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The Great Summer Fall-off: Why Charlotte, Milwaukee, Philadelphia, and Phoenix will struggle in 2010August 11 09  At the beginning of every week, HoopsVibe the Blog drops a list for fans to weigh-in on. We call it Listed ... The NBA is a 24/7, 365 days a year business. Downtime is for the weak. Holidays are meaningless. After all, ten teams are scheduled to suit up on Jesus’ birthday, so why would summer provide rest and relaxation? Club executives are always competing over players, picks, and cap space. Of course, in every competition winners and losers emerge. This summer, the line between teams that got better and worse widened. The great divide is money. Even with a soft salary cap, the NBA is becoming like European football or Major League Baseball. There are a few have clubs. And there are many have-not clubs. In this edition of ‘Listed’, we’re exploring teams that fell off this summer due to a lack of finances. As always, read the post and hit me with thoughts in the comment section. Charlotte ... One step forward. Two steps back. After barely missing their first-ever playoff spot, the Bobcats have stalled. Emeka Okafor was recently dealt to New Orleans for Tyson Chandler. These two have comparable talent, but Okafor has a multi-year contract, while Chandler can exercise his option next summer and walk as a free agent. There is uncertainty at centre and point guard isn’t any clearer. Ray Felton’s future is murky; as a restricted free agent he’s currently locked in a contract dispute with the club. Good teams have stability at the one and five-spots, so draw your own conclusions about the Bobcats. Clearly, owner Bob Johnson’s shaky finances influenced the Okafor-Chandler deal and are now impacting negotiations with Felton. Unfortunately, Charlotte, after dealing with George Shinn, won’t embrace a team that doesn’t invest in players or the community. Milwaukee ... A small market saddled with bad contracts. Unfortunately, this forced the Bucks to part with assets. Richard Jefferson, their best all around player, was dealt for expiring contracts. Ramon Sessions, a dynamic point guard, will sign elsewhere as a restricted free agent. And Charlie Villanueva will take his twittering to Detroit. Well, Andrew Bogut and Michael Redd better produce in 2010. Philadelphia ... The 76ers are a little gun shy after Elton Brand’s max contract. To be fair, reports indicate Brand will make a full recovery, yet when healthy he struggled to fit with his run-heavy teammates last year. This brings us to the summer of 2009. Not keeping Andre Miller is understandable. Not getting anything for him in a sign-and-trade is entirely different, especially with no fall-back option (Sorry, Louis Williams is a scoring guard). Off-court, things are unsettled. Comcast, who own the club, have never clarified their long-term intentions, but can’t be happy with lagging attendance in basketball-mad Philadelphia. Phoenix ... The Suns lack direction. On the one hand, they’ve publicly stated their goal is to win now, so Steve Nash and Grant Hill were re-signed. And that much-discussed Amare Stoudemire deal never materialized. On the other hand, moves were made to create financial flexibility for the future. Shaquille O’Neal was dealt for Sasha Pavlovic and Ben Wallace (which became cap space), while Matt Barnes wasn’t re-signed. This lack of focus stems from Robert Sarver’s shrinking fortune. The ‘enthusiastic’ owner was heavily leveraged in banking and real estate before the economic downturn and must now find additional investors. Only then can the team move forward. What team has fallen off the most in the summer of 2009? Charlotte? Phoenix? Philadelphia? Milwaukee? Or somebody else. Let us know in the comment box. Follow Oly Sandor’s work on HoopsVibe The Blog or Twitter. Photo courtesy of One/Million.
Will Denver stumble without Linas Kleiza and Dahntay Jones?August 10 09  Breaking NBA news mixed with analysis ... Their News: “Denver Nuggets restricted free-agent forward Linas Kleiza has agreed to a two-year, $12.2 million contract with Greek team Olympiakos, his agent Bill Duffy told Yahoo! Sports on Monday.” (Yahoo Sports) My Quick Gut Reaction: Could Denver fall off in 2010? Last year, the Nuggets’ role players helped the club establish a blue-collar identity, rattle off fifty wins, and compete with the world champion Lakers in the Western Conference Finals. Yet, some of those blending parts have changed. Sure, Chris ‘Birdman’ Anderson was given a long-term pact. However, Denver didn’t match Indiana’s paltry offer to physical two-guard Dahntay Jones and Anthony Carter, who can’t agree on term with management, remains unsigned. Today, Kleiza bolted to Greece for Mid Level Exception money. On the surface, Jones, Carter, and Kleiza seem replaceable. But this trio accepted their roles last year, which, along with the acquisition of Chauncey Billups, created chemistry. For instance, starting Jones allowed Coach George Karl to use J.R. Smith as the sixth-man, a role he’s suited for. Without Jones, Smith becomes the starter. This is a risk. The young pro is a terrific talent, but has shown poor judgement on-and-off court. Too often, he treats the offense like an all you can shoot smorgasbord and recently drew the ire of the league for allegedly making gang references in his twitter posts. Starting Jones was Karl’s way of holding Smith accountable. Hopefully, Smith, a promising player and decent enough person, makes the most of the increase in minutes. Kleiza, a solid scorer and long range gunner, would have been an option to replace Smith as the sixth-man. Denver’s inactivity this summer becomes even more of an issue when compared to Dallas and San Antonio’s activity. After all, ‘Team Cuban’ has added Drew Gooden and Shawn Marion, while the Spurs have landed Richard Jefferson. After a strong 2009, the Nuggets, because of a disappointing summer, could take a step back next season. Got thoughts on Denver? Get at us in the comment box below and follow Oly Sandor on at HoopsVibe The Blog and on Twitter. Photo courtesy of Katinas.
Why Kurt Rambis left Kobe Bryant and L.A. for Al Jefferson and MinnesotaAugust 09 09  Breaking news mixed with analysis … Their News: “The Minnesota Timberwolves and Kurt Rambis have reached terms on a deal that will install Rambis as the Wolves’ new head coach. Long considered a potential heir apparent to Los Angeles Lakers coach Phil Jackson, Rambis was lured away from Jackson’s staff by a four-year deal believed to be worth in excess of $8 million.” (Marc Stein, ESPN) My Gut Reaction: Kurt Rambis was in a no-win situation with the Los Angeles Lakers. Suppose he succeeds Phil Jackson. And suppose the purple-and-gold win a championship or two. Rambis, the club’s long-time assistant, would never receive full credit. Critics would argue he was riding ‘The Zen‘. Suppose he succeeds Jackson, except the purple-and-gold stumble, never winning a championship. Rambis would be the fall-guy; the lovable role player and wonderful assistant coach, who should never have slid into the big chair. These scenarios are presumptuous. There was no guarantee Rambis would even replace Jackson. Sure, he looked like the natural successor, but the Lakers could just have easily turned to Brian Shaw. Of course, Kobe Bryant would have input. ‘Black Mamba’ is still tight with New Orleans’ Byron Scott and he also would have interest in re-convincing Mike Krzyewski to leave Duke for the pro game. Nothing was set in Los Angeles, so Rambis leaving was understandable. Still, why swap a no-win situation with the Lakers for what seems like a no-win situation with the dysfunctional Minnesota Timberwolves? Head coaching jobs are rare. For instance, Rambis, as interim sideline boss, led the Lakers to a 24-13 regular season record, before the club lost in the Western Conference Semi-Finals. That was ten years ago in 1998-99. Rambis had to wait ten years to land another head coaching gig. Perhaps, it makes sense for Rambis to swap Los Angeles’ championship glitter for Minnesota’s cold. Should Rambis have left Los Angeles for Minnesota? Get at us in the comment box below and follow Oly Sandor on at HoopsVibe The Blog and on Twitter. Photo courtesy of welovedonny.
Can Chicago, Houston, and Miami compete with Cleveland and New York for LeBron James?August 08 09  Breaking NBA news mixed with analysis... Their News: " My Gut Reaction: No surprise here. As expected, LeBron James won’t accept Cleveland’s recent offer of a three-year extension or exercise an option to stay with the club for the 2010-11 season. Instead, all signs point to The King hitting free agency next summer. A few thoughts on these developments: First, James could still re-up with the Cavaliers. According to the Collective Bargaining Agreement, majority owner Dan Gilbert can offer the reigning MVP more money and term. And Gilbert’s new minority partners, a group of Chinese investors, specialize in connecting American brands, like James, with the world’s largest market. And Cleveland will be competitive for years to come. Second, James could still sign with the Knicks, though. The Five Burroughs’ dream of signing the three-man appeared dead, but regains a flicker of hope with this announcement. However, New York has little shot at James unless they sign Chris Bosh or Dwyane Wade, which could be tricky with the declining salary cap and economy. Third, Cleveland and New York will have competition. Chad Ford of ESPN believes several teams will possess the cap space to pursue two top free agents next summer.
It’s unlikely a combination of Bosh, James, and/or Wade signs with Minnesota or Sacramento. Oklahoma City is committed to their youth, while The Don (as in cheapskate owner Donald Sterling) won’t pony up a pair of max contracts. And New Jersey remains a question mark because of arena issues. On-paper, the Bulls, Rockets, and Heat have the cap space, resources and market appeal to ink a pair of these stars. They also have attractive intagibles. Wade grew up in Chicago, while Houston is close to Bosh’s home of Dallas. Of course, Miami has the weather, South Beach, and lifestyle. Currently, these franchises are the main threats to thwart Cleveland and New York’s plans for July of 2010. Let us know your thoughts on LeBron James’ recent statements in the coment box below. Follow Oly Sandor at HoopsVibe The Blog and on Twitter. Photo courtesy of stickyewares.
Suspension overshadows Kevin Durant, Rashard Lewis, and Mo Williams’ Nike rapAugust 08 09  On Thursday, Rashard Lewis was suspended by the NBA for 10 games because he tested positive for an over-the-counter supplement that elevated his testosterone above legal limits.This is unfortunate. Lewis, a decent enough guy, certainly used poor judgement experimenting with supplements to lose weight, but wasn’t taking steroids like so many star baseball players. There was no clear or cream courtesy of BALCO. And there was no mysterious cousin importing pills from Puerto Rico. Lewis just made a poor decision and needs to research what substances he puts in his body. For his indiscretion, the swingman will miss roughly the first month of the season. Even worse, the suspension overshadowed the Nike inspired debut of Lewis’ rap career with fellow stars Kevin Durant and Mo Williams. Watch the clip and tell us who has the most skills on the microphone: Durant, Lewis, or Williams? Follow Oly Sandor at HoopsVibe The Blog and on Twitter. Photo courtesy of lubright.
Is it time for the Toronto Raptors to trade Chris Bosh?August 07 09  Nobody can say Bryan Colangelo doesn’t keep his word.Following a disappointing 2008-09 season, Toronto’s GM and president promised changes. The two-time Executive of the Year wanted to inject toughness, depth, and athleticism into a line-up that was often bullied and outworked. Kris Humphries, Nathan Jawai, Jason Kapono, Shawn Marion, and Anthony Parker were traded or not retained, while Marco Belinelli, Demar DeRozan, Reggie Evans, Jarret Jack, Hedo Turkoglu, and Antoine Wright were acquired. These changes will produce the desired effect; the Raptors are much improved. One key question remains unanswered: what about Chris Bosh? Of course, the All-Star holds an option on his contract and can become an unrestricted free agent next summer. And Bosh has publicly stated he will exercise this clause and test the open market. This leaves Toronto exposed. They could lose their top player for nothing. Worst of all, Bosh would be the latest American star to leave the Canadian club at the alter. Colangelo and the Raptors better realize now is the time to trade their four-man. The new faces won’t miss a teammate they never had. Without Bosh, Turkoglu becomes the first option and a fresh chemistry can develop. Jack, who signed with Toronto partly because of his friendship with Bosh, could get upset about a move, but he has 20 million reasons to get over it. A familiar face will play the greatest role in any trade. Andrea Bargnani, like Bosh, is a natural power forward. Minutes weren’t an issue when the Italian was struggling, but last year he found his groove filling in for and then replacing Jermaine O’Neal at centre. Bargnani’s growth wasn’t unnoticed by the organization, who over the summer rewarded him with a five-year, $50 million extension. Remember, Colangelo picked the sharp-shooting big first overall, so he’ll give the poster boy for his Euro experiment every opportunity to succeed. The extension chatter will become a distraction. Contrary to what some think, Toronto is a basketball mad market with an intense media. Fans and journalists will rightfully carve, question, and interrogate Bosh about his future. Colangelo should consider cutting a deal before it becomes a full blown circus and compromises the year. Credit the Raptors for making changes. But in Bosh, their greatest and most significant challenge remains unsolved. Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below. Follow Oly Sandor ’s work on HoopsVibe The Blog and Twitter. Photo courtesy of nero88.
Portland smart to extend Brandon Roy before negotiations got uglyAugust 05 09  Breaking NBA news mixed with analysis …Their News: Brandon Roy has reportedly agreed to a five-year contract extension with the Portland Trail Blazers. (Associated Press via ESPN) My Quick Gut Reaction: Call it a no-brainer. Brandon Roy is a franchise player and today got paid like one. On-court, he scores, defends, rebounds, sets-up others, and competes. Off-court, he’s a leader, establishing an unselfish environment in a young locker room, handling the media professionally, and displaying class when connecting with the Portland community. After the Jail Blazers, Roy’s a breath of fresh. Signing him was an easy decision. But credit GM Kevin Pritchard for getting this done before it became more of a distraction. In July, Roy publicly expressed concern with the pace of negotiations. Recently, reports had surfaced that the two sides were at odds over the 2014-15 season. In today’s economy, Portland could have easily haggled over money and/or term. Pritchard and owner Paul Allen wisely realized the bigger picture -making Roy feel valued- was more important and came to an agreement. This will surely pay dividends in the future. With Roy locked up, ‘Rip City’ will stay relevant and competitive for years to come. Got thoughts on Roy’s extension? Get at us in the comment box below and follow Oly’s work via HoopsVibe Blog and on twitter. Photo courtesy of k lang4d.
Is the NBA trying to banish Allen Iverson to Europe?August 05 09  Breaking NBA news mixed with analysis …Their News: For the first time this summer Allen Iverson has received an offer close to his liking, just not from an NBA team. Olympiacos is reportedly close to proposing a two-year contract worth $10 million to Iverson, the exact same deal that Nate Robinson turned down. The main competition in the NBA for Olympiacos is the Miami Heat and New York Knicks. (HoopsWorld via CNNSI Truth and Rumours) My Gut Reaction: I don’t want him going out like that. Instead of ending his Hall of Fame career playing relevant basketball in America, it seems Allen Iverson will finish up in Europe. There is nothing wrong with the Greek league, but it’s starting to feel like the NBA is trying to banish The Answer. The whole thing is off. Something isn’t right. I don’t believe times are so rough financially that no NBA team can afford Mid Level Exception money for a former MVP. I also don’t believe no team has starter or sixth-man minutes for possibly the greatest little man of all time. Was Detroit that big a fiasco? Sure, Iverson could have handled things differently and must shoulder some blame. Yet, the circumstances -being acquired just for your expiring contract- were tough. And the team was dysfunctional, with or without Iverson. I admit my stance may seem odd since I recently wrote a piece listing five reasons Iverson was unsigned. This was an attempt to counter the whispers that Commissioner Stern and 30 GMs were somehow in cahoots to excommunicate Iverson. I still don’t think there’s a conspiracy. I also don’t think a European exile is warranted, especially when Iverson would be accepting the exact offer Nate Robinson refused. Thankfully, there is time for an NBA club to sweeten the pot or for the 10-time All-Star to soften his demands. Hopefully, something happens. Iverson deserves to end his career playing meaningful basketball in the NBA. Got thoughts on Iverson heading to Europe? Get at us in the comment box below and follow Oly’s work via HoopsVibe Blog and on twitter. Photo courtesy of coursond34.
Video: A Preview of Michael Jordan’s Hall of Fame DisplayAugust 05 09  Michael Jordan won six NBA championships, captured every individual award, and transcended basketball by becoming the world’s most identifiable person. How do you honour him? How do you recognize his contributions to basketball for future generations? Well, the Basketball Hall of Fame is attempting to do exactly that through opening a Jordan display one month before he’s officially inducted in a September ceremony. The display was financed by Brand Jordan and highlights #23’s career. Watch the clip and let us know how you would honour Jordan in the comment box below? Read more of Oly Sandor’s work on HoopsVibe The Blog and Twitter. Photo courtesy of Mary Jane12.
Phoenix Suns’ decline began with Joe Johnson blunderAugust 04 09  One decision can change everything for an NBA franchise.Consider Phoenix’s fall from contender to pretender. There is the belief several factors suddenly came together last year and forced the Suns ‘to set’ without making the Western Conference playoffs. The coaching change, Amare Stoudemire’s injury, Steve Nash’s age, Shaquille O’Neal’s slow feet, and other elements conspired to prevent the desert from seeing a second-season oasis. Some even blamed Robert Horry and his infamous body-check for the woes of 2008-09. They’re all wrong. Not re-signing Joe Johnson is the main reason for Phoenix’s decline on-court and as an organization. Remember, in the summer of 2005, owner Robert Sarver opted against matching Atlanta’s $75 million offer sheet to Johnson, who was then a restricted free agent. Instead, a sign-and-trade was arranged: the 6-8 two-guard was swapped for Boris Diaw and Royal Ivey. This bit the Suns in the you-know-what last season and will have repercussions in the future. Johnson would have also developed into an All-Star in Phoenix. His scoring average would have climbed well over 20 points per game, while his ability to play and defend multiple positions would have been useful in playoff battles against Dallas and San Antonio. But Johnson would have been most valuable last season. He could have served as a bridge from ‘Seven Seconds To Shoot’ to whatever identity the team next took. Most importantly, the Suns would have a legit go-to guy to alleviate pressure from an aging Nash. Letting Johnson walk also damaged the club’s reputation. Fans quickly realized Sarver was more concerned with saving money than flooring a winner, which never occurred when the Colangelo family was in charge. Other cost-cutting measures soon followed. First round draft picks Nate Robinson and Rajon Rondo were given away for cap space. Veteran Kurt Thomas was dealt to the then Seattle Sonics for draft picks and a trade exception. But Johnson’s departure was the first and greatest example of the bottom-line taking precedence over winning a championship. One decision in sports can be significant. Clearly, the Phoenix Suns have never recovered from their decision not to keep Joe Johnson. What impact did letting Johnson go have in Phoenix? Get at us in the comment box below and return to HoopsVibe The Blog for NBA tidbits. Photo courtesy of KU.
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