*NBA THREAD* Abe will be missed (2 Viewers)

[Bobcat10]

.

It would also complete the round trip transformation of LeBron James from fan favorite to heel and back again, because the Lakers would obviously take over the role of the NBA's primary villains.

Why?It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

LeBron was a free agent. He didn't hold any team hostage. He didn't gripe. He didn't say Cleveland was a bad city or organization etc. He openly interviewed with multiple teams. ESPN covered his decision making process extensively, and so he thought it was a good idea to instead of letting ESPN make 100% of the $$ from covering whatever announcement he made at a presser and on sportscenter etc., that he set up a show where the proceeds went to charity. If Cleveland fans didn't react so poorly, the Decision wouldn't have been talked about the way it was. And Dan Gilbert really played a role in that as well. The Heat have been in the Finals two years in a row and could easily have won against the Mavs, so the pep rally which was just meant to be fun with the new city and fans could be accurate and really, was again something that should not have been a big deal. When Pat Riley said he was going to re-peat/three-peat at the LA championship rallies in the 80s, did he get destroyed like Lebron?

Dwight has held the Magic hostage. Got a coach fired. Threw teammates under the bus. Drawn trade demands out over two off-seasons and possible two regular seasons. Opted in instead of testing free agency because of greed and/or stupidity.

Which is worse?

Good thought....until your 2nd sentence.

 

[Good Posting Judge]

I'm a little confused. Why would Orlando trade Howard + crap contracts for a bunch of worthless picks? Howard for Bynum makes sense, but Bynum to Cleveland, craps picks to Orlando is stupid. I really dislike the NBA cap system.BTW, I would love to see Orlando sit on Howard for a year, and let him walk for less money. No sign and trade, just walk for less. 0% chance that happens, but I would enjoy it. Also, Cleveland is looking pretty good.edit - I hope Donuts wears Donuts (#0) on his jersey.

Because they'll clear cap space.

 

[Gr00vus]

I'm a little confused. Why would Orlando trade Howard + crap contracts for a bunch of worthless picks? Howard for Bynum makes sense, but Bynum to Cleveland, craps picks to Orlando is stupid. I really dislike the NBA cap system.BTW, I would love to see Orlando sit on Howard for a year, and let him walk for less money. No sign and trade, just walk for less. 0% chance that happens, but I would enjoy it. Also, Cleveland is looking pretty good.edit - I hope Donuts wears Donuts (#0) on his jersey.

Because they'll clear cap space.

Would you rather have picks and cap space than Bynum?

 

[Good Posting Judge]

I'm a little confused. Why would Orlando trade Howard + crap contracts for a bunch of worthless picks? Howard for Bynum makes sense, but Bynum to Cleveland, craps picks to Orlando is stupid. I really dislike the NBA cap system.BTW, I would love to see Orlando sit on Howard for a year, and let him walk for less money. No sign and trade, just walk for less. 0% chance that happens, but I would enjoy it. Also, Cleveland is looking pretty good.edit - I hope Donuts wears Donuts (#0) on his jersey.

Because they'll clear cap space.

Would you rather have picks and cap space than Bynum?

Depends on which picks, and which players could be unloaded. And if Bynum would re-sign, which I assume is a given.

 

[Yenrub]

I'm a little confused. Why would Orlando trade Howard + crap contracts for a bunch of worthless picks? Howard for Bynum makes sense, but Bynum to Cleveland, craps picks to Orlando is stupid. I really dislike the NBA cap system.BTW, I would love to see Orlando sit on Howard for a year, and let him walk for less money. No sign and trade, just walk for less. 0% chance that happens, but I would enjoy it. Also, Cleveland is looking pretty good.edit - I hope Donuts wears Donuts (#0) on his jersey.

Because they'll clear cap space.

Would you rather have picks and cap space than Bynum?

Depends on which picks, and which players could be unloaded. And if Bynum would re-sign, which I assume is a given.

Is this deal better than the one that New Jersey/Brooklyn offered?

 

[Abraham]

I'm a little confused. Why would Orlando trade Howard + crap contracts for a bunch of worthless picks? Howard for Bynum makes sense, but Bynum to Cleveland, craps picks to Orlando is stupid. I really dislike the NBA cap system.BTW, I would love to see Orlando sit on Howard for a year, and let him walk for less money. No sign and trade, just walk for less. 0% chance that happens, but I would enjoy it. Also, Cleveland is looking pretty good.edit - I hope Donuts wears Donuts (#0) on his jersey.

Because they'll clear cap space.

Would you rather have picks and cap space than Bynum?

Depends on which picks, and which players could be unloaded. And if Bynum would re-sign, which I assume is a given.

Is this deal better than the one that New Jersey/Brooklyn offered?

Who knows. But it isn't better than the rockets who have 3 picks and can take pack a ton of salary. Andy has a contract for three more years that isn't attractive.

 

[GDogg]

Why?

It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

And as for Kobe, while I get the criticism of him being overrated and too much of a shooter, I've never understood why he is so disliked by other fans around the NBA. When I hear him interviewed (which is often) he seems like a genuinely decent guy. I know people like Cliff seem to get off calling him a rapist, but he was exonerated and no one rational believes it.

I think a lot of people, probably most people, concluded that something went on in that hotel room that was illegal. But proving it was another matter. Do I think he grabbed her and threw her down and raped her? No. Do I think she changed her mind on consent and he didn't acknowledge that? Yes, probably. Anyway, I don't really care much about the rape thing. My ire with Kobe is probably not of his own doing, but it counts anyway. I HATE the fact that ANYONE thinks he and Michael Jordan belong in the same conversation just because Kobe scores a lot of points and has 5 rings. There is virtually nothing else similar about them and many fans who saw Jordan play can't conceive of how anyone over the age of 30 can place the two of them in the same conversation. Kobe Bryant is a sensational player and undoubtedly one of the top 10-15 players of all time. But all of this nonsense about him being the greatest of all time or how he might be after 2 more rings has to stop.

There's no way you believe this unless you've never watched them both play. Kobe is not as good as Jordan. But, Kobe quite obviously spent a great deal of time watching tape of Jordan. His playing "style" (not necessarily passing and involving teammates, but the aesthetic look of the way they run, jump, mannerisms on and off the court, manner of speech [guess this isn't part of playing style, but still], shoot fallaways, etc.) is a decent, though not identical, imitation of Jordan.Plus, they are both apparently huge a-holes.

There are a lot of similarities. Kobe's just not nearly as good at it as Jordan.

 

[GDogg]

Laker haters......mount up.

7 rings and Kobe walks off into the sunset in 2014 as the GOAT.

My ire with Kobe is probably not of his own doing, but it counts anyway. I HATE the fact that ANYONE thinks he and Michael Jordan belong in the same conversation just because Kobe scores a lot of points and has 5 rings. There is virtually nothing else similar about them and many fans who saw Jordan play can't conceive of how anyone over the age of 30 can place the two of them in the same conversation.

Kobe Bryant is a sensational player and undoubtedly one of the top 10-15 players of all time. But all of this nonsense about him being the greatest of all time or how he might be after 2 more rings has to stop.

I don't know any Laker fans who actually believe that Kobe is as good as Michael. I know several Laker fans who enjoy SAYING that Kobe is as good as Michael, because it pisses people like you off. I'm not one of them however.

It doesn't piss me off - it makes me think Laker fans who say such things are generally ignorant when it comes to basketball.

I really don't get this. Why doesn't it make you think that tGunz is generally ignorant (and any other specific poster/fan who says the same thing) and draw the line there?

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

Why?

It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

And as for Kobe, while I get the criticism of him being overrated and too much of a shooter, I've never understood why he is so disliked by other fans around the NBA. When I hear him interviewed (which is often) he seems like a genuinely decent guy. I know people like Cliff seem to get off calling him a rapist, but he was exonerated and no one rational believes it.

I think a lot of people, probably most people, concluded that something went on in that hotel room that was illegal. But proving it was another matter. Do I think he grabbed her and threw her down and raped her? No. Do I think she changed her mind on consent and he didn't acknowledge that? Yes, probably. Anyway, I don't really care much about the rape thing. My ire with Kobe is probably not of his own doing, but it counts anyway. I HATE the fact that ANYONE thinks he and Michael Jordan belong in the same conversation just because Kobe scores a lot of points and has 5 rings. There is virtually nothing else similar about them and many fans who saw Jordan play can't conceive of how anyone over the age of 30 can place the two of them in the same conversation. Kobe Bryant is a sensational player and undoubtedly one of the top 10-15 players of all time. But all of this nonsense about him being the greatest of all time or how he might be after 2 more rings has to stop.

There's no way you believe this unless you've never watched them both play. Kobe is not as good as Jordan. But, Kobe quite obviously spent a great deal of time watching tape of Jordan. His playing "style" (not necessarily passing and involving teammates, but the aesthetic look of the way they run, jump, mannerisms on and off the court, manner of speech [guess this isn't part of playing style, but still], shoot fallaways, etc.) is a decent, though not identical, imitation of Jordan.Plus, they are both apparently huge a-holes.

There are a lot of similarities. Kobe's just not nearly as good at it as Jordan.

Kobe is the Chinese knock-off Jordan.

 

[GDogg]

.

It would also complete the round trip transformation of LeBron James from fan favorite to heel and back again, because the Lakers would obviously take over the role of the NBA's primary villains.

Why?It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

And as for Kobe, while I get the criticism of him being overrated and too much of a shooter, I've never understood why he is so disliked by other fans around the NBA. When I hear him interviewed (which is often) he seems like a genuinely decent guy. I know people like Cliff seem to get off calling him a rapist, but he was exonerated and no one rational believes it.

As far as the rest of the team, World Peace can be a thug at times, but he can also be funny and likable. Nash and Gasol are two of the most classy guys in the NBA. They lose the moody Bynum, and replace him with the irrepressibly cheerful Howard.

Outside of envy, (which is understandable) why wouldn't anyone like this Laker team?

Here's exhibit A as to why people don't like the Lakers.My link

Do you guys realize that isolated posters are not the Lakers?

 

[GDogg]

.

It would also complete the round trip transformation of LeBron James from fan favorite to heel and back again, because the Lakers would obviously take over the role of the NBA's primary villains.

Why?It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

LeBron was a free agent. He didn't hold any team hostage. He didn't gripe. He didn't say Cleveland was a bad city or organization etc. He openly interviewed with multiple teams. ESPN covered his decision making process extensively, and so he thought it was a good idea to instead of letting ESPN make 100% of the $$ from covering whatever announcement he made at a presser and on sportscenter etc., that he set up a show where the proceeds went to charity. If Cleveland fans didn't react so poorly, the Decision wouldn't have been talked about the way it was. And Dan Gilbert really played a role in that as well. The Heat have been in the Finals two years in a row and could easily have won against the Mavs, so the pep rally which was just meant to be fun with the new city and fans could be accurate and really, was again something that should not have been a big deal. When Pat Riley said he was going to re-peat/three-peat at the LA championship rallies in the 80s, did he get destroyed like Lebron?

Dwight has held the Magic hostage. Got a coach fired. Threw teammates under the bus. Drawn trade demands out over two off-seasons and possible two regular seasons. Opted in instead of testing free agency because of greed and/or stupidity.

Which is worse?

Seriously? The Lakers had already won multiple championships that decade and had just won one. Lebron and that Heat team had won nothing.I agree that Howard is a moron, but what LeBron did is worse. He led the Cavs to believe they had a chance to retain him. They didn't. Howard has not told the Magic they have any shot of retaining him. They can, right now, get something very valuable in return. The Cavs couldn't because he made them believe they could re-sign him.

Now, if Howard remained silent at this point and through back channels (and/or publicly) told the Magic that he would seriously consider re-signing with them, and then signed with the Lakers (as an example, since they wouldn't have the cap space to do it) next year, then that would be just as bad and Howard's other antics on top of that would push Howard beyond LeBron.

It's probably time to move on from LeBron, but knifing the Cleveland franchise like that rather than be open that you aren't going to re-sign so that they could do a sign and trade prior to free agency isn't as bad as letting a franchise know now so that they can mitigate against your loss.

 

[Good Posting Judge]

.

It would also complete the round trip transformation of LeBron James from fan favorite to heel and back again, because the Lakers would obviously take over the role of the NBA's primary villains.

Why?It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

And as for Kobe, while I get the criticism of him being overrated and too much of a shooter, I've never understood why he is so disliked by other fans around the NBA. When I hear him interviewed (which is often) he seems like a genuinely decent guy. I know people like Cliff seem to get off calling him a rapist, but he was exonerated and no one rational believes it.

As far as the rest of the team, World Peace can be a thug at times, but he can also be funny and likable. Nash and Gasol are two of the most classy guys in the NBA. They lose the moody Bynum, and replace him with the irrepressibly cheerful Howard.

Outside of envy, (which is understandable) why wouldn't anyone like this Laker team?

Here's exhibit A as to why people don't like the Lakers.My link

Do you guys realize that isolated posters are not the Lakers?

Of course. But people end up rooting against the team because they have dopey fans, both on this board and out in the world. It's the same thing with Duke.

 

[Abraham]

I didn't say Kobe was a bad player. In fact I said he was one of the top players of all time. And I said outside of a small advantage at ft^ and 3% there is no place where he is better than Jordan.

 

[Good Posting Judge]

I didn't say Kobe was a bad player. In fact I said he was one of the top players of all time. And I said outside of a small advantage at ft^ and 3% there is no place where he is better than Jordan.

Not getting his dad killed?

 

[GDogg]

I didn't say Kobe was a bad player. In fact I said he was one of the top players of all time. And I said outside of a small advantage at ft^ and 3% there is no place where he is better than Jordan.

Yes, but you also said:

There is virtually nothing else similar about [Kobe and Jordan] and many fans who saw Jordan play can't conceive of how anyone over the age of 30 can place the two of [Kobe and Jordan] in the same conversation.

There are lots of similarities. Jordan was just better at the similarities.Although, after recently watching a highlight video of young Kobe that I saw on another site, I think he might have an argument that he was a better dunker than Jordan. Might.

 

[timschochet]

Rajan Rondo:

"I have matured a lot and my game has also. I think I am one of the best playmakers in the league. I think I'm the best point guard in the league."

I don't agree with him, but I love that he says it.

 

[Cliff Clavin]

.

It would also complete the round trip transformation of LeBron James from fan favorite to heel and back again, because the Lakers would obviously take over the role of the NBA's primary villains.

Why?It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

LeBron was a free agent. He didn't hold any team hostage. He didn't gripe. He didn't say Cleveland was a bad city or organization etc. He openly interviewed with multiple teams. ESPN covered his decision making process extensively, and so he thought it was a good idea to instead of letting ESPN make 100% of the $$ from covering whatever announcement he made at a presser and on sportscenter etc., that he set up a show where the proceeds went to charity. If Cleveland fans didn't react so poorly, the Decision wouldn't have been talked about the way it was. And Dan Gilbert really played a role in that as well. The Heat have been in the Finals two years in a row and could easily have won against the Mavs, so the pep rally which was just meant to be fun with the new city and fans could be accurate and really, was again something that should not have been a big deal. When Pat Riley said he was going to re-peat/three-peat at the LA championship rallies in the 80s, did he get destroyed like Lebron?

Dwight has held the Magic hostage. Got a coach fired. Threw teammates under the bus. Drawn trade demands out over two off-seasons and possible two regular seasons. Opted in instead of testing free agency because of greed and/or stupidity.

Which is worse?

Seriously? The Lakers had already won multiple championships that decade and had just won one. Lebron and that Heat team had won nothing.I agree that Howard is a moron, but what LeBron did is worse. He led the Cavs to believe they had a chance to retain him. They didn't. Howard has not told the Magic they have any shot of retaining him. They can, right now, get something very valuable in return. The Cavs couldn't because he made them believe they could re-sign him.

Now, if Howard remained silent at this point and through back channels (and/or publicly) told the Magic that he would seriously consider re-signing with them, and then signed with the Lakers (as an example, since they wouldn't have the cap space to do it) next year, then that would be just as bad and Howard's other antics on top of that would push Howard beyond LeBron.

It's probably time to move on from LeBron, but knifing the Cleveland franchise like that rather than be open that you aren't going to re-sign so that they could do a sign and trade prior to free agency isn't as bad as letting a franchise know now so that they can mitigate against your loss.

LeBron exercised his options as a free agent. I don't know what is wrong with that. The Cavs knew he might leave. They could have traded him.Howard quit on his team. Called out the coach and teammates. He willfully accepted another season with that team but before the season even starts he is demanding a trade!

How are these even close to the same things?

 

[GDogg]

.

It would also complete the round trip transformation of LeBron James from fan favorite to heel and back again, because the Lakers would obviously take over the role of the NBA's primary villains.

Why?It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

And as for Kobe, while I get the criticism of him being overrated and too much of a shooter, I've never understood why he is so disliked by other fans around the NBA. When I hear him interviewed (which is often) he seems like a genuinely decent guy. I know people like Cliff seem to get off calling him a rapist, but he was exonerated and no one rational believes it.

As far as the rest of the team, World Peace can be a thug at times, but he can also be funny and likable. Nash and Gasol are two of the most classy guys in the NBA. They lose the moody Bynum, and replace him with the irrepressibly cheerful Howard.

Outside of envy, (which is understandable) why wouldn't anyone like this Laker team?

Here's exhibit A as to why people don't like the Lakers.My link

Do you guys realize that isolated posters are not the Lakers?

Of course. But people end up rooting against the team because they have dopey fans, both on this board and out in the world. It's the same thing with Duke.

Everyone has dopey fans. The Laker fans are just more visible because the Lakers are always good, so Laker fans can actually thump their chests in, more or less, every season about how good the Lakers are.I will also acknowledge that Shaq and Kobe, for the average Laker fan, were the worst things that could have happened for the reputations of those fans. They were both polarizing figures and both were on the same team. Stupidly, fans got on either the Kobe or Shaq bandwagon rather than acknowledge that they are both big douches that were breaking up (and did break up) what should have been the best dynasty since the Bulls of the 90s.

I don't know Kobe off the court and I don't know Shaq. But, I do know that I cannot stand them as Lakers for doing what they did. And, I'm pretty annoyed that they turned a large part (though, not the majority) of a fanbase into fans of the name on the back of the jersey over fans of the name on the front of the jersey. That's pathetic.

 

[Abraham]

Rajan Rondo:

"I have matured a lot and my game has also. I think I am one of the best playmakers in the league. I think I'm the best point guard in the league."

I don't agree with him, but I love that he says it.

Agreed. He just isn't consistent enough, but he has top level talent.

 

[Captain Quinoa]

GDogg> take it outside. we don't care.

 

[timschochet]

.

It would also complete the round trip transformation of LeBron James from fan favorite to heel and back again, because the Lakers would obviously take over the role of the NBA's primary villains.

Why?It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

And as for Kobe, while I get the criticism of him being overrated and too much of a shooter, I've never understood why he is so disliked by other fans around the NBA. When I hear him interviewed (which is often) he seems like a genuinely decent guy. I know people like Cliff seem to get off calling him a rapist, but he was exonerated and no one rational believes it.

As far as the rest of the team, World Peace can be a thug at times, but he can also be funny and likable. Nash and Gasol are two of the most classy guys in the NBA. They lose the moody Bynum, and replace him with the irrepressibly cheerful Howard.

Outside of envy, (which is understandable) why wouldn't anyone like this Laker team?

Here's exhibit A as to why people don't like the Lakers.My link

Do you guys realize that isolated posters are not the Lakers?

Of course. But people end up rooting against the team because they have dopey fans, both on this board and out in the world. It's the same thing with Duke.

Everyone has dopey fans. The Laker fans are just more visible because the Lakers are always good, so Laker fans can actually thump their chests in, more or less, every season about how good the Lakers are.I will also acknowledge that Shaq and Kobe, for the average Laker fan, were the worst things that could have happened for the reputations of those fans. They were both polarizing figures and both were on the same team. Stupidly, fans got on either the Kobe or Shaq bandwagon rather than acknowledge that they are both big douches that were breaking up (and did break up) what should have been the best dynasty since the Bulls of the 90s.

I don't know Kobe off the court and I don't know Shaq. But, I do know that I cannot stand them as Lakers for doing what they did. And, I'm pretty annoyed that they turned a large part (though, not the majority) of a fanbase into fans of the name on the back of the jersey over fans of the name on the front of the jersey. That's pathetic.

They won 3 rings together. I'll gladly trade my "reputation" for those championships. Even more important, for me, than the rings, was the sheer pleasure I took watching those two guys play together.

 

[GDogg]

.

It would also complete the round trip transformation of LeBron James from fan favorite to heel and back again, because the Lakers would obviously take over the role of the NBA's primary villains.

Why?It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

LeBron was a free agent. He didn't hold any team hostage. He didn't gripe. He didn't say Cleveland was a bad city or organization etc. He openly interviewed with multiple teams. ESPN covered his decision making process extensively, and so he thought it was a good idea to instead of letting ESPN make 100% of the $$ from covering whatever announcement he made at a presser and on sportscenter etc., that he set up a show where the proceeds went to charity. If Cleveland fans didn't react so poorly, the Decision wouldn't have been talked about the way it was. And Dan Gilbert really played a role in that as well. The Heat have been in the Finals two years in a row and could easily have won against the Mavs, so the pep rally which was just meant to be fun with the new city and fans could be accurate and really, was again something that should not have been a big deal. When Pat Riley said he was going to re-peat/three-peat at the LA championship rallies in the 80s, did he get destroyed like Lebron?

Dwight has held the Magic hostage. Got a coach fired. Threw teammates under the bus. Drawn trade demands out over two off-seasons and possible two regular seasons. Opted in instead of testing free agency because of greed and/or stupidity.

Which is worse?

Seriously? The Lakers had already won multiple championships that decade and had just won one. Lebron and that Heat team had won nothing.I agree that Howard is a moron, but what LeBron did is worse. He led the Cavs to believe they had a chance to retain him. They didn't. Howard has not told the Magic they have any shot of retaining him. They can, right now, get something very valuable in return. The Cavs couldn't because he made them believe they could re-sign him.

Now, if Howard remained silent at this point and through back channels (and/or publicly) told the Magic that he would seriously consider re-signing with them, and then signed with the Lakers (as an example, since they wouldn't have the cap space to do it) next year, then that would be just as bad and Howard's other antics on top of that would push Howard beyond LeBron.

It's probably time to move on from LeBron, but knifing the Cleveland franchise like that rather than be open that you aren't going to re-sign so that they could do a sign and trade prior to free agency isn't as bad as letting a franchise know now so that they can mitigate against your loss.

LeBron exercised his options as a free agent. I don't know what is wrong with that. The Cavs knew he might leave. They could have traded him.Howard quit on his team. Called out the coach and teammates. He willfully accepted another season with that team but before the season even starts he is demanding a trade!

How are these even close to the same things?

LeBron had every right to do that. But, most close to him and he, Wade and Bosch acknowledged later on, that he had no intention of re-signing with the Cavs. He told the team they were the favorites to re-sign him. So, why not (like Howard) simply inform the franchise before free agency so that they can get something in return?It would have been a PR nightmare for the Cavs if they traded away one of the greatest talents in NBA history who is also a native son while he publicly proclaims that the Cavs are where he wants to stay and are the favorites to re-sign him?

I don't understand why you don't understand how notifying a team, while you are still under contract with them and have another season left, that you will not re-sign with them is not a better thing to do for your franchise than to tell them they are the favorite to re-sign with you when you have no intention of staying and sign with another team, leaving that franchise with nothing in return?

How is this even close in your mind?

 

[GDogg]

.

It would also complete the round trip transformation of LeBron James from fan favorite to heel and back again, because the Lakers would obviously take over the role of the NBA's primary villains.

Why?It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

And as for Kobe, while I get the criticism of him being overrated and too much of a shooter, I've never understood why he is so disliked by other fans around the NBA. When I hear him interviewed (which is often) he seems like a genuinely decent guy. I know people like Cliff seem to get off calling him a rapist, but he was exonerated and no one rational believes it.

As far as the rest of the team, World Peace can be a thug at times, but he can also be funny and likable. Nash and Gasol are two of the most classy guys in the NBA. They lose the moody Bynum, and replace him with the irrepressibly cheerful Howard.

Outside of envy, (which is understandable) why wouldn't anyone like this Laker team?

Here's exhibit A as to why people don't like the Lakers.My link

Do you guys realize that isolated posters are not the Lakers?

Of course. But people end up rooting against the team because they have dopey fans, both on this board and out in the world. It's the same thing with Duke.

Everyone has dopey fans. The Laker fans are just more visible because the Lakers are always good, so Laker fans can actually thump their chests in, more or less, every season about how good the Lakers are.I will also acknowledge that Shaq and Kobe, for the average Laker fan, were the worst things that could have happened for the reputations of those fans. They were both polarizing figures and both were on the same team. Stupidly, fans got on either the Kobe or Shaq bandwagon rather than acknowledge that they are both big douches that were breaking up (and did break up) what should have been the best dynasty since the Bulls of the 90s.

I don't know Kobe off the court and I don't know Shaq. But, I do know that I cannot stand them as Lakers for doing what they did. And, I'm pretty annoyed that they turned a large part (though, not the majority) of a fanbase into fans of the name on the back of the jersey over fans of the name on the front of the jersey. That's pathetic.

They won 3 rings together. I'll gladly trade my "reputation" for those championships. Even more important, for me, than the rings, was the sheer pleasure I took watching those two guys play together.

Cool. That has nothing to do with what I wrote, though. I do, too.But, I also cannot forget the fact that they broke up the band while they were still in their prime (though Shaq was obviously on the downside) because of nothing more than immaturity and gigantic egos.

 

[Cliff Clavin]

.

It would also complete the round trip transformation of LeBron James from fan favorite to heel and back again, because the Lakers would obviously take over the role of the NBA's primary villains.

Why?It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

LeBron was a free agent. He didn't hold any team hostage. He didn't gripe. He didn't say Cleveland was a bad city or organization etc. He openly interviewed with multiple teams. ESPN covered his decision making process extensively, and so he thought it was a good idea to instead of letting ESPN make 100% of the $$ from covering whatever announcement he made at a presser and on sportscenter etc., that he set up a show where the proceeds went to charity. If Cleveland fans didn't react so poorly, the Decision wouldn't have been talked about the way it was. And Dan Gilbert really played a role in that as well. The Heat have been in the Finals two years in a row and could easily have won against the Mavs, so the pep rally which was just meant to be fun with the new city and fans could be accurate and really, was again something that should not have been a big deal. When Pat Riley said he was going to re-peat/three-peat at the LA championship rallies in the 80s, did he get destroyed like Lebron?

Dwight has held the Magic hostage. Got a coach fired. Threw teammates under the bus. Drawn trade demands out over two off-seasons and possible two regular seasons. Opted in instead of testing free agency because of greed and/or stupidity.

Which is worse?

Seriously? The Lakers had already won multiple championships that decade and had just won one. Lebron and that Heat team had won nothing.I agree that Howard is a moron, but what LeBron did is worse. He led the Cavs to believe they had a chance to retain him. They didn't. Howard has not told the Magic they have any shot of retaining him. They can, right now, get something very valuable in return. The Cavs couldn't because he made them believe they could re-sign him.

Now, if Howard remained silent at this point and through back channels (and/or publicly) told the Magic that he would seriously consider re-signing with them, and then signed with the Lakers (as an example, since they wouldn't have the cap space to do it) next year, then that would be just as bad and Howard's other antics on top of that would push Howard beyond LeBron.

It's probably time to move on from LeBron, but knifing the Cleveland franchise like that rather than be open that you aren't going to re-sign so that they could do a sign and trade prior to free agency isn't as bad as letting a franchise know now so that they can mitigate against your loss.

LeBron exercised his options as a free agent. I don't know what is wrong with that. The Cavs knew he might leave. They could have traded him.Howard quit on his team. Called out the coach and teammates. He willfully accepted another season with that team but before the season even starts he is demanding a trade!

How are these even close to the same things?

LeBron had every right to do that. But, most close to him and he, Wade and Bosch acknowledged later on, that he had no intention of re-signing with the Cavs. He told the team they were the favorites to re-sign him. So, why not (like Howard) simply inform the franchise before free agency so that they can get something in return?It would have been a PR nightmare for the Cavs if they traded away one of the greatest talents in NBA history who is also a native son while he publicly proclaims that the Cavs are where he wants to stay and are the favorites to re-sign him?

I don't understand why you don't understand how notifying a team, while you are still under contract with them and have another season left, that you will not re-sign with them is not a better thing to do for your franchise than to tell them they are the favorite to re-sign with you when you have no intention of staying and sign with another team, leaving that franchise with nothing in return?

How is this even close in your mind?

So you'd rather a player act like a petulant little child for almost 2 years and embarrassing the franchise than a guy who kept his mouth shut and made a decision when he became a free agent. LeBron had every right to keep his mouth shut and continue his work as the best player in the NBA. He owed the franchise nothing just as they owe him nothing. Cleveland took a risk hoping to re-sign him. Their loss.

How is this even close in your mind?

 

[Bobcat10]

.

It would also complete the round trip transformation of LeBron James from fan favorite to heel and back again, because the Lakers would obviously take over the role of the NBA's primary villains.

Why?It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

LeBron was a free agent. He didn't hold any team hostage. He didn't gripe. He didn't say Cleveland was a bad city or organization etc. He openly interviewed with multiple teams. ESPN covered his decision making process extensively, and so he thought it was a good idea to instead of letting ESPN make 100% of the $$ from covering whatever announcement he made at a presser and on sportscenter etc., that he set up a show where the proceeds went to charity. If Cleveland fans didn't react so poorly, the Decision wouldn't have been talked about the way it was. And Dan Gilbert really played a role in that as well. The Heat have been in the Finals two years in a row and could easily have won against the Mavs, so the pep rally which was just meant to be fun with the new city and fans could be accurate and really, was again something that should not have been a big deal. When Pat Riley said he was going to re-peat/three-peat at the LA championship rallies in the 80s, did he get destroyed like Lebron?

Dwight has held the Magic hostage. Got a coach fired. Threw teammates under the bus. Drawn trade demands out over two off-seasons and possible two regular seasons. Opted in instead of testing free agency because of greed and/or stupidity.

Which is worse?

Seriously? The Lakers had already won multiple championships that decade and had just won one. Lebron and that Heat team had won nothing.I agree that Howard is a moron, but what LeBron did is worse. He led the Cavs to believe they had a chance to retain him. They didn't. Howard has not told the Magic they have any shot of retaining him. They can, right now, get something very valuable in return. The Cavs couldn't because he made them believe they could re-sign him.

Now, if Howard remained silent at this point and through back channels (and/or publicly) told the Magic that he would seriously consider re-signing with them, and then signed with the Lakers (as an example, since they wouldn't have the cap space to do it) next year, then that would be just as bad and Howard's other antics on top of that would push Howard beyond LeBron.

It's probably time to move on from LeBron, but knifing the Cleveland franchise like that rather than be open that you aren't going to re-sign so that they could do a sign and trade prior to free agency isn't as bad as letting a franchise know now so that they can mitigate against your loss.

LeBron exercised his options as a free agent. I don't know what is wrong with that. The Cavs knew he might leave. They could have traded him.Howard quit on his team. Called out the coach and teammates. He willfully accepted another season with that team but before the season even starts he is demanding a trade!

How are these even close to the same things?

LeBron had every right to do that. But, most close to him and he, Wade and Bosch acknowledged later on, that he had no intention of re-signing with the Cavs. He told the team they were the favorites to re-sign him. So, why not (like Howard) simply inform the franchise before free agency so that they can get something in return?It would have been a PR nightmare for the Cavs if they traded away one of the greatest talents in NBA history who is also a native son while he publicly proclaims that the Cavs are where he wants to stay and are the favorites to re-sign him?

I don't understand why you don't understand how notifying a team, while you are still under contract with them and have another season left, that you will not re-sign with them is not a better thing to do for your franchise than to tell them they are the favorite to re-sign with you when you have no intention of staying and sign with another team, leaving that franchise with nothing in return?

How is this even close in your mind?

So you'd rather a player act like a petulant little child for almost 2 years and embarrassing the franchise than a guy who kept his mouth shut and made a decision when he became a free agent. LeBron had every right to keep his mouth shut and continue his work as the best player in the NBA. He owed the franchise nothing just as they owe him nothing. Cleveland took a risk hoping to re-sign him. Their loss.

How is this even close in your mind?

They are both dbags in their own way.If you want to compare at a high level, you will win.

If you want to start digging deeper, this gets pretty interesting.

Why didn't Lebron sign longer extensions? Did that not handcuff the Cavs?

What is to make of the Beijing rumors of these guys developing plans that far back? Is that not tampering? Is that fair to the Cavs?

Did Lebron continue his work as the best player in the NBA against the Celtics in the Spring of 2010? Many will tell you he didn't want to win that series so he could line up another excuse to bolt.

I have to run.....but I just think now that we're 2+ yrs removed we start fogetting about some of the actions leading up to the "decision" show. And there are more...

 

[Cliff Clavin]

They are both dbags in their own way.If you want to compare at a high level, you will win.If you want to start digging deeper, this gets pretty interesting.Why didn't Lebron sign longer extensions? Did that not handcuff the Cavs? What is to make of the Beijing rumors of these guys developing plans that far back? Is that not tampering? Is that fair to the Cavs?Did Lebron continue his work as the best player in the NBA against the Celtics in the Spring of 2010? Many will tell you he didn't want to win that series so he could line up another excuse to bolt. I have to run.....but I just think now that we're 2+ yrs removed we start fogetting about some of the actions leading up to the "decision" show. And there are more...

Yes, I'm sure we could dig up more on both of them acting like morons. Even if LeBron had made up his mind the year he came into the league that the super friends would be going to Miami eventually, I have zero problem with him not saying that. He shouldn't have mislead Cleveland with stuff like 'they're the favorite' or whatever he actually said. But that is a pretty minor offense compared to what Howard has done IMO.I really can't understand why these guys don't simply say, 'No, I'm not talking about my contract situation'. Is it really that hard?

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

Didn't Cleveland say they would never trade Lebron?

My memory could be hazy (I drink A LOT), but I thought that was the case.

 

[GDogg]

.

It would also complete the round trip transformation of LeBron James from fan favorite to heel and back again, because the Lakers would obviously take over the role of the NBA's primary villains.

Why?It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

LeBron was a free agent. He didn't hold any team hostage. He didn't gripe. He didn't say Cleveland was a bad city or organization etc. He openly interviewed with multiple teams. ESPN covered his decision making process extensively, and so he thought it was a good idea to instead of letting ESPN make 100% of the $$ from covering whatever announcement he made at a presser and on sportscenter etc., that he set up a show where the proceeds went to charity. If Cleveland fans didn't react so poorly, the Decision wouldn't have been talked about the way it was. And Dan Gilbert really played a role in that as well. The Heat have been in the Finals two years in a row and could easily have won against the Mavs, so the pep rally which was just meant to be fun with the new city and fans could be accurate and really, was again something that should not have been a big deal. When Pat Riley said he was going to re-peat/three-peat at the LA championship rallies in the 80s, did he get destroyed like Lebron?

Dwight has held the Magic hostage. Got a coach fired. Threw teammates under the bus. Drawn trade demands out over two off-seasons and possible two regular seasons. Opted in instead of testing free agency because of greed and/or stupidity.

Which is worse?

Seriously? The Lakers had already won multiple championships that decade and had just won one. Lebron and that Heat team had won nothing.I agree that Howard is a moron, but what LeBron did is worse. He led the Cavs to believe they had a chance to retain him. They didn't. Howard has not told the Magic they have any shot of retaining him. They can, right now, get something very valuable in return. The Cavs couldn't because he made them believe they could re-sign him.

Now, if Howard remained silent at this point and through back channels (and/or publicly) told the Magic that he would seriously consider re-signing with them, and then signed with the Lakers (as an example, since they wouldn't have the cap space to do it) next year, then that would be just as bad and Howard's other antics on top of that would push Howard beyond LeBron.

It's probably time to move on from LeBron, but knifing the Cleveland franchise like that rather than be open that you aren't going to re-sign so that they could do a sign and trade prior to free agency isn't as bad as letting a franchise know now so that they can mitigate against your loss.

LeBron exercised his options as a free agent. I don't know what is wrong with that. The Cavs knew he might leave. They could have traded him.Howard quit on his team. Called out the coach and teammates. He willfully accepted another season with that team but before the season even starts he is demanding a trade!

How are these even close to the same things?

LeBron had every right to do that. But, most close to him and he, Wade and Bosch acknowledged later on, that he had no intention of re-signing with the Cavs. He told the team they were the favorites to re-sign him. So, why not (like Howard) simply inform the franchise before free agency so that they can get something in return?It would have been a PR nightmare for the Cavs if they traded away one of the greatest talents in NBA history who is also a native son while he publicly proclaims that the Cavs are where he wants to stay and are the favorites to re-sign him?

I don't understand why you don't understand how notifying a team, while you are still under contract with them and have another season left, that you will not re-sign with them is not a better thing to do for your franchise than to tell them they are the favorite to re-sign with you when you have no intention of staying and sign with another team, leaving that franchise with nothing in return?

How is this even close in your mind?

So you'd rather a player act like a petulant little child for almost 2 years and embarrassing the franchise than a guy who kept his mouth shut and made a decision when he became a free agent. LeBron had every right to keep his mouth shut and continue his work as the best player in the NBA. He owed the franchise nothing just as they owe him nothing. Cleveland took a risk hoping to re-sign him. Their loss.

How is this even close in your mind?

I don't know. I guess I realize that fans are, for the most part, average joes and are going to be fans of their teams long after the player leaves. If one guy is doing something that is going to hurt the franchise (and the local fans) after he leaves while one guy is doing something that is going to help the franchise (and local fans) after he leaves while being able to achieve the same result (leaving for a destination more or less of their choice), then I am going to side with the guy whose actions will be more beneficial to the franchise (and local fans) moving forward. Just because a player has every right to do something doesn't mean it's something that, as fans, should be looked at positively.

Howard quit? Ok. So did Lebron or have you forgotten the previous two close out series LeBron was a part of in Cleveland?

 

[GDogg]

They are both dbags in their own way.

If you want to compare at a high level, you will win.

If you want to start digging deeper, this gets pretty interesting.

Why didn't Lebron sign longer extensions? Did that not handcuff the Cavs?

What is to make of the Beijing rumors of these guys developing plans that far back? Is that not tampering? Is that fair to the Cavs?

Did Lebron continue his work as the best player in the NBA against the Celtics in the Spring of 2010? Many will tell you he didn't want to win that series so he could line up another excuse to bolt.

I have to run.....but I just think now that we're 2+ yrs removed we start fogetting about some of the actions leading up to the "decision" show. And there are more...

Yes, I'm sure we could dig up more on both of them acting like morons. Even if LeBron had made up his mind the year he came into the league that the super friends would be going to Miami eventually, I have zero problem with him not saying that. He shouldn't have mislead Cleveland with stuff like 'they're the favorite' or whatever he actually said. But that is a pretty minor offense compared to what Howard has done IMO.

I really can't understand why these guys don't simply say, 'No, I'm not talking about my contract situation'. Is it really that hard?

If you are asking publicly, it's because the media will continue to bombard them. They are simply too weak to do that. They don't realize that, no matter what they say or don't say, as long as they are in the last year of their contract, it is going to be a huge issue, and bigger issue the more important the player.Wouldn't you rather a player for the Raptors let the Raptors know beforehand that he isn't going to re-sign with them, so that your Raps could get some assets in return? As a Laker fan, I really don't care what LeBron did or didn't do as he wasn't going to be a Laker barring a sign and trade. As a Laker fan with some sort of understanding of the actual ramifications of leaving via free agency, I think it is a much better thing for a player to do for any franchise to let them know up front so that they can begin making moves to acquire assets for your departure.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

.

It would also complete the round trip transformation of LeBron James from fan favorite to heel and back again, because the Lakers would obviously take over the role of the NBA's primary villains.

Why?It was my understanding that the dislike for LeBron came from how he handled the move to Miami. What has Dwight done that is comparable?

LeBron was a free agent. He didn't hold any team hostage. He didn't gripe. He didn't say Cleveland was a bad city or organization etc. He openly interviewed with multiple teams. ESPN covered his decision making process extensively, and so he thought it was a good idea to instead of letting ESPN make 100% of the $$ from covering whatever announcement he made at a presser and on sportscenter etc., that he set up a show where the proceeds went to charity. If Cleveland fans didn't react so poorly, the Decision wouldn't have been talked about the way it was. And Dan Gilbert really played a role in that as well. The Heat have been in the Finals two years in a row and could easily have won against the Mavs, so the pep rally which was just meant to be fun with the new city and fans could be accurate and really, was again something that should not have been a big deal. When Pat Riley said he was going to re-peat/three-peat at the LA championship rallies in the 80s, did he get destroyed like Lebron?

Dwight has held the Magic hostage. Got a coach fired. Threw teammates under the bus. Drawn trade demands out over two off-seasons and possible two regular seasons. Opted in instead of testing free agency because of greed and/or stupidity.

Which is worse?

Seriously? The Lakers had already won multiple championships that decade and had just won one. Lebron and that Heat team had won nothing.I agree that Howard is a moron, but what LeBron did is worse. He led the Cavs to believe they had a chance to retain him. They didn't. Howard has not told the Magic they have any shot of retaining him. They can, right now, get something very valuable in return. The Cavs couldn't because he made them believe they could re-sign him.

Now, if Howard remained silent at this point and through back channels (and/or publicly) told the Magic that he would seriously consider re-signing with them, and then signed with the Lakers (as an example, since they wouldn't have the cap space to do it) next year, then that would be just as bad and Howard's other antics on top of that would push Howard beyond LeBron.

It's probably time to move on from LeBron, but knifing the Cleveland franchise like that rather than be open that you aren't going to re-sign so that they could do a sign and trade prior to free agency isn't as bad as letting a franchise know now so that they can mitigate against your loss.

LeBron exercised his options as a free agent. I don't know what is wrong with that. The Cavs knew he might leave. They could have traded him.Howard quit on his team. Called out the coach and teammates. He willfully accepted another season with that team but before the season even starts he is demanding a trade!

How are these even close to the same things?

LeBron had every right to do that. But, most close to him and he, Wade and Bosch acknowledged later on, that he had no intention of re-signing with the Cavs. He told the team they were the favorites to re-sign him. So, why not (like Howard) simply inform the franchise before free agency so that they can get something in return?It would have been a PR nightmare for the Cavs if they traded away one of the greatest talents in NBA history who is also a native son while he publicly proclaims that the Cavs are where he wants to stay and are the favorites to re-sign him?

I don't understand why you don't understand how notifying a team, while you are still under contract with them and have another season left, that you will not re-sign with them is not a better thing to do for your franchise than to tell them they are the favorite to re-sign with you when you have no intention of staying and sign with another team, leaving that franchise with nothing in return?

How is this even close in your mind?

So you'd rather a player act like a petulant little child for almost 2 years and embarrassing the franchise than a guy who kept his mouth shut and made a decision when he became a free agent. LeBron had every right to keep his mouth shut and continue his work as the best player in the NBA. He owed the franchise nothing just as they owe him nothing. Cleveland took a risk hoping to re-sign him. Their loss.

How is this even close in your mind?

I don't know. I guess I realize that fans are, for the most part, average joes and are going to be fans of their teams long after the player leaves. If one guy is doing something that is going to hurt the franchise (and the local fans) after he leaves while one guy is doing something that is going to help the franchise (and local fans) after he leaves while being able to achieve the same result (leaving for a destination more or less of their choice), then I am going to side with the guy whose actions will be more beneficial to the franchise (and local fans) moving forward. Just because a player has every right to do something doesn't mean it's something that, as fans, should be looked at positively.

Howard quit? Ok. So did Lebron or have you forgotten the previous two close out series LeBron was a part of in Cleveland?

Cleveland was able to get Kyrie because they sucked so bad without LeBron and they might get Bynum because of the cap space and the draft picks that Miami gave them for LeBron

 

[Mr. Soup Nazi]

Blah blah blah, Lebron, blah blah blah, Kobe, blah blah blah Dwight...

I'm going back to the POLEMAGGEDON.

 

[Cliff Clavin]

They are both dbags in their own way.

If you want to compare at a high level, you will win.

If you want to start digging deeper, this gets pretty interesting.

Why didn't Lebron sign longer extensions? Did that not handcuff the Cavs?

What is to make of the Beijing rumors of these guys developing plans that far back? Is that not tampering? Is that fair to the Cavs?

Did Lebron continue his work as the best player in the NBA against the Celtics in the Spring of 2010? Many will tell you he didn't want to win that series so he could line up another excuse to bolt.

I have to run.....but I just think now that we're 2+ yrs removed we start fogetting about some of the actions leading up to the "decision" show. And there are more...

Yes, I'm sure we could dig up more on both of them acting like morons. Even if LeBron had made up his mind the year he came into the league that the super friends would be going to Miami eventually, I have zero problem with him not saying that. He shouldn't have mislead Cleveland with stuff like 'they're the favorite' or whatever he actually said. But that is a pretty minor offense compared to what Howard has done IMO.

I really can't understand why these guys don't simply say, 'No, I'm not talking about my contract situation'. Is it really that hard?

If you are asking publicly, it's because the media will continue to bombard them. They are simply too weak to do that. They don't realize that, no matter what they say or don't say, as long as they are in the last year of their contract, it is going to be a huge issue, and bigger issue the more important the player.Wouldn't you rather a player for the Raptors let the Raptors know beforehand that he isn't going to re-sign with them, so that your Raps could get some assets in return? As a Laker fan, I really don't care what LeBron did or didn't do as he wasn't going to be a Laker barring a sign and trade. As a Laker fan with some sort of understanding of the actual ramifications of leaving via free agency, I think it is a much better thing for a player to do for any franchise to let them know up front so that they can begin making moves to acquire assets for your departure.

Like when Bosh left? Sure I'd rather they got some assets for him (other than the meager picks in the sign and trade) but I don't hold it against him. He handled the media portion of it very well. It could be argued that he quit in the waning months of the season though. It is the managements job to gauge the ability to re-sign a player. If anything, my beef would be with Colangelo not moving him at the trade deadline. It had become pretty clear that a Bosh lead team wasn't going to win #### so he shouldn't have taken the risk of letting him walk.

If a player continually say 'No comment' or 'Don't ask me about XXX or I'll never answer your questions again' the question will stop pretty quickly. It becomes such a big issue before the players don't put their foot down about it and basically incite the rumors themselves.

 

[Gr00vus]

If a player continually say 'No comment' or 'Don't ask me about XXX or I'll never answer your questions again' the question will stop pretty quickly. It becomes such a big issue before the players don't put their foot down about it and basically incite the rumors themselves.

Then Nathan Thurm David Stern hands them a nice fine. I don't know how many players would actually take advantage of not having to talk to the press, but they don't really have that choice. Granted your point is more that they could choose not to answer questions about that particular topic, but they can't invoke the nuclear option as a deterrent either.

 

[Cliff Clavin]

If a player continually say 'No comment' or 'Don't ask me about XXX or I'll never answer your questions again' the question will stop pretty quickly. It becomes such a big issue before the players don't put their foot down about it and basically incite the rumors themselves.

Then Nathan Thurm David Stern hands them a nice fine. I don't know how many players would actually take advantage of not having to talk to the press, but they don't really have that choice. Granted your point is more that they could choose not to answer questions about that particular topic, but they can't invoke the nuclear option as a deterrent either.

They could continue talking to the press, just not the idiot media members who can't follow instructions. I doubt Stern would fine them for that.

 

[Captain Quinoa]

Cleveland was able to get Kyrie because they sucked so bad without LeBron

Actually, sucking only got them Tristan Thompson. Taking on Baron Davis' awful contract got them Kyrie.

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

Team USA

Spoiler

Mike Trudell: Your final: USA 118, Great Britain 78. Kobe played well in just 18 minutes, had fun cheering the young guys on the bench. 3 minutes ago

 

[Captain Quinoa]

Team USA

Spoiler

Mike Trudell: Your final: USA 118, Great Britain 78. Kobe played well in just 18 minutes, had fun cheering the young guys on the bench. 3 minutes ago

How did Lin do?

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

Team USA

Spoiler

Mike Trudell: Your final: USA 118, Great Britain 78. Kobe played well in just 18 minutes, had fun cheering the young guys on the bench. 3 minutes ago

How did Lin do?Unconfirmed, but it appears he made his owner $20MM today.

 

[pollardsvision]

Will be interesting to see how Kobe plays without the ball more often than ever now that there is a real pg and a real post presence. What is jmon going to do? He loves "drew" and said how he did not want howard at all.

Q1-3 = Dwight & NashQ4 = a rested Kobe

Nash and Dwight better build a massive lead...

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

Gary Washburn: NBA source confirms @spearsNBAYahoo report that JaJuan Johnson headed to #rockets in sign-and-trade for Courtney Lee, more details to come

Rockets haz all the PFs.

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

Mark Followill: In 5 yrs w/ ATL, Jet 16.2 pts, 42.7%FG 36.7% 3pt. Avg 130 3ptM/yr. In 4 yrs w/ Mem, OJ 15.2 pts 43.3%FG 37.5% 3pt. Avg 119 3ptM/yr 1 minute ago

Did the Mavs just get a younger Jet?

 

[Abraham]

Gary Washburn: NBA source confirms @spearsNBAYahoo report that JaJuan Johnson headed to #rockets in sign-and-trade for Courtney Lee, more details to come

Rockets haz all the PFs.

Interesting trade. I'm happy for Lee - he is a good player and deserves to be somewhere that he is wanted and will get some minutes.No idea if he has put on any weight or not, but if the season started tomorrow the Rockets would be starting Patrick Patterson at center. Even with Asik expected to come on board, the PF/C position is mostly 6'9 offensive oriented players. If Johnson can defend well in the middle he might get some minutes.

 

[Craig_MiamiFL]

Lee to Celtics

Rotoworld.com

JaJuan Johnson - F - Rockets

Forward JaJuan Johnson is being sent to the Rockets in a sign-and-trade deal that will send SG Courtney Lee to Boston.

Rookie Royce White already looks like he's going to be an NBA superstar, while Patrick Patterson and Marcus Morris will each require minutes at power forward. This doesn't look to be a positive move for Johnson, unless the Rockets get rid of some of his competition.

And a related congrats on the Rotoworld gig Abe.

 

[Abraham]

Rockets actually got a bit more than first reported..

Steve Bulpett: Celtics will send E'Twaun Moore, JaJuan Johnson, Sean Williams and 2nd rd pick in Courtney Lee trade

 

[scoobus]

Rockets actually got a bit more than first reported..

Steve Bulpett: Celtics will send E'Twaun Moore, JaJuan Johnson, Sean Williams and 2nd rd pick in Courtney Lee trade

So pretty much nothing...

 

[Abraham]

Rockets actually got a bit more than first reported..

Steve Bulpett: Celtics will send E'Twaun Moore, JaJuan Johnson, Sean Williams and 2nd rd pick in Courtney Lee trade

So pretty much nothing...

I tihink we're up to 4 second round picks next season.

 

[Good Posting Judge]

Didn't Cleveland say they would never trade Lebron? My memory could be hazy (I drink A LOT), but I thought that was the case.

Technically, they did trade him to Miami.

 

[Abraham]

GRantland...

Here's the bad news for Rockets fans: It's looking more and more like Houston won't be getting Dwight Howard. Here's the good news: All the assets that Houston piled up in their attempt to get Dwight are going to make up a team that is fun as hell to watch.Most of the talk about the Rockets has revolved around Howard and the guy who will be playing point guard for them next year, but in watching clips of Houston’s summer league games, the new guys are the ones I’m excited about. In five games, Jeremy Lamb — this year’s Guy Who Got Drafted Too Late for No Good Reason — has put up more than 20 points per game on 46.7 percent shooting. In his 26-point outing against the Wizards, he scored from just about everywhere on the floor. The concern about Lamb was that he struggled to be efficient as UConn’s primary scorer, and while that hasn't been assuaged by five games against guys fighting for roster spots, he’s had one of the better showings in Vegas.Fellow first-round pick Terrence Jones has spent most of the summer league showing that the idea of him being a better NBA player than a college one is warranted. In talking to a friend on draft night, one thought we had about Jones was what, if any, truly exceptional NBA skills he had. Then we decided that being 6-foot-9, 250-pound dude with lift, soft hands, and a feel for the game should probably count as a plus NBA skill.If early highlights are any indication, Royce White’s plus NBA skill is making unnecessarily awesome passes. I want to see so many more of these.Making his debut alongside Houston’s picks from this year’s draft is last year’s 20th overall pick and 2011 Grantland YouTube Draft star Donatas Motiejunas. It took about a quarter of Motiejunas’s summer league debut against Toronto for him to become Chris Webber’s new favorite NBA player. The 7-foot Lithuanian scored 25 points on a combo of silky 3s and sneaky low-post moves that couldn’t have made Rockets coach and third man in the booth Kevin McHale any prouder. It feels good to have the world finally know what we at Grantland have believed so firmly for the past year: Donatas is a star.All of this is without Jeremy Lin and Omer Asik, whose offer the Bulls are apparently not going to match because they want to sign Darko Milicic and ruin my life. At least as Chicago’s season devolves into a total train wreck, I’ll be able to count on the post-Dwight Rockets as a weekly basketball savior. Who isn’t excited to watch this team?

 

[thecatch]

Royce white can pass at an elite level but I don't think he is going to be athletic enough to play minutes against starting caliber NBA 4's. And he can't shoot. Summer league fool's gold IMO.

 

[Abraham]

Royce white can pass at an elite level but I don't think he is going to be athletic enough to play minutes against starting caliber NBA 4's. And he can't shoot. Summer league fool's gold IMO.

Agreed. He's too easy to stop one on one. Unless he becomes an excellent rebounder. on-man defender, or develops a jumper, he will struggle to find minutes.