Media Row Report -- Kings 11/24/08

by Ben. on Nov 25, 2008 12:07 AM PST Comment 120 comments

Just to be clear: LaMarcus Aldridge is fully aware that his jumper is completely off right now. He knows it. You know it. He knows that you know it. No, he doesn't know what's up. Yes, he's working to correct it. Indeed, he was out there 90 minutes before the game shooting jumpers, trying to get his stroke back. By my count, during one stretch, he went 2 for 20, unguarded from 18 feet out, with the ball rotating haphazardly, too much to the left on one attempt, too much to the right on the next. He then went out and went 3 for 14 during the game, hitting nothing but a few layups and a jump hook. He hit the side of the backboard. He hit the front of the backboard. He hit everything, pretty much, but net.

So there's that to worry about. There's also this: Greg started his first home game but barely played in the fourth quarter as he struggled his way to 3 points and 6 boards in 19 minutes. I snapped this picture with less than 2 minutes to go and with the Blazers in a dogfight down the stretch.

I'll put it this way: I didn't just catch Greg in between smiles. He didn't look like he wanted to be there. He didn't really look like he was paying attention. Think I'm putting it too strongly? Watch his reaction to his very first starting lineup introduction. It kind of makes me cringe. As far as I know, he didn't take questions after the game (I didn't see him in the locker room). These are tough times. He is hard on himself. Wish the big fella well.

The nice thing about having a big three though is that even when one can't hit a shot and another just needs a break from life, there's always Brandon to put up 28, 4 and 3 and carry the team with two clutch shots down the stretch. It wasn't Brandon's best game from start to finish but his 28 points were a season high. His lefty layups in the lane are getting to be routine; we should never take them for granted. Too dang pretty.

The Blazers only won this game because their 18 offensive rebounds (12 more than the Kings) led to 84 field goal attempts (13 more than the Kings) and because John Salmons could only draw back iron on his last second runner. In fairness to Salmons, who had a heck of a game (20 points in 41 minutes), Travis Outlaw was going zergling all over him in the lane. Say what you want about Travis's inconsistent defense. He can bother shooters when he wants to.

What's the takeaway tonight? Our shiny 9-6 record shouldn't have you too high: we've got some serious consistency and mental issues to work through if we want to beat the really good teams. Remember: the Kings played without Martin and Garcia. It's hard to feel too good (or good at all) about this one.

Nate's Postgame Comments

On that note, Nate was not feeling too hot after the game. He was on edge, talking briskly through questions, rushing out of the room after just a few minutes. Nate is still not the type of coach to be outright angry after a win (after all, it's a win, he'll take it) but this was just about as negative as I've seen him after a win. Here's what he had to say...

Nate on the result: "We dodged a bullet. We know we dodged a bullet tonight. Again, you need some of those during the course of the season but we can play much better than that. We got to. Each night we talk about improving. And as we get into the season right now towards the end of November, teams will get better. Teams are going to get better and we've got to get better. Tonight we dodged a bullet."

Nate on what was missing: "The scrappiness. I think we've got to work hard. In this game it's about bringing it every single night. On both ends of the floor and there's no reason why we can't get that. No one should have to worry about saving themselves as far as minutes, we are playing 10 guys. We should be able to get after guys. I didn't think that we were the aggressors in this game. We had to make some plays down the stretch to pull this out. We've had a couple of those this year but we won't continue to win games playing that way. We are much better than that. We gotta show it."

Nate on Greg's play: "Well, I want him to be more aggressive. Defensively, making the calls. And the pick and roll sets. Dominating. I think both he and LaMarcus can dominate that paint, on the boards. If we're dropping it, being more aggressive. Tonight, Joel stepped up once again and I think the good thing about our team is, again, you don't have to save yourself. Go out and leave it on the floor. We'll have another group come in and it's about the team playing well."

Nate on going with Joel instead of Greg down the stretch: "Joel was doing some good things defensively. Offensively he was underneath the basket and able to put the ball in the hoop. Defensively he really did a nice job giving us a lift."

Nate on getting used to playing with Greg: "We gotta play basketball. We can't forcefeed the post. If it's there, we take it. If not, then you gotta shoot the ball. If they are committing two to defending him in the paint, somebody else is open and you've got to knock down some shots. We're not going to force it to anyone. If you do get it, you gotta make good decisions with the ball. It's not playing with him and playing off of him, once Greg, Brandon, LA and Travis, all the guys who get the ball, once they receive the ball, then everybody has to play off of each other. But we're not going to force the ball to players if the defense is taking that away, we have counters that we can go to."

Nate on whether there was a letdown coming home: "We should have that energy. We gotta learn from this. We have to come out and we have to play. We made some breaks tonight, enough breaks to get this one. The good thing about it was that we got it. We gotta learn from it and we gotta get better."

Nate on the team's last offensive possession (Outlaw missed shot): "I think they had about seven seconds difference [between the shot clock and game clock]. We had to get ashot up. We knew they would double team Brandon. We wanted to get Travis in the middle of the floor, anyway. So when they denied Brandon, Travis had Mikki Moore. You gotta look at the clock and know the clock, spread the floor, we'll take that matchup. We'll take that matchup and we want to get to the basket. We're in the penalty. He missed the shot. Whether you play it to the last second or not, they still going to have 5 or 6 seconds on the clock."

Random Game Notes

First things first: What's up to Courtside Errand Boy (Zach) and NateInAloha. Thanks for saying "hi" guys. And thanks for reading. If anyone sees me at the Rose Garden, I always enjoy putting faces to screennames, so get at me.
Greg was warming up before the game two hours early. He was working on the things that I'd like to see him working on. First, he was ball faking above his shoulders, making sure he kept the ball high. Second, he was working on moving quickly off the entry pass, either drop-stepping to the baseline or power moving through the lane for a jump hook, without hesitation. Last, he was working on catching passes off of high screens, when your body is at a 45 degree angle facing the hoop. This is a tricky spot for a big guy to be in: Do you dribble? Do you pull up? Do you think that you've got to pass the ball immediately? Do you take it at someone, which can lead to a charge? Do you shuffle your feet? It's a situation that happens a lot in the pick and roll game. Greg was working through various reactions to it for awhile.
Rudy had to do an interview pregame. He looked nervous and had to be reassured by the reporter. "It will be easy!" Then Bayless walked nearby behind him, messing with him a little bit. Rudy made it through the interview unscathed. He practically ran away from the camera and microphone, looking for the nearest basketball. He looked like an elementary schooler the minute after school lets out.
Fun pregame exchange between Martell and Kevin Martin -- two talented wings currently beset with injuries. Martell came over to the Kings side of the court while Martin was doing the high jog (pictured below, basically you lift your knee to your chest and throw an arm in the air with each step). Martell said what's up to Martin but the Kings trainer that was working Martin out said quickly, "Martell is not your concern!" Haha. Martell just smiled at that as Martin finished his reps. Then Martin came over for some daps but, eying the trainer, quickly retreated back to his workout. Martell looked at the trainer and said, "It's his left ankle isn't it?" The trainer said yes. Martell was like, "I knew it. I could tell." Martin was favoring the ankle but, prior to Martell pointing it out, I hadn't been able to tell just by looking which ankle it was. If this professional basketball thing doesn't work out for him, maybe Martell can become a rehab specialist.
More Martell pregame: Michael from the Portland Observer told Martell, "we can't wait to get you back, man." Martell smiled and said simply, "I'm coming."
Even more Martell: He was shooting 3 pointers pregame. A ball bounced over to me. I threw a picture-perfect Steve Nash sidearm pass to Martell, who missed the jumper. Come on, Marty, you're killing my dime stats. Next time.
I was worried at the outset of the game that Jason Thompson would be too much for Batum, as he was bodying him around pretty good on the glass. So much for that. Thompson finished with 0 points and 6 boards.
Credit where credit is due: Spencer Hawes is a great 3 point shooting specialist 4/5. You don't see that every day (for good reason). But seriously, he had a nice game racking up 15, 5 and 3.
When Greg checked out of the game at the 6 minute mark in the first, the only teammate I saw go up to him was Joel, who had a fist bump for him. Joel is a pro's pro. Loved to see that.
Mikki Moore's legs look like pipe cleaners.
Had the pleasure of sitting next to and picking the brain of the Sacramento Bee's Sam Amick. Dude is the man. He breaks literally every single Kings story. But you probably already knew that.
Ric Bucher was in Portland tonight. Rocking a leather manpurse. Do you, Ric, do you. I ain't hatin.
Did you know that former player Haywoode Workman was one of tonight's referees? They probably mentioned that on the television broadcast. But that's pretty sweet. I would love to see Sheed refereeing games a decade from now.
A number of the signs tonight were Beavers/Ducks related as the Civil War is coming up later this week (you might have heard about that). The best Blazers sign I saw was "B Roy plus Joelzilla = Rip it Up." Not sure what that math equation means but Joelzilla is tight.
Word is Mikki Moore and Brad Miller are the Kings most likely to move before the trade deadline. Thanks but no thanks.

-- Ben (benjamin.golliver@gmail.com)

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Images

Rudy's Kicks.

Kevin Martin enjoys the color black. And is good at prancing.

-- Ben (benjamin.golliver@gmail.com)

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Greg and LA need to show me they are mentally tough

I think its mental with both of them and I think they are letting things get in their head. They need to just go out there and play ball the way they know how. When was the last time Greg made a great defensive play or LA drilled a 15 footer?

Boomshakalaka

by jksnake99 on Nov 25, 2008 12:31 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

When was the last time Outlaw played a 4th like we are used to seeing? When is the last time Frye has had a great game?

When is the last time Rudy hasn’t bricked almost all his shots? Why are you focusing on those two? Be patient.

by BRoyInThe4th on Nov 25, 2008 4:13 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

because they are supposed to be part of our "big 3"

right now it is a “big 1.”

Boomshakalaka

by jksnake99 on Nov 25, 2008 9:30 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm sick of Frye

All he does is jack up shots. When he’s got Roy, Rudy and Outlaw in the game, he’s the fourth option, but at one point late in the third or early fouth, I believe he shot 4 possessions in a row, making none.

We need a banger backup PF, in the mold of Milsap or Maxiell. Would be nice…..

Witty Unpredictable Talent and Natural Game

by iDea on Nov 25, 2008 9:30 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

We have one.

His name is Ike Diogu. Channing is better than him. Channing is slumping just like Aldridge. I don’t know how long it takes to be truly concerned, but I don’t think the time is now. Others disagree, but I think there should be more patience.

by poster on Nov 25, 2008 1:32 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I have patience

But we have too many outside shooters on this team and Aldridge needs to get more rounded on his offense and get in the paint….he has become too predictable and that is allowing teams to overplay his moves (sometimes he gets double teamed)…other teams are adjusting to our offensive sets….we need to play smarter and prepare better…..Fry will never be nothing more than an outside threat and even if he’s on, we don’t need it out of this position…..

'Liability on defense, is an asset on the bench" a quote from my basketball coach, who believed good defense won games and made the offense a product of it

by 67 on Nov 26, 2008 10:54 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Word up BEN!

Hyperdunk, that’s rudy’s kicks. Myself, i don’t like 12 oz shoes because they are too light and…not enough ankle support as roy’s Zoom BBII shoes. (personally, i wear BB II because i love the way they are in terms of lightness..the BB II are at 16 oz i believe.)

Did you get my email? i can repost here.

Few questions I have for you.
1. Was coach nate trying to push the tempo for the first 4 minutes of the game?
2. Did he try that again in 3rd/4th quarters? (I’ve seen him wave his arms in motion indicating that he wants things faster while bringing the ball down)
3. Rudy and oden was off tonight, did they (rudy and oden) comment on the reason why they were off? (Guessing foul trouble and kings “defense” or maybe tired?)
4. Should Coach send Bayless to D League? My friend and I were discussing that and the conversation got drowned in the noise.

WE WANT T-SHIRTS!!!

by nateinaloha on Nov 25, 2008 12:33 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

I don't understand why the Blazers don't send both Oden and Bayless down

Let them learn how to play NBA hoops

Blazer Fan

by leeroyjenkins on Nov 25, 2008 6:47 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Are you crazy?

Sometimes, I wonder where do we get fans like you

by Balian on Nov 25, 2008 8:46 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I agree on Bayless

And I’ll bet I’ve been a fan longer than you (32 years).

by DonkeyShins on Nov 25, 2008 8:52 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Ahem. For the 43rd time... Rex is an elite draft pick and quite likely a future NBA star. He will not play in the D-league. Ever.

…………………… Now let’s go back to Nate’s post-game comments, as quoted by Ben…

Nate on what was missing: “The scrappiness. I think we’ve got to work hard. In this game it’s about bringing it every single night. On both ends of the floor and there’s no reason why we can’t get that. No one should have to worry about saving themselves as far as minutes, we are playing 10 guys. We should be able to get after guys. I didn’t think that we were the aggressors in this game. We had to make some plays down the stretch to pull this out. We’ve had a couple of those this year but we won’t continue to win games playing that way. We are much better than that. We gotta show it.”

There is a place he can get instant energy and “scrappiness” off his own bench.

Are you following me?

"Sergio is clearly the MJ of 3rd string point guards!" —Mortimer Pritchard

by timbo on Nov 25, 2008 9:22 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

E.g. Jordan Farmar played in the D-league. You like Farmar, no?

"For such a dumb kid, you've got a pretty smart mouth."

by Norsktroll on Nov 25, 2008 9:56 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Lakers own their own D-League team

and they play in the same building. Farmar was able to keep practicing with LA, and as I recall even played in a game for both teams on the same day at one point. Portland sending Bayless to D-League would involve exiling him to Idaho. If the team believes in Jerryd and his abilities, it’s better to keep him around the team so he gets used to the NBA travel schedule, runs the team’s offense and defense in practices, and scrimmages against NBA-level players. In my opinion, anyway (IANKP).

by abdelnaby on Nov 25, 2008 10:10 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

there's a difference between downtown Los Angeles and Idaho?

jk, you’re right. We send our bloggers to Idaho, not our lottery picks (other than Martell and maybe others).

by Bust a Bucket on Nov 25, 2008 12:55 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

We could send all three to Idaho (Oden, Nic, B-Rex)

Then Dave can do practice and live game reports :)

Thus also nobody would feel slighted. They could crush the d-league for a week or two, grow together, and then Greg is the first one to come home again with the other two coming when there is a need/readiness to take over. We share the team with the Raptors who play similar in style to us, so I suppose the d-league team is adapted to these schemes anyway.

"For such a dumb kid, you've got a pretty smart mouth."

by Norsktroll on Nov 25, 2008 1:09 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

There is absolutely no way

Bayless will never play in the DL.

He will start getting playing time at some point. He’s the feistiest player we have and I, for two (timbo), can’t wait to see him rip somebody’s head off and dunk it.

Witty Unpredictable Talent and Natural Game

by iDea on Nov 25, 2008 10:36 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Well if we're judging players by their "feistiness"...

Oden should be DL’in it, pronto. No?

I like JB, but the NBA point thang ain’t workin for him. And ther’s a logjam at the 2. So what are we gonna do? Too much talent. This roster needs to find a 6 on 6 league!

when i get sad, i stop being sad & become awesome again. true story.

by Net Ranger on Nov 25, 2008 1:25 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I don't think it would help.

We already know that Bayless can dominate lesser competition (summer league). I don’t think it would prove anything we didn’t already know.

by poster on Nov 25, 2008 1:34 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

another random note:

Blaze missed a dunk. LOL at Blaze.

"I saw him in the face"

by RoodiePhirnandizz on Nov 25, 2008 12:35 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

He mssed at least one at the bulls game as well.

I say we fire him….

RUDY > MJ

by myemic23 on Nov 25, 2008 12:36 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

he missed all 3 at the bulls game

"Brandon Roy is your favorite restaurant" - Dave

by Sabonis4Ever on Nov 25, 2008 1:29 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

man

i think they got a new Blaze because I’ve never seen him miss before….

"I saw him in the face"

by RoodiePhirnandizz on Nov 25, 2008 1:31 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

he was so...

BLAZED that he MISSED!!!

YOU GOT SERVED BLAZE!!!

WE WANT T-SHIRTS!!!

by nateinaloha on Nov 25, 2008 12:43 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

another random note: greg missed 2 dunks

I come here to meet chicks...

by BlazermaniacAndy on Nov 25, 2008 9:45 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

waive Blaze

sign Squatch!

by abdelnaby on Nov 25, 2008 10:11 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

na, he ain’t into it at all….not one bit ;)

The Faith don't panic, the faith freaks out burns out farms and torchs small villages in the name of The Faith.

by faith on Nov 25, 2008 12:43 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

HAHA, that's my profile pic

If only he was having fun like that on the court, well maybe not just like that because it could get weird! Hopefully the dude loosens up soon.

by EazyRider on Nov 25, 2008 1:11 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

She has very nice, muscular wrists

I'm a little confused by your tactics

by oderiferous emanations 74 on Nov 25, 2008 8:54 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

i second that

on those wrists

when i get sad, i stop being sad & become awesome again. true story.

by Net Ranger on Nov 25, 2008 11:46 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

very nice wrists.

Rudyculize: The act of Rudy making others look slow, dim and generally oafish.

http://www.myspace.com/y5k

by Y5k on Nov 25, 2008 12:07 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

That's what I'm talking about!

Rudyculize: The act of Rudy making others look slow, dim and generally oafish.

http://www.myspace.com/y5k

by Y5k on Nov 25, 2008 12:06 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

What! Me Worry ?

Maybe just basketball depresses Greg…..Or he is just focused on a different ball….the problem with him, is Nate told all his players “above all we want you to have fun”…and this is Greg (HAVING FUN)
So, I blame the coach…..Gee, Greg’s just a kid, and I know what was fun for me at that age….

actually any age……

'Liability on defense, is an asset on the bench" a quote from my basketball coach, who believed good defense won games and made the offense a product of it

by 67 on Nov 26, 2008 11:17 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Are you for real?

By my count, during one stretch, he(Aldridge) went 2 for 20, unguarded from 18 feet out

I think I can beat him in a game of horse.

BINGO, BANGO, BONGO

by blzrfan on Nov 25, 2008 12:49 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

unbelievable

tell him not to take that shot in a game until he can hit it in practice. Goodness gracious.

Boomshakalaka

by jksnake99 on Nov 25, 2008 12:51 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

or even maybe beat him

in a game of 21. i’m 6’3", about sergio’s size.

WE WANT T-SHIRTS!!!

by nateinaloha on Nov 25, 2008 12:54 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I've played against you Nate and stuffed you. I'm only 6ft

LA would swallow every one of your shots

I'm a little confused by your tactics

by oderiferous emanations 74 on Nov 25, 2008 8:55 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

When is Aldridge

going to start getting tough and dunk the ball. He pissed me off last night, in the fourth quarter, when he did that little dippity doo reverse layup, after posting up bobby jackson, instead of throwing down.

Witty Unpredictable Talent and Natural Game

by iDea on Nov 25, 2008 10:38 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

iDea...

you’re on a roll, don’t stop.

All three of your posts from the top to here I TOTALLY agree with.

I was so hoppin’ mad I watched it in slo-mo a couple times and told my wife everything he did wrong. Why is a 6’ 11" guy a) not able to box out the point guard on the post and hold him at bay effectively, b) not able to throw it down over someone else, and c) not smart enough to realize that even if he gets blocked he likely gets free throws as the shot would’ve been in the restricted area?

Instead, he does a sidestep hop and floats by the rim and INTO 3 OTHER DEFENDERS for the much more difficult and heinous shot.

Turrible.

"When I die, I want to go peacefully like my Grandfather did, in his sleep -- not screaming, like the passengers in his car"

by you'vegottomakeyourfreethrows on Nov 25, 2008 11:50 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

That's discouraging

I mean I can understand Greg’s struggles but his body language, his whole vibe I guess is discouraging. I know he’s under a lot of pressure but he’s got to just relax and just be happy the team is doing well. You can tell the Oden situation is stressing Nate out too.

by neutroticblazerfan on Nov 25, 2008 1:35 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

Whassa "neutrotic"?

"Sergio is clearly the MJ of 3rd string point guards!" —Mortimer Pritchard

by timbo on Nov 25, 2008 9:27 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Big 5 Neurotic

Scroll down
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Five_personality_traits

"One must assume responsibility for being in a weird world ... Touch the world sparingly." Carlos Castenada (Journey to Ixtlan) (Caveowl can be three syllables, entonces, caveat.)

by Caveowl on Nov 25, 2008 10:09 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Sheed as a ref

That’s got to be on the BEdge honor roll of most hilarious ideas ever.

Nate sounds pretty unhappy. I hereby predict that he is going to kick so many rear ends today that we will come out and wipe the floor with Miami, just because they are going to want to take it out on someone, and they can’t take it out on Nate.

The most amazing thing about my amazing ego is I have amazingly little about which to be egotistical.
The pick and roll this year will emphasize "roll" followed by "dunk", followed by the wailings and lamentations of your women.

by jscot on Nov 25, 2008 2:59 AM PST reply actions 2 recs

I'm starting to feel what Greg is feeling. When he feels down it really bothers me. I wish people would just get off of it. Why should he be smiling after

a bad performance. He wants to be the best and he isn’t there yet. Stop focusing on him and let him work. Why don’t you take snap shots of Bayless or Rudy on the bench. I’m sure they aren’t happy with how they are playing either.

by BRoyInThe4th on Nov 25, 2008 4:10 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

Moping around after a bad performance generally doesn't make you better next time

Just sayin

Blazer Fan

by leeroyjenkins on Nov 25, 2008 6:44 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

.............. And starting a guy in the NBA doesn't make him a NBA starter...

……………………………… Nate needs to get off that goofball theory and bring Oden off the bench, like the raw rookie he is.

"Sergio is clearly the MJ of 3rd string point guards!" —Mortimer Pritchard

by timbo on Nov 25, 2008 9:29 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

He gets the same minutes either way on this team.

The difference is we want him to play with certain players more (Roy, Aldridge). That’s why I had no problem with his starting despite Przybilla’s currently better play.

by poster on Nov 25, 2008 1:38 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

But the start comes with pressure, it comes against the opponent's 1st string C at his freshest, and the first six minutes can set the tone for the whole game...

…………………………… There are easier ways to get to 25 minutes than bringing him out for the first 6…

"Now with a non-provocative footer!"

by timbo on Nov 25, 2008 8:35 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Some truth here, but....

How about the video of the introductions? The other 4 Blazers are excited and ready to roll. Oden looks like he’s being forced to go out for introductions.

When Oden was at his best (college) he was a goofball of sorts….a big lovable kid. I think we’d all like to see him channel some of that now. His game may not turn around until his attitude turns around.

by antediluvian on Nov 25, 2008 9:33 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I'll second that...

When Oden was at his best (college) he was a goofball of sorts….a big lovable kid. I think we’d all like to see him channel some of that now. His game may not turn around until his attitude turns around.

"Now with a non-provocative footer!"

by timbo on Nov 25, 2008 9:52 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Did you see Blake trip right after?

Oden is bigger than everyone else and he shouldn’t be jumping into players. I remember a kicker in the NFL getting hurt during a celebration, can’t forget Gus Frerotte headbutting a wall, and I think Joey Harrington took out a kicker during a celebration. I can’t believe how much people are scrutinizing Greg Oden.

Everyone in that first photo looks tired. What the hell is going on here? Do people really go to games and just look at the players on the bench and then speculate on what they are feeling?

by tominhawaii on Nov 25, 2008 1:10 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

It's kind of funny

Roy goes to shoulder-bump Bayless and Bayless just looks away. Zing!

"I believe in [Joel]. I just love the way he plays." - Nate McMillan

by jamon51 on Nov 25, 2008 2:58 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

That's just not right.

by tominhawaii on Nov 26, 2008 2:39 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Ummmm....maybe because it's not just us.

If it was just one or two games, I would agree with you.

But both Roy and Nate have talked about Greg needing to lighten up. They also talk about how he is incredibly talented and does amazing stuff in practice. We’ve seen what a wonderful personality he has….for the past 15 months. GO has a real engaging, gregarious personality.

Quick has also shared a lot of the same info. He went into great detail on a podcast a week ago (maybe 2), that the frustration seems to be building up in Oden.

Yet when GO steps onto the court in a game, he appears to be a different player…nervous and out of sorts. Yeah he’s young, but he also played on the big stage (NCAA finals) in college and acquited himself well. I just want to see him having fun because I don;t think he’ll have a ton of success until he does.

My 2 cents….

by antediluvian on Nov 25, 2008 3:02 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

All I know

That is if everyone was telling me I need to lighten up, it would just make me mad and I would not lighten up.

by tominhawaii on Nov 26, 2008 2:40 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Oden has an inordinate need for sleep,

and it’s getting it on the bench.

by TwoDeep on Nov 25, 2008 10:16 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks for the Martin points Ben

It was interesting you pointed that out, because Martin has been held out much longer than originally said. I fear there are problems with tendons, as several people on StR have mentioned, but you know, that stuff happens. The Kings are being careful.

I didn’t see the whole game, as I was irritated with Stinky (a Kings troll a consistent negative force on the SacBee forums), and the feed I was getting over the web for the game.

But, I think these teams will be fun to watch square off later in the year, the last game of the year next month on Dec 16th @ the Rose Garden. Should be fun.

Last but not least, I envy your conversation with Sam. Dude is, just, unreal. All I can really say.

No mistakes in the tango, darling. Not like life. It's simple. That's what makes the tango so great. If you make a mistake, and get tangled, you tango on

by pookeyguru on Nov 25, 2008 6:09 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

Can't Ziller block that guy's IP address?

by jscot on Nov 25, 2008 6:15 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

seems like Ziller is MIA part of the time over there.

I think we get spoiled by the excessive attention and contribution of Dave and Ben.

by Bust a Bucket on Nov 25, 2008 7:09 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Stinky gets away with this

Stinky is a troll, but I don’t think he’s so stupid to do it off the same name. He wouldn’t be able to get away with what he’s doing otherwise.

No mistakes in the tango, darling. Not like life. It's simple. That's what makes the tango so great. If you make a mistake, and get tangled, you tango on

by pookeyguru on Nov 25, 2008 5:24 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I would have thought

you could block an IP address, and then it doesn’t matter what name he uses.

by jscot on Nov 25, 2008 11:03 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm sure you can jscot

What I’m saying, and said this poorly the first time, and for that I do apologize, is that Stinky is a professional troll. He’s probably a computer savant, in all likelihood, who knows how to manipulate the system with his craptastic suckitude. He’s blasted the Kings all the time in the SacBee forums, and I’m pretty sure if they weren’t so desperate for comments, that they would just hire someone to kill him, and keep him from ever surfacing ever again. Guy isn’t just retarded; he’s Superman retarded if that makes any sense.

No mistakes in the tango, darling. Not like life. It's simple. That's what makes the tango so great. If you make a mistake, and get tangled, you tango on

by pookeyguru on Nov 26, 2008 3:22 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, he came over here and wrote a really disgusting fanpost.

It was deleted within five minutes… I guess trolls have nothing better to do.

by Cablinasian on Nov 25, 2008 9:50 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Wow, that starting lineup intro by Greg looked really uninspired

Not to say abysmal. No energy whatsoever. In that regard, he should take a page out of Sheed’s or KG’s book.

P.S.: Nic and Travis are putting a nice effort into it

by Norsktroll on Nov 25, 2008 6:15 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

Oden should be in the D League, let's be honest

The guy isn’t ready for NBA basketball. And he shows no real desire to improve as far as I can tell. He’s got no fire, no passion. Even a 7 footer who has no coordination or quickness – like Greg apparently- should be able to contribute somehow. If he’s still hurt or something, I’ll take back my criticism. But if not…he sucks.

Travis is killing me…every time I compliment him on his improved decision-making, he takes three steps back by making bad decision after bad decision every third game he plays in. If you watched the game, you counted at least 5 terrible TERRIBLE shots and several other boneheaded plays. I don’t care that his box score looks ‘decent’, if you watched the game you know how many poor decisions Travis made.

LMA is still afraid to go inside. We’ve got our nearly 7 foot power forward working on three-pointers lol. LMA will never be an All-Star til he stops being scared of contact. At least he got a few rebounds near the end.

Channing was pretty bad too. He’s like a worse version of Lamarcus.

Now the good…

Brandon Roy and Joel are the two players Portland has who hate to lose. The rest, you have to wonder… This Thanksgiving I will give thanks for Brandon Roy and Joel.

Props to Sergio for a solid all-around game too.

P.S. Sergio gets props for a solid game also. Blake too.

Blazer Fan

by leeroyjenkins on Nov 25, 2008 6:43 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

Oops, Sergio gets props twice o.O

Why don’t these forums have an edit button?

Blazer Fan

by leeroyjenkins on Nov 25, 2008 6:45 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm okay with double props for Sergio -- his passing has been taken to a new level, his defense is improved, and he's not trying to be Steve Blake anymore, so the bad part of his game is an itty bitty part of the picture...

"Sergio is clearly the MJ of 3rd string point guards!" —Mortimer Pritchard

by timbo on Nov 25, 2008 9:32 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

My small contribution to peace, love, and international understanding this holiday season… I do what I can…

"Now with a non-provocative footer!"

by timbo on Nov 25, 2008 9:36 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Sameolchit

I agree with most of what you say…The solid and most consistent players have emerged
1. Roy
2. Pryz
3.Blake
less consistent but still contributing in their own way
4. Rudy
5. Sergio
6. Batum
fragmented and or lost
7. LA
8 Oden
still hoping (but it’s a trade we should be hoping for)
9.Outlaw
10.Fry
unknown quantity
11. Bayless
12. Ike
bottom line……
1. We should be dominating the paint (what should be our strengths have become our weakness)
ps; except Prz
2. defense is not part of our game plan (except Prz. makes it part of his)
3.If you want more games to end up like the Chicago game, make some adjustment to your offense and play defense
4. don’t just talk about hustle DO IT and put players on the bench when they don’t ! (this team is not aggressive and hustle is not in their mindset…a passive team won’t get you many wins and will always keep the other team in the game….

'Liability on defense, is an asset on the bench" a quote from my basketball coach, who believed good defense won games and made the offense a product of it

by 67 on Nov 25, 2008 9:25 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Outlaw

I agree, he took some horrific shots last night, but he made up for it by grabbing a couple of HUGE offensive rebounds in the final minutes.

Witty Unpredictable Talent and Natural Game

by iDea on Nov 25, 2008 10:42 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

"And he shows no real desire to improve as far as I can tell"

then what exactly do you call this?………Greg was warming up before the game two hours early. He was working on the things that I’d like to see him working on. First, he was ball faking above his shoulders, making sure he kept the ball high. Second, he was working on moving quickly off the entry pass, either drop-stepping to the baseline or power moving through the lane for a jump hook, without hesitation. Last, he was working on catching passes off of high screens, when your body is at a 45 degree angle facing the hoop.

by SalemORguy on Nov 25, 2008 11:14 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Um ... Ben?

That Suns jersey is getting into your blood-stream a little?
Yer tossing out “Steve Nash sidearm passes” now?

Rudyculize: The act of Rudy making others look slow, dim and generally oafish.

http://www.myspace.com/y5k

by Y5k on Nov 25, 2008 7:13 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

lol touche….

i do kind of feel like sergio, i guess, with my teammates leaving my assists out there on the floor.

by Ben. on Nov 25, 2008 11:18 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I've told (the collective) you about my ill-fated Martell pass in New Orleans, right.

I get some kick-awesome seats for free courtside and give JJ33, Steve Blake and Martell a little pep before the game and Martell tosses me the ball.
Sweat.
I look at it like the kid from A Christmas Story trying to remember what he wanted to tell Santa … anyway, I shoot Martell a check-pass … that’s like it was fired from a soggy paper-mache pop-gun … a dribbling-squirt of a pass that slow bounces to Martell’s knees. (God, I’m weak.) then Martell pulls up and totally clanks a 3. He never even looked back at me.
Gone.
Oh well.

Rudyculize: The act of Rudy making others look slow, dim and generally oafish.

http://www.myspace.com/y5k

by Y5k on Nov 25, 2008 12:12 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

well can we t up a ref

I would love to see Sheed refereeing games a decade from now.

"Feminism encourages women to leave their husbands, kill their children, practice witchcreaft, destroy capitalism, and become lesbians. [speech at GOP Presidential Convention 1992] Rev. Pat Robertson

by BlazerFan1 on Nov 25, 2008 8:32 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

He wants to get into coaching. Then he deserves his own place in the hall of fame just for popularizing the technical foul

by Norsktroll on Nov 25, 2008 8:58 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Oden was smiling on the court

You guys make a big deal out of everything. From last night’s broadcast, Oden was smiling on the court coming out of a timeout. Oden naturally has a long face. It is his natural countenance.

by Balian on Nov 25, 2008 8:49 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

No, no, no. Very bad body language.

"Now with a non-provocative footer!"

by timbo on Nov 25, 2008 9:38 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Even more Martell

At the end of one timeout he danced a little before taking his seat behind the bench.

I didn’t see the beginning of the exchange, but I’m guessing maybe Joel dropped a towel because Marty picked the towel up off of Joel’s lap, thoroughly dusted it off, refolded it nicely and put it back on Joel’s lap. I think Joel was shaking his head sadly over the whole thing, but I was sure laughing. (And thinking that Martell REALLY has to start playing soon.) On the 5th quarter Harvey said he was going on the road trip and would surely play some.

Other non-game observations: Once again Travis moved everyone on the bench before he sat down after being subbbed for. I’d like to know if it’s a particular seat he needs or did he want to sit next to Joel or in front of Martell? Please, Ben the Sleuth, get to the bottom of this obsessive behavior!!!

I sort of liked the Blazer Dancers’ cowgirl routine – they actually incorporated some (Country) dance steps into their routine and the hats kept the hair flipping to a minimum. But WHY do the Junior Dancers have to dance to music that include lyrics about “shaking it” or similar? OK for the big girls but 8-10 year olds? Sheesh.

by jorga on Nov 25, 2008 8:58 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

Why are the junior blazer dancers allowed on the court

Without shoes or socks? Disgusting.

"Brandon Roy is your favorite restaurant" - Dave

by Sabonis4Ever on Nov 25, 2008 12:06 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm mad no on posts video of them in the FanPosts

by tominhawaii on Nov 25, 2008 1:15 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Every game we get the same thing:

Whoever played poorly needs to go to d-league, be traded, benched.
Whoever played well is the real deal, keep them forever.

Here is what I think:
Oden is great already.
Aldridge is struggling to take it to the next level, but still awesome.
Rudy is great.
Outlaw is great.
Everyone is great.

Have any of you ever had an off night?
The Kings had a great game plan against us and we weren’t able to adjust/scrap it out last night. We still won because we have such a great team.

Anyway, I’d rather get our kinks out now rather than later. These players need to learn how to deal with adversity, with struggling games, and with feeling slow and they need to do it now. I don’t want a 70+ win team that can’t react to everything that is so difficult in the playoffs. I want a team where everyone has learned to be tough after whatever failure comes their way. And with all the young stars we have, it is the first time failure for them. Lets stick with them entirely throughout the growing periods.

by staylost on Nov 25, 2008 9:01 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

Great analysis!

Oden is great already.
Aldridge is struggling to take it to the next level, but still awesome.
Rudy is great.
Outlaw is great.
Everyone is great.

Everyone is great except LMA? Or is LMA struggling to take it from Great to Super Great?

All smartassery aside, your point is well taken that every bad performance generates an inordinate amount of carping from the faithful. You just have to roll with it. Every team’s fans do it in every sport, if that makes ya feel better — it’s just that PDX is a one sport town and hoopheads tend to be a little bit more over the top than fans in other sports, probably because the teams are so small and making even a single change in the structure of a team or its rotation can have such a huge, easily seen impact that it pours gasoline on smoldering disgruntlement.

Here’s what we can actually say, in my opinion…

Oden is a raw player with great potential. He is NOT dominating in the way that many hoped; nor is he washing out. He seems to be a sensitive sort and IS NOT HAVING FUN RIGHT NOW. He needs to have fun. The rest will follow.

LMA is mired in a deep shooting slump, similar to a hitting slump in baseball. We know he can stroke it, he needs to do the other things that he is still able to do until he gets the jumper back. Again, baseball: they say that being fast never has a slump. Neither does being 6’11". LMA should become a paint monster and instead of trying to hit long jumpers should try to shoot 75% and pull down 10 rebounds for a few games instead of crashing and burning with the long jumpers.

Rudy is great but is currently hitting some sort of wall. He is not running without the ball any more, I note. He needs to do that. He’ll be fine.

Outlaw’s great skill is being able to get his shot AGAINST ANYBODY. Whether that shot goes down is something of a crapshoot. He’s a genius or a goat depending on that outcome. He was a goat last night. So it goes. Comes with the territory given the game he plays and the big shots he takes.

Everyone is good and the team is doing well despite some really UNGREAT play on some nights. Things will get better.

"Now with a non-provocative footer!"

by timbo on Nov 25, 2008 9:49 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

No one knows

what these players will become….The only ones that have proven consistency, have been Roy, Blake, and Prz…..that’s the knock on this team…..we need more players to emerge with some consistency. ……and until they do, they can expect to be surrounded with both negative and positive critique …..blinded fanatics see only positive (Not condemning it) while others may see some fixes (in their minds) to poor play or inconsistency…I guess it could be called, second guessing the coach……..Easy when your in the chair and most everything is hindsight…….If we continue to see the same things that have made us skeptical of a players worth or contribution to the overall team, then there will always be those thoughts injected into comments….
The problem I have, is getting grouped into the one game interpretation syndrome…..I never make comments based on one game. My thoughts are opinion, like everyone else, but I try my best to qualify what I say, but not jumping to one game conclusions….

'Liability on defense, is an asset on the bench" a quote from my basketball coach, who believed good defense won games and made the offense a product of it

by 67 on Nov 25, 2008 10:23 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

..... and the Kings played well.

by TwoDeep on Nov 25, 2008 10:24 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

eh

they had about 58 turnovers.

Boomshakalaka

by jksnake99 on Nov 25, 2008 11:26 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Oh.

I’ll admit I didn’t take note of the stats. I thought the Kings were moving the ball very nicely and hitting a lot of deep shots. I came away from the game thinking Theuss might actually be making it as a coach. But it was just a cursory observation, based on the halting, fuzzy feed my computer was receiving.

by TwoDeep on Nov 26, 2008 7:21 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Re the introduction

Maybe Greg doesn’t want to exert energy until it’s necessary – he wants to save his jumping for the game. (He IS still recuperating from the surgery.) Maybe Jay Jenson told him specifically NOT to jump.

And maybe, just maybe, he thinks the introductions are a bit overdone and instead of playing along (like I think Blake does) he just does the minimal. I know that as a fan I think they are too long. Opening night is one thing, but last night (as I was standing there clapping in rhythm) I was thinking “Enough! Let’s get on with the game!!” I don’t need anything like that to get ME ready and I’m sure the team comes out motivated from the locker room. (Or not. But I doubt the intros help the team.)

by jorga on Nov 25, 2008 9:10 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

just maybe

He needs some flubber in his shoes….(sorry, if he was saving it, it must have been for the next game)
I agree about the Intros… too much Hollywood…let the play of the players be our entertainment…or maybe it’s the play of the other team’s players and the intro was the best Blazer entertainment for the night

Sorry, just for fun

'Liability on defense, is an asset on the bench" a quote from my basketball coach, who believed good defense won games and made the offense a product of it

by 67 on Nov 25, 2008 9:54 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

EARTH TO LMA... EARTH TO LMA...

By my count, during one stretch, he went 2 for 20, unguarded from 18 feet out, with the ball rotating haphazardly, too much to the left on one attempt, too much to the right on the next. He then went out and went 3 for 14 during the game, hitting nothing but a few layups and a jump hook. He hit the side of the backboard. He hit the front of the backboard. He hit everything, pretty much, but net.

…………………. STOP SHOOTING JUMPSHOTS!!!

What this team desperately needs are the shots that haven’t vanished, paint points and little hooks…

"Sergio is clearly the MJ of 3rd string point guards!" —Mortimer Pritchard

by timbo on Nov 25, 2008 9:25 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

Thank you

We really do need a Milsap or a Maxiel to backup LMA.

Witty Unpredictable Talent and Natural Game

by iDea on Nov 25, 2008 10:48 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I TOTALLY AGREE

Why on earth a near 7 footer feels the need to shoot 18 foot jumpers is beyond my tiny brain to understand. Post up and own the rest of the frail 4s in the west. Outside of Boozer and a select few others, LMA is a beast!

But being honest is all I do well.....

by SuperDave on Nov 25, 2008 12:01 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I missed these game reports.

Love the home game coverage. Nice work Ben.

by Cablinasian on Nov 25, 2008 9:53 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

BEN! Where do you sit I want to come say hi! And this is what I took away from the game, no, it wasn't chalupa's this time, plus a power ranger and boxing analogy

but it was a win, I’ll take it, any way I can get it.
The crowd really wanted to get loud and get into this game. My 2 younger brothers were in town and we not only took them and my cousin tyler but we also brought my uncle scott, my brothers girlfriend lily and lily’s dad Jim. It was a family affair. I had a feeling this was going to be a close game but when I looked up into the rafters at the scoreboard late in the 4th quarter and saw we were down six I was surprised but still wasn’t worried. We were down a few points, but we must protect this house. It took Nate pulling our 2 rookies and putting Joel and Troutlaw back in the game to get us turned around. Great move coach, I’ve never been a bigger fan. I have also started to appreciate not so much who starts, but who finishes a game. Our guys got one they shouldn’t of have won. Save it for Travis’ last brick and John Salmons near disater of a basket I ended up walking out the garden an un-defeated winner at home. That’s really all it takes in this league. Win all your home games. Split your games on the road, you make the playoff’s. I just want everyone to know how much my ulcer hurt when we were closing in on 5 minutes left in the game and needed some momentum. Enter the crowds chants of defense, my voice booming loud over top the lower bowl, then BAM, defensive stop! Which turns into, FAST BREAK! (How awesome was that to see so much running tonight huh!?) Add one part Pryzballer block, then sprinkle on a little B roy for flavor, and POW your cooking with gas! Even if you burn your biscuits, they are still edible. A 1 point win is still a win. I know Greg-y Poo looked a wittle upset, but wipe that sip off your lip you giant man you! We won! You can get back to they gym and work on your game tomorrow! He looked like that pink power ranger of a girl in the photo above broke his heart and moved home to the orient. And I think Greg would of have wrecked Toyko if he had lost this game, trying as hard and playing as bad as he did. Let this be a lesson to those who doubt the Zilla, only he rules Japan’s crown jewel, Mothra (and the other NBA teams) don’t stand a chance with this 1 – 2 center knockout. Get back up Greg, it’s still round 1.

I come here to meet chicks...

by BlazermaniacAndy on Nov 25, 2008 10:12 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

Good God ... I thought that was a Fatty post.

Rudyculize: The act of Rudy making others look slow, dim and generally oafish.

http://www.myspace.com/y5k

by Y5k on Nov 25, 2008 12:15 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

But too much punctuation.

Rudyculize: The act of Rudy making others look slow, dim and generally oafish.

http://www.myspace.com/y5k

by Y5k on Nov 25, 2008 12:15 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I really need to work on my fatty impersonations

Speaking of the fats, I have yet to get into a comment war or any other sort of interaction with this fellow BEdger, fatty, if your out there, you could please write me a lengthy paragraph saying hello, and please remember not to use good grammer

I come here to meet chicks...

by BlazermaniacAndy on Nov 25, 2008 3:40 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

These are sweet Ben

At least Martell caught the ball…so you still don’t have any turnovers for the year.

That is really hideous
--jscot

by prezofdeath on Nov 25, 2008 11:53 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

It's B Roy's team

LaMarcus looks like poop. Greg Oden looks like he’s going to take a poop everytime he gets the ball. For being such a big guy, he sure does get his feelings hurt easy…..

I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I can’t wait for Martell to get back. His finishing and relentlessness should be an asset if he can get over not being a 20 point a night scorer.

Oh, the TO shot was awful too….

But being honest is all I do well.....

by SuperDave on Nov 25, 2008 11:57 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

The Greg may be suffering from clinical depression.

He needs to go see a doctor and get examined. I’m serious about this. I lost someone very close to me because of this illness.

If the diagnosis turns out to be negative, then he’s suffering from immaturity and needs a stern talking to. The game ISN’T all about his performance. He can contribute in other ways. As a coach once told me in so many words, “Stop being so selfish – it’s not just about you out there, you know?”. We have the lead and the others are doing well and all you care about is YOUR performance, YOUR stats. Be the leader that the others expect out of you and contribute in other ways! Be happy for US!". Needless to say I was rather upset by his a**-chewing, although in the long run it made me a better player. Most importantly a better teammate.

Get well Big Fella.

when i get sad, i stop being sad & become awesome again. true story.

by Net Ranger on Nov 25, 2008 12:16 PM PST reply actions 1 recs

That's really not far-fetched...

The Greg may be suffering from clinical depression.
He needs to go see a doctor and get examined. I’m serious about this. I lost someone very close to me because of this illness.

From bubbly goofball to a guy lumbering through the motions…

"Now with a non-provocative footer!"

by timbo on Nov 25, 2008 12:22 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Maybe he has S.A.D

Seasonal affected depression. All this gray is getting to him.

BINGO, BANGO, BONGO

by blzrfan on Nov 25, 2008 12:45 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Ugh. Could be.

I know i do!

when i get sad, i stop being sad & become awesome again. true story.

by Net Ranger on Nov 25, 2008 1:11 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I think it is a Brain Cloud

by tominhawaii on Nov 25, 2008 1:19 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Same as Walton?

Please no!

http://vault.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1089459/index.htm

"I believe in [Joel]. I just love the way he plays." - Nate McMillan

by jamon51 on Nov 25, 2008 3:02 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Walton did know how to talk either

by Bust a Bucket on Nov 26, 2008 7:02 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Mhm, let me put on my Greg Oden cap and go through this CES Depression Scale questionnaire

(As used by the National Institute of Mental Health)
Everyone—no matter how happy they are—experiences depressive symptoms from time to time. This survey measures how many of those depressive symptoms you felt during the past week. Consider each question and select the answer that best describes how you have felt over the past week.

The answers to get an accurate result are always
a) Rarely or none of the time (less than 1 day)
b) Some or a little of the time (1-2 days)
c) Occasionally or a moderate amount of the time (3-4 days)
d) Most or all of the time (5-7 days)
And the result is a scaled score from 0 to 60. But we will go with his true thoughts here.

1. I was bothered by things that usually don’t bother me. Yes, the refs are always calling me for shuffling my feet
2. I did not feel like eating; my appetite was poor. Didn’t you see how much weight I lost? I’m just a line in the landscape
3. I felt that I could not shake off the blues even with help from my family and friends. What friends? All my teammates hate me
4. I felt that I was just as good as other people. No. Joel is so much better
5. I had trouble keeping my mind on what I was doing. Dude, did you see me playing and sitting there on the bench? Yes
6. I felt depressed. Hell yes
7. I felt that everything I did was an effort. Yes again
8. I felt hopeful about the future. I think I’m a #1 draft pick bust. People say I’m Sam Bowie 2.0
9. I thought my life had been a failure. I was picked #1 and earn millions of dollars doing what I enjoy, but yes
10. I felt fearful. Those big Sacramento centers are frightening me
11. My sleep was restless. Nightmares of Shaq dunking on me
12. I was happy. Obviously, no
13. I talked less than usual. Mumble
14. I felt lonely. So lonely
15. People were unfriendly. Jerryd is mean
16. I enjoyed life. Why, oh why should I?
17. I had crying spells. Sob
18. I felt sad. Sob
19. I felt that people disliked me. Especially those on Blazer’s Edge
20. I could not get “going.” Again, did you see my stats?

Seriously: Unless you can get Greg to fill out such a questionnaire, you have no idea if he really has anything even nearing a clinical depression. Or ever had one.

"For such a dumb kid, you've got a pretty smart mouth."

by Norsktroll on Nov 25, 2008 12:46 PM PST up reply actions 8 recs

You slay me

I gave you one rec.

by tominhawaii on Nov 25, 2008 1:22 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

rec'd

when i get sad, i stop being sad & become awesome again. true story.

by Net Ranger on Nov 25, 2008 1:26 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Nice job Norsk

Can I play internet shrink? I think his clinical depression is a side effect of the mono he had last year.

by Corvid on Nov 25, 2008 1:27 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I gave it #4

who turns it green?

by jscot on Nov 25, 2008 2:45 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

And green it becomes.

honor rasheed wallace

by Cablinasian on Nov 25, 2008 2:48 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Just to make sure as a disclaimer

The post is a joke, though the questions are real. I don’t want to insult anyone who might suffer from real depression, and while I took psychology courses I’m in no way a mental health professional.

If you go through that test and think you would have scored high, you should know that a high score is not the same thing as a diagnosis of depression. For one, moods change quickly and if you took the test again in two weeks (which is usually recommended before seeking treatment) it could be completely different. Some people who would get high scores are not in fact depressed, and people with relatively low scores can still have a “depressive disorder” especially if it is accompanied by other gloomy thoughts. A full-blown depression depends on other things, such as how long your symptoms have lasted and whether they have some primary source other than depression. A diagnosis can be made only after a thorough interview with a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist.

On a positive note, exercise of as little as 30 min three times per week was shown in various studies to have the same boosting effect on happiness as strong drugs including Sertraline, while having a much better relapse rate after six months. And our Blazers certainly get a lot of exercise :)

"For such a dumb kid, you've got a pretty smart mouth."

by Norsktroll on Nov 25, 2008 3:31 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

thanks Doc

I thought I was Ok , but now I’m not sure……not pickin but still grinin ….(I’ve heard that laughter is good for depression, so your original post helped)

'Liability on defense, is an asset on the bench" a quote from my basketball coach, who believed good defense won games and made the offense a product of it

by 67 on Nov 26, 2008 10:05 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

lol

That is really hideous
--jscot

by prezofdeath on Nov 25, 2008 4:39 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

rec

on the potential for Greg to harm himself.

by Bust a Bucket on Nov 25, 2008 12:59 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

What is going on here?

Everyone sounds like a bunch of teenage girls. Everyone is wondering about a guys feelings and if he’s depressed.

I’m not being a homer, I’m being a realist. Greg Oden is a 20 year old rookie. 20 YEARS OLD! The Blazers are the second youngest team in the league and they are 9-6, after one of the toughest starts in NBA history.

Good teams win games even when everyone is playing bad. The Blazers would have lost this game last year.

by tominhawaii on Nov 25, 2008 1:45 PM PST reply actions 1 recs

+1

Agreed. 3 words. “Just play ball”

by JimmieG on Nov 25, 2008 6:02 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Tom, are you feeling OK?

and would you please define “Homer” and “Realist”

'Liability on defense, is an asset on the bench" a quote from my basketball coach, who believed good defense won games and made the offense a product of it

by 67 on Nov 26, 2008 10:10 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I was 20 once

A “homer” sees no wrong with his team.
A “realist” can step back from the fanaticism and objectively assess the situation.

by tominhawaii on Nov 26, 2008 2:37 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Big ups Ben!

Good to meet you bro, keep up the diligent courtside observations. They are tell tale. I should tell you all, that when I met Ben he was like, “Did you see LaMarcus warming up? He was like 1 for 20, there’s something seriously wrong with that shot.” And LMA accordingly went 3 of 14 for the game. Tough shooting slump, we all know he’s a great shooter, I’m glad we’re still winning as he goes through this, he’ll be back any day now.

~Zach

"Rudy’s flashy passes had the place whispering to each other like we were in junior high" ~BlazermaniacAndy

by courtsideerrandboy on Nov 25, 2008 2:27 PM PST reply actions 0 recs