timschochet's thread - Ranking hemorrhoids (1 Viewer)

[Village Idiot]

Pretty sure the lakers are a 4 or 5 seed in the west this year.

Better than?

Warriors - NO

Grizzlies - NO

Clippers - NO

Rockets - NO

Mavericks - NO

Pelicans - NO

Jazz - NO

Even if the Lakers somehow end up better than 2 of those teams no chance they are a 4 or 5.

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

Pretty sure the lakers are a 4 or 5 seed in the west this year.

Better than?

Warriors - NO

Grizzlies - NO

Clippers - NO

Rockets - NO

Mavericks - NO

Pelicans - NO

Jazz - NO

Even if the Lakers somehow end up better than 2 of those teams no chance they are a 4 or 5.

Don't forget OUR WOLVES!

 

[Todem]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

I also think it's mitigated some since Green and Leonard can guard the perimeter so well. They do want Manu back as well, so I wouldn't be shocked if he becomes a de facto 15-20 minute backup PG or if the go with Diaw with LMA, Duncan, Green, and Leonard and start the offense through him.

Ginobili and Diaw also looked very pedestrian last year as well. The supporting cast just won't be as good as previous years. I'm sure Pop will coach em up and they'll find some nice players on the cheap somehow, but the old guys are all starting to fall off a cliff, other than Duncan.

Lebron attempting to go to a 6th straight Finals.

He will have a rough time staying at the top of his game in 2015/16 He is human and his body will start to break down shortly. Kyrie and Love must...must take a much bigger load this season (Kyrie was great but Love must emerge and be the player they just signed on both ends of the floor).

It's not that easy.

 

[PlasmaDogPlasma]

Cavs trading for Joe Johnson seems like it would be a bad move for them. Doesnt make sense IMO.

Johnson's still a decent player, and the Cavs would only be giving up Haywood and Varejao.

From a financial standpoint, Johnson's contract is awful but its in its last year. Varejao has 2 years left, so the Cavs would be shedding his 9.3M salary for 2016-17.

Basically it comes down to whether Cleveland can get anything better for Haywood's voidable deal.

This is the part I don't like.

Plus with Bron, Love, and Irving I would prefer a player more suited for the role player spot, sort of like Shumpert who can play really good D and hit open shots.

To me it just doesnt seem like that great of a fit. If he was much cheaper sure, but it seems like that contract would inhibit their ability to sign someone who would help more.

It does not change their ability to sign players in any way. They are so far over the cap that they can only use the mini-MLE (~$3.5mm) and vet minimums to sign outside players. They cannot even do sign and trades. They can only trade current assets (Haywood Contract, Andy, rights to S. Kaun, Joe Harris, rookies, etc..) for whatever matching salary players they can get in return. If the best they can do is Haywood+Varejao for Iso Joe then so be it. There's worse guys you could stick out there to spot up for threes and post up once in a while. I assume for relieving the Nets of the salary and repeater tax they would also get other players or draft picks or pick swaps or something in return.

This. Would be a great move for the Cavs imo. You lose nothing and you gain a former stud that would just have to be a nice role player for you on this squad.

Is Joe Johnson going to be OK with this?

 

[No. 16]

If the Cavs get Johnson, I'm going to cry. You know how JR Smith can lose you games by being JR Smith.....well JJ is the exact opposite.

What a crazy off-season. I hope the Dubs can snag David West. He's an upgrade, but we need to get him just so one of the other teams don't.

 

[Kev4029]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

I also think it's mitigated some since Green and Leonard can guard the perimeter so well. They do want Manu back as well, so I wouldn't be shocked if he becomes a de facto 15-20 minute backup PG or if the go with Diaw with LMA, Duncan, Green, and Leonard and start the offense through him.

Ginobili and Diaw also looked very pedestrian last year as well. The supporting cast just won't be as good as previous years. I'm sure Pop will coach em up and they'll find some nice players on the cheap somehow, but the old guys are all starting to fall off a cliff, other than Duncan.

Lebron attempting to go to a 6th straight Finals.

He will have a rough time staying at the top of his game in 2015/16 He is human and his body will start to break down shortly. Kyrie and Love must...must take a much bigger load this season (Kyrie was great but Love must emerge and be the player they just signed on both ends of the floor)

I don't disagree with that. I just think people are just getting ahead of themselves with the Spurs.

 

[Instinctive]

Pretty sure the lakers are a 4 or 5 seed in the west this year.

Better than?

Warriors - NO

Grizzlies - NO

Clippers - NO

Rockets - NO

Mavericks - NO

Pelicans - NO

Jazz - NO

Even if the Lakers somehow end up better than 2 of those teams no chance they are a 4 or 5.

Don't forget OUR WOLVES!

Maybe a year early on Minnesota, but:

And the Thunder.

And Phoenix.

Sort of joking, but Demarcus Cousins is good enough even with all the dysfunction to potentially propel the Kings above LA on his own.

We'll see how far Portland falls too. Not sure it's that far past LA, if at all.

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

Cavs trading for Joe Johnson seems like it would be a bad move for them. Doesnt make sense IMO.

Johnson's still a decent player, and the Cavs would only be giving up Haywood and Varejao.

From a financial standpoint, Johnson's contract is awful but its in its last year. Varejao has 2 years left, so the Cavs would be shedding his 9.3M salary for 2016-17.

Basically it comes down to whether Cleveland can get anything better for Haywood's voidable deal.

This is the part I don't like.

Plus with Bron, Love, and Irving I would prefer a player more suited for the role player spot, sort of like Shumpert who can play really good D and hit open shots.

To me it just doesnt seem like that great of a fit. If he was much cheaper sure, but it seems like that contract would inhibit their ability to sign someone who would help more.

It does not change their ability to sign players in any way. They are so far over the cap that they can only use the mini-MLE (~$3.5mm) and vet minimums to sign outside players. They cannot even do sign and trades. They can only trade current assets (Haywood Contract, Andy, rights to S. Kaun, Joe Harris, rookies, etc..) for whatever matching salary players they can get in return. If the best they can do is Haywood+Varejao for Iso Joe then so be it. There's worse guys you could stick out there to spot up for threes and post up once in a while. I assume for relieving the Nets of the salary and repeater tax they would also get other players or draft picks or pick swaps or something in return.

This. Would be a great move for the Cavs imo. You lose nothing and you gain a former stud that would just have to be a nice role player for you on this squad.

Is Joe Johnson going to be OK with this?

Would think he'd be happy to finally have a shot at a ring...especially at his age.

 

[Kev4029]

Am I wrong to like what the Kings did this o

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

I also think it's mitigated some since Green and Leonard can guard the perimeter so well. They do want Manu back as well, so I wouldn't be shocked if he becomes a de facto 15-20 minute backup PG or if the go with Diaw with LMA, Duncan, Green, and Leonard and start the offense through him.

Ginobili and Diaw also looked very pedestrian last year as well. The supporting cast just won't be as good as previous years. I'm sure Pop will coach em up and they'll find some nice players on the cheap somehow, but the old guys are all starting to fall off a cliff, other than Duncan.

Call me crazy, but I'm sure they'll gladly roll with 3 top 20 players...that'll take a lot of stress off what the old guys.

You need to have somebody that can initiate the offense, if Diaw, Parker and Ginobili (who may retire anyway) all continue to decline, they are going to have a really hard time.

 

[Kev4029]

Cavs trading for Joe Johnson seems like it would be a bad move for them. Doesnt make sense IMO.

Johnson's still a decent player, and the Cavs would only be giving up Haywood and Varejao.

From a financial standpoint, Johnson's contract is awful but its in its last year. Varejao has 2 years left, so the Cavs would be shedding his 9.3M salary for 2016-17.

Basically it comes down to whether Cleveland can get anything better for Haywood's voidable deal.

This is the part I don't like.

Plus with Bron, Love, and Irving I would prefer a player more suited for the role player spot, sort of like Shumpert who can play really good D and hit open shots.

To me it just doesnt seem like that great of a fit. If he was much cheaper sure, but it seems like that contract would inhibit their ability to sign someone who would help more.

It does not change their ability to sign players in any way. They are so far over the cap that they can only use the mini-MLE (~$3.5mm) and vet minimums to sign outside players. They cannot even do sign and trades. They can only trade current assets (Haywood Contract, Andy, rights to S. Kaun, Joe Harris, rookies, etc..) for whatever matching salary players they can get in return. If the best they can do is Haywood+Varejao for Iso Joe then so be it. There's worse guys you could stick out there to spot up for threes and post up once in a while. I assume for relieving the Nets of the salary and repeater tax they would also get other players or draft picks or pick swaps or something in return.

This. Would be a great move for the Cavs imo. You lose nothing and you gain a former stud that would just have to be a nice role player for you on this squad.

Is Joe Johnson going to be OK with this?

Would think he'd be happy to finally have a shot at a ring...especially at his age.

His role has been slowly shrinking over the last half decade. He's not necessarily a role player, but it doesn't seem he has an issue with letting other players do a lot of the ball handling anymore.

 

[Freelove]

If the Cavs get Johnson, I'm going to cry. You know how JR Smith can lose you games by being JR Smith.....well JJ is the exact opposite.

What a crazy off-season. I hope the Dubs can snag David West. He's an upgrade, but we need to get him just so one of the other teams don't.

The big deal with JJ wouldn't be the improvement over the existing roster, it would be the depth in case of injury -- vital since your talking about team full of candybones.

The talent bump is just superfluous. The guys they already had were 33-3 down the stretch, and if they had anything resembling health, sweep that finals series in a laugher.

They aren't sweating JR's being JR. That team as constructed ran laps around the NBA the last two months of the year. They just need to get to the wire with a decent amount of the team still playing.

 

[tommyGunZ]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

With Parker not only is his health a concern, but he was very average last year and they lost Cory Joseph to a massive overpay from the Raptors. Tony Parker was basically Jeremy Lin last year.

Overpay this year. Right in line with backup PG money in the next couple years.

Don't like the signing though regardless of money...

Joseph at 4/30 is indeed a massive overpay, especially when they just let Lou Will walk for 3/21. They paid more for a significant downgrade.m

 

[Todem]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

I also think it's mitigated some since Green and Leonard can guard the perimeter so well. They do want Manu back as well, so I wouldn't be shocked if he becomes a de facto 15-20 minute backup PG or if the go with Diaw with LMA, Duncan, Green, and Leonard and start the offense through him.

Ginobili and Diaw also looked very pedestrian last year as well. The supporting cast just won't be as good as previous years. I'm sure Pop will coach em up and they'll find some nice players on the cheap somehow, but the old guys are all starting to fall off a cliff, other than Duncan.

Lebron attempting to go to a 6th straight Finals.

He will have a rough time staying at the top of his game in 2015/16 He is human and his body will start to break down shortly. Kyrie and Love must...must take a much bigger load this season (Kyrie was great but Love must emerge and be the player they just signed on both ends of the floor)

I don't disagree with that. I just think people are just getting ahead of themselves with the Spurs.

I agree. They are long in the tooth too. Aldridge is a heck of signing though. But if Parker can't stay on the court that team is in big trouble. He is the key to everything they do IMO. Without him causing the chaos in the paint with his quickness and slashing......they are not the same team at all.

If The Cav's (and it appears it is a matter of time) acquire Joe Johnson that will be huge, Guy can flat out score and take a lot of pressure off Lebron in spurts.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

So if they do the joe Johnson deal, what's the Cavs roster? Is Haywood and varjeo really all it will take?

 

[Capella]

The talent bump is just superfluous. The guys they already had were 33-3 down the stretch, and if they had anything resembling health, sweep that finals series in a laugher.

 

[tommyGunZ]

Kev is right, the Spurs getting LA was a big signing but the age of their backcourt is going to be a significant obstacle to overcome.

 

[Cliff Clavin]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

With Parker not only is his health a concern, but he was very average last year and they lost Cory Joseph to a massive overpay from the Raptors. Tony Parker was basically Jeremy Lin last year.

Overpay this year. Right in line with backup PG money in the next couple years.Don't like the signing though regardless of money...

Joseph at 4/30 is indeed a massive overpay, especially when they just let Lou Will walk for 3/21. They paid more for a significant downgrade.m

It's like you've never watched Williams play before. There is a reason Toronto didn't even offer him a contract.

 

[Captain Quinoa]

So if they do the joe Johnson deal, what's the Cavs roster? Is Haywood and varjeo really all it will take?

Irving, Delly

Johnson, Shumpert, Joe Harris

Lebron, Miller

Love, (David West placeholder)

Mozgov, Thompson

 

[Timmay]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

With Parker not only is his health a concern, but he was very average last year and they lost Cory Joseph to a massive overpay from the Raptors. Tony Parker was basically Jeremy Lin last year.

Overpay this year. Right in line with backup PG money in the next couple years.

Don't like the signing though regardless of money...

Joseph at 4/30 is indeed a massive overpay, especially when they just let Lou Will walk for 3/21. They paid more for a significant downgrade.m

I think Joseph is an overpay, but Lou Williams is also overrated and I don't think Joseph should be compared to Lou, he should be compared to Vazquez, who I think is an upgrade to him. Williams doesn't do anything but score. Joseph and Vazquez were different players completely.

 

[tommyGunZ]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

With Parker not only is his health a concern, but he was very average last year and they lost Cory Joseph to a massive overpay from the Raptors. Tony Parker was basically Jeremy Lin last year.

Overpay this year. Right in line with backup PG money in the next couple years.Don't like the signing though regardless of money...

Joseph at 4/30 is indeed a massive overpay, especially when they just let Lou Will walk for 3/21. They paid more for a significant downgrade.m

It's like you've never watched Williams play before. There is a reason Toronto didn't even offer him a contract.

I've watched Williams plenty, and Jamal Crawford for years as well. Reserve guys who can get buckets are extremely valuable in today's game. You can never have too many shooters, and there are not enough of them to go around In the NBA.

 

[Captain Quinoa]

The talent bump is just superfluous. The guys they already had were 33-3 down the stretch, and if they had anything resembling health, sweep that finals series in a laugher.

Even I wouldn't go that far.

 

[NutterButter]

So if they do the joe Johnson deal, what's the Cavs roster? Is Haywood and varjeo really all it will take?

Irving, Delly

Johnson, Shumpert, Joe Harris

Lebron, Miller

Love, (David West placeholder)

Mozgov, Thompson

They still have Jones?

 

[Captain Quinoa]

So if they do the joe Johnson deal, what's the Cavs roster? Is Haywood and varjeo really all it will take?

Irving, Delly

Johnson, Shumpert, Joe Harris

Lebron, Miller

Love, (David West placeholder)

Mozgov, Thompson

They still have Jones?

I think he's a UFA. Might come back on the min to fill out the roster. Delly and Thompson obviously not officially back yet either.

 

[Cliff Clavin]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

With Parker not only is his health a concern, but he was very average last year and they lost Cory Joseph to a massive overpay from the Raptors. Tony Parker was basically Jeremy Lin last year.

Overpay this year. Right in line with backup PG money in the next couple years.Don't like the signing though regardless of money...

Joseph at 4/30 is indeed a massive overpay, especially when they just let Lou Will walk for 3/21. They paid more for a significant downgrade.m

It's like you've never watched Williams play before. There is a reason Toronto didn't even offer him a contract.

I've watched Williams plenty, and Jamal Crawford for years as well. Reserve guys who can get buckets are extremely valuable in today's game. You can never have too many shooters, and there are not enough of them to go around on the NBA.

Oh Williams is definitely a shooter. He'll shoot and shoot and shoot. Just don't ask him to do anything else. And don't ask him to make very many of those shots either.

I forget that you're a big fan of inefficient chuckers. You're going to absolutely love Sweet Lou.

 

[Timmay]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

With Parker not only is his health a concern, but he was very average last year and they lost Cory Joseph to a massive overpay from the Raptors. Tony Parker was basically Jeremy Lin last year.

Overpay this year. Right in line with backup PG money in the next couple years.Don't like the signing though regardless of money...

Joseph at 4/30 is indeed a massive overpay, especially when they just let Lou Will walk for 3/21. They paid more for a significant downgrade.m

It's like you've never watched Williams play before. There is a reason Toronto didn't even offer him a contract.

I've watched Williams plenty, and Jamal Crawford for years as well. Reserve guys who can get buckets are extremely valuable in today's game. You can never have too many shooters, and there are not enough of them to go around on the NBA.

Oh Williams is definitely a shooter. He'll shoot and shoot and shoot. Just don't ask him to do anything else. And don't ask him to make very many of those shots either.

I forget that you're a big fan of inefficient chuckers. You're going to absolutely love Sweet Lou.

I NEED the Lakers to keep Kobe, Swaggy P, and Sweet Lou, Sign JR Smith, and trade for Dion Waiters. Get it done Buss.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

As fun as it is to laugh at the Kings, Knicks, and Lakers, the Blazers and Clippers had by far the worst offseasons in the league.

No way the Knicks had a bad offseason, This was a team devoid of talent and by some shrewd moves they now actually have a roster can make the playoffs. Even more they have actually have positioned themselves for future with only Melo and Lopez as long contracts. Lopez, Derrick Williams, Grant, Porzingis, and KOQ ill put those names up against alot of other teams offseason.

They signed Aaron Affalo as well. There will be something to watch next year at least and will still be in good position to add pieces in 2016 (although almost everyone will be).

 

[saintfool]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

With Parker not only is his health a concern, but he was very average last year and they lost Cory Joseph to a massive overpay from the Raptors. Tony Parker was basically Jeremy Lin last year.

i think Pop will do what he has done with Manu and Timmy in that he'll limit the regular season minutes for him. he can get a back up - preferably an experienced one with a high IQ like Andre Miller - easily enough, i think. Tony needs to look at his effectiveness in the postseason if he's to be the bridge to the future.

 

[Capella]

http://deadspin.com/report-deandre-jordan-was-sick-and-tired-of-chris-paul-1715965713?utm_campaign=socialflow_deadspin_twitter&utm_source=deadspin_twitter&utm_medium=socialflow

Great job CP

 

[NutterButter]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

With Parker not only is his health a concern, but he was very average last year and they lost Cory Joseph to a massive overpay from the Raptors. Tony Parker was basically Jeremy Lin last year.

i think Pop will do what he has done with Manu and Timmy in that he'll limit the regular season minutes for him. he can get a back up - preferably an experienced one with a high IQ like Andre Miller - easily enough, i think. Tony needs to look at his effectiveness in the postseason if he's to be the bridge to the future.

Don't they still have Patty Mills?

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

Wolves 15 man roster projection:

PG: Rubio, Tyus

SG: K. Martin, LaVine, Budinger

SF: Wiggins, Shabazz, Hummel

PF: Towns, Payne, Bjelica, Bennett

C: Dieng, Pekovic, Garnett

If they move Bennett as rumored, then Lo Brown probably gets in there for PG depth.

If healthy, should be a pretty fun team to watch, but last year just about everyone died at some point. Pek is so injury riddled that no one really wants him anymore even though 3/36M remaining is a palatable contract in today's new salary cap world. Rubio seems to get hurt in weird ways every year. Shabazz gets hurt a lot; Garnett isn't worth much more than 10-15 mpg.

I expect once the injuries start piling up again they look to trade K. Martin to a contender (assuming he doesn't die again as well). He's only owed 2/14M at this point and is a competent scorer still.

Still a year away from the possibly making playoffs I think, but will definitely be fun to watch. Would love a full year of Rubio with guys like Wiggins/Towns/Lavine running and guys like Wiggins/Martin/Bjelica/Shabazz and maybe Towns shooting it.

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

With Parker not only is his health a concern, but he was very average last year and they lost Cory Joseph to a massive overpay from the Raptors. Tony Parker was basically Jeremy Lin last year.

Overpay this year. Right in line with backup PG money in the next couple years.Don't like the signing though regardless of money...

Joseph at 4/30 is indeed a massive overpay, especially when they just let Lou Will walk for 3/21. They paid more for a significant downgrade.m

It's like you've never watched Williams play before. There is a reason Toronto didn't even offer him a contract.

I've watched Williams plenty, and Jamal Crawford for years as well. Reserve guys who can get buckets are extremely valuable in today's game. You can never have too many shooters, and there are not enough of them to go around on the NBA.

Oh Williams is definitely a shooter. He'll shoot and shoot and shoot. Just don't ask him to do anything else. And don't ask him to make very many of those shots either.

I forget that you're a big fan of inefficient chuckers. You're going to absolutely love Sweet Lou.

I NEED the Lakers to keep Kobe, Swaggy P, and Sweet Lou, Sign JR Smith, and trade for Dion Waiters. Get it done Buss.

Would rule. Need like 3 basketballs though.

 

[sjslacker]

How confident are we that Duncan continues near his performance level from last year? He was amazing and has the ultimate old man game (along with Pierce).

Can't wait to see how things shake out in the West next year. The entire Southwest division is going to make the playoffs.

Arrow UP

SA

OKC

Dal

NO

Utah

Min

Arrow DOWN

Por

LAC

Arrow MEH

GS

Hou

Mem

Pho

Den

Sac

LAL

 

[Joe T]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

With Parker not only is his health a concern, but he was very average last year and they lost Cory Joseph to a massive overpay from the Raptors. Tony Parker was basically Jeremy Lin last year.

Overpay this year. Right in line with backup PG money in the next couple years.Don't like the signing though regardless of money...

Joseph at 4/30 is indeed a massive overpay, especially when they just let Lou Will walk for 3/21. They paid more for a significant downgrade.m

It's like you've never watched Williams play before. There is a reason Toronto didn't even offer him a contract.

I've watched Williams plenty, and Jamal Crawford for years as well. Reserve guys who can get buckets are extremely valuable in today's game. You can never have too many shooters, and there are not enough of them to go around on the NBA.

Oh Williams is definitely a shooter. He'll shoot and shoot and shoot. Just don't ask him to do anything else. And don't ask him to make very many of those shots either.

I forget that you're a big fan of inefficient chuckers. You're going to absolutely love Sweet Lou.

I NEED the Lakers to keep Kobe, Swaggy P, and Sweet Lou, Sign JR Smith, and trade for Dion Waiters. Get it done Buss.

That's a 50 win team right there.

 

[No. 16]

Warriors should be an arrow up. I know they won the title, but the main players are young enough to still improve.

Curry is likely at his physical peak at 27, but his understating of the game should improve. Klay needs to work on his consistency and improve his handles/play making. Draymond just needs to improve his 3 point shot. Barnes is only 23 years old and a huge leap from him could still be possible.

If Min and Utah are getting the up arrow based on youth, Dubs should have one too.

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

Warriors should be an arrow up. I know they won the title, but the main players are young enough to still improve.

Curry is likely at his physical peak at 27, but his understating of the game should improve.

Klay needs to work on his consistency and improve his handles/play making. Draymond just needs to improve his 3 point shot. Barnes is only 23 years old and a huge leap from him could still be possible.

If Mom and Utah are getting the up arrow based on youth, Dubs should have one too.

Would agree. Also proud of you for using Warriors at least once.

 

[Jayrod]

How confident are we that Duncan continues near his performance level from last year? He was amazing and has the ultimate old man game (along with Pierce).

Can't wait to see how things shake out in the West next year. The entire Southwest division is going to make the playoffs.

Arrow UP

SA

OKC

Dal

NO

Utah

Min

Arrow DOWN

Por

LAC

Arrow MEH

GS

Hou

Mem

Pho

Den

Sac

LAL

I hate how I'm now an LA Lakers apologist, but their arrow is up. Added two good pieces at PG & C and get back a healthy Randle.

 

[Captain Quinoa]

Wolves 15 man roster projection:

PG: Rubio, Tyus

SG: K. Martin, LaVine, Budinger

SF: Wiggins, Shabazz, Hummel

PF: Towns, Payne, Bjelica, Bennett

C: Dieng, Pekovic, Garnett

If they move Bennett as rumored, then Lo Brown probably gets in there for PG depth.

If healthy, should be a pretty fun team to watch, but last year just about everyone died at some point. Pek is so injury riddled that no one really wants him anymore even though 3/36M remaining is a palatable contract in today's new salary cap world. Rubio seems to get hurt in weird ways every year. Shabazz gets hurt a lot; Garnett isn't worth much more than 10-15 mpg.

I expect once the injuries start piling up again they look to trade K. Martin to a contender (assuming he doesn't die again as well). He's only owed 2/14M at this point and is a competent scorer still.

Still a year away from the possibly making playoffs I think, but will definitely be fun to watch. Would love a full year of Rubio with guys like Wiggins/Towns/Lavine running and guys like Wiggins/Martin/Bjelica/Shabazz and maybe Towns shooting it.

Gonna stagnate until they start getting Hummel 30+ min/game.

 

[saintfool]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

With Parker not only is his health a concern, but he was very average last year and they lost Cory Joseph to a massive overpay from the Raptors. Tony Parker was basically Jeremy Lin last year.

i think Pop will do what he has done with Manu and Timmy in that he'll limit the regular season minutes for him. he can get a back up - preferably an experienced one with a high IQ like Andre Miller - easily enough, i think. Tony needs to look at his effectiveness in the postseason if he's to be the bridge to the future.

Don't they still have Patty Mills?

I'm pretty sure, yes, that he was one of the few contracts still on the books. that said, i like him as a shooter more than a distributor. his decision making is good, for the most part, but i like him punching up the 2nd unit.

 

[NutterButter]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

With Parker not only is his health a concern, but he was very average last year and they lost Cory Joseph to a massive overpay from the Raptors. Tony Parker was basically Jeremy Lin last year.

i think Pop will do what he has done with Manu and Timmy in that he'll limit the regular season minutes for him. he can get a back up - preferably an experienced one with a high IQ like Andre Miller - easily enough, i think. Tony needs to look at his effectiveness in the postseason if he's to be the bridge to the future.

Don't they still have Patty Mills?

I'm pretty sure, yes, that he was one of the few contracts still on the books. that said, i like him as a shooter more than a distributor. his decision making is good, for the most part, but i like him punching up the 2nd unit.

Agreed, but if Ginobli is also in that 2nd unit, where does Miller fit in unless they plan on going really small.

 

[sjslacker]

Warriors should be an arrow up. I know they won the title, but the main players are young enough to still improve.

Curry is likely at his physical peak at 27, but his understating of the game should improve. Klay needs to work on his consistency and improve his handles/play making. Draymond just needs to improve his 3 point shot. Barnes is only 23 years old and a huge leap from him could still be possible.

If Min and Utah are getting the up arrow based on youth, Dubs should have one too.

Agree with your points, however the reason why I lean towards having them even is because they were also very fortunate with health and they had a historically great season. Not sure if it's realistic to expect them to improve on 67 wins. Anyway, I hope you're right and I'm wrong. I am very hopeful their young core continues to improve, and another season in Kerr's system will only make them better.

 

[sjslacker]

How confident are we that Duncan continues near his performance level from last year? He was amazing and has the ultimate old man game (along with Pierce).

Can't wait to see how things shake out in the West next year. The entire Southwest division is going to make the playoffs.

Arrow UP

SA

OKC

Dal

NO

Utah

Min

Arrow DOWN

Por

LAC

Arrow MEH

GS

Hou

Mem

Pho

Den

Sac

LAL

I hate how I'm now an LA Lakers apologist, but their arrow is up. Added two good pieces at PG & C and get back a healthy Randle.

They also get an older Kobe coming off another major injury. Last year they weren't contending for the playoffs, I don't think they will be this year either, basically stuck in the same tier they were in.

 

[Good Posting Judge]

Warriors should be an arrow up. I know they won the title, but the main players are young enough to still improve.

Curry is likely at his physical peak at 27, but his understating of the game should improve. Klay needs to work on his consistency and improve his handles/play making. Draymond just needs to improve his 3 point shot. Barnes is only 23 years old and a huge leap from him could still be possible.

If Min and Utah are getting the up arrow based on youth, Dubs should have one too.

Agree with your points, however the reason why I lean towards having them even is because they were also very fortunate with health and they had a historically great season. Not sure if it's realistic to expect them to improve on 67 wins. Anyway, I hope you're right and I'm wrong. I am very hopeful their young core continues to improve, and another season in Kerr's system will only make them better.

Looney time!

 

[saintfool]

Are we ignoring the fact that Tony Parker is on the steep decline and is 33 years old?

He's definitely a wildcard. Health is certainly a major concern as would the health of Irving for the Cavs or a 34 Joe Johnson if they decide to acquire him.

With Parker not only is his health a concern, but he was very average last year and they lost Cory Joseph to a massive overpay from the Raptors. Tony Parker was basically Jeremy Lin last year.

i think Pop will do what he has done with Manu and Timmy in that he'll limit the regular season minutes for him. he can get a back up - preferably an experienced one with a high IQ like Andre Miller - easily enough, i think. Tony needs to look at his effectiveness in the postseason if he's to be the bridge to the future.

Don't they still have Patty Mills?

I'm pretty sure, yes, that he was one of the few contracts still on the books. that said, i like him as a shooter more than a distributor. his decision making is good, for the most part, but i like him punching up the 2nd unit.

Agreed, but if Ginobli is also in that 2nd unit, where does Miller fit in unless they plan on going really small.

Manu has a lot of institutional knowledge but he's become more of a liability than asset. i would rather he not comeback, honestly.

 

[No. 16]

Warriors should be an arrow up. I know they won the title, but the main players are young enough to still improve.

Curry is likely at his physical peak at 27, but his understating of the game should improve. Klay needs to work on his consistency and improve his handles/play making. Draymond just needs to improve his 3 point shot. Barnes is only 23 years old and a huge leap from him could still be possible.

If Min and Utah are getting the up arrow based on youth, Dubs should have one too.

Agree with your points, however the reason why I lean towards having them even is because they were also very fortunate with health and they had a historically great season. Not sure if it's realistic to expect them to improve on 67 wins. Anyway, I hope you're right and I'm wrong. I am very hopeful their young core continues to improve, and another season in Kerr's system will only make them better.

The end result may not be the same, but I would be very surprised if this team did not play better next year.

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

I'm really interested in seeing how Julius Randle pans out. It sounds as if Laker fans already have him as a stud 4/Buck Williams type. By most accounts he's not a great defender, goodish rebounder and not a shooter really. He's just 6'9" with shoes, but is a robust 250lbs. He's only 20 years old, and obviously there's room for improvement, but how effective will he be in year 1?

Edit: He's the exact same size as Carl Landry.

 

[thecatch]

It feels so wrong, but I don't hate what the Kings did this offseason. A team of:

WCS/Koufos

Cousins

Gay

McLemore

Rondo

Bench:

Belinelli

Collison

Casspi

Just doesn't seem horrible.

Yeah, Vlade rebounded well. It all hinges on the Cousins/Karl situation, of course. But in an imaginary world where that gets resolved, this team should push .500 and give the fans something to root for and justify new arena prices. The pick situation doesn't even look that bad: unless they implode, they'll send a late lottery pick to the Bulls this year, negating one of the Sixers' pick swaps. In 2017 the Sixers will have the right to swap but there's very little reason to believe that will happen unless the Kings somehow win the lottery (and even then, the Kings will probably be taking back a high pick so all is not lost). Then in 2018 the Kings either send a mid first to the Sixers, or nothing (if the Kings suck really bad).

So on paper it's the best roster the team has had since 2006. More likely is that the Karl/Cousins situation is resolved poorly and they implode again next year, but that was really outside Vlade's control (thanks Petey D and Vivek!).

 

[Jayrod]

I'm really interested in seeing how Julius Randle pans out. It sounds as if Laker fans already have him as a stud 4/Buck Williams type. By most accounts he's not a great defender, goodish rebounder and not a shooter really. He's just 6'9" with shoes, but is a robust 250lbs. He's only 20 years old, and obviously there's room for improvement, but how effective will he be in year 1?

Edit: He's the exact same size as Carl Landry.

Isn't he a lot like Zach Randolph? That's how I picture him.

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

I'm really interested in seeing how Julius Randle pans out. It sounds as if Laker fans already have him as a stud 4/Buck Williams type. By most accounts he's not a great defender, goodish rebounder and not a shooter really. He's just 6'9" with shoes, but is a robust 250lbs. He's only 20 years old, and obviously there's room for improvement, but how effective will he be in year 1?

Edit: He's the exact same size as Carl Landry.

Isn't he a lot like Zach Randolph? That's how I picture him.

Possibly, I'm not sure if he's that nifty offensively around the hoop, but few are.

Here's nbadraft.net's profile, they like his pick and pop ability at least:

Strengths: Very strong upper body and a reliable left hand ... He shows a strong motor, and finishes well around the rim with contact ... He is very skilled with his face up game and has shown some creative finishing ability ... He is very dangerous on P&R and Pick and Pop, because of his ability to hit mid-range jumpers ... Though he lacks elite explosiveness, he is able to use his strong frame to protect the ball and avoid blocks ... On the offensive boards he is an absolute beast, relentless in seeking out rebounds ... The same thing is true on the defensive end where he has natural instincts for rebounds ... A pretty good post defender, he uses his strong body to not allow taller opponents to get close to the rim ... He doesn’t have the quickest feet in the world, but definitely really good for a big, very balanced ... Potentially he can switch on P&R situations for a couple of dribbles, but needs to improve on his showing ... Randle is a mix of power, skills and balance that makes him a very interesting prospect ... Despite being just a freshman he could have an immediate impact in the NBA due to his strength and offensive skills ... He has drawn positive reviews for his attitude and coach-ability and appears to be a hard working kid that leaves everything on the floor every game and every practice ...

Weaknesses: Despite all the good things mentioned about his game there are a lot of concerns about Randle ... In a way Randle’s high energy, "bully ball" style of playing reminds some of how Shabazz, at a different position, overpowered people last year and we've seen how much the former UCLA small forward has struggled in the league ... It's been noted that Randle is undersized for the PF position, lacking ideal length with a sub 7 foot wingspan ... He may struggle to create looks against stronger, more athletic and taller opponents in the post ... Offensively his numbers on synergy indicate how difficult it has been for him to score on post moves with very low percentages on each low post block and over either shoulder ... It also doesn’t help matters that he is not able to utilize his right hand ... Very few, even highly talented, players are able to play at high level without being able to finish and make moves with both hands, as the book becomes well known and everyone overplays their strength. I’m not sure if Randle fits this category, but the fear is there ... His shooting isn’t consistent and despite good mechanics, his percentages are low and 3pts range is non-existent ... He will have to develop a consistent solid jumpshot to replicate the success of Zach Randolph and Michael Beasley when facing the basket ... Overall his game right now is based almost entirely on overpowering weaker opponents ... He is very skilled but it will be hard to find the same success overpowering post players in the league. Also it is worth considering that most of Randle’s game is below the rim ... His future will likely hinge more heavily than most prospects on landing in the right system, where a team has a vision of how to utilize him and makes sure he stays focused and works hard on the right skill development ... A bad team or loss or focus could pose a huge risk to his NBA career ...

Notes: One of the most polarizing prospects of this year's draft ... He started the year regarded as one of the top forwards in the country. Talented and tough he was the star player of the highly valued freshman class of Kentucky ... He has been very solid averaging 15 points and over 10 rebounds per game, but the poor performance of the Wildcats until the NCAA tournament seemed to have diminished the Randle brand ... His upside is in fact the same one he had one year ago, very limited. However he is definitely a player ready to produce ... You always know what you are going to get from him, and March Madness has proved he can help his team succeed ...

 

[Juxtatarot]

It feels so wrong, but I don't hate what the Kings did this offseason. A team of:

WCS/Koufos

Cousins

Gay

McLemore

Rondo

Bench:

Belinelli

Collison

Casspi

Just doesn't seem horrible.

Yeah, Vlade rebounded well. It all hinges on the Cousins/Karl situation, of course. But in an imaginary world where that gets resolved, this team should push .500 and give the fans something to root for and justify new arena prices. The pick situation doesn't even look that bad: unless they implode, they'll send a late lottery pick to the Bulls this year, negating one of the Sixers' pick swaps. In 2017 the Sixers will have the right to swap but there's very little reason to believe that will happen unless the Kings somehow win the lottery (and even then, the Kings will probably be taking back a high pick so all is not lost). Then in 2018 the Kings either send a mid first to the Sixers, or nothing (if the Kings suck really bad).

So on paper it's the best roster the team has had since 2006. More likely is that the Karl/Cousins situation is resolved poorly and they implode again next year, but that was really outside Vlade's control (thanks Petey D and Vivek!).

I'm concerned about Rondo. He's lost a lot of his explosiveness and his poor shooting has managed to regress. He's also proven to be a time bomb. Between Rondo and the Karl/Cousins situation, the chance of a trainwreck seems too high. I'm also not convinced about their defense or outside shooting. (Also Marco should help the latter some.)

 

[JMon348]

I'm really interested in seeing how Julius Randle pans out. It sounds as if Laker fans already have him as a stud 4/Buck Williams type. By most accounts he's not a great defender, goodish rebounder and not a shooter really. He's just 6'9" with shoes, but is a robust 250lbs. He's only 20 years old, and obviously there's room for improvement, but how effective will he be in year 1?

Edit: He's the exact same size as Carl Landry.

I think Paul Millsap is a nice comparison. By all accounts he's worked hard since he's recovered from surgery. He has shed some weight and has gotten quicker. Reporters have mentioned that they think he has increased his range out to the 3 point line and everyone has been raving about his workouts. We will see how he looks this Friday in Summer League.