hill, Trevor Ariza, or Courtney Lee minutes to start alongside Hedo.

Pitch him as the starting swingman next to Hedo and he certainly would have come to Orlando. CHA was even more of a trainwreck back then. Who would turn down the chance to play alongside the best young C in the NBA? I would take it if I were Wallace.

 

[timschochet]

The Heat are on a roll now. They may not lose 4-5 games the rest of the year!!! I am already spending JMon's cash in my mind.

 

[boubucarow]

Bulls with 2 ugly losses against the best in the East. The thing that stuck out to me more than anything was Joakim getting manhandled by Dwight and Shaq.That doesn't bode well.

Exactly. Back to the drawing board. The defense has been awful.

 

[Kev4029]

Actually, yea you should actually watch more basketball. Almost all of Bass' game is mid-range jumpers that space the floor just fine.

Anyways, I'm not going to continue a 3-year-old argument with you. The Magic made the Finals with Lewis and came within 2 games last year. It's a shame the player dropped off the cliff this year, but it happens.

I know Bass hits mid range jumpers, but the points is if a mid-range jumper is all that is needed to spread the floor next to Howard than Gerald Wallace's mid-range/offensive game is more than enough to space the floor as well. About your second point. That's exactly it! It does happen and that's another reason why choosing to sign 28 year old 3 point specialist to a MAX contract over a 25 year old 2 way player was a bad choice. Most players tend to decline at age 30. The second part of your post is correct in that it did succeed the 1st three years, but unfortunately they both signed 6 year deals. Now we're discussing if the Magic should trade the "corpse" of Lewis for Gilbert Arenas. I don't know, maybe it's just me, but I'd rather have Gerald Wallace over those guys for the next 3.

If the Magic had pursued Wallace, they had a better player for the duration of the contract (who would be much easier to move in a trade), AND enough space to fill out their rotation with a mid-level type player.

Nelson

Carter

G-Wallace

Ryan Anderson

Howard

is better than whatever they have now.

Of all the types of NBA players that you would expect to continue their mid 20s production to early/mid 30s production would be jump shooting big men. Lewis has always been, and still is, a mobile PF but he was never a good athlete, nor did he do much else other than shoot well. One would expect that would continue basically until he retired, and really that hasn't changed, it just seems like he is content to sit around and watch other people do all the work.... Hes been around Vince Carter too long now.When they signed Lewis they were looking at a guy they could play full time at PF, which he has done better defensively than anybody probably thought, and Wallace was proving to be a bit of an injury risk as a PF and over the last 2-3 years the Bobcats have been playing him less at the 4 because of how he gets beat up. On top of that, Turkoglu was the starting SF and was coming off a decent stretch and was a very good fit with the team at the time. Wallace would have been forced into getting 75%+ of his time at PF and its very possible that he wouldn't have made it through the last three seasons getting that much time at PF, and you might remember how upset Wallace was at Charlotte for over playing him at PF two years ago.

Sure, Wallace's skill set may have been more useful for Orlando, but its really irrelevant because he probably would have never agreed to come to Orlando if they were pitching him as a full time power forward.

You are right about the shooting stroke, but Lewis is producing non-shooting wise about the same level he has been since he's arrived in ORL (AST% has dropped compared to 1st 2 years, but very similar to last year), the only reason it seems like he's doing less is because he can't shoot as well (he'll probably rebound by seasons end). Again, another pitfall with committing money to players who only produce on offense.Wallace can also play out on the perimeter so he could have been the starting SG/SF with Hedo playing SG on offense and Wallace guarding the better of the two perimeter players. Wallace can guard the 2-4 positions fairly well (he handles 2-3 the best obviously) and it's not like Wallace would have had a hard time fighting with DeShawn Stevenson, Grant Hill, Trevor Ariza, or Courtney Lee minutes to start alongside Hedo.

Pitch him as the starting swingman next to Hedo and he certainly would have come to Orlando. CHA was even more of a trainwreck back then. Who would turn down the chance to play alongside the best young C in the NBA? I would take it if I were Wallace.

The Magic needed a PF, other than Howard they had Tony Battie - who was out all year, Pat Garrity - the final year of his career and was at the time possibly the worst player in the NBA, Brian Cook - who was acquired mid season, James Augustine - I didn't realize he even made it to the NBA, Adonal Foyle - decent back up C but couldn't play along side Howard, and Gortat - played 6 total games and can't really play along side Howard either. So basically during the off season they had Pat Garrity to play 40 minutes per game at PF if they didn't sign one.

 

[Premier]

Actually, yea you should actually watch more basketball. Almost all of Bass' game is mid-range jumpers that space the floor just fine.

Anyways, I'm not going to continue a 3-year-old argument with you. The Magic made the Finals with Lewis and came within 2 games last year. It's a shame the player dropped off the cliff this year, but it happens.

I know Bass hits mid range jumpers, but the points is if a mid-range jumper is all that is needed to spread the floor next to Howard than Gerald Wallace's mid-range/offensive game is more than enough to space the floor as well. About your second point. That's exactly it! It does happen and that's another reason why choosing to sign 28 year old 3 point specialist to a MAX contract over a 25 year old 2 way player was a bad choice. Most players tend to decline at age 30. The second part of your post is correct in that it did succeed the 1st three years, but unfortunately they both signed 6 year deals. Now we're discussing if the Magic should trade the "corpse" of Lewis for Gilbert Arenas. I don't know, maybe it's just me, but I'd rather have Gerald Wallace over those guys for the next 3.

If the Magic had pursued Wallace, they had a better player for the duration of the contract (who would be much easier to move in a trade), AND enough space to fill out their rotation with a mid-level type player.

Nelson

Carter

G-Wallace

Ryan Anderson

Howard

is better than whatever they have now.

Of all the types of NBA players that you would expect to continue their mid 20s production to early/mid 30s production would be jump shooting big men. Lewis has always been, and still is, a mobile PF but he was never a good athlete, nor did he do much else other than shoot well. One would expect that would continue basically until he retired, and really that hasn't changed, it just seems like he is content to sit around and watch other people do all the work.... Hes been around Vince Carter too long now.When they signed Lewis they were looking at a guy they could play full time at PF, which he has done better defensively than anybody probably thought, and Wallace was proving to be a bit of an injury risk as a PF and over the last 2-3 years the Bobcats have been playing him less at the 4 because of how he gets beat up. On top of that, Turkoglu was the starting SF and was coming off a decent stretch and was a very good fit with the team at the time. Wallace would have been forced into getting 75%+ of his time at PF and its very possible that he wouldn't have made it through the last three seasons getting that much time at PF, and you might remember how upset Wallace was at Charlotte for over playing him at PF two years ago.

Sure, Wallace's skill set may have been more useful for Orlando, but its really irrelevant because he probably would have never agreed to come to Orlando if they were pitching him as a full time power forward.

You are right about the shooting stroke, but Lewis is producing non-shooting wise about the same level he has been since he's arrived in ORL (AST% has dropped compared to 1st 2 years, but very similar to last year), the only reason it seems like he's doing less is because he can't shoot as well (he'll probably rebound by seasons end). Again, another pitfall with committing money to players who only produce on offense.Wallace can also play out on the perimeter so he could have been the starting SG/SF with Hedo playing SG on offense and Wallace guarding the better of the two perimeter players. Wallace can guard the 2-4 positions fairly well (he handles 2-3 the best obviously) and it's not like Wallace would have had a hard time fighting with DeShawn Stevenson, Grant Hill, Trevor Ariza, or Courtney Lee minutes to start alongside Hedo.

Pitch him as the starting swingman next to Hedo and he certainly would have come to Orlando. CHA was even more of a trainwreck back then. Who would turn down the chance to play alongside the best young C in the NBA? I would take it if I were Wallace.

The Magic needed a PF, other than Howard they had Tony Battie - who was out all year, Pat Garrity - the final year of his career and was at the time possibly the worst player in the NBA, Brian Cook - who was acquired mid season, James Augustine - I didn't realize he even made it to the NBA, Adonal Foyle - decent back up C but couldn't play along side Howard, and Gortat - played 6 total games and can't really play along side Howard either. So basically during the off season they had Pat Garrity to play 40 minutes per game at PF if they didn't sign one.

He's been making this argument for 3 years now. I don't even argue with my girlfriend over stuff from 3 years ago.The Magic made the Finals with Lewis. They wouldn't have otherwise, so the contract worked out. The end.

 

[SoBeDad]

The Heat are on a roll now. They may not lose 4-5 games the rest of the year!!! I am already spending JMon's cash in my mind.

Not much has changed - the Heat has now beaten a grand total of 3 teams with winning records, including the Hawks without Joe Johnson. And that was a 2-point game late in the 4th. The biggest developments are that Coach Spo seems to be deliberately reducing the minutes that James and Wade play together, and Dexter Pittman is a force - in D-league.

 

[D'OHtis]

Random question (and I'll be interested to take a look after the season): Will Cleveland double their current win total (7) by the end of the regular season??? If so, how many wins total do you project by year's end?

I'm surprised they've won 7 so far. Cast of mediocre bit players (to put it kindly) that I believe had any confidence shattered by the Heat game.

 

[No. 16]

He's been making this argument for 3 years now. I don't even argue with my girlfriend over stuff from 3 years ago.The Magic made the Finals with Lewis. They wouldn't have otherwise, so the contract worked out. The end.

So we just ignore the last 3 years of the deal?

 

[No. 16]

Actually, yea you should actually watch more basketball. Almost all of Bass' game is mid-range jumpers that space the floor just fine.

Anyways, I'm not going to continue a 3-year-old argument with you. The Magic made the Finals with Lewis and came within 2 games last year. It's a shame the player dropped off the cliff this year, but it happens.

I know Bass hits mid range jumpers, but the points is if a mid-range jumper is all that is needed to spread the floor next to Howard than Gerald Wallace's mid-range/offensive game is more than enough to space the floor as well. About your second point. That's exactly it! It does happen and that's another reason why choosing to sign 28 year old 3 point specialist to a MAX contract over a 25 year old 2 way player was a bad choice. Most players tend to decline at age 30. The second part of your post is correct in that it did succeed the 1st three years, but unfortunately they both signed 6 year deals. Now we're discussing if the Magic should trade the "corpse" of Lewis for Gilbert Arenas. I don't know, maybe it's just me, but I'd rather have Gerald Wallace over those guys for the next 3.

If the Magic had pursued Wallace, they had a better player for the duration of the contract (who would be much easier to move in a trade), AND enough space to fill out their rotation with a mid-level type player.

Nelson

Carter

G-Wallace

Ryan Anderson

Howard

is better than whatever they have now.

Of all the types of NBA players that you would expect to continue their mid 20s production to early/mid 30s production would be jump shooting big men. Lewis has always been, and still is, a mobile PF but he was never a good athlete, nor did he do much else other than shoot well. One would expect that would continue basically until he retired, and really that hasn't changed, it just seems like he is content to sit around and watch other people do all the work.... Hes been around Vince Carter too long now.When they signed Lewis they were looking at a guy they could play full time at PF, which he has done better defensively than anybody probably thought, and Wallace was proving to be a bit of an injury risk as a PF and over the last 2-3 years the Bobcats have been playing him less at the 4 because of how he gets beat up. On top of that, Turkoglu was the starting SF and was coming off a decent stretch and was a very good fit with the team at the time. Wallace would have been forced into getting 75%+ of his time at PF and its very possible that he wouldn't have made it through the last three seasons getting that much time at PF, and you might remember how upset Wallace was at Charlotte for over playing him at PF two years ago.

Sure, Wallace's skill set may have been more useful for Orlando, but its really irrelevant because he probably would have never agreed to come to Orlando if they were pitching him as a full time power forward.

You are right about the shooting stroke, but Lewis is producing non-shooting wise about the same level he has been since he's arrived in ORL (AST% has dropped compared to 1st 2 years, but very similar to last year), the only reason it seems like he's doing less is because he can't shoot as well (he'll probably rebound by seasons end). Again, another pitfall with committing money to players who only produce on offense.Wallace can also play out on the perimeter so he could have been the starting SG/SF with Hedo playing SG on offense and Wallace guarding the better of the two perimeter players. Wallace can guard the 2-4 positions fairly well (he handles 2-3 the best obviously) and it's not like Wallace would have had a hard time fighting with DeShawn Stevenson, Grant Hill, Trevor Ariza, or Courtney Lee minutes to start alongside Hedo.

Pitch him as the starting swingman next to Hedo and he certainly would have come to Orlando. CHA was even more of a trainwreck back then. Who would turn down the chance to play alongside the best young C in the NBA? I would take it if I were Wallace.

The Magic needed a PF, other than Howard they had Tony Battie - who was out all year, Pat Garrity - the final year of his career and was at the time possibly the worst player in the NBA, Brian Cook - who was acquired mid season, James Augustine - I didn't realize he even made it to the NBA, Adonal Foyle - decent back up C but couldn't play along side Howard, and Gortat - played 6 total games and can't really play along side Howard either. So basically during the off season they had Pat Garrity to play 40 minutes per game at PF if they didn't sign one.

They could have signed a PF with the money saved between Lewis and G-Wallace contract (~8 million). They would not have had that full $8 million since CHA had RFA rights I believe, but for $5-6 million they could have signed....Anderson Varejao (3 yrs/17 million)

Brandon Bass (signed away from NO/OKC for <1 million per year!)

Andray Blatche (5yrs/15 million)

In the end, it is what it is. I understand why the Magic did what they did, but I'm just sharing my opinion the Magic made the wrong play. For some like Premier and Kev the success during the 1st 3 years of the contract make it a good move. However, I think the Magic would have done just as well with G-Wallace if not better and would be in a better position today if they had re-signed him. No way we can really prove anything, but I find it an interesting discussion.

Also, the only reason I brought it up again was because I found it odd that Premier would be okay with Brandon Bass playing next to Howard although he doesn't have the range of Lewis. I'm pretty sure the things you appreciate about Brandon Bass' game is very similar to how you would describe the impact of Gerald Wallace. So if you think it could work now.... why not back then?

 

[Kev4029]

They could have signed a PF with the money saved between Lewis and G-Wallace contract (~8 million). They would not have had that full $8 million since CHA had RFA rights I believe, but for $5-6 million they could have signed....

Anderson Varejao (3 yrs/17 million)

Brandon Bass (signed away from NO/OKC for <1 million per year!)

Andray Blatche (5yrs/15 million)

In the end, it is what it is. I understand why the Magic did what they did, but I'm just sharing my opinion the Magic made the wrong play. For some like Premier and Kev the success during the 1st 3 years of the contract make it a good move. However, I think the Magic would have done just as well with G-Wallace if not better and would be in a better position today if they had re-signed him. No way we can really prove anything, but I find it an interesting discussion.

Also, the only reason I brought it up again was because I found it odd that Premier would be okay with Brandon Bass playing next to Howard although he doesn't have the range of Lewis. I'm pretty sure the things you appreciate about Brandon Bass' game is very similar to how you would describe the impact of Gerald Wallace. So if you think it could work now.... why not back then?

Wallace was signed for 9.5 million in 07-08 and Lewis was signed for 14.88 million.In 2006-2007 and 2005-2006 Bass played 50 total games with a PER of about 8... nobody was going to sign him to start at PF

In that same time period Blatche played about 80 games and had an 11 PER

Varejao made 5.4 million in his first year as a RFA for the 2007-2008 season, so the Magic didn't have enough money to get him

Just from looking at this, it doesn't seem like they could have outbid the Bobcats for Wallace and picked up a suitable starting PF, or really even a power forward that could have played 15 minutes for a good team. On top of that, I remember part of the reason the Magic overpaid Lewis was because they had been having a hard time recruiting free agents.

 

[No. 16]

They could have signed a PF with the money saved between Lewis and G-Wallace contract (~8 million). They would not have had that full $8 million since CHA had RFA rights I believe, but for $5-6 million they could have signed....

Anderson Varejao (3 yrs/17 million)

Brandon Bass (signed away from NO/OKC for <1 million per year!)

Andray Blatche (5yrs/15 million)

In the end, it is what it is. I understand why the Magic did what they did, but I'm just sharing my opinion the Magic made the wrong play. For some like Premier and Kev the success during the 1st 3 years of the contract make it a good move. However, I think the Magic would have done just as well with G-Wallace if not better and would be in a better position today if they had re-signed him. No way we can really prove anything, but I find it an interesting discussion.

Also, the only reason I brought it up again was because I found it odd that Premier would be okay with Brandon Bass playing next to Howard although he doesn't have the range of Lewis. I'm pretty sure the things you appreciate about Brandon Bass' game is very similar to how you would describe the impact of Gerald Wallace. So if you think it could work now.... why not back then?

Wallace was signed for 9.5 million in 07-08 and Lewis was signed for 14.88 million.In 2006-2007 and 2005-2006 Bass played 50 total games with a PER of about 8... nobody was going to sign him to start at PF

In that same time period Blatche played about 80 games and had an 11 PER

Varejao made 5.4 million in his first year as a RFA for the 2007-2008 season, so the Magic didn't have enough money to get him

Just from looking at this, it doesn't seem like they could have outbid the Bobcats for Wallace and picked up a suitable starting PF, or really even a power forward that could have played 15 minutes for a good team. On top of that, I remember part of the reason the Magic overpaid Lewis was because they had been having a hard time recruiting free agents.

Ah, didn't realize Lewis first year salary was only 14 million changes things a bit but player for player I would still take Wallace over Lewis if I was the GM.Sure no one could have envisioned what Bass would become but he signed for very little and was only 21 years old.

Regarding Blatche, he was another young guy that flashed potential and everyone knew it. He was 20 years old and in the 13 games he started he did well showing great athleticism and skill (tough to think now that he's gotten paid and fat).

As for Varejao who knows maybe they could have swung a deal to clear capspace had Wallace + Varejao been the targets over Lewis.

The main thing is these guys are all young and for some odd reason the Magic felt they were just one jump shooting PF away from winning a title. They were close if only the jump shooting PF could defend and rebound like a PF.

 

[Kev4029]

They could have signed a PF with the money saved between Lewis and G-Wallace contract (~8 million). They would not have had that full $8 million since CHA had RFA rights I believe, but for $5-6 million they could have signed....

Anderson Varejao (3 yrs/17 million)

Brandon Bass (signed away from NO/OKC for <1 million per year!)

Andray Blatche (5yrs/15 million)

In the end, it is what it is. I understand why the Magic did what they did, but I'm just sharing my opinion the Magic made the wrong play. For some like Premier and Kev the success during the 1st 3 years of the contract make it a good move. However, I think the Magic would have done just as well with G-Wallace if not better and would be in a better position today if they had re-signed him. No way we can really prove anything, but I find it an interesting discussion.

Also, the only reason I brought it up again was because I found it odd that Premier would be okay with Brandon Bass playing next to Howard although he doesn't have the range of Lewis. I'm pretty sure the things you appreciate about Brandon Bass' game is very similar to how you would describe the impact of Gerald Wallace. So if you think it could work now.... why not back then?

Wallace was signed for 9.5 million in 07-08 and Lewis was signed for 14.88 million.In 2006-2007 and 2005-2006 Bass played 50 total games with a PER of about 8... nobody was going to sign him to start at PF

In that same time period Blatche played about 80 games and had an 11 PER

Varejao made 5.4 million in his first year as a RFA for the 2007-2008 season, so the Magic didn't have enough money to get him

Just from looking at this, it doesn't seem like they could have outbid the Bobcats for Wallace and picked up a suitable starting PF, or really even a power forward that could have played 15 minutes for a good team. On top of that, I remember part of the reason the Magic overpaid Lewis was because they had been having a hard time recruiting free agents.

Ah, didn't realize Lewis first year salary was only 14 million changes things a bit but player for player I would still take Wallace over Lewis if I was the GM.Sure no one could have envisioned what Bass would become but he signed for very little and was only 21 years old.

Regarding Blatche, he was another young guy that flashed potential and everyone knew it. He was 20 years old and in the 13 games he started he did well showing great athleticism and skill (tough to think now that he's gotten paid and fat).

As for Varejao who knows maybe they could have swung a deal to clear capspace had Wallace + Varejao been the targets over Lewis.

The main thing is these guys are all young and for some odd reason the Magic felt they were just one jump shooting PF away from winning a title. They were close if only the jump shooting PF could defend and rebound like a PF.

Another thing to take into account with the Lewis signing was they had to spend money on somebody because Howard's extension kicked in the following year and if they didn't spend the money the were basically gonna rock the roster they had for the next 3-5 years. Being that I've basically proven that Wallace would not have worked, the Magic were forced into signing Lewis as the only competent PF in free agency.

 

[Juxtatarot]

NBA set to take over Hornets

From the article:

Paul and the rest of the New Orleans Hornets will soon be playing for the first franchise in league history owned by the NBA.

Sources close to the situation told ESPN.com on Sunday that the league's fast-moving plans to take temporary control of the Hornets are going ahead "100 percent" and will be publicly confirmed within the next few days, mirroring what Major League Baseball did with the Montreal Expos before that franchise was sold and moved to the nation's capital as the Washington Nationals.

After the long-stalled sale of the Hornets from longtime owner George Shinn to minority partner Gary Chouest collapsed for good in recent days, NBA officials moved forward with their proposal to purchase operational control of the team, with the intent to not only end the cash-strapped Shinn's reign but also have a greater say in who ends up buying the team.

A formal announcement, sources said, will come no later than Wednesday.

The league is taking this step, sources said, with the faint hope that the next owner of the Hornets can be persuaded to keep the team in New Orleans, as part of NBA commissioner David Stern's longstanding determination to sustain pro basketball in the region in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and the devastation it inflicted.

The Hornets averaged just 13,826 fans through their first nine home games despite the team's better-than-expected November and attracted a crowd of 14,020 for Friday night's home loss to the New York Knicks.

So what's the point here? Is Stern just doing this for show? Katrina was terrible and has obviously had a devastating impact on New Orleans. However, the community isn't supporting the Hornets like necessary to keep an NBA franchise. It's only a matter of time before it's realized that the team must relocate (Seattle?). Why not just start this process now?

 

[simmonjm]

Knicks are on a roll won 9/10. Guess Stoudemire and Felton are slight upgrades over David Lee and Chris Duhon.

Googins Update

Rockets 7-13

Knicks 12-9

 

[No. 16]

They could have signed a PF with the money saved between Lewis and G-Wallace contract (~8 million). They would not have had that full $8 million since CHA had RFA rights I believe, but for $5-6 million they could have signed....

Anderson Varejao (3 yrs/17 million)

Brandon Bass (signed away from NO/OKC for <1 million per year!)

Andray Blatche (5yrs/15 million)

In the end, it is what it is. I understand why the Magic did what they did, but I'm just sharing my opinion the Magic made the wrong play. For some like Premier and Kev the success during the 1st 3 years of the contract make it a good move. However, I think the Magic would have done just as well with G-Wallace if not better and would be in a better position today if they had re-signed him. No way we can really prove anything, but I find it an interesting discussion.

Also, the only reason I brought it up again was because I found it odd that Premier would be okay with Brandon Bass playing next to Howard although he doesn't have the range of Lewis. I'm pretty sure the things you appreciate about Brandon Bass' game is very similar to how you would describe the impact of Gerald Wallace. So if you think it could work now.... why not back then?

Wallace was signed for 9.5 million in 07-08 and Lewis was signed for 14.88 million.In 2006-2007 and 2005-2006 Bass played 50 total games with a PER of about 8... nobody was going to sign him to start at PF

In that same time period Blatche played about 80 games and had an 11 PER

Varejao made 5.4 million in his first year as a RFA for the 2007-2008 season, so the Magic didn't have enough money to get him

Just from looking at this, it doesn't seem like they could have outbid the Bobcats for Wallace and picked up a suitable starting PF, or really even a power forward that could have played 15 minutes for a good team. On top of that, I remember part of the reason the Magic overpaid Lewis was because they had been having a hard time recruiting free agents.

Ah, didn't realize Lewis first year salary was only 14 million changes things a bit but player for player I would still take Wallace over Lewis if I was the GM.Sure no one could have envisioned what Bass would become but he signed for very little and was only 21 years old.

Regarding Blatche, he was another young guy that flashed potential and everyone knew it. He was 20 years old and in the 13 games he started he did well showing great athleticism and skill (tough to think now that he's gotten paid and fat).

As for Varejao who knows maybe they could have swung a deal to clear capspace had Wallace + Varejao been the targets over Lewis.

The main thing is these guys are all young and for some odd reason the Magic felt they were just one jump shooting PF away from winning a title. They were close if only the jump shooting PF could defend and rebound like a PF.

Another thing to take into account with the Lewis signing was they had to spend money on somebody because Howard's extension kicked in the following year and if they didn't spend the money the were basically gonna rock the roster they had for the next 3-5 years. Being that I've basically proven that Wallace would not have worked, the Magic were forced into signing Lewis as the only competent PF in free agency.

That's your opinion. I have mine.

 

[No. 16]

Knicks are on a roll won 9/10. Guess Stoudemire and Felton are slight upgrades over David Lee and Chris Duhon.Googins UpdateRockets 7-13Knicks 12-9

The Rockets have played the 3rd toughest schedule so far and the Knicks have played the easiest. So I wouldn't start celebrating yet. Also, I would give more credit to Felton than to Amare. Felton was steady in CHA, but he's really thriving now in an uptempo offense. While he could always run a team he has really become more comfortable being an offensive option/threat in D'Antoni's system compared to Larry Brown's half court offense. Before he came into the league he was touted as being Baron Davis 2.0 and he's finally playing like the good version of Boom Dizzle. Amare is still Amare, but like someone else (Kev?) mentioned he's lucky to have perimeter players who can rebound.

 

[simmonjm]

Knicks are on a roll won 9/10. Guess Stoudemire and Felton are slight upgrades over David Lee and Chris Duhon.Googins UpdateRockets 7-13Knicks 12-9

The Rockets have played the 3rd toughest schedule so far and the Knicks have played the easiest. So I wouldn't start celebrating yet. Also, I would give more credit to Felton than to Amare. Felton was steady in CHA, but he's really thriving now in an uptempo offense. While he could always run a team he has really become more comfortable being an offensive option/threat in D'Antoni's system compared to Larry Brown's half court offense. Before he came into the league he was touted as being Baron Davis 2.0 and he's finally playing like the good version of Boom Dizzle. Amare is still Amare, but like someone else (Kev?) mentioned he's lucky to have perimeter players who can rebound.

Both Amare and Felton have been great, but if I had to give a MVP up till this point Amare gets the nod. In the last 5 games Amare is averaging 32 points and 12 rebounds

 

[Juxtatarot]

Looking forward to seeing my first Bulls game in person so far this season tomorrow. It's against the Thunder. It's funny...I'm glad Durant is healthy (he's been day to day) so I can see him play in person. If I were watching on TV, I would prefer him not playing!

I don't feel confident. The Bulls defense has taken a step back since Boozer has played and they don't seem to be on the same page offensively. This step back might be painful.

 

[Juxtatarot]

Knicks are on a roll won 9/10. Guess Stoudemire and Felton are slight upgrades over David Lee and Chris Duhon.Googins UpdateRockets 7-13Knicks 12-9

The Rockets have played the 3rd toughest schedule so far and the Knicks have played the easiest. So I wouldn't start celebrating yet. Also, I would give more credit to Felton than to Amare. Felton was steady in CHA, but he's really thriving now in an uptempo offense. While he could always run a team he has really become more comfortable being an offensive option/threat in D'Antoni's system compared to Larry Brown's half court offense. Before he came into the league he was touted as being Baron Davis 2.0 and he's finally playing like the good version of Boom Dizzle. Amare is still Amare, but like someone else (Kev?) mentioned he's lucky to have perimeter players who can rebound.

Both Amare and Felton have been great, but if I had to give a MVP up till this point Amare gets the nod. In the last 5 games Amare is averaging 32 points and 12 rebounds

Just curious, what kind of record do you think the Knicks will have at the end of January after their tough stretch of games?

 

[Joe Summer]

The NBA could have saved everyone a lot of headaches if they would have just let the Hornets stay in Oklahoma City permanently.

 

[Juxtatarot]

The NBA could have saved everyone a lot of headaches if they would have just let the Hornets stay in Oklahoma City permanently.

Did Shinn want this? I don't remember.

 

[Green94]

Looking forward to seeing my first Bulls game in person so far this season tomorrow. It's against the Thunder. It's funny...I'm glad Durant is healthy (he's been day to day) so I can see him play in person. If I were watching on TV, I would prefer him not playing!I don't feel confident. The Bulls defense has taken a step back since Boozer has played and they don't seem to be on the same page offensively. This step back might be painful.

Have fun at the game tomorrow night...DRose with a game tying three with 2 guys flying at him last night.... awesome shot and a great game for them to win after being ahead for most of the game.Bulls are struggling big time right now

 

[simmonjm]

Just curious, what kind of record do you think the Knicks will have at the end of January after their tough stretch of games?

Below are the Knicks next 22 games barring injury to starters Im thinking anywhere from 10-13 wins in that stretch.Knicks vs. TimberwolvesKnicks vs. RaptorsKnicks @ WizardsKnicks vs. NuggetsKnicks vs. CelticsKnicks vs. HeatKnicks @ CavaliersKnicks vs. ThunderKnicks vs. BullsKnicks @ HeatKnicks @ MagicKnicks vs. PacersKnicks vs. SpursKnicks @ SunsKnicks @ LakersKnicks @ BlazersKnicks @ JazzKnicks vs. KingsKnicks vs. SunsKnicks @ RocketsKnicks @ SpursKnicks @ Thunder

 

[Juxtatarot]

Just curious, what kind of record do you think the Knicks will have at the end of January after their tough stretch of games?

Below are the Knicks next 22 games barring injury to starters Im thinking anywhere from 10-13 wins in that stretch.Knicks vs. TimberwolvesKnicks vs. RaptorsKnicks @ WizardsKnicks vs. NuggetsKnicks vs. CelticsKnicks vs. HeatKnicks @ CavaliersKnicks vs. ThunderKnicks vs. BullsKnicks @ HeatKnicks @ MagicKnicks vs. PacersKnicks vs. SpursKnicks @ SunsKnicks @ LakersKnicks @ BlazersKnicks @ JazzKnicks vs. KingsKnicks vs. SunsKnicks @ RocketsKnicks @ SpursKnicks @ Thunder

Assuming they start 3-0, 10 wins seems like best case scenario. 13? No way.

 

[simmonjm]

Assuming they start 3-0, 10 wins seems like best case scenario. 13? No way.

Perhaps im being optimistic but there is no way you would have said that the Knicks would have won 9/10 against the following teamsKnicks @ KingsKnicks @ WarriorsKnicks @ ClippersKnicks vs. BobcatsKnicks @ BobcatsKnicks vs. HawksKnicks @ PistonsKnicks vs. NetsKnicks @ HornetsKnicks @ Raptors

 

[Juxtatarot]

Assuming they start 3-0, 10 wins seems like best case scenario. 13? No way.

Perhaps im being optimistic but there is no way you would have said that the Knicks would have won 9/10 against the following teams

I'll admit that is true.

 

[No. 16]

Just curious, what kind of record do you think the Knicks will have at the end of January after their tough stretch of games?

Below are the Knicks next 22 games barring injury to starters Im thinking anywhere from 10-13 wins in that stretch.Knicks vs. TimberwolvesKnicks vs. RaptorsKnicks @ WizardsKnicks vs. NuggetsKnicks vs. CelticsKnicks vs. HeatKnicks @ CavaliersKnicks vs. ThunderKnicks vs. BullsKnicks @ HeatKnicks @ MagicKnicks vs. PacersKnicks vs. SpursKnicks @ SunsKnicks @ LakersKnicks @ BlazersKnicks @ JazzKnicks vs. KingsKnicks vs. SunsKnicks @ RocketsKnicks @ SpursKnicks @ Thunder

Without knowing what are back to backs, 3 games in 5 nights, etc.... to win 10-13 games the Knicks would have to win EVERY home game and steal some on the road. 22 games11 away11 homeThey have home games against... Nuggets, Celtics, Heat, Bulls, and Spurs. I'll say they win 2/5 of those games and win the rest of their home games. That gives them 8 wins.Of the road games, just looking at the quality of teams the only ones that look winnable are against the Wizards and Cavs. Since I'm being generous I'll say they win both of those games so that brings them to a max 10 wins in the next 22 games. Not a great team, but still a playoff team in the East.

 

[Gr00vus]

Andrew Bogut is pretty good. Hopefully my Bucks can steal one tonight and continue the march back to .500.

 

[Redwes25]

Just curious, what kind of record do you think the Knicks will have at the end of January after their tough stretch of games?

Below are the Knicks next 22 games barring injury to starters Im thinking anywhere from 10-13 wins in that stretch.Knicks vs. Timberwolves

Knicks vs. Raptors

Knicks @ Wizards

Knicks vs. Nuggets

Knicks vs. Celtics

Knicks vs. Heat

Knicks @ Cavaliers

Knicks vs. Thunder

Knicks vs. Bulls

Knicks @ Heat

Knicks @ Magic

Knicks vs. Pacers

Knicks vs. Spurs

Knicks @ Suns

Knicks @ Lakers

Knicks @ Blazers

Knicks @ Jazz

Knicks vs. Kings

Knicks vs. Suns

Knicks @ Rockets

Knicks @ Spurs

Knicks @ Thunder

Without knowing what are back to backs, 3 games in 5 nights, etc.... to win 10-13 games the Knicks would have to win EVERY home game and steal some on the road. 22 games

11 away

11 home

They have home games against... Nuggets, Celtics, Heat, Bulls, and Spurs. I'll say they win 2/5 of those games and win the rest of their home games. That gives them 8 wins.

Of the road games, just looking at the quality of teams the only ones that look winnable are against the Wizards and Cavs. Since I'm being generous I'll say they win both of those games so that brings them to a max 10 wins in the next 22 games. Not a great team, but still a playoff team in the East.

They have been prettty good at that to date. Either way i think they can go 500 during this stretch if they keep playing the way they are.

 

[No. 16]

Just curious, what kind of record do you think the Knicks will have at the end of January after their tough stretch of games?

Below are the Knicks next 22 games barring injury to starters Im thinking anywhere from 10-13 wins in that stretch.Knicks vs. Timberwolves

Knicks vs. Raptors

Knicks @ Wizards

Knicks vs. Nuggets

Knicks vs. Celtics

Knicks vs. Heat

Knicks @ Cavaliers

Knicks vs. Thunder

Knicks vs. Bulls

Knicks @ Heat

Knicks @ Magic

Knicks vs. Pacers

Knicks vs. Spurs

Knicks @ Suns

Knicks @ Lakers

Knicks @ Blazers

Knicks @ Jazz

Knicks vs. Kings

Knicks vs. Suns

Knicks @ Rockets

Knicks @ Spurs

Knicks @ Thunder

Without knowing what are back to backs, 3 games in 5 nights, etc.... to win 10-13 games the Knicks would have to win EVERY home game and steal some on the road. 22 games

11 away

11 home

They have home games against... Nuggets, Celtics, Heat, Bulls, and Spurs. I'll say they win 2/5 of those games and win the rest of their home games. That gives them 8 wins.

Of the road games, just looking at the quality of teams the only ones that look winnable are against the Wizards and Cavs. Since I'm being generous I'll say they win both of those games so that brings them to a max 10 wins in the next 22 games. Not a great team, but still a playoff team in the East.

They have been prettty good at that to date. Either way i think they can go 500 during this stretch if they keep playing the way they are.

Yah but they've been playing crappy teams (my Warriors included - I hate Keith Smart).

 

[boubucarow]

Bulls 99 Thunder 90 in Chicago

After their bad performance against the East top teams, the Bulls are beginning to find themselves. Against the Thunder the Bulls ball movement was tremendous. Despite Rose having one of his worst games of the year, the Thunder never had a chance in the 2nd half. The movement created 25 assists and many easy shots. Also, the Bulls defense returned to hold the Thunder to 35% shooting. Add to that a big rebounding edge and the Bulls may have had their best performance of the season. Boozer was huge and it is starting to like he will fit right in and provide more space and scoring chances for his teammates.

 

[Redwes25]

Just curious, what kind of record do you think the Knicks will have at the end of January after their tough stretch of games?

Below are the Knicks next 22 games barring injury to starters Im thinking anywhere from 10-13 wins in that stretch.Knicks vs. Timberwolves

Knicks vs. Raptors

Knicks @ Wizards

Knicks vs. Nuggets

Knicks vs. Celtics

Knicks vs. Heat

Knicks @ Cavaliers

Knicks vs. Thunder

Knicks vs. Bulls

Knicks @ Heat

Knicks @ Magic

Knicks vs. Pacers

Knicks vs. Spurs

Knicks @ Suns

Knicks @ Lakers

Knicks @ Blazers

Knicks @ Jazz

Knicks vs. Kings

Knicks vs. Suns

Knicks @ Rockets

Knicks @ Spurs

Knicks @ Thunder

Without knowing what are back to backs, 3 games in 5 nights, etc.... to win 10-13 games the Knicks would have to win EVERY home game and steal some on the road. 22 games

11 away

11 home

They have home games against... Nuggets, Celtics, Heat, Bulls, and Spurs. I'll say they win 2/5 of those games and win the rest of their home games. That gives them 8 wins.

Of the road games, just looking at the quality of teams the only ones that look winnable are against the Wizards and Cavs. Since I'm being generous I'll say they win both of those games so that brings them to a max 10 wins in the next 22 games. Not a great team, but still a playoff team in the East.

They have been prettty good at that to date. Either way i think they can go 500 during this stretch if they keep playing the way they are.

Yah but they've been playing crappy teams (my Warriors included - I hate Keith Smart).

A road win is a road win anyway you look at it and are not easy against any team. I am not saying they really have any chance to go deep into the playoffs but beating the bad teams consistently is the first step to being a good team and they are doing just that. Right now they are very clearly look like a Playoff team that beats the teams it should and the team is getting better with each game.

 

[biggamer3]

Go NY GO NY GO!

Stop all this talk of beating bad teams, the Heat are like 0-6 vs good teams and only have beaten bad ones

 

[Gr00vus]

Is Nick Young always as good as he was last night, or was it just the usual peak game vs. the Lakers thing?

I'd like to see what a guy like D'Antoni or Nelson could do with Wall, Arenas and Young. I figure they could average about 150 a night.

 

[Gr00vus]

Also - Dallas 10 straight.

 

[TobiasFunke]

Is Nick Young always as good as he was last night, or was it just the usual peak game vs. the Lakers thing?

I'd like to see what a guy like D'Antoni or Nelson could do with Wall, Arenas and Young. I figure they could average about 150 a night.

Historically, no. His scoring touch is ridiculously hot and cold, he settles for too many jump shots, and his effort in facets of the game not related to scoring is questionable.This year he's improved by leaps and bounds across the board, though. Totally different guy. Hard to tell if it's the real deal or just a temporary misleading surge in enthusiasm and play a la Andray Blatche last spring and dozens of other Wizards in the last few years.

 

[Cliff Clavin]

Is Nick Young always as good as he was last night, or was it just the usual peak game vs. the Lakers thing?I'd like to see what a guy like D'Antoni or Nelson could do with Wall, Arenas and Young. I figure they could average about 150 a night.

Is it typical for opposing shooting guards to have their peak games against the Lakers? You'd think going against an all-universe defender like Kobe they'd have poor games and not score 17pts over their average like Young did.

 

[Gr00vus]

Is Nick Young always as good as he was last night, or was it just the usual peak game vs. the Lakers thing?I'd like to see what a guy like D'Antoni or Nelson could do with Wall, Arenas and Young. I figure they could average about 150 a night.

Is it typical for opposing shooting guards to have their peak games against the Lakers? You'd think going against an all-universe defender like Kobe they'd have poor games and not score 17pts over their average like Young did.

I was more commenting on how teams in general play their best when they play the Lakers and the few other top teams in the league. I'm not saying that to puff up the Lakers or anything, it's just something I've observed over 35 years of being a Laker fan. I see the same team play against other (not as good/hyped) squads, even the game before or the game after they play the Lakers, and they look totally different (usually in a bad way).But it's nice to know Skribbles hasn't lost his Kobe bers baiting skills.

 

[Mr. PadresLakers]

Heat-Jazz should be a good game tonight. That is as long as LeBron doesn't go into wannabe hero mode like he usually does against good teams.*

*Heat are 4-6 when LeBron attempts 17 or more field goals 10-2 when he doesn't.

 

[Moe.]

Shannon Brown just hit a ridiculous shot five feet from the opposing three point line to end the third quarter. He had 11 pts in the last 2:11 of the quarter. The Clippers are running like crazy and playing really well. Good game.

 

[biggamer3]

Felton for 3.......Bounces around 3 times and its gooood!!!!

Knicks win 11 of their last 12

Glad the Rockets have the option to swap first rounders!

 

[Gadfly]

Is Nick Young always as good as he was last night, or was it just the usual peak game vs. the Lakers thing?I'd like to see what a guy like D'Antoni or Nelson could do with Wall, Arenas and Young. I figure they could average about 150 a night.

Is it typical for opposing shooting guards to have their peak games against the Lakers? You'd think going against an all-universe defender like Kobe they'd have poor games and not score 17pts over their average like Young did.

It didn't seem Kobe was guarding him that much. Young was guarding Kobe on the other end and Kobe completely took him to school three times. I know Nick Young well. He just loves playing in L.A., his hometown in front of his family and friends. He was a big Lakers fan growing up and idolized Kobe. He watched a ton of Kobe tape at USC and tried to pick up his moves. He usually does well here. I went to the game his rookie season when he scored a then-career high 27. In three of his four career games against the Lakers in Los Angeles, he has scored 22+ points off the bench.

 

[boubucarow]

On Friday the Bulls host the Lakers to finish their season series. That game will conclude the the most difficult stretch of schedule for the Bulls this year and also will give them the greatest strength of schedule by a good margin. The Bulls have played 11 games (7 on the road) against teams at least 5 games above .500 and are 3-8 in those games (with the Lakers to come). They are 9-0 (4-0 on road) against teams that are currently .500 or under. After the Lakers, the Bulls will begin a stretch of 14 games during which they will play only 2 teams currently at or above .500, the Knicks and Pacers. In fact, every other team they play is currently at least 5 games under .500. Also, 8 out of the 14 game are at home.

So, say they go 1-2 versus the Lakers, at Knicks, and Pacers. And then they win 10 of 12 games versus the losing teams. That would give them a 11-3 stretch improving their record to 23-11. They have every opportunity to create a ton of distance in the division and place themselves in a position fight to host a first round playoff series.

 

[Shtaym Syek]

Heat-Jazz should be a good game tonight. That is as long as LeBron doesn't go into wannabe hero mode like he usually does against good teams.* *Heat are 4-6 when LeBron attempts 17 or more field goals 10-2 when he doesn't.

Seventeen? And ten is your sample size?Wow.

 

[=Smackdown=]

Felton for 3.......Bounces around 3 times and its gooood!!!!Knicks win 11 of their last 12Glad the Rockets have the option to swap first rounders!

For the 1st time in a very long time the Knicks are watchable and relevant - so nice to have Hoops back in NYC.Knew Amare was good but I was not expecting this.Felton has been nothing short of amazing.This great start can only mean one thing . . .Curry's expiring contractShields - a 2nd rd miracle+ GallinariFor CarmelloThen next offseason . . . . Chris Paul.POW . . . LeBron can go **** himself.

 

[JMon348]

Lol gotta love "fans" of teams they know little about.

Landry "Shields" and getting Mel(l)o and Chris Paul to be on the team by just giving up Gallinari, a big contract and Landry Shields.