The Hawks say Al Horford will miss 3-4 months with a torn pectoral muscle suffered during last night’s 96-84 loss at Indiana.. Horford is to get a second opinion on whether to proceed with the surgery. Under the most most optimistic time frame, Horford would return in mid-April. Atlanta’s final regular-season game is scheduled for April 26.

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HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Whatever slim shot the Atlanta Hawks had at acquiring Dwight Howard is likely gone.

After all, the Hawks were reportedly offering Al Horford and Joe Johnson to the Magic in exchange for Howard. Horford's injured pectoral muscle complicates things.

Of course, Howard, an Atlanta native, wouldn't sign an extension with the Hawks, as he prefers a bigger market to land lucrative sponsors and transition into the entertainment industry.

Think Los Angeles. Think New York. Maybe Dallas, if owner Mark Cuban works his magic. Not Atlanta, especially with Horford on the injured list for an extended period.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Sources reveal to SLAMonline that Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony recruited Josh Howard during the offseason to play in The Big Apple. Anthony called Howard multiple times, according to sources, to convince the former Wizards forward to join the Knicks’ frontcourt as Anthony’s backup.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: He wants Kenyon Martin. And he wanted Josh Howard.

Carmelo Anthony, the New York Knicks’ franchise player and star forward, hasn’t exactly been subtle with his opinion on personnel moves.

There were reports Anthony wants the Knicks to sign Martin, his former frontcourt partner and friend with the Denver Nuggets.

Martin, of course, can’t join an NBA team until March because he signed with a Chinese club during the lockout, so the former first overall pick must wait until the red tape clears.

Now reports are surfacing that Anthony wanted the Knicks to land Josh Howard, the versatile, do-everything swing who eventually ended up with the Utah Jazz.

Anthony’s input is great and he means well, but there’s a limit. NBA superstars will always have and give their opinion, however, the danger is when it seems like the inmates are running the asylum.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

The season is almost over. It is time to look back and reflect on the positives and negatives. The hype before tip-off was through the roof. There was a lot of anticipation on new rivalries and storylines to be played out. Will the South Beach trio work out? How will Blake Griffin play? Is Steve Nash’s window closed? Are the Lakers still the team to beat? Kevin Durant got the MVP? The Chicago Bulls are 4th seeders, right?

Dwyane Wade to Amarè Stoudemire: I got those "hunting" tips for you. Hit me on the cell L2MS.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It’s on.

Commissioner David Stern can say what he likes about achieving NFL-style parity between small and large markets.

Bottom line: he’s lying.

The NBA thrives when superstars are in major markets. And the NBA is at its best when superstars in major markets develop rivalries with other superstars in major markets.

So Amar’e Stoudemire and Dwyane Wade exchanging ‘hunting tips’ via twitter is great for the NBA, as it’s further proof the Knicks are once again relevant.

Will the Knicks challenge the Heat for supremacy in the Eastern Conference?

Probably not.

The Knicks are talented, and can score in bunches. However, I don’t think they’ll defend on a night-in, night-out basis to overtake the Heat. Not with offensive guru Mike D’Antoni on the sideline.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Glen Grunwald announced today that the Knicks have signed Baron Davis. Davis was waived by the Cavaliers last week under the league's amnesty provision.

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But the most interesting scenario I’ve heard all weekend is the idea that both (Baron) Davis and (Gilbert) Arenas could wind up in New York. One source close to the situation, in fact, says that the two Angelenos have discussed this concept.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Too many cooks in the kitchen. Too many chiefs, not enough followers. One ball, four first options.

You get the idea.

Gilbert Arenas and Baron Davis, both of whom dominate the ball, would confuse an already complicated situation in New York, where Carmelo Anthony and Amar’e Stoudemire sometimes battle for touches.

Sure, the names involved sound intriguing. However, free agency isn`t fantasy hoops.

If the Knicks are to contend they must fill out their roster with talented role players -not fading stars who may use the bright lights of Broadway to resurrect their career.

--Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

And I’m told that Arenas, in the wake of his Orlando release, has established a four-team wish list for resuming his comeback from the gunplay debacle in Washington that derailed his career and an unsuccessful stint with the Magic. The 29-year-old is holding out hope that the call comes from either the:

• Lakers …

• Heat …

• Knicks …

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It’s Christmas, so why shouldn’t Gilbert Arenas have a wish list?

Why shouldn’t a fading, shot-first combo guard, with a questionable attitude demand to play for top teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, New York Knicks, or whatever team Dwight Howard ends up on?

Perhaps Santa will provide this gift. Or perhaps the Lakers, Heat, and whatever team Howard goes to will have enough sense to steer clear of Arenas -even if he comes at a bargain basement wage.

There are rumors the Knicks will roll the dice on Arenas, but with a star-studded frontcourt they’d be better off chasing blending players.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
 

They are pursuing sore-backed veteran point guard Baron Davis, who cleared waivers last night, and the club also is focused on pursuing forward Travis Outlaw, the Nets’ amnesty cut, if he clears tonight at 8, The Post has learned.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Chris Paul isn’t coming. Perhaps Baron Davis will.

Word is the New York Knicks are attempting to sign Davis, who was recently amnesty-waived by the Cleveland Cavaliers.

On paper, this may work. Davis is an electric and dynamic talent. Many, like TNT broadcaster Kenny Smith, feel he has the skill-set to be a very good player.

However, the reality could be very different. Davis’ best years have past and poor fitness has hurt his form and durability.

The biggest issue with Davis in New York may be New York itself. The Big Apple will provide Davis with too many opportunities to continue pursuing his film and showbiz career.

--Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

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In episode XII of Out of Bounds, Marija "The Knicks Chick" Kero gives former and current 'Bocker Jared Jeffries a not-so-warm welcome back to the New York Knicks.

Carter waived Friday by Phoenix so Suns could buy out his $18 mil salary for $4 mil. Mavs quickly into advanced talks w/VC for vet depth.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: I don’t like it.

With the signing of Vince Carter and departure of Tyson Chandler, the world champion Dallas Mavericks have become a softer, perimeter team.

Carter, of course, has underachieved. Too often, he shies away from contact, refuses to do the all-important little things, and settles for low percentage shots.

The Mavericks provide an opportunity for the former All-Star to salvage his career -or what is left of it.

Will he grab the opportunity, though?

Give Chandler his due. Sure, his career had been mixed, but the seven-foot giant gave the Mavericks an inside, defensive presence that was key in winning a championship.

That element, however, is gone. Chandler is a Knick; Carter is on the verge of becoming a Maverick. And the world champions have taken a step back in the Western Conference.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

If Chauncey Billups was a rapper he would be Method Man. Sure, everyone knows who he is and that he’s good, but few people can point to a single specific performance to define him as such. And what makes both so unheralded is actually what makes them great; they are so good at doing what they do and at multiple facets consistently, that they are taken for granted.

In episode eleven of Out of Bounds, Marija "The Knicks Chick" Kero discusses the New York Knicks' acquisition of Carmelo Anthony.

Denver, what are you doing? Why is he still on the team? Trade him already. He’s still there? Look. I understand that people are trying to team up with others to win. That is fine. Whatever. The people of Denver should not have to put up with a whiny person putting bounties on porn stars via Twitter on someone like Kat Stacks. That is not a class act. Then he goes around and says that his Twitter was hacked. Come on, man! Stop playing!

The Knicks are nearing completion on a deal with Tyson Chandler worth $58 million over four seasons.After their efforts to trade for Chris Paul stalled, sources say the Knicks intensified their efforts to sign Chandler.

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HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: The NBA lockout and shortened season has created a tight window for free agents, so multiple scenarios are in play.

One strong possibility: Tyson Chandler leaves the world champion Dallas Mavericks to sign a multi-year deal with the New York Knicks for between $50-60 million.

Then things would get awfully complicated.

The Knicks would first have to create cap space by waiving/trading point guard Chauncey Billups and/or post Ronny Turiaf. Inking Chandler would provide other options -like using Amar'e Stoudemire as trade bait.

Or, they could keep Stoudemire and partner him with Chandler and Carmelo Anthony. This would, perhaps, be the NBA's premier front-court.

Bottom line: signing Chandler is the first of many changes coming to New York.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Did anyone want to remember the past decade? It was full of LULZ and OMG! Those days are over. The scene was interesting to see Stephon Marbury shout “Dey scared now!” His interviews were nothing short of breathtaking. I miss seeing Zach Randolph dribble the ball like he was in an And-1 commercial. Isiah Thomas took the Knicks even deeper in to the abyss. Mike D’Antoni’s priceless expression when he didn’t land the number one pick to get Derrick Rose was hilarious.

Although a deal is only a remote possibility, it would surely involve Billups, who plays the same position (point guard) and who is one of the Knicks’ few valued assets.“It wouldn’t make me happy,” Billups said Friday in a phone interview from his Denver home. “Because for me, at this juncture in my career, I just want to win.” At 35, with six teams and five trades on his résumé, Billups is a certified authority on change, especially the unplanned kind. He is not the sort to overreact to frothy rumors. But he has understandable concerns.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: New CBA, old problem.

Veteran table-setter Chauncey Billups has publicly declared that he wouldn’t be ‘happy’ if the New York Knicks traded him to the New Orleans Hornets for Chris Paul.

His reason: New Orleans is a rebuilding, small market, while New York has two superstars and the resources to spend well beyond the cap on top talent.

Of course, part of the reason for the five-month long lockout was to supposedly prevent such a discrepancy in the league.

The owners supposedly wanted to create a balance between have-teams like the Bulls, Celtics, Heat, Lakers, and Mavericks with have-not teams like the Hornets.

There was to be no more of superstars holding smaller markets hostage. The Decision and Melo’ drama was supposedly a thing of the past.

Well, the owners failed to win this concession from the players.

Superstars still hold leverage. Lots of it. They continue to be the straw that stirs the drink. In the next few months, Dwight Howard and Paul will prove this in the way they depart the Magic and Hornets.

And Billups’ happiness doesn't matter.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

The sales pitch has got to be one of the toughest things to put together for any marketing team. It is one of those things that science alone cannot help them. The only way science can help is in producing the right numbers – the sweet science of money. There’s another science as well and that is the science of reproduction. Sex parties are the cure, but then again who wants herpes? That doesn’t cope well with these big name free agents doing public appearances. Even Delonte West gets clowned on and supposedly it’s just a birth mark.

Chris Paul’s agent informed New Orleans officials on Wednesday that his client will not sign a contract extension and wants to be traded to the New York Knicks, league sources told Yahoo! Sports. As soon as the NBA lifts its lockout restrictions, Hornets general manager Dell Demps wants to meet with Paul and hear that directive from him.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It’s a when. Not an if.

Face it: Chris Paul will leave the New Orleans Hornets as a free agent in July of 2012 to most likely sign with the New York Knicks.

Everything else is a formality. Like the 2011 season. Like turning down extension offers from the New Orleans Hornets. Like informing management he’ll leave.

To be fair, this isn’t just about small markets vs. large markets. Or, playing in the bright lights of The Big Apple.

This, in fact, is fate. 

A few years ago, Paul attended Carmelo Anthony’s wedding where he toasted to playing alongside ‘Melo and Amar’e Stoudemire at Madison Square Gardens for the Knicks.

Two of the pieces are in place. Stoudemire signed with the Knicks as a free agent in the summer of 2010, while Anthony was traded to the NYC last February.

For months, they’ve been waiting for Paul to form a Big Three to rival the superstar trio in Miami.

When that happens the Knicks will take another step in the Eastern Conference. There’s no if about that.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

People involved with the NBA and sports media are really sticking their necks and reputations on the line. I love it! Their true colors are shown. We have never witnessed anything like this before. The entire free agency arms race is 10x more explosive than the Big Network’s extravaganza about Brett Favre and his jeans. Everyone has a hard on for LeBron. Analysts on television, print, and radio are arguing against each other over speculations. Speculations? That’s another word for opinion. Get your popcorn and enjoy the freak show! I have!

Marija Kero, better known as The Knicks Chick, checks in with her first videoblog of 2011. In this episode of Out of Bounds Marija discusses Amar'e Stoudemire's role in the resurgence of her beloved Knicks, and why the Miami Heat's intro stinks.

In episode VI of Out of Bounds, Marija Kero dissects LeBron's situation, edits the Sports Guy's list, recaps some draft duds and takes a friendly jab or two at Charles Barkley. There's also a cameo by Stephon Marbury's "Vaseline-eating ass". Let us know your thoughts on the topics, and ask Marija a question by leaving a comment below.

In Out of Bounds IV, Marija translates Big Ben Roethlisberger's apology statement, tells Brad Miller he's not wanted in NY and lets you know what you can do to keep Jeff Van Gundy the hell away from the Bulls.

The two men have openly stated that they would like to play for the New York Knicks. I do not know why the New York media machine has opened their playbooks for the world to see in acquiring potential future employee number 6. While I admire their ways of applying their resources to the test for these free agents, one has to ponder that they’re probably going after the wrong guys.

HoopsVibe is proud to welcome Marija Kero, better known to many of you as The Knicks Chick, to the team. Marija will be checking in with videoblogs covering everything from her beloved Knicks to Ron Artest's latest hair-related mishap. In her first piece, Marija shares her thoughts on Boston's bad temper, the surging Mavs and the ghosts of NYK past appearing in the postseason. 

“Hurt, surprised, I think it really still hasn’t hit me yet — not really,” he said later. “I think everything happened so fast, last year coming back from my ACL injury and getting traded to Oklahoma City where I had to be a leader. “It still hurts that I got traded, but then the city of Oklahoma has been great to me. They’ve embraced me with open arms, and I have no complaints about the city of Oklahoma and the whole organization.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Kendrick Perkins reminds me of John Starks.

There are differences: Perkins is a center, Starks was a guard; Perkins is a defensive anchor, while Starks played both ends of the floor; Perkins won a championship with the Boston Celtics and Starks’ New York Knicks fell short in the NBA Finals.

However, Perkins and Starks are both fiery and have massive hearts.

Consider that the veteran-laden Celtics fell apart after Perkins was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder last February. Part of this had to with the hole Perkins left down-low, but this was more about the hole he left in the locker room.

Rajon Rondo missed Perkins, his best friend. Kevin Garnett cried when told of the trade. And the green-and-white never recovered.

Yesterday Perkins received a massive ovation while at an exhibition game near Boston.

Starks, a real life Rocky, had a similar impact in New York. He played at several colleges, semi-pro leagues, and bagged groceries before sticking with the Knicks.

Fans could relate to Starks` blue-collar work ethic. Eventually, he became an All-Star and a key part of some rugged Knick teams.

He was immortalized with his dunk on THE GOAT and when the Beastie Boys declared 'I got heart like John Starks'.

The lockout has shown what’s wrong with the NBA. The league needs more players like Perkins and Starks.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

It’s official. LeBron James is a free agent. He’s up for grabs. People were waiting to exhale. Don’t exhale just yet until the first week of July. The Boston Celtics has eliminated the Cleveland Cavaliers from the second round in a disastrous series.

Through the Melo Rule, the owners want to limit how much control a player has on where he plays. Players, meanwhile, want the freedom to go where they please. And the player who inspired the rule found it amusing that it could become a part of his legacy. ``I’m just glad I can be part of something,” Anthony said last month. “When I’m dead and gone, the Melo Rule will still be here. I’m just excited that they named a rule after me.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Carmelo Anthony’s reaction reveals much about modern stars.

Instead of wanting to create a legacy on-court through winning, many want to create a legacy off-court through business.

This is sad.

For instance, the Denver Nuggets gave Anthony everything. They rolled out the red carpet, supported him during his off-court indiscretions, and paid him like a tier-one superstar.

The returns were mixed. At times, Anthony, was out of shape, feuded with Coach George Karl, and was consumed with scoring.

Bottom line: the Nuggets weren’t a contender until they brought in Chauncey Billups, who provided the leadership that was expected from Anthony.

Then came last year. Perhaps inspired by LeBron James’ Decision, Anthony held the Nuggets hostage for months by refusing to sign an extension and flirting with teams in the New York area.

The rumours were too much. It was 24-7. And a major distraction for the Nuggets, New York Knicks, and New Jersey Nets.

After several near-deals, Anthony got his wish and was finally traded to the Knicks. The process was ugly and again showed the polarization between have and have-not markets.

It also showed that high profile players can and will hold several teams hostage for months in an effort to get their way.

Rather than calling the process an unfortunate but necessary part of business, Anthony is proud. He doesn’t realize that his actions have created a sticking point in negotiations between players and owners, which, in turn, has delayed the 2012 season.

Compare Anthony to another ‘Legend’. Larry Bird, the Hall of Fame forward, was never proud of the ‘Larry Bird Rule’ in the old Collective Bargaining Agreements. He was too busy winning.

Perhaps Anthony should learn something from Bird. Perhaps he should focus on what matters -winning.  

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

According to a pretty piped-in informant, skulking and stalking are exactly what Thomas has been doing as Hunter tries not to lose further frontage to one clearly identified Nor’easter after another: Namely, commissioner Stern stage-managed by 29 owners; players poised to push for immediate decertification if a deal can’t be struck during this extensive bargaining session; weighty agents counseling clients that leadership is limp; and growing frustration among even Hunter’s staunchest supporters.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Once again, Isiah Thomas’ name is linked to treachery, backstabbing, deceit, and angling.

The Hall of Fame guard - who in retirement destroyed the Toronto Raptors, Continental Basketball Association, New York Knicks, and Donnie Walsh’s sanity - wants to replace Billy Hunter as head of the NBA Players’ Association.

Sure, the NBPA has been somewhat dysfunctional under Hunter. And sure, they need a new voice to take the reins after losing negotiations to the owners.

But Thomas?

On the one hand, he was President of the Players Association. On the other hand, everything Thomas has touched since running the floor for the Pistons has blown up in his face.

The man’s closet is full of enemies, skeletons, and who knows what else. He has always been despised by many, and his presence would fracture an already divided and fragmented union.

Hopefully, the players find somebody else to replace Hunter. Thomas isn’t right for the job.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Knicks owner James Dolan blew off the two-day desperation labor session between the NBA and players’ union in Manhattan with one source saying he has been “sickened’’ by the failure of his fellow owners to make a deal. Dolan is on the negotiating committee and a five-minute train ride away from the latest talk, which ended without a deal last night at 11 p.m. after an 11-hour session.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The man who hired Isiah Thomas, signed Jerome James and Eddy Curry‘s exorbitant contracts, and pushed Donnie Walsh, the executive who rebuilt his flagship franchise, out the door is ‘sickened’ by his fellow owners.

James Dolan, the owner of the New York Knicks and Donald Sterling of the East Coast, is right. The owners some deserve blame for not cutting a new collective bargaining agreement sooner.

As a protest, Dolan skipped Thursday's negotiations -despite being on the owners’ committee and a short subway ride from where owners and players met.

Dolan’s feelings illustrate the polarization of NBA owners: big-market, have franchises are satisfied with winning negotiations, while small-market, have-not franchises are out for blood.

At a certain point, the owners must find a balance. Failure to do so could well compromise the entire league.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

"...They still have to have some steady shooters from the outside to complement the penetration they have, and then (Carlos) Boozer has to have that post-up game that he was brought there to give them. They just can't be one-dimensional in that regard. They have to have those complementary pieces to assist Rose in his game."

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HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Phil Jackson retired last May. His mouth missed the memo.

The Zen-Master appeared on a Chicago-area radio show and declared that Bulls star and 2011 MVP Derrick Rose needed help.

It's common knowledge Rose's supporting cast must improve, especially at two-guard. The Zen-Master couldn't resist antagonizing, provoking, and causing controversy by saying that the Bulls should hang a 'Help Wanted' sign outside the stadium.

Here's the question: why would Jackson stir the pot?

Well, Jackson could be flexing his muscles. As the most successful coach in NBA history, he feels it's his duty to comment on all things NBA.

Remember, Jackson won six championships in The Windy City, so he has a connection to the team and city.

Perhaps he's keeping his name in the headlines in order to land one final coaching job before he really retires.

Chicago is unlikely. New York -with Carmelo Anthony, Amar's Stoudemire, and maybe Chris Paul - is a possibility.

One thing we do know: Jackson always has an agenda.

--Sandor.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

"I've been ordained the Renaissance Man," said Stoudemire on Twitter shortly after midnight Sunday morning. "This is now my new nickname. Renaissance Man. You like it, I love it. Its not going to change." Isiah Thomas referred to Stoudemire as a renaissance man in comments to Frank Isola of the New York Daily News on Saturday.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Isiah Thomas strikes again.

The Hall of Fame point guard is again showing his influence over the New York Knicks by dubbing Amar’e Stoudemire 'The Renaissance Man'.

Thomas, who is the coach of Florida International University, doesn’t officially work for the Knicks, but finds time to ‘help’ with trades, free agent signings, and mediocre nicknames.

This isn’t good for the Knicks. They need a talented replacement for executive Donnie Walsh, and any worthwhile candidate won’t want to deal with Thomas’ constant meddling.

Of course, Thomas may be Walsh's replacement.

Despite being one of the worst GMs in league history, Knicks owner James Dolan has considered re-hiring Thomas because the two are friends.

And then Thomas would get the last laugh.

--O. Sandor.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Thomas, who worked for the Knicks as president, GM or coach from December 2003 to April 2008, was reportedly involved in the recruitment of Carmelo Anthony last season. Now, he's expected to do the same with Paul, who is under contract for the 2011-2012 season but has a player option for 2012-13, during which he is scheduled to make $17.8 million. Many have speculated that New York is a potential destination for Paul. Current Knicks point guard Chauncey Billups, whom New York acquired in a three-team, 13-player deal last February, will be a free agent after 2011-2012.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: If the New York Knicks had sense, they’d muzzle Isiah Thomas.

They don`t have any sense, so Thomas will keep talking. Loudly.

Remember, Thomas’ slash-and-burn philosophy turned the Knicks into the league‘s laughingstock, forcing Commissioner David Stern to suggest to owner James Dolan that he hire veteran executive Donnie Walsh.

Thomas got a massive cheque to leave and give his opinion when asked to by the front office.

But Thomas is friendly with Dolan, so he stayed active and involved with the Knicks even though he has a college coaching gig at Florida International University.

This clearly alienated Walsh, who is now the outgoing executive for the Knicks. He couldn’t have liked Thomas taking credit for the signing of Amar’e Stoudemire and acquisition of Carmelo Anthony. 

Whoever replaces Walsh won’t be pleased to hear Thomas insinuate that he’ll have a key role in the Knicks chasing point guard Chris Paul.

Paul, of course, is a free agent in July of 2012. He’ll likely leave the small market New Orleans Hornets -even if the new collective bargaining agreement fixes the disparity between small and big market teams.

Enter New York. Paul will surely find it difficult to turn down the lure of playing in Madison Square Garden with Stoudemire and Anthony.

This has nothing to do with Thomas. However, an opportunist never turns down or passes up an opportunity.

--O. Sandor.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

I do think they’ll take a chance on Eddy Curry. They’ve worked him out several times and have been impressed with what they saw. The only concern was Curry’s weight, but he has been working hard this summer and has dropped over 100 lbs. He’s been in Tim Grover’s ATTACK gym every day and he’s determined to prove he can still play. Don’t be surprised if they sign him after the lockout ends. He’s a low-risk, high reward addition who could make a difference in Miami.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The Miami Heat had a top-heavy salary structure under the old collective bargaining agreement.

They’ll have little room to strengthen their roster when the lockout ends and the new, stricter financial system is finally agreed upon by owners and players.

After all, the Heat took on three ‘max’ contracts when they signed Chris Bosh, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade in July of 2010.

So Executive Pat Riley will have to go value-shopping whenever there‘s a free agent period, and hope to find a deal or two.

Fortunately, there will be bargains. Like Eddy Curry.

The puffy post became a league-laughingstock, earning and spending tens of millions of dollars per year to gain weight on the Knicks’ injured reserve.

Apparently, Curry wants to salvage his career. He’s dropped over 100 pounds and is eyeing a spot on the Heat’s roster. Curry`s post moves would create space on the perimeter for James and Wade and allow Bosh to roam on the elbows.

Best of all, the price would be right for the Heat. 

--O. Sandor.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

We have a core of players we can build around to build a [championship-contending] team,” Walsh said. “We’re not finished. There’s more pieces. But I think we got some really good players that can lead a team and form a core of that team. What we have are the most important things.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Their core isn’t bad. It’s just not that good, either.
 
Executive Donnie Walsh is overestimating his New York Knicks if he believes Carmelo Anthony, Chauncey Billups, and Amar’e Stoudemire need only a few tweaks to win a championship.

There’s little evidence to suggest Anthony and Stoudemire can play together, while Billups is aging -and fast.

The Knicks, even if the stars align and do contend in the Eastern Conference, will be hard pressed to topple the Miami Heat and their core of Chris Bosh, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade in a best-of-seven series.

--O.Sandor.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe in the comment box below.

"They've been deeply involved in the meetings we've had. I know Kobe is intimately involved in interfacing with colleagues and sharing in a pool of revenue to help the others get through this. Kobe has volunteered to do that in the event others need, he and others are prepared to loan money if necessary."

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The Bank of Kobe Bryant could be coming.

Union head Billy Hunter told the press superstar Kobe Bryant is willing to lend his union brothers money during the work stoppage.

This is a nice gesture by Bryant, but shows the need for NBA players to learn how to manage their money.

Take Eddy Curry. The puffy post turned one good season on a bad Knicks team into an exorbitant 5-year, $55 million contract.

In the last three years, Curry suited up for 33 games. While injured, he accumulated debt, overhead, and high-interest loans like a European ‘P.I.G.S.’ nation.

Now Curry, who will receive a massive pay-cut as a free agent when the season does begin, must honour those financial obligations.

I have a feeling Curry’s situation is not unique. Many, if not most, NBA players are stretched, so the owners only have to outwait the players.

Hunter should be more careful about releasing information to the public, even if it involves The Bank of Kobe Bryant.

--Oly Sandor.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Stoudemire is in constant communication with Knicks guard Roger Mason Jr., who is on the negotiating committee.

Mason tweeted yesterday, “Looking like a season. How u.” The tweet got major play until Mason deleted it and claimed his Twitter account was hacked. However, speculation is he sent it as a private message and hit the wrong button.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Thank God for Twitter.

The social networking site has provided the basketball world with its greatest clue that players and owners may be moving towards a new collective bargaining agreement.

New York Knicks union rep Roger Mason tried to alert teammate Amar’e Stoudemire that a season could be on the horizon. Unfortunately, he hit the wrong button, making what was supposed to be a private tweet available to the public.

This prompted Stoudemire to tell reporters he’s hearing good things about upcoming labour negotiations.

Accident or not, we’ll take it. It’s a sign - a good sign that basketball is coming. For now, that’s enough.

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Blazers president Larry Miller has expressed a strong interest in former Golden State Warriors GM Chris Mullin, sources said. Mullin’s expected to talk with the Blazers too, sources said.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Chris Mullin’s career as an executive hasn’t been normal.

The sharpshooter revitalized the Golden State Warriors before getting stabbed in the back by Don Nelson, his former coach and the man he rescued from the sideline boss scrap heap.

Then Mullin was tabbed to take over the executive chair in New York from Donnie Walsh before dysfunctional owner James Dolan stepped-in. Walsh is out; Mullin won’t be leading the Knicks.

Now he’s linked to the Portland Trail Blazers, the organization that fired GM Kevin Pritchard moments before the 2010 NBA draft only to invite him to stay for the evening's festivities.

Pritchard’s replacement, Richie Cho, was pink-slipped after being on the job for less than a year. Cho was seen as too docile, low-key, and quiet.

Perhaps Mullin should pass on the Blazers‘ gig. Right now, they’re dysfunctional, and owner Paul Allen seems determined to meddle.

Life may be a little more normal in ESPN’s broadcast booth.

--Oly Sandor.

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The first was undoubtedly whether Phil Jackson, on hand to usher his former long-time assistant Tex Winter and Rodman into the Class of 2011, will unretire in the future and return to the NBA sidelines to coach again. Maybe for the Knicks in 2012.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Will Phil Jackson ride off into the sunset at his ranch in the Mid West? Or, will the most successful coach in NBA history un-retire and  take a seat on the New York Knicks’ bench?

Jackson didn’t close the door on a return to coaching at the NBA’s Hall of Fame Induction ceremony. Instead, he left the door open ever-so slightly.

Remember, Jackson won five championships with the Los Angeles Lakers, which included a run of three and two consecutive championships.

Before that he won six championships with the Chicago Bulls, which included two separate runs of three consecutive championships.

Bottom line: Jackson’s a winner. So the Knicks should do everything possible to woo him out of retirement, or sabbatical, and onto the hallowed floor of Madison Square Gardens.

After all, Jackson played for some great Knick squads. His ego is grand enough that he’d handle, or even welcome, the bright lights, center stage, and headlines of Broadway. 

Of course, the Knicks have the money to easily meet P-Jax’s demand of an eight-figure annual salary to work his magic on Carmelo Anthony and Amar‘e Stoudemire.

Sounds perfect, right?

Well, here’s the problem: Knick owner James Dolan likes control. He’ll be reluctant to hire a free-thinking, counter-culturist like Jackson, who has the pedigree to say what he thinks without worrying about consequences.

Now Jackson, at 66, won’t want to deal with the Knicks’ meddling owner. For instance, he knows Executive Donnie Walsh left because he grew tired of Dolan.

Then again Dolan has hired high-profile coaches and general managers: Larry Brown and Isiah Thomas. And Jackson has dealt with the soap opera in Laker-land known as the Buss clan.

So it’s possible. We’re talking about it too, which is exactly what Jackson, retired or not, wants. 

--Oly Sandor.

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Curry weighed 350 when he auditioned for Miami in March. Curry intrigues Pat Riley, who might offer him a minimum deal postlockout if he loses another 12 pounds or so. His skills “are there, no question,” Grover said.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Eddy Curry could soon become Pat Riley’s Greatest Reclamation Project.

Reports indicate Curry has dropped close to 40 pounds and, if his waist line continues to shrink, he may sign with the Miami Heat for the minimum when the lockout ends.

This is rather remarkable, especially when considering how low the skilled big had sunk.

Curry made $31 million to play in 30 games over the last three seasons. He blew most of that $31 million and, reportedly, took out high-interest loans from dubious characters. And then there was this.

Of course, Curry might not be best for South Beach. He was a finesse-five for the New York Knicks and Chicago Bulls, and the Heat need a defensive-minded banger down low.

Still, Curry won’t cost much, so, perhaps, he’s worth the risk -as it will appease the people behind Chris Bosh, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade.

Move over Rafer Alston, Derek Anderson, Ike Austin. Smush Parker, Antoine Walker, and all others. Eddy Curry may soon be coming. You’ll have competition for Riles’ Greatest Reclamation Project.

--Oly Sandor.

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With the Lakersshowing more signs that their basketball mileage is catching up with them, they need to inject speed into their lineup. And with Mike Brown planning to abandon most of the triangle offense, they need a solid point guard. ... [Chris Paul] has the edge over [Deron Williams] because of his youth (26) and uncanny speed.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: With the 2012 season in limbo, many have turned to speculating on next year’s free agent class.

One rumour keeps making the rounds: Chris Paul walks on the New Orleans Hornets to sign with the Los Angeles Lakers next July.

Before you roll your eyes at the new Collective Bargaining Agreement for not fixing the migration of stars to big markets, recognize that this makes sense for Paul.

The Lakers will have financial flexibility. They have $67 million in committed salary for the 2012-13 season, but the club holds options on $25 million for Andrew Bynum and Lamar Odom.

While they won’t walk on Bynum, the purple-and-gold will gladly bolt on the final $8 million on Odom’s pact. There are other ways to trim salary.

Regardless of the system - hard or soft cap - the Lakers will be able to make a competitive offer for Paul.

New coach Mike Brown will replace the Triple-Post with a drive-and-kick system that relies on the point guard penetrating and running pick-and-rolls.

Sounds perfect for Paul, right?

The New Orleans Hornets can’t afford Paul. The league owns the team and the city can't generate enough revenue to pay for a top supporting cast.

So it’s generally accepted that Paul will leave New Orleans and join Carmelo Anthony and Amar'e Stoudemire in New York.

Not so fast.

Last I checked the Knicks played in the Eastern Conference. Each year, Paul would have to go through Miami’s Three Kings to reach the NBA Finals.

And when the Heat have a down year, Paul would likely face 2010 MVP Derrick Rose and his upstart Chicago Bulls. The Bulls, with their air-tight defense, are no pushovers.

So Paul’s best bet at championship glory may be out west with the Lakers.

--Oly Sandor.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: In the last ten-to-fifteen years, no NBA team has made more mistakes than the New York Knicks.

Much of the blame can be laid at the feet of owner James Dolan, who recently refused to re-hire the executive, Donnie Walsh, who turned the Knicks’ fortunes around.

Instead of keeping Walsh, Dolan was likely working on this ...

(Watch at your discretion. Fix the Knicks is painful.)

--Oly Sandor.

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“I don’t think those guys will want to go through it,” said Marbury, who is training in Los Angeles. “China is not for everybody — a whole ‘nother world. I don’t think they’re going to go there, not the big-time guys. Maybe they’d come for a little bit, but if the season is cancelled for the year, I don’t think they’d want to stay. They’ll want to go home.

“I don’t think Carmelo Anthony is going to run like they want to run in practice,” Marbury added. “They want to run you to death. The first time I got there, they ran in practice for two straight hours. I said, ‘Is that what we have to do every practice?’ “

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Guess who’s again making headlines?

Stephon Marbury, the troubled and controversial former NBA point guard, believes the New York Knicks` Carmelo Anthony wouldn’t be up to the rigors of pro’ ball in China.

Marbury, of course, is an expert on Chinese basketball. He’s also an expert on coming up short -just in the good old United States of America.

After bottoming out of the NBA for interesting behaviour off-court, he found a nice landing spot pushing his skill and sneaks in the world’s greatest economy.

However, Marbury can’t compare his situation to what Melo` or any NBA All-Star would face abroad.

Back then Marbury was desperate. He needed China to save his career on-court and to hawk his goods on billions of people.

Melo’ does not need China. Not now anyway. He has leverage, meaning he’d dictate terms on practice, travel, and anything else.

Marbury is clearly taking a shot at the Knicks’ newest star. After all, the Steph’ era was ushered out in favour of collecting cap space to sign/trade for big-ticket talents like Anthony.

Once again, Marbury is making headlines. Like always, it`s for the wrong reasons.

--Oly Sandor.

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Hall of Fame coach Larry Brown has an interest in joining Doc Rivers’ Boston Celtics staff as an assistant coach, assuming Lawrence Frank accepts the Detroit Pistons' head coaching job, league sources told Yahoo! Sports.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Larry Brown has burned more bridges than a pyromaniac serving a five year bid at Sing, Sing prison in upstate New York.

Brown is the nomad coach. When the going gets tough, he gets going. Or when he thinks the grass is greener on the other side, he goes to the other side.

Just ask the Charlotte Bobcats and Los Angeles Clippers or the Detroit Pistons and New York Knicks or the Philadelphia 76ers and those same Pistons.

Of course, this doesn't stop Brown from demanding his players 'Play The Right Way'. It doesn't matter that he's doing the opposite in front of them.

Despite the hypocrisy, Brown can teach youngsters. Unfortunately, the Boston Celtics are a veteran crew. Old heads like Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, and Paul Pierce won’t want to deal with the overbearing, impatient, and frustrating Brown.

Celtics head coach ‘Doc’ Rivers won’t be particularly enthused with Brown’s idiosyncrasies either -especially if he’s only using the defensive coordinator gig to showcase himself for a head coaching job.

Rivers and the Celtics should avoid Brown. He’ll burn them like he has so many other teams.

--Oly Sandor.

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While this would be a dream scenario for Maccabi and all Jewish basketball fans, Amare's agent, Happy Walters, doesn't see it happening.  "I don't think anyone is thinking about playing overseas at this point – certainly not Amar'e," he said.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Just a hunch. Amar’e Stoudemire likes attention.

He did give himself nicknames of ‘Standing Tall And Talented’ and 'Black Jesus'. There are his Craig Sager inspired outfits and demand to participate in The Great Free Agent Summit of 2010. And he's in the midst of a rather public relationship with Ciara, the pop singer.

More recently, Stoudemire has gone back-on-forth via twitter about whether to ‘take his talent’ abroad during the lockout or stay in America.

Each day brings something new. First, it was Europe, and then China, and then Israel. As expected, Stoudemire and/or his agent, Happy Walters, tell the world he’s sticking around New York.

"I have to do what's best for me and my family," West said. "(Chris Paul) understands it's all about winning, and as the years go, by you can't get them back. I want to win and win big, win a championship. "But you've got to find the right situation, where it's reality and not fantasy. I just want to be on that stage, have a shot at (a title) and see what happens."

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HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: David West want to win big. To achieve this, West, a free agent, can't re-sign with the New Orleans Hornets.

The Hornets, even with a new Collective Bargaining Agreement, will likely stay the poster-child for have-not franchises. They will always struggle to compete.

New Orleans was poor before Hurricane Katrina. Six years later, they can't generate enough revenue to lure free agents to play with their stars.

West knows this. Most importantly, so does Chris Paul, the team's top player and franchise-face. Paul, unless the new CBA allows the Hornets to franchise tag him, will leave next July as a free agent.

He's out.

Paul's best friend in the NBA is LeBron James. In fact, James' marketing company, LMRM, represents Paul. The tiny table-setter will have learned from The Decision, and he'll only sign in a big market or with a legit contender.

Think New York. Think Orlando. Think Miami. New Orleans can't compete with these destinations.

West knows Paul will leave in one year. And West knows this means he'll have to leave, too.

--Oly Sandor.

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With Nets superstar Deron Williams breaking the ice by agreeing to terms to play in Turkey if the NBA lockout lasts for a long time, will Knicks Amar'e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony follow suit? Highly doubtful.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: There will not be a mass exodus of NBA superstars to Europe.

For a variety of reasons, Carmelo Anthony, Kobe Bryant and/or Amar’e Stoudemire won’t follow Deron Williams to exotic locations like Turkey, Greece, Spain, and Italy.

This trio may listen to offers. Their people may publicly express interest in Europe. And we -the media and fans- will eat it up because there’s nothing to discuss during the lockout.

Bottom line: few, if any, superstars will join Williams.

These high-profile athletes need insurance against injuries. This isn’t cheap, and would negate much of the salary they earned for playing.

In some cases, the risk is too great. Stoudemire’s agent, Happy Walters, has already said his client head won't risk the remaining $80 million on his NBA contract with the New York Knicks for a few games abroad.  

Italy, Spain, Greece, and/or Portugal are on the verge of bankruptcy, and need economic help from the European Union. Can these countries afford NBA superstars? And will their leveraged owners honor these big-ticket contracts?

Expect Kobe Bryant to instead head east –as in the Far East. Bryant will apparently headline a tour to basketball-mad China, where he'll market his brand, shoes, and everything else Kobe-related.

Superstars will use Europe to gain leverage in negotiations during the lockout. The game's biggest names will be reluctant to follow Williams overseas.

--Oly Sandor.

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Williams has made no firm promises about staying in New Jersey but has said he likes the direction of the franchise under new owner Mikhail Prokhorov. The 27-year-old has likewise expressed optimism about the team's scheduled move to Brooklyn starting with the 2012-13 season and his potential role in luring other top players to the Nets. The Nets, sources said, intend to make a hard push for Howard in an attempt to convince Williams to commit long term.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The Collective Bargaining Agreement may change, but the NBA will always be a star’s league.

Take Deron Williams and the New Jersey Nets. The soon-to-be Brooklyn franchise mortgaged the farm to acquire Williams via trade, even though he can become a free agent in July of 2012.

Right now, Williams has leverage. Before signing a long-term extension with the Nets, he wants a co-star.

Enter Dwight Howard.

The massive five-man can also opt-out of his contract and become a free agent next summer. Howard, on paper, is the perfect running mate for Williams.

The two would form a lethal inside-outside combo, capable of rivalling most eastern foes. Their star power would match Carmelo Anthony and Amar’e Stoudemire, who ply their trade with the crosstown New York Knicks.

Unfortunately, the Nets have competition. The Orlando Magic are desperate to keep their franchise face, while the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers have both made plays for Howard.

Getting Howard won't be easy. So re-signing Williams won’t be easy. But both are a must for the Nets.

--Oly Sandor.

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