Jefferson Smith Legislates Blazers Development
by Ben Golliver on May 1, 2009 10:28 AM PDT
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PrintJefferson Smith is Representative for Oregon House District 47 and a lifelong Oregonian and Blazers fan. He knows a thing or two about development, having founded the Oregon Bus Project. And, as a politician, he is wired to love numbered lists.
After the heartbreaking losses, I am comforted by the thoughts that this year's goal was simply making the playoffs, and my attentions turn to what we need to do in the offseason. Here are my 5 development notes.
- Blazers need to shop for a point guard who can put pressure on the defense, or they need to commit to playing Rudy and Roy together as well as adding a 3 who can help with the ballhandling a la Pippen/Roy. (Altenatively...cross fingers for Bayless improvement, but shortish arms might limit him). In the modern no-hand-checking era, a penetrating and finishing PG is a powerful weapon for a half court offense (think Paul, Williams, Parker, Rose, Rondo, Mo Williams, Nash, even Aaron Brooks). If we do without that weapon, our PG needs to offer a LOT of defense and deep shooting. I like Blake...as one of the best backup PGs in the league.
- Oden needs to (a) cut down fouls to stay on the court; (b) develop a left-hand post counter to go with his jump hook; and (c) work on conditioning, flexibility, and slimming, so he can stay healthy.
- Outlaw and Batum need to develop penetration games, or the Blazers need to shop for a new 3 (I'm not convinced Webster is much of an upgrade). This is especially important if we don't add a penetrating PG. Our three small forwards are close to what we need, but not quite...hopefully one or more can develop.
- Aldridge needs to develop into the league's best post-Duncan power forward (and Duncan's actually a center). To do that and surpass/match Boozer, Bosh, Nowitzki, Gasol, and David West, he needs to (a) improve inside game to get some easy buckets; (b) beef up rebounding up to 8-9+ boards/game, (c) develop a left hand finish, and/or (d) consider embracing finesse game further, by driving to the hoop and being a centerpiece passer like Gasol and Nowitzki. He has those tools.
- Blazers need to add some muscle -- either by Oden staying on the floor, current players like Aldridge toughening, or adding a new stronger SF. Some strengthening can come with age (or with undetectable human growth hormone, which I advise against).
This season was a success. Let's make next season a success too...by growing. Go Blazers.
You can read more about Jefferson on his website.
This is your chance to debate with an Oregon lawmaker over something that really matters: the future of the franchise. What did Jefferson forget? Where does he have his head in the sky? Where was he on the money?
Sound off in the comments. He'll be reading.
-- Ben (benjamin.golliver@gmail.com)
PS... I am dog sick. Horrible timing. Sorry about that. Slowly recovering. Will get to emails at some point this weekend. Check back tonight for notes from Nate and KP after this afternoon's end-of-season exit interviews.
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RE: Steve Blake
I’ve been saying it all season (most recently yesterday). And my name is Ben and I ’ve got a wicked bad cold/swine-flu. Weird.
http://www.blazersedge.com/2009/5/1/861263/first-off-season-discussion-thread#15099323
this has been a message from: "The People's Alliance to give Greg Oden at Least a Couple of Seasons"
And again...
http://www.blazersedge.com/2009/4/29/859481/bill-simmons-thinks-we-should-have#15025438
this has been a message from: "The People's Alliance to give Greg Oden at Least a Couple of Seasons"
PS… I am dog sick. Horrible timing. Sorry about that. Slowly recovering.
Sorry dude. both my wife and I feel for you (I bet TiH does too).
Gatorade, medication and bedrest. It’ll take a while but you’ll feel better.
get well soon Ben!
Brandon Roy: Strengths-remarkably efficient player who appears to effortlessly score and facilitate. Weakness-he’s just a figment of your imagination. - Canis Hoopus
SWINE FLU!!
Go buy a freakin mask dude. Save us from Captain Trips.
Golly Gee, I sure hope I didn't huwt anybody's feewings.... sniff...sniff....
I'm an elitist jerk, and I won't lie about it.
The WAVE is bad karma. When we lose, I'll blame it on our fans doing the wave......
agree with the toughness thing
I’d love to have a guy like Ronron on my team. We’re long but pretty soft at PF, I’d like to see serious toughness at the SF slot to balance.
PG…. Hinrich is playing great, for those not paying attention to any other series. I think I’m back on that bandwagon, even with his contract. I’d like to see Sergio working on developing a floater; I’m not sure that he has a future anywhere where Nate is coaching, but honestly he’s just a few basic skills away from being a very good PG in this league.
a few basic skills... you mean like defense and shooting?
Sergio is already a good backup PG. I see no evidence that he’ll develop into anything more.
I’m on the Hinrich bandwagon for sure and I’m on the toughness bandwagon as well.
Well, sergio is obviously the best playmaker of all the guards on the team,
by a very healthy margin. There’s a pretty direct correlation between Nate’s refusal to play Sergio in the playoffs and how poorly the bench produced. Sergio gets Rudy and Trout good shots. These guys are finishers, not creators, and a good indication of how ineffective Rudy will be is how often you see him trying to do anything on the bounce. Trout’s a one on one guy, but he benefits a lot when Sergio gets him the ball when Travis’s man is sagging off him.
Brandon needs to get doubled for him to produce a lot of open shots for our guys, and Houston managed to single cover him a lot. When Brandon’s got the ball, the other guys stand around, and only LMA really expects to get the ball. When Sergio’s got the ball, everyone’s in motion, and everyone’s prepared to get the ball and do something with it.
Sergio’s always been able to penetrate at will. The problem has been that once he gets to the rim, he’s not nearly athletic enough to finish above the trees, so he does a lot of desperate/stupid things at the rim. There’s a pretty simple solution to that — floaters and pullup midrange shots.
To me, the most important thing for a PG in this era is whether they can create plays in the offense. That’s their most critical role. Only a handful of PGs in this league can consistently create plays. Sergio’s one of them.
by howlingfantods on May 1, 2009 1:15 PM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
Playoffs
Game 1: +2, 10 minutes
Game 2: +1, 3 minutes
Game 3: DNP
Game 4: +0, 3 minutes
Game 5: +0, 5 minutes
Game 6: +3, 5 minutes
Some of this in games 1 and 6 occured in garbage time. Regardless, We didn’t get outscored in a single game with Sergio on the floor. Is he a better PG than Roy, Blake, or Rudy? No. But he obviously does something better with the second unit. 26 minutes isn’t a great sample size, but it’s all we have for these playoffs.
Sergio’s 1 major problem is the one problem I’ve been calling him on all year. Lack of hitting the gym.
by Zaig on May 1, 2009 3:34 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Sergio’s 1 major problem is the one problem I’ve been calling him on all year. Lack of hitting the gym.
I thought SR won the “most workout award” the summer before last? Did his dedication slip this year? Got any inside info re: how many hours he sweated versus sloughed off?
When Quick asked Nate about Sergio’s defense at mid-season, McMillian rolled his eyes
That tells me all I need to know re: SR’s future in Portland
Very good point
Both Outlaw & Sergio seemed to have given up on getting stronger. I really want to see Batum bulk up to at least 215 this summer, perhaps 230 by the time he is 24-25.
by TheGreatDane17 on May 1, 2009 10:29 PM PDT up reply actions
Toughness bandwagon for sure.
I really like the idea of Chris Wilcox as a backup ‘4’, depending on the details.
this has been a message from: "The People's Alliance to give Greg Oden at Least a Couple of Seasons"
Wilcox ain't tough.
He can dunk with power on pick and rolls, but he makes no effort on defense, got no post game, and is a terrible rebounder for a guy his size.
by howlingfantods on May 3, 2009 3:13 PM PDT up reply actions
You're right...
I looked into it deeper and read over some old Seattle blogs. They had nothing but derogatory things to say about his defense.
this has been a message from: "The People's Alliance to give Greg Oden at Least a Couple of Seasons"
Hinrich's contract
As I mentioned in the PG thread, the time to put a deal together for Kirk was back when RLEC was still unexpired. To get a deal done KP would need to “package” salaries up to 10 mil and you can’t throw Frye’s contract into the deal because he’s an UFA. Blake and Outlaw (8.25 mil) is about the only realistic combo that gets this done, but I’d rather keep Steve as a backup to Kirk
http://games.espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine
And the Bulls probably aren’t nearly as likely to trade Hinrich now as they might’ve been back in Feb
we can resign RLEC for a year and create RLEC 2010
It's time for one last offseason, one last time to prune the roster. It was a great ride to 54 wins, and our playoff loss exposed the deficiencies we must address. In KP I trust.
draft dejuan blair
I'm actually pretty sure we can take Hinrich easily
We have $8m in cap space, Hinrich is owed $9.5m. I’m 90% sure this means we just have to send back between $1.5m and $2.4m in contracts. Bayless and Sergio are both in that range.
Blake and Outlaw actually make too much money, and we’d have to take more contracts back in that case.
I could be wrong (I’m not a capologist) but the basic rule is you just can’t take back more than 125% unless you are under the cap, and the incoming contracts do not put you over the cap. So the Blazers can engage in any trade that does not at the end put them over the cap, no matter the salary imbalance. The Bulls, in return, can take back any amount of salary UNDER 125% of the outgoing contracts. So theoretically they can take back anywhere between $0 to $12m.
The Blazers cap situation makes the Blazers an attractive partner for dumping salaries.
My only worry about Hinrich is that he’s not all that young and could start declining pretty soon.
A draft day deal of Travis Outlaw and Steve Blake and Kirk Hinrich would work under the rules.
FROM CHICAGO & TO PORTLAND
PG Kirk Hinrich ($10,000,000)
FROM PORTLAND & TO CHICAGO
PG Steve Blake ($4,250,000)
SF Travis Outlaw ($4,000,000)
http://games.espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=ck43me
Because the 2009 NBA Draft takes place on 6/25/2009, anyone who’s traded on that day will have their salaries calcualted as their 2008-2009 earnings — since the NBA’s new fiscal year doesn’t begin until 7/1/2009 — furthermore, Blake and Outlaw have non-guaranteed salaries for the 2009-2010 season if they’re waived before 6/30/2009, so the Chicago Bulls could waive both of them at no cost. That, of course, would allow the Bulls to re-sign Ben Gordon to a long-term, multi-million dollar contract without worrying about going over the luxury tax next season.
he is exactly right.
thats why i want andre miller.
Please, for the love of all that is holy, please stop using the following: "Book it.", "FTW", "Epic" & "Fail".
...no seriously--stop.
Miller doesn't fit
Can’t shoot a lick, and he’s too old. Penetrating, speed-oriented PGs over 30 almost always decline rapidly.
Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.
I'm on a Jamal Crawford campaign.. At the right price at least
by two buck chuck on May 1, 2009 11:22 AM PDT up reply actions
Umm...yea
I don’t think your campaign will go very far. Good luck.
Life is not by chance. Basketball is life.
thanks, I'll need all the political contributions I can get,
I’ll be lobbying door to door. Crawford > Hinrich…. But I do like Hinrich too
by two buck chuck on May 1, 2009 11:31 AM PDT up reply actions
At the right price, and in the right role...
it’s not quite as crazy as some would think. He’s have to take a 70% paycut and come off the bench, though. But he’s better than Outlaw as a bench scorer, certainly.
Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.
He's better than Travis at being Travis
It's time for one last offseason, one last time to prune the roster. It was a great ride to 54 wins, and our playoff loss exposed the deficiencies we must address. In KP I trust.
draft dejuan blair
but Travis is pretty good at being Travis
It's time for one last offseason, one last time to prune the roster. It was a great ride to 54 wins, and our playoff loss exposed the deficiencies we must address. In KP I trust.
draft dejuan blair
provided being Travis is being a good bench scorer
It's time for one last offseason, one last time to prune the roster. It was a great ride to 54 wins, and our playoff loss exposed the deficiencies we must address. In KP I trust.
draft dejuan blair
What makes you think Crawford can't play solid D?
Is it because he has such good O? He’s quick, athletic, 6-5, long wingspan plays PG… I’m sure his D is just fine
by two buck chuck on May 1, 2009 11:27 AM PDT up reply actions
He is a little like Travis: Has the tools, won't consistently use them, doesn't get in a low stance, takes plays off
Congrats to Houston. Beat LA!
Going forward Blazers have 5 draft picks, and Rockets have none :)
I hear Andre Miller skipped end of season meetings with management (along with our old friend Theo Ratliff)
Doesn’t sound like he is too fond of staying in Philly :)
Congrats to Houston. Beat LA!
Going forward Blazers have 5 draft picks, and Rockets have none :)
yikes.
Philly fans have to be a little freaked out.
It's time for one last offseason, one last time to prune the roster. It was a great ride to 54 wins, and our playoff loss exposed the deficiencies we must address. In KP I trust.
draft dejuan blair
They should be a bit worried
Starting PG a UFA. Lots of money invested in unhealthy Elton Brand. Sam Dalembert can’t contain Marcin Gortat much less Dwight Howard. Took big efforts from Iggy and a few role players to push the series along. Some interesting players in Williams and Young. But that leaves quite a few question marks. Where do you go with that team in a conference with Boston, Miami, Cleveland, Orlando?
Congrats to Houston. Beat LA!
Going forward Blazers have 5 draft picks, and Rockets have none :)
That team's screwed.
The contracts for Dalembert, Brand, and Iggy will kill them for years to come.
by howlingfantods on May 1, 2009 4:54 PM PDT up reply actions
They are going to beg every team to take Dalembert off their hands
Brand, they just have to pray he can fit into an offense so Iguodola can be their #2 guy. And somehow, somewhere that team needs an actual shooting guard who can shoot.
That Steve Nash is exactly the same as Kirk Hinrich, but worse.
by NBA Observer on Apr 8, 2009 12:23 PM CDT
by Ozzie Montana on May 1, 2009 4:57 PM PDT up reply actions
Starting PG a UFA.
Who’s unhappy enough to not show up to the final team meeting.
Oh yeah. Philly’s in trouble. They’ll have to do some surgical rebuilding around the players they want to keep.
Good points overall, have to agree with about everything
Especially the penetration of the wings would really help to make such a series different.
Congrats to Houston. Beat LA!
Going forward Blazers have 5 draft picks, and Rockets have none :)
I think Martell
is that stronger SF. He’s definitely built a lot bulkier than Travis and Batum.
I just wish he would have played even just a few games this year so we could have an answer. Him not playing has made it much more difficult for me to tell what they need at that position. Not that I’m an expert or anything…
Wreckage of a season?
No way. This isn’t wreckage. This is where we’re supposed to be. No, actually, this is beyond where we were supposed to be. 4th seed, and a loss to the Rockets in 6. We’re way ahead of schedule.
We desperately need Nic to work on his offense. He won’t need to penetrate against most teams, but he has to have a bankable shot. That’s why he’s a liability at this point. If he adds the shot, maybe a little step back move, he’ll be good.
PG is a big concern right now because we just played Houston. Against most teams Blake works very well. They closeout so well and contest shots that it took the Blazers our of their normal game. I’m not sure how much penetration helps in this case. Clutch shooting, for my money, would be the key here. The reason is that we aren’t likely to get someone like Paul, Parker, Williams. There’s no surplus of penetrating masterful PGs in the league. Thus, we’re better of letting Roy take care of this. But, having a player that can hit an outside shot with the D closing fast, know where to be against aggressive team D is preferable. As far as PG D; they don’t have to be lockdown. They have to be smart. Funneling penetration correctly and recovering to stop the dish when help picks him up would eliminate most easy baskets. Blake could become this guy, but he’s getting a little old for new tricks. More likely we need someone with natural aptitude. I’m actually thinking Rudy. If he works on his handle this summer and is able to consistently bring the ball up the court without trouble, I think he’d be an incredible PG. He’s a crafty player that would keep Ds and us guessing. His main problem right now is that he’s just too shaky handling the ball. He’ll be a tremendous team defender as soon as the rest of our team learns to play team D as well. He’s not the only answer, but he a good one. My dream is that Shin needs to sell the team, and we get a miracle.
Oden needs to focus on how to handle guards. They’re not going up for the shot while he’s near the basket, which is where he picks up his blocking fouls. He tries to stop them from getting there. Instead, he needs to control the airspace around the basket. Think vertically, not horizontally. Once Oden realizes that the guard can beat him horizontally to the basket, but not vertically, he’ll increase his blocks and decrease his fouls. That won’t take that long. I’m more worried about the fire. Like it or not, the squeaky wheel gets the grease. The guy must start complaining to officials about his fouls. Whether he fouls or not, he needs to be in their ear each and every whistle. This will annoy us and other fans as well, but it’s what all the best players do, and more importantly it’s what all the players that get calls do.
Alright, I’ll save the rest of what I’m thinking for the zillion analytic posts ahead.
I'm a really really ridiculously good looking orange mocha frappaccino drinking manhammer sandwich
Yes on Rudy at the point
particularly if he’s paired with Bayless. Let Rudy try to run the offense, and then if nothing’s on, give Bayless the ball with 6 seconds left on the shot clock, where he will penetrate and hopefully something good will happen. Particularly if Oden is the 2nd team center, and Rudy can throw it into the post and thus deny the double from his man, and Oden can feast on Bayless’s misses.
for clarity sake
He said as we sort through THE wreckage of this bombed out season. He doesn’t think the season was a wreck, but rather the unceremonious ending to the season where some of our little hearts were crushed because our bench didn’t show up in game 6, and most of the team looked like frightened gazelles in the middle of a pride of lions.
Let’s not jump on our Swine Flu infected, shoe fetish having, correspondents back.
HUGS AND KISSES
SD
Golly Gee, I sure hope I didn't huwt anybody's feewings.... sniff...sniff....
I'm an elitist jerk, and I won't lie about it.
The WAVE is bad karma. When we lose, I'll blame it on our fans doing the wave......
Yea I feel bad that he got piggy's disease, but
if he meant that we’ll pick up the wreckage of our expectations, he could have written that. Really, I don’t care what he wrote. It was just a way for me to say that that’s not the way we should be characterizing it because it was such a success. If we dropped the bombs, it can’t be a success if we’re also the wreckage.
Feel better Ben. And hugs and kisses right back at you SD
I'm a really really ridiculously good looking orange mocha frappaccino drinking manhammer sandwich
Oden needs to speak up. Also, who we should draft...
Good call on Oden getting in the officials ear a little bit. Even Tim Duncan, the most mild mannered of stars, complains about calls all the time. Greg needs to show more emotion out there and sell it when he gets fouled on offense. I also thought the point about Greg working against guards vertically instead of horizontally was a great one.
The five points made in this post were all spot on. This team needs a better all around point guard starting for this team. Bayless could be the answer, he has all the tools physically to be a great driving scorer and perimeter defender. Blake would be ideal in a backup role. I don’t think Sergio has a place on this team, even though him and Rudy are practically inseperable. In the playoffs we need defense at the point position and Sergio just can’t bring it defensively.
I am also tired of waiting for Outlaw to figure things out on defense and start rebounding the ball. The big question is what will Martell bring next year. Martell in the starting lineup with Batum off the bench could be a great combo.
The big question for me is what to do about backup power forward. I will now throw out an insane idea. How about we draft Hansbrough to replace Channing at backup PF. He brings toughness, physical play, and a relentless effort on the boards that this team sorely needs. Too often we rely on our athletisism for rebounds instead of effort. This guy would show that rebounding is all about effort and positioning. I know he isn’t the most popular player, and he would be replacing one of the best personalities on the team, but I think he could play a pivotal role for us. He should be available where we are drafting and he would bring lots of experience for a rookie.
It doesn't matter who they vote for. As long as I get to pick who's running.
J.D. Rockefeller
I don't write checks, straight cash homey...
Randy Moss
Good comments from Jefferson Smith
Although I’m a little disappointed that he didn’t say anything about the Taylor Media Machine or the hypocrisy of Senator Joseph Paine.
Ben, dog-sick and still delivering the goods.
Showing Blazerland what toughness is all about.
Get well soon, Ben.
Hire this man into the front office
I agree with every one of his points. I like how he mentions Bayless’ short arms. Yes, I do believe it is a real hindrance, not just something fun to poke at.
Life is not by chance. Basketball is life.
Nice post, Representative
Great post, sir. Any chance we can get a blazer flag on the Gold Man next season?
This guy must be a BE reader
These are basically the things we have been griping about all year. Although this guy sees the light about Bayless! (I hope I am wrong about that though.)
Hinrich and Tyrus Thomas for Outlaw/Bayless/Pick. Sergio or Blake would be dealt somewhere in the offseason as well, since we don’t need 3 PGs again.
Ship it.
Chicago likes Tyrus.
I don’t think they’d trade him for Travis.
It's time for one last offseason, one last time to prune the roster. It was a great ride to 54 wins, and our playoff loss exposed the deficiencies we must address. In KP I trust.
draft dejuan blair
Good
I don’t want Thomas. Even though I’m no Outlaw fan I think I would rather have him than Tyrus. He just seems like trouble to me for some reason…
Thomas is fantastic defensively
I would trade Travis for him in a millisecond.
It's time for one last offseason, one last time to prune the roster. It was a great ride to 54 wins, and our playoff loss exposed the deficiencies we must address. In KP I trust.
draft dejuan blair
Yeah, he is alright.
And if I thought about it a little more I probably would too. My only problem is it seems like he makes a ton of stupid mistakes. I think Travis does a lot of dumb things but Thomas is right up there with him.
Travis mostly takes bad shots and loses his man
Thomas takes bad shots, bad passes, loses his man, loses his cool, and generally out of control. He does block shots and rebound once in a while.
Life is not by chance. Basketball is life.
He would cry if not named a starter.
this has been a message from: "The People's Alliance to give Greg Oden at Least a Couple of Seasons"
Chemistry liability...
this has been a message from: "The People's Alliance to give Greg Oden at Least a Couple of Seasons"
there is no way
that chicago would ever make that trade.
give up one of there best young defensive players who averages a ton of blocks and is improving every game for outlaw/bayless/pick, not to include giving up their best bench player?
there is no way the bulls would be that stupid, cmon man
Agree completely
Good lawmakers out there on the West coast.
He articulated the realities of the PG position perfectly – the point guard on a championship contender MUST either be able to penetrate and create, or be a heck of a three-point threat PLUS a bigtime defender.
In other words, a point guard needs to be great at 2 out of 3 things – penetrating/creating, shooting, defense. Blake only brings one to the table. That’s why he’s a back up.
Similar analysis at the SF position, with slight tweaks. You need a SF who can rebound a little bit, handle a little bit, shoot, and play D. Nic COULD develop into that type of guy, but who knows. He’s so young. Martell’s stronger, and still young, but with less upside. Travis will probably never be a good rebounder/defender. He is what he is – a bench scorer. Blazers will continue to be in trouble if he’s the most complete SF on the team.
Oden and LMA, of course, need to continue to grow, and they will. I’ve heard signs that the Blazers would like Oden to lose some of that muscle he put on, and I couldn’t agree more. He’s already strong – he needs his agility back. LMA is making great strides towards the end of this year. I think he will keep working and turn the corner.
Oden is less of a sure thing, but we’ll see. Next year should tell us a lot. He needs to show he can stay on the floor consistently.
If KP doesn’t bring in a SF and a PG over the summer, I will be mildly disappointed. If he doesn’t bring in EITHER a SF or a PG, I will be very disappointed.
Lastly, I would add, DRAFT DEJUAN BLAIR. Blazers need a back up four to give Lamarcus a breather every now and then. He needs to be a strong rebounder, so that if Oden and Przy get in foul trouble (or one is hurt), LMA can slide over and play some center.
Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.
I think, by the way...
Some sort of trade with the Bulls for Hinrich and Deng would address most of these issues perfectly.
If we can do it without giving up Bayless or Rudy, I would love, love, love that move. It would instantly be a HUGE upgrade on D, AND give the Blazers offensive threats at the PG and SF position. Instant champsionship contender.
Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.
I wouldn't
Do that trade even if it was for very little. Those two players are nightmares for the salary cap. I would not commit to anything that ties your cap up unless you are receiving top tier talent in return. Luol Deng and Kirk Henrich are both nice players, not someone I would want to commit to.
You think Blair is available late in the 1st round? (i have no clue)
… just checked espn insider – chad ford has him at #17 – interesting idea you have
by hotstuffdb22 on May 1, 2009 11:16 AM PDT up reply actions
Can Blair play defense?
I don’t want somebody off the bench who can’t properly defend a pick and roll or provide help defense.
Life is not by chance. Basketball is life.
I tend to think this is why Frye couldn't get any playing
He wasn’t great on offense, but his defense was a killer.
Life is not by chance. Basketball is life.
from the games I saw
he wasn’t the best defender, but he did a pretty good job of hedging the pick and roll. Decent help defense… his huge wingspan help him.
He’s more a rebounder than anything, though.
It's time for one last offseason, one last time to prune the roster. It was a great ride to 54 wins, and our playoff loss exposed the deficiencies we must address. In KP I trust.
draft dejuan blair
he would be perfect in tandem with Joel.
It's time for one last offseason, one last time to prune the roster. It was a great ride to 54 wins, and our playoff loss exposed the deficiencies we must address. In KP I trust.
draft dejuan blair
we dont need to get younger
we need to package our pick for a different player with some experience
not another rookie who will be nervous next postseason
right we need to let our team get some more practices in over summer and learn how to play better… no one is leaving other then frye
by These Refs Suck on May 1, 2009 11:32 AM PDT up reply actions
YIKES!!!!!
BEN HAS THE SWINE FLU!!!!!
RUN, Everyone, RUN!!!!!
Call Joe Biden – Quick!!!!
AHHHHH !!!!! The World is Falling!!!!!!!
Point guard of the future
I like Ty Lawson. He’s shorter, but stocky and quick listed at 6’ and 195. He’s a good shooter and can run the break. He penetrates and can score and draw fouls. He can distribute, 6.6 apg last season. He’s currently going between 10-16 on many mock drafts, but I’m sure if KP wants him, he’ll be able to pull something off draft day.
If we get a NorthCarolina guy,
I’d pick Raymond Felton instead.. I’d prefer no Rookie PG’s (unless Rubio)
by two buck chuck on May 1, 2009 11:29 AM PDT up reply actions
?!?!?
Yall instantly give up on blake but buy on him when he has a great game. He is one of our best players hands down. His basketball iq is incredibly high much more than that of BROY aldridge and about tied with joel. you guys stating raymond felton are dumb… WE NEED A TRUE PG not a scoring point guard….thats what blake gives us.. moves the ball and calls great plays. we need a better POWER FORWARD THAT CAN PLAY D
by These Refs Suck on May 1, 2009 11:30 AM PDT reply actions
I think we all want Blake
to be our backup PG of the future.
by two buck chuck on May 1, 2009 11:32 AM PDT up reply actions
right maybe.. blakey anit going anywhere at all maybe frye ruffin or shavlick… nate is a great coach. Remember this is his third year of coaching the team thats 2nd youngest in the league be happy we got the 4th seed. and made playoffs
by These Refs Suck on May 1, 2009 11:33 AM PDT up reply actions
problem with Blake is
He gets burned by quicker point guards and freezes up sometimes in pressure situations. He’d be a great backup.
by Blaze of Glory on May 1, 2009 11:33 AM PDT up reply actions
Yeah he would be a great backup. However blake is not slow..hes not deron fast but the kid can move. We need atleast 1-2 vets and i have not seen blake “freeze” maybe bricked a shot or two but who hasnt? BROY failed at the line 0-2 last night…not frooze but misssed…. had an off night. They will be a great team for many years with this line-up and playoff contenders aswell
by These Refs Suck on May 1, 2009 11:35 AM PDT up reply actions
I disagree about Blake's basketball IQ
for one main reason. He has trouble keeping up with/ in front of his assignments and refuses to funnel them toward our shot-blocking bigs, the very least he could do would be to commit a few reaching fouls to keep our centers out of foul trouble and on the floor longer. If his basketball IQ were higher, he would be doing this. I have absolutely no problem with his offensive skill set (though I’d prefer that he look inside more often when passing the ball.)
Earlier in the season for PG
A lot of us were looking at Ramon Sessions and I still think he could do some very good things. He already has 5.7apg and 12ppg at 23 years old and he is nowhere near his ceiling yet. He is also a free agent this offseason and would be cheaper than someone like Hinrich.
Sessions
Deserves very close attention. I’m intrigued by him. Not sold, but very, very intrigued. I think there will be a lot of analysis/discussion about him in the off-season.
The problem with sessions is contract related... Milwaukee LOVES him... they want him over Villanueva even
Sessions is a restricted free agent… That does bring up Villanueva though… Could we use him?
by two buck chuck on May 1, 2009 12:00 PM PDT up reply actions
He would be a very similar player to Channing. Slightly better, but same style.
Congrats to Houston. Beat LA!
Going forward Blazers have 5 draft picks, and Rockets have none :)
Ramon Sessions can't shoot a lick, which is why he doesn't make sense in Portland.
The same goes for Andre Miller, who gets way too much love here for an aging point guard.
He's not that bad at shooting, is he?
It’d be a great combo if we could get Sessions who is a great attacker and keep Blake who pretty much relies on his outside shot… They’d complement each other pretty well imo.
by two buck chuck on May 1, 2009 1:25 PM PDT up reply actions
He is not that bad of a shooter
Steve Blake = 2.8-6.8 attempts per game 41%FG
Ramon Sessions = 4.1-9.3 attempts per game 44.4%FG
Sessions shoots better because he is a driver (the exact kind we need) who draws fouls while Blake is more of a spot up shooter. The 3 point difference is big with Blake at 42.7% and Sessions at 17.6%. That seems god awful but when you look at it Blake attempted 328 last season while Sessions came in at a whopping 34 of which he made 6. The year before that he took 7 and made 3 so it is not even nearly set in stone how good he can be beyond the arc. I think he could easily improve his range. Monty worked wonders on Outlaw and Batum from outside he could do the same for Sessions and then Sessions would be a fantastic all around player.
Please do not feed the B-Rex
by BRoyTheNatural on May 1, 2009 1:58 PM PDT up reply actions
Here's a comparison of overall shooting efficiency between Kirk Hinrich, Steve Blake, and ...
Ramon Sessions for the 2009-2009 season
Steve Blake 55.7% > Kirk Hinrich 55.1% TSP > Ramon Sessions 52.5% TSP
Blake and Hinrich are roughly equal — although we all know the “Captain” is a demonstrably superior defender among the two — while Sessions is approximately 3% worse than both of them regarding true shooting percentage.
In a high/low zone offense, a point guard — or, in this case, an off guard due to Brandon Roy handling a lot of the floor general duties — who can shoot it from beyond the arc efficiently is definitely a must-have piece to the puzzle.
http://www.cybersportsusa.com/hooptactics/hilozone.asp
Without question, Hinrich is a better and more pracctical fit in the Rose City than Sessions.
Sessions is not known for his defense, either.
Hinrich is the shooter/defender that Roy needs next to him.
It's time for one last offseason, one last time to prune the roster. It was a great ride to 54 wins, and our playoff loss exposed the deficiencies we must address. In KP I trust.
draft dejuan blair
What's funny is, we have all of the pieces...
1) Bayless will eventually be that PG we need, he already can penetrate. Plus I think Batum has the ball handling skill he is talking about from the 3 position.
2) These are three things that will all come in time for Oden, we just need to be patient.
3) Again, I think Batum will eventually become a combo-Pippen/Prince type 3 who can shoot, play great D, penetrate, and handle the basketball. He has already displayed his ball handling abilities on the fast break.
4) This is another thing that will come in time for LMA. Think how much his low post game has improved since he came into the league.
5) This is arguably the only spot where we may need to add someone. Maybe Freeland? Or somebody like Blair or Patterson in the draft maybe? Also he mentions Oden needs to stay on the floor, which, again is something that will come in time for him.
People just need to remain patient with this team, we have all the pieces here.
by cloudydays on May 1, 2009 11:40 AM PDT reply actions 2 recs
Cool Bayless can penetrate
Now if he wasn’t terrible at every other aspect of the game we’d be golden.
Agree with most...
particularly with the last sentence. When we add Martell into the mix, I’m still seeing great things. Oden in particular should see HUGE improvement from year one to year two.
The only thing I’m not sold on is your first statement. It’s a bit early in his development to know for sure, but it’s possible.
Easy to agree
Everyone agrees we have the starters we need at center, two guard and power forward. So given that we weren’t good enough, our problem must be point guard and small forward—but particularly point guard, because we think that Batum, Webster and Outlaw somehow add up to good enough, or pretty close.
But would like Lakers have fewer wins with Blake as their point guard? Somehow, I think they might have one more.
Now, think about another consideration. Rudy had a stronger season than Ginobli’s rookie season, and Ginobli was two years older. If Rudy equals, or nearly equals, Ginobli in his best years, doesn’t that an a savvier and healthier Oden and a one-year better and stronger LaMarcus go a long way?
I think that Blake and a virtual co-starter at point guard, an uptempo veteran who thrives on big games, could be the missing ingredient, assuming the development of the rookies. Blake isn’t dazzling, but he’s the point guard for a very young team that is considered the most effective, or no worse than third most effective, offense in all of pro basketball. Given our struggle on offense at center and small forward, doesn’t that suggest that Blake may be good enough to start on a championship team.
And yes, Brooks whacked him in the first two games. But Blake outplayed him by an even bigger margin after that.
Hulk (high school nickname; not the name you'd expect for a decent marathoner.)
Man I wish I had your coolaid.
Blake can not create is own shot against playoff caliber teams.
And Rudy is nowhere near the player Ginobli is.
He’s just not physical enough; and his on the ball defense is suspect.
Freeland
He’s shown some pretty good stuff over there. Love the idea of a big guy that whom you have to run at when he’s standing on the three-point line. Like Rudy, it opens up the inside.
Hulk (high school nickname; not the name you'd expect for a decent marathoner.)
Great just what we need.
Another finesse, can’t play D guard.
Don’t we have a dozen of those already?
Freeland is a Power Forward.
But I agree. We already have Channing, what does Freeland bring that Frye doesn’t?
It doesn't matter who they vote for. As long as I get to pick who's running.
J.D. Rockefeller
I don't write checks, straight cash homey...
Randy Moss
Huh?
Feeland is a pure inside guy. He’s played well this year, but he’s not a long range shooter by any stretch. Which is the last thing Portland needs from its new back up four, anyway.
Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.
Agreed, with extra questions
Obviously I agree with every single statement in his list, with the added requests that Portland (a) play more zone defense; and (b) Roy develop more of a pick and roll game with Oden or LMA, and to that end, Oden needs to set better picks. Having said that, I just have a few questions on each point.
1. Who Is “That” Point Guard?: Blake sure seemed like a weak link in the Houston series, and people have talked all year about the Blake vs. Sergio option (I don’t think Bayless is here long term; his ceiling is Steve Francis, and like Sergio he’d benefit under a different system). But an interesting fact: the net production per position at point guard is about even (15.1 PDX PER – 15.3 Opp PER). In fact, it’s at center where that disparity is greatest (cf. +2.6 for our SFs), but I expect that advantage to diminish as Oden develops. And he will. Thus, point guard is the weak spot long-term.
With that established, I’m not sure who’s available who’s a major upgrade over Blake for the money. People have talked about Ramon Sessions, but his +/- is worse than Blake’s. What about Tony Parker? San Antonio’s not blowing up soon, right? And isn’t Andre Miller too old?
Personally I like Rudy running the offense since the guy has an uncanny sense of the court – grabbing turnovers one-handed and tossing it to the other side of the court in a split-second. And if Roy’s going to run the offense, he has to pass the ball, and guys need to stop standing around.
2. Oden: I suggested already I have great faith in Oden’s development. Open questions remain. Does anybody have numbers on foul-prone centers decreasing after year one? I mean, should we expect that? Also, who’s the big man coach for Portland? With Maurice Lucas down, who is mentoring Oden? For that matter, does he see a therapist? At the risk of sounding jehovian – I think he should. He needs somebody to talk to.
Speaking of which, Oden needs to get back to the Pilates routine, or maybe do yoga like Kareem did (who swears it prolonged his career), to improve his flexibility.
3. Penetrating SGs: Outlaw showed a penetration game late in game six, but consistently flailed at the bucket as Yao eclipsed him. He should have been penetrating all year rather than shooting those lanky fade-aways. Frankly I don’t think Travis, sadly, is long for this team, and Webster has not proven why they should keep him, so we move on to Batum.
All right, briefly on Webster for those of you who can’t leave that topic alone. To paraphrase Dwight Jaynes on Webster vs. Batum: last year Webster would be on the court for half an hour and give you absolutely nothing, maybe four points and two rebounds; whereas at the end of the season Batum basically guaranteed you a block and steal and a few rebounds even if he didn’t score. These little things change the game. Batum also seems emotionally unflappable compared to Webster. And please, don’t give me the “Roy and Martell are buddies” argument; otherwise we’d clamor for Sergio to stay because, well, who else does Rudy talk to?
I think Batum was a steal, and he’s nineteen years old. He’ll get bigger, his shot will get better, and the penetration game will come. Unless there’s an obvious alternate option at SF, I would stick with Batum, and trade Webster and Outlaw as soon as I could. I guess my question here is, is there any question?
4. Aldridge: same questions as with Oden. Who is the big man coach? Are they running two-towers drills with Oden and Aldridge?
5. Muscle: I thought I heard that the Blazers were a lot tougher and more physical than we always assumed through the regular season? So would more muscle make a difference? Anyway, I agree, if Oden stays on the floor, this is a moot issue.
Thank you for posting, Mr. Smith.
by rpeachey on May 1, 2009 11:48 AM PDT reply actions 1 recs
this is what I would have typed had I had the inclination or time to formulate such fluid and dynamic prose
Rec’d
Excellent usage of jehovian
Golly Gee, I sure hope I didn't huwt anybody's feewings.... sniff...sniff....
I'm an elitist jerk, and I won't lie about it.
The WAVE is bad karma. When we lose, I'll blame it on our fans doing the wave......
Disagree with you and Jaynes on Webster
I recall a Webster that came to camp as a pretty well-rounded player. He picked up the team award for most work put in in the off-season. He was dominating in the pre-season. I just wish he had a chance to play this season so KP could see where he fit in teh team equation.
Personally I don’t care if this player or that player is Roy;s friend….same with Rudy. Don;t care if Sergio is his friend. Guys need to produce. I just don’t think we can say anything for sure about Webster. You see nothing from him. I see a guy that McMillan was talking about turning the corner as a top defender, a great shooter, and someone who was finally developoing the skill to create his own shot. To me that’s worthy of further development.
This is not to say I don;t think Batum will develop into the eventual long-term starter, but I think he needs to be more in the 14-18 minute per game guy for another year.
Add for Aldridge
If I were in charge of Aldridge’s off-season program, the two fundamentals I would emphasize are Ball-handling and flexibility. The skill that I want him to imrpove the most is his first-step. He’s fast enough to attack the rim, but he does not have a quick enough first-step. It’s more a matter of ball-handling and flexibility than anything.
Great call
For being one of the fastest (if not the fastest) and most atheltic PFs in the league, LMA’s first step is slow as molasses. With his unblockable J, he would be lethal if he could develop a quick first step like Amar’e or Bosh.
Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.
yeah... runs like a deer
almost too straight up and down for basketball, but nice and tall just like they teach in track.
In fact, PoliSam...
You should work for the Blazers. I hereby endorse your candicacy as a special consultant. I feel you could help.
Representative, see what you can do…
Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.
Jeez, thanks
Perhaps I should retire from making comments on BE! I cannot imagine a better compliment.
When I don’t land a job this fall — because the academic market could not be worse — I may have to submit an application to the Blazers. Couldn’t hurt!
Absolutely, completely agreed.
If he could attack the rim with the proficiency of West or Bosh, he would be unstoppable. It would improve his FTA/FGA and make him a more efficient and diverse scorer.
It's time for one last offseason, one last time to prune the roster. It was a great ride to 54 wins, and our playoff loss exposed the deficiencies we must address. In KP I trust.
draft dejuan blair
Since everyone likes this point....
Some elaboration:
LMA’s main problem as a dribbler is that he dribble the ball too high. I think that one of the reason he dribbles too high is a lack of flexibility. He doesn’t drop his hips and bend his back enough when he dribbles. He has the same problem when going for loose balls.
very interesting point... hadn't thought of that
I wonder if doing Pilates like Greg does could help with that.
It's time for one last offseason, one last time to prune the roster. It was a great ride to 54 wins, and our playoff loss exposed the deficiencies we must address. In KP I trust.
draft dejuan blair
He does seem a little creaky:
Slow first step, slow to get up for rebounds and slow to get to the floor for loose balls.
I agree
LMA should learn to face up better. His back to the basket game has made HUGE strides this year with the spin fade, okie doke spin fade, and the up and under moves. His mid range jumper is tremendous and if he can add one or two counters like he has in the post (i.e. first step, one dribble pull up type stuff) he would be a tremendous scoring threat.
Take away Nate's addiction, trade Travis Outlaw.
I want Kirk Hinrich!!!!!
Aldridge needs to watch
50 hours of Tim Duncan video every week and then spend another 50 hours practicing his moves.
Excellent point.
I think Aldridge’s main problem is that he’s predictable. As soon as he gets the ball, you can tell what he’s going to do. I think a quicker first step would allow him to create some separation which would allow him to shoot leaning forward rather than shooting those stupid fadeaways. If you’re 6’11", you shouldn’t be fading away against anyone other than Yao.
One more comment
Ben, I’d prefer you don’t use language like the “wreckage of this bombed out season”. I simply don’t think that’s the case, and I think a few others here would agree. It was a great season, and they fought hard in the Houston series.
Good going Mr. Smith
I live in his district! I really like the guy. – Elgin
Brandon Roy: Strengths-remarkably efficient player who appears to effortlessly score and facilitate. Weakness-he’s just a figment of your imagination. - Canis Hoopus
If Cleveland and the Lakers. . .
This year’s NCAA finals are almost certain to feature Mo Williams versus Derek Fisher at the point guards. Would anyone trade Steve Blake for either of those two guys?
We also don’t want a rookie, or perhaps even a second year, point guard next year. If we add a guy who will get major minutes, it should be someone with significant playoff experience, and playoff cajones. And with this offense, he should be able to move up the tempo, hit the three, and play defense.
Imo, that guys in not Andre Miller or Kirk Heinrich. Kidd seems a year too old right now. Calderon doesn’t meet the requirements. Rondo and Paul aren’t available at any Price. Truth is, if there were that many really good point guards right now, Mo Williams and Derek Fisher wouldn’t be heading toward a battle for the title.
Hulk (high school nickname; not the name you'd expect for a decent marathoner.)
Are you really asking that?
I would trade Blake for Mo Williams in half a nanosecond.
It doesn't matter who they vote for. As long as I get to pick who's running.
J.D. Rockefeller
I don't write checks, straight cash homey...
Randy Moss
Nonsensical on a number of levels
First, I could play PG for the Lakers and they would still be the best team in the west. Pau + Kobe + Odom + Ariza + Bynum = domination no matter who runs the point. Is that a reason why the Blazers shouldn’t try to upgrade the position?
Second, uh, have you ever watched Cleveland play? Or did you catch Mo Williams in the all-star game? The suggestion that you wouldn’t trade Blake for an all-star PG is bizarre.
Third, if you want a point guard who can play up tempo, hit the three, and D up, what’s your basis for saying Kirk Hinrich is not that guy? He fits the bill as well as any PG in the league. Certainly, he fits the bill as well as anyone who’s actually potentially available.
Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.
Finally a politician that talks about the real issues!
(half kidding, half serious)
My favorite teams are the Blazers and any team that is playing the Lakers.
I pretty much agree with everything Jeff said
I’d only further augment the list by adding Greg Oden needs to go to big man camp. Who can the team hire to develop his footwork?
I don’t know that change at PG is really possible outside of a trade. I don’t think Jason Kidd is going to come here, and I don’t think Andre Miller is much of an upgrade. A beefy small forward with a motor (ahem….Gerald Wallace….ahem) would be at the top of my wish list. We’ll see. I trust KP to do the right thing.
Oh, and I don’t think I’m being reactionary to say Travis Outlaw can’t be relied upon in the playoffs. We need to trade some of our talent, or let it go to free agency, simply to open up minutes for players development. I think Travis is a great guy, and a likable personality, but if he can’t get the job done in the playoffs his time has come to move on.
Golly Gee, I sure hope I didn't huwt anybody's feewings.... sniff...sniff....
I'm an elitist jerk, and I won't lie about it.
The WAVE is bad karma. When we lose, I'll blame it on our fans doing the wave......
Added Muscle?
Aldridge and Oden/Przy are enough muscle for any team. Maybe a little more rebounding from the 3 spot, but I honestly don’t think muscle is a problem.
Can we have a do over?
I always thought the point of the game was to score the most points. Can we swap Durant for Oden? Wouldn’t it have been sweet to see Broy, LMA, and Durant play together. Forget the muscle. I’ll take a 30 point a night guy anyday.
OFF Season
3 -6 NBA Teams in Money trouble
4 second round picks
Paul A $$ Money
Cap Space
Let’s see what is for sale we don’t need to get younger..stronger meaner and experinced
"The idea is not to block every shot. The idea is to make your opponent believe that you might block every shot." - Bill Russell
We have all the Peeps...
Lets just go BIG
Starting
PG-ROY
SG-Rudy
SF-Batum
PF-Aldridge
C-ODEN
Back up
PG-Blake/Bayless
SG.-Webster
SF – Outlaw
PF – ????/Frye
C- Pryzbilla
It could be done, have rudy gaurd the PG, or whoever is best match-up. im sure rudy will work on his D this off-season and will be ready. we have so many different rotations with these players its CRAZY.
"Awesome! Totally awesome! All right, Hamilton!"
Roy as PG
might compound our pace problem. If we really want a roy-rudy backcourt, we need to transform Rudy into PG to push the ball up. Brandon may be superman, but he sure doesn’t like to fly….
I love Rudy, but can Rudy play PG? I’m not sure-he’s got the passing, perimeter shooting, court vision and BBIQ, but is that enough? Defence? Isn’t that our current problem?
Rudy!!!!!
Say what?
Passing: Check
Perimeter shooting: Double check
Court vision and BBIQ: Check and Check
The issue is the defense. Roy or Rudy would get burned by quicker PGs, even moreso than Blake. Ball handling would probably be a bigger issue with Rudy than anything mentioned.
I should learn to type clearer...
I absolutely agree with you, I just didn’t type it as well as you did. He has all of those skills, I just don’t know if it is enough to be a point guard. Sorry!
Rudy!!!!!
but this is where Master Batum comes in
he has shown that he can guard Parker/Paul/name your quick PG
I think the Roy/Rudy backcourt works better with Rudy as the PG
When Roy is the PG, he tends to dominate the ball and everyone ends up standing around watching while Roy runs an iso play or a pick-and pop with Aldridge. When Roy plays at SG he still ends up with the ball a lot, but the team offense is more balanced with more players getting involved instead of having Roy hold the ball for entire possessions. Rudy is also a lot better than Roy at pushing the ball up the court and giving the team a chance to run. Rudy is the only guard the Blazers have who understands that the ball moves faster through passing than dribbling and is capable of making accurate full-court outlet passes to spark a fast break.
by trk on May 3, 2009 5:15 PM PDT up reply actions
If you think Blake can't guard quick PGs...
Wait until you see Roy/Rudy try to do it every night. Either one might be able to do it in stretches, but those guys are not exactly elite defenders at the SG position, much less at the point. A Roy/Rudy backcourt would be one of the most porous in the league. Rudy is not good enough on offense to justify the drop off on D.
And he doesn’t play all that well when Roy runs the point, anyway – he needs a “true” pass first PG to look for him off quick cuts for threes, or backdoor for dunks.
Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.
A Roy/Rudy backcourt ought to be better defensively than a Roy/Blake backcourt
Rudy is quicker than Blake, and his extra height gives the defense more flexibility (since he can switch off onto players who aren’t PGs without creating a huge mismatch). Compared to Blake, Rudy gets more steals, blocks more shots, and grabs more rebounds. Rudy’s opponent counterparts is on average less productive and gets shots close to the basket less often than Blake’s counterparts. In addition, when Rudy is in the game the team’s defensive rating improves and opponent eFG% drops in comparison to when Blake is in the game.
by trk on May 3, 2009 5:05 PM PDT up reply actions
Brandon isn't
a point guard he’s a ball-dominating guard and yes there is a difference. Very much like D-Wade or Kobe. They handle the ball a lot but they aren’t the point guard.
one more thing....
Let’s get the rookie 3pt fg record holder, and statistical highest 3pt shooter in the playoffs the ball with the clock winding down, NOT TROUT!
Thanks
Golly Gee, I sure hope I didn't huwt anybody's feewings.... sniff...sniff....
I'm an elitist jerk, and I won't lie about it.
The WAVE is bad karma. When we lose, I'll blame it on our fans doing the wave......
I think we may need to look at addition by subtraction
I know Outlaw has his moments, and I know there are those of you that love his game…however…let’s be real.. You can see other coaches and players salivate when he goes in the game. Time after time he is simply out of place on defense. Everyone always appears to be pointing him in the right direction and where to go on a defensive rotation.
If the dude was a serious rebounder, I wouldn’t feel this way, but he just doesn’t appear to be motivated to hit the offensive glass. I think we would be a better team if he wasn’t ever on the floor. As strange as it sounds, moving him allows us to develop Bayless as a scorer (which he is and always will be. He will never be a Nate pass first point guard, and will never get the ball to Oden or LMA). We will need someone to score the ball in the 2nd unit. Especially if Rudy and Roy are our starting backcourt (which is the way to go, IMO).
See what you can get for Trout. I love him as a person, but his defense is too much of a liability and makes everyone look bad. It simply places too much pressure on Priz and Oden to make up for his mistakes and will always cost us. I know we won’t get as much value as we place in him, but frankly, I’m ok with that. If this happens, I hope he proves me wrong and has some stellar seasons somewhere. I’d miss him.
Lets just try to remember
This team is built for 2-3 years from now. Not next season. If we were trying to get this done this season or next season we would have traded for Richard Jefferson or Vince Carter.
Looking at what this group can do, seeing their obvious areas of need, and judging them like they should have won is not appropriate. You know the current players we have now will make improvements. Lets just let them play, we can discuss our supporting cast all you want, whether or not Blake is the answer, Travis is worth keeping, starting Rudy, or whatever.
This team is built to win later not now, lets celebrate the fact they won 54 games, stole home court and lost to a damn good Rockets team who won games 3-4 by a combined 3 points.
by Haymon45 on May 1, 2009 12:32 PM PDT reply actions 2 recs
Back-up PF
I think to toughen up we need to go out there and get a solid, “tough-guy” back-up PF for LA. Frye and Outlaw are PF who play outside the paint. We need a solid back-up who can come in grab rebounds, and provide some scoring from INSIDE the paint. Now I don’t know exactly who that is, but maybe someone in the mold of Millsap, or Warrick. Bottom line is that we need a “bruiser” PF to compliment both LA’s finesse with tough D and rebounding and our C’s lack of Offensive production, with a good post-playing guy who can get points in the paint.
Maybe that guy doesn’t exist, maybe he does… thoughts?
Remember our early 90's glory days?
Kersey and Buck were both tough as nails defenders and rebounders. Oden has proven to be able to be more like that type of player as he matures, but I don’t think it would hurt to have a SF/backup PF (maybe someone who could play both positions) who would provide very strong interior defense alongside Oden, excellent rebounding, and maybe 10-12 points/game as well. I’m drawing a blank as to who that player could be, however.
1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21... I know...
by FibonacciSequence on May 1, 2009 12:45 PM PDT up reply actions
1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21...
I don’t get it. Please explain.
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on May 1, 2009 2:21 PM PDT up reply actions
That is the Fibonacci Sequence
wikipedia can explain it.
"I am from one of the top 15 cities in the world. Buffalo, New York." - TrentEdwardsHoF2018
Why did you guys ban me?
I have been banned from Buffalo Rumblings and The Dream Shake in less than a 48 hour period. My self esteem has taken a drastic blow. Blazers Edge is the only thing keeping me going and, at times, I feel like I am wearing out my welcome here as well.
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on May 1, 2009 2:48 PM PDT up reply actions
I can hear the boos now...
but I say we draft Tyler Hansbrough. That guy lives in the paint and we wouldn’t even need to run plays for him. He would get offensive rebounds and get to the line plenty.
It doesn't matter who they vote for. As long as I get to pick who's running.
J.D. Rockefeller
I don't write checks, straight cash homey...
Randy Moss
yep
I agree with pretty much everything, although i still think Bayless may be the best option at PG. his wingspan is short, but at least his standing reach is average-ish.
I’d love to see Jeff come back with a recurring series, and maybe some other random “celebrity” posts (like…well i can’t think of any other metro-area celebrities that i imagine understand the blazers, but i bet they are out there).
First off, the Bulls and Celtics need to learn how to finish their game in the time that is allotted to them. Good game though, I just wish I would have been able to watch the first half of the last game of the season for the Blazers. Especially since living out of market, I don’t get to catch to many games.
I was really disappointed with the lack of movement by the Blazers. In the forth quarter, as they are trying to play catch up, they are playing like the ones with a 20 point lead. I really got tired of watching them dribble out the clock at the top of the key until 7 remained on the shot clock, then make an attempt to penetrate and maybe pass off.
That would have been great, had they been the ones in the lead.
The lack of movement was VERY frustrating. As they would dribble out the clock, all the other Blazers would just be standing around, on their heals, not doing much.
Am I the only one that thinks that the youngest team to make the playoffs should be able to at least run a little? They really need to get some help for Roy and LMA this offseason, preferably at the point. I think Blake would be a good back-up, but I don’t think he responds well to the pressure and we need another scoring threat in the starting 5. Especially with Priz or Oden in the post and having no idea where Martell is going to be next year
I was also wondering why Bayless wasn’t even in the game at least to guard Brooks. They did pretty good with the bigger line-up with Roy running the point. Why not do that, with Bayless to guard Brooks? I bet he could have kept up with him
Who do you think you are?
You would keep that mouth, erm finger, um shut, if you knew what was good for you.
If you are going to post negative Bayless thought you have to pepper them with optimism.
E-Mail me any Bayless themed posts and I will send them through my filter before you actually post it.
You can reach me at www.JerrydBaylessisthenextChaunceyBillupsifChaunceyBillupswereasgoodIsiahThomas299@yahoo.com
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on May 1, 2009 1:27 PM PDT up reply actions
I will tell you why...
The development of Bayless is a lot like The Manhatton Project. Why clue our competition in on a player who will reinvent the position for years to come?
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on May 1, 2009 1:19 PM PDT up reply actions
Because Bayless can't guard Brooks
And Bayless kills our ofense
And Bayless can’t rotate
And Bayless can’t shoot
And a Rocket is not an object that even Bayless can eat.
by Zaig on May 1, 2009 3:37 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
I am not sure if anyone has said this yet but...
I think this exact roster can win multiple NBA championships. I’ll take it one step further and say that I think if this starting unit were forced to start for the next 5 years, it could win multiple NBA championships. Steve Blake is a liability but if Oden turns into a top 5 C in a couple years and Batum developes some kind of offensive game then we have the best front 5 in the NBA.
With all that being said, it would help a ton if our PG play improved, if thats Bayless or someone else, fine. I also think we need someone else who can create their own shot. Could Batum/Oden do that in two years? We will see.
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on May 1, 2009 1:16 PM PDT reply actions
Also...
I just “emptied” my Sea Monkey tank in the grass outside. Do you think Sea Monkeys can feel pain?
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on May 1, 2009 1:17 PM PDT up reply actions
Tom, is that you?
Congrats to Houston. Beat LA!
Going forward Blazers have 5 draft picks, and Rockets have none :)
Is it that hard to believe that more than one person on the face of this planet can see Baylesses unlimted potential?
I don’t know who this “Tom” is but it sounds like we would get along fantastically.
Note: “Tom” loves Jerryd Bayless and Sea Monkeys?
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on May 1, 2009 2:14 PM PDT up reply actions
Nah, but it might be Tom's illegitimate son from a wild rendezvous in Upstate New York that ...
took place many moons ago.
Well...
I agree the Blazers need some more muscle inside, but I disagree that needs to come from the SF position. With Oden and Pryz staying on the court they can be Dwight Howard-like in that they grab most every board. I think the muscle comes from the backup PF position.
As far as his analysis regarding Outlaw and Batum, I sort of agree, but I think he’s poo-pooing Martell a little much. Remember how explosive he looked in his one pre-season game this season? I know that was 1 game, but we can read into that how hard Webster worked getting ready and getting better. I think he has the potential to be our 3rd scoring option in the starting lineup.
Batum pretty much has to develop everything, and I would actually disagree with Jefferson here and say that he needs a better 3 point shot. Looking at the trends of the NBA, having a guy who can spot up and hit open 3s off of Brandon/Bayless/Rudy drives would be a valuable asset. I’d rather not have Batum driving into the lane and clogging it up with Oden and LA already in there.
One thing that he left out that I think would help us immensely would be Rudy’s expanded offensive game. Rudy was held to shooting 3s almost completely during the year, and with a summer to finally rest I’d like to see him come out next year and drive to the basket when defenders play him close guarding the 3 point shot. He has the ability to finish or pull up, we’ve seen it.
As for your first need, I completely agree. I think Blake would be a great backup, but I don’t know if Jerryd is ready to start or even play big minutes yet. We’ll just have to play that one by ear, but a great point would do us a lot of good. Ray Felton??? I don’t know he could be ready to break out especially on a talented team like ours.
by sPresley on May 1, 2009 2:01 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
I agree with a lot of this
A little more muscle from every position wouldn’t hurt though. Our gameplan shouldn’t be effected too much by a lack of muscle from the SF, but a little extra wouldn’t hurt either. Basically, the more threats we have the harder we are to guard. Martel and Rudy having a well rounded offensive game makes them much more valuable. The same goes for Batum. We don’t want him to be constantly driving into the lane and clogging it up next to Oden and LA, but occasionally slashing to the rim makes him harder to guard.
"It’s a good ol’ fashioned Rip City beat down!"
I agree with pretty much everything he said, chris paul, deron williams, or tony parker I believe would put us to the level we want to be at. Or adding a Rudy Gay.
if brandon roy played for toronto he'd be brandon waaaaah
#1 most important off season priority.
Bring CP3 to Portland. As Vito Corleone would say, "Make them an offer they can’t refuse.
the hornets are in disarray, so let's encourage a fire sale
it would take a TON to get Paul, but it would be worth it. He makes 13.8 million next year, so Bayless, Frye, Outlaw and Blake (after picking up his team option) would do it. Oh, and give them whatever picks they want 1st, 2nd round whatever it takes and the trade exception, they can have that too.
Assuming the Hornets’ GM was on drugs when he accepted that offer, the roster would look like:
Paul
Roy
Webster
Aldridge
Oden
Rudy
Przy
Batum
Sergio
So, the key would be in acquiring a banger-type backup PF
"It’s a good ol’ fashioned Rip City beat down!"
CP3 is the best PG since Magic.
It would take a Rudy/Batum/Aldridge foundation to the package, and that’s not nearly enough.
His rookie season was as good as Kidd’s best season. He’s 23. He’s on pace to be the best PG ever.
draft dejuan blair
I just thought of 3 more things that would improve my personal Trail Blazer experience, since I'm important and all.
- Replace Mark Mason. I have for years thought his PA voice is annoying. He’s moments away from saying something awkward like “You’re in the OOOOOOOO ZOOOOONE” He needs to go away
- Replace the stunt team with those drummers they had for the PHX game. Man, I wanted BLOOD when I heard them pounding.
- Replace Brian Wheeler. He’s going to have a massive heart attack on the air. Besides, blatant homers really really bother me. He sounds whiny, and his voice routinely cracks when he gets all excited. All I can think about is a 350 lbs ball of a man falling out of his chair grasping his chest after the opponent scores a go ahead 3 with .3 seconds left. I’m not being mean, I’m being honest. Wheels makes me uncomfortable to listen to.
Golly Gee, I sure hope I didn't huwt anybody's feewings.... sniff...sniff....
I'm an elitist jerk, and I won't lie about it.
The WAVE is bad karma. When we lose, I'll blame it on our fans doing the wave......
Politician - Read the nonsense, repeat it as if you know something, and throw in a stupid joke
One at a time:
1. The PG stuff needs to stop. Blake is a good PG that manages the game & scores when it’s needed. The greatest argument in the past 2 decades, against someone who thinks an elite PG is needed for a championship, is Ron Harper. In fact, look them all up, since Magic’s last one. It’s not that impressive. Also, today’s top tier PGs are highly regarded because they are also the #1 or 2 scoring option for their teams. Portland needs no one taking shots away from LA & B-Roy. The 3, & the back-up 4 are the positions this team should be looking at.
2. Rookies ALWAYS need to work on something after their first year
3. Batum is a rookie, too , not to mention their best defender. But at least he’s flirting with reality here. The 3 needs to be addressed. At least 1 of Webster or Outlaw has run out of time. With all the un-needed draft picks KP has, he should be able to put together a sweet package for a good affordable veteran 3rd scorer at the starting 3, while Batum develops. With the 2010 preparation & other teams getting ready to rebuild, there are some out there.
4. LA IS fine! Yeah he needs to beef up, & he will. That, & the mental growth that will bring consistency will come with time. Remember, he’s played 3 seasons. Brandon becoming a superstar in that time, is not the norm. We need to stay realistic.
5. Yes, add muscle , but he’s looking in the wrong places again. This needs to happen at the backup PF. Going to the bench, they lose the most at the 4 – in rebounding, scoring, & defense. The scoring isn’t as important, but they need a veteran tough guy to spell Aldridge & team with Oden/Przybilla to control the middle. That alone adds at least 5 wins.
Disagreement with Point #1.
Portland needs better perimeter defense from its guards. Roy is not likely to be more than an average defender and he’s not going to get traded because he brings it on offense so that leaves the PG position. I would miss Blake’s 3 point shooting, but would be pretty stoked if Portland could get Hinrich somehow.
OK
I like Blake better than Hinrich, but that’s exactly what I’m talking about. That would make more sense than the guys so many people are talking about – the high priced, high profile guys that would take away from the nucleus that has been built.
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