The Big Move?
by Dave on Jun 29, 2009 1:04 AM PDT
92 comments
After a short (and much-needed) hiatus following the draft we're back and ready to tackle the summer free agency period. Are there going to be moves? Yes. Of what flavor? Well, that whole draft thing should have told you not to try and anticipate Kevin Pritchard...or at least not to bet too much on your guess.
However to start with we'll address the burning question of the hour: Do the Blazers need to make a big move in order to keep up with the San Antonios, Clevelands, and Orlandos of the world?
I suppose it depends what your definition of "big" is. But if your definition includes a name-brand, 30-year-old, declining star that answer is "no". Or at least "you'd better target the right one".
I was surprised at the number of comments I saw during the draft that claimed Kevin Pritchard had lost his touch or was afraid to pull the trigger on a real deal. The open question in my mind is whether the Blazers over-value youth, especially among players they, themselves, have drafted. They have to turn prospects into players. If that's not happening (or not happening quickly enough in the right positions) internally they're going to have to trade some of them away for more stable production. But the timing and content of those moves remain open to debate. We've felt ripples from that ongoing discussion, but I've seen nothing to indicate that Blazer management is timid or misguided as some have suggested. The simplest explanation is usually the best. Pritchard didn't pull the trigger on a deal because the right deal wasn't out there...at least not before or during the draft.
When you look at the three teams that did make big deals it's easy to get caught up in the headlines. Three All-Star-type players got traded for what amounted to canned parsnips and salary relief. It was a garage sale, NBA-style. There might as well have been a round, orange sticker on top of Shaq's head. But the three teams that acquired them all came at their transactions from a similar angle. Orlando and Cleveland are within sight of the summit. Cleveland has been spinning its wheels for a while and has gone through a ton of roster make-overs without gaining traction. Orlando lost this year's Finals and faced the prospect of taking a giant step backwards in losing small forward Hedo Turkoglu. San Antonio, meanwhile, has slipped over the other side of the summit and is trying to crawl their way back before they run out of time. It made sense for all of these teams to take a stab at huge-salary, semi-broken, tread-worn stars. Every team does this when they're stuck. It seldom works, but you have to try.
How, exactly, is Portland like those teams? Short answer: it isn't. Portland's best years are still ahead. The Blazers aren't stalled yet. They have a ton of time left on the clock. Shaq would likely have helped the Blazers last year for one playoff run. They wouldn't have won a title with him. They probably still wouldn't this year. Vince Carter and Richard Jefferson could help win a couple games more but their particular skills and needs don't match up seamlessly with Portland's holes. And again, how many years would they be of service? The entire benefit of a deal like this is short-term. That short-term gain for the Blazers wouldn't be enough. The long-term cost could be great, especially when other moves are in the making. The opportunity cost of losing someone who fit better now and could perform better in two years would be significant enough to nix such a deal.
If the Blazers can make a move to put themselves on the short list for a championship right now they should make that move. Unless that move is available, however, it would be the height of folly to sacrifice what you've built up in terms of talent and flexibility just to keep up with the Popoviches. If you're making moves to keep up you're already behind and you're likely to stay that way.
The truth is it doesn't matter what San Antonio does. San Antonio is not blocking our window. No matter how this Jefferson move works out they're going to be long gone before the Blazers hit their prime. If Shaq or Vince Carter matter much in the East it will be for the next couple of years at most, which means those moves don't matter much to us either.
The Blazers are all but done taxiing now. They are in line for the runway and the flight attendants are preparing for take-off. The wait is one more season. Sometime this year you're going to hear the tower clear us, you're going to feel the thrust of the engines, and you'll hear Pritchard and McMillan calling out V-1 and V-2. But we don't hit cruising altitude until 2010. Salary and balance considerations are going to force us to make moves this summer, but those moves are pointing at the new decade, not this one. Judge them, or the temporary lack thereof, accordingly.
--Dave (blazersub@yahoo.com)
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chemistry build.
4 rooks in rotation last year. shedding sergio and frye. oden doing squats. bayless playing a lot this summer. rudy’s english getting better (?). FA to fill in the holes at the 1 and the 4. its looking GOOD.
"We didn’t pick Blair because of his history of fat-assery" -BlazerTag
by 5212872 on Jun 29, 2009 1:18 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
That is the difference between us and Cleveland, Orlando, San Antonio.
Our natural growth as a team could outweigh any of their additions in the next two years.
If LaMarcus depends on the post more and more, if Greg finds his lower body strength, if Roy continues to grow as a player, if Rudy develops the confidence to drive more often, if Bayless becomes more dependable, if Batum gains some weight and continues to work on his three point shooting we will be more dangerous, more versatile and more of a headache to match up with.
That is worth more than adding declining stars and these are not huge ifs, most of these are very likely going to occur. We already have one potential addition in Martell Webster, if he comes back healthy then that’s a very, very good role player to have on the team.
We’ll be fine, invest our time in the players we have, not dollars in needless, inefficient players like Hedo.
Ten players, two baskets, 13,000 people, one basketball. And we will decide what is done with that one basketball.
by The Pirate on Jun 29, 2009 1:28 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
I like that term "natural growth"; is that similar to "organic"?
I agree with both posts totally; I would not be unhappy if the only addition this summer was a back-up PF. Saving that cap room for the trade deadline as we see how the first half of the season goes, then adding what we need most for the stretch run, especially when losing teams are dumping their best players, is not a bad strategy at all.
You failed to mention we’re adding (compared to last year) a more-or-less deadly 3-point shooter to piggy-back on to Blake’s improved 3 point shooting because MARTELL IS BACK, and that is 10-20 points per game, especially if GO becomes any kind of offensive threat down low.
by kacee on Jun 29, 2009 6:48 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You had me
until the last paragraph. Martell’s injury is keeping him from getting back into the swing of things right now, which is crucial to him being ready for the season.
I expect that Martell will be back and have some flashes of brilliance this season. I love the guy, his work ethic and attitude, really everything about him. But I think we’re foolish to think that he’s going to be a huge addition to our scoring this year. I am sure that he will be a huge addition to our focus and drive if he is able to practice full speed.
I'm going to come up with the best line here ever, something really clever.
by musicdaniel on Jun 29, 2009 11:59 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Regarding Martell,
I understood it was the very cautious approach, because of the refracture last time, so protecting the foot as much as possible until time to ramp up for Fall camp. If he is injury free, I would expect him to consistently be a double figure scorer every game.
by kacee on Jun 29, 2009 9:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
In reply to you (as well as to musicdan)
I can’t tell you how excited I got last year at the Sacto preseason game. I know it was just sacto, but watching Martell run the floor and be a passing target and finishing at the rim got me stoked to watch our team take off. And we still did (54 wins!), but I think he was primed for a breakout last year. I’m really hopeful that Marty will come back to form quickly.
by Montavilla Steve on Jun 29, 2009 2:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think you misread the article
Oden isn’t doing squats.. he has to squat to get through doors sometimes
by 2005TelfairJerseyForSale on Jun 29, 2009 12:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
mmmmy bad...
typing error- i meant to say he’s been eating tater tots. he’s finally off that liquid diet the doctors had him on and is now eating toddler food.
"We didn’t pick Blair because of his history of fat-assery" -BlazerTag
by 5212872 on Jun 29, 2009 3:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
most of these are very likely going to occur. ??
I dont know that most of them occur, but as long as some do occur we should be fine. I dont think we should overspend, scratch that, I dont think we should spend at all on guys like Hedo as they stunt the growth of our team, but if the right deal comes along for the right price I have faith KP&Co. will pull the trigger if it makes sense and improves the team in the present and future. Even if we do nothing else but add FA to fill the holes we should be improving over time. That is the value of youth, potential and flexibility
by TheSportsPsychologist on Jun 29, 2009 1:46 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
In addition to the clear potential of our natural growth
I agree strongly with Dave’s point about our so-called “championship window”.
I don’t think 09-10 is the start of that window. We haven’t even made it out of the first round yet. Once the WCF are in sight, then the window is open. Until then, we just need to keep making progress at a steady rate.
Also some unrelated: I don’t think Cleveland necessarily had to make such a big change. They were clearly the best team over the course of the regular season, and in a 7-game series both teams always have a good shot at winning. So honestly they may have overreached, depending how Shaq works out. But this is merely a conjecture.
by austinpwnz on Jun 29, 2009 2:13 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Cleveland needed someone who could guard Howard without having to double. I think it’s useful for them that this is the last year of Shaq’s contract. If it doesn’t work(or if it does I guess) and LeBron bolts they won’t be stuck with Shaq’s contract past this year. Seems smart to me.
by danielfarrell on Jun 29, 2009 4:19 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hate to waste any more seasons.
How many times is Brandon Roy going to play close to 82 games in a season? I don’t want to waste any more opportunities – let’s go for all the marbles in 2009-2010. – Elgin
Without you out there, we're nowhere here
by 22baylor on Jun 29, 2009 10:08 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It would be wasting more oppurtunities to look short term like that.
You’re assuming Roy is good fo r5,6 years, so you’re assuming we only have 5,6 years of a chance.
by collectiveshane on Jun 29, 2009 10:21 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If we have no major injury issues and continue to improve,
we will contend for the West championship this season.
by MiledAnimal on Jun 29, 2009 3:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's good to hear this from you Dave
There has been a lot of people clamoring for major upgrades designed around improving the club THIS year. That simply shouldn’t be the goal of our final acquisitions with real cap space to use (via trade or free agency). We shouldn’t do anything drastic to try and push our window where it shouldn’t go (this year). Our moves should be based on what you want from your team in 3-4 years. If we continue planning with 2011 or 2012 as the goal, the teams likelihood of getting at least one championship, and more over multiple championships go up significantly.
We should be targeting players under the age of 27 or 28. Guys that we can trust will give us solid contribution, whether that be as a significant contributor or just a role player in 3-4 years from now. With the space now, get that young player, or two young players. Next year, like every year, we’ll be among the teams that can make that Richard Jefferson, Vince Carter type deal. This year continue to focus on your strong consistent youthful core. Next year, use your extra parts that will be deemed less of a fit or less valuable (with more knowledge) and turn them into that final piece (if you even need one).
This team has been built the right way. It’d be a shame to shoot yourself in the foot trying to be a hero.
by as11osu on Jun 29, 2009 2:31 AM PDT reply actions 1 recs
Your observations are keen ma brotha
I seem to recall a response of yours in the similar vein as Dave’s in this post in regards to getting “the big trade.” I am of the same cloth in respects to patience. I think the only reason why people have been so hyped to get the next big trade is because like all sharkish fans we get that taste of blood (a.k.a. playoffs) and we want to rush to get more. That’s okay, it’s natural.
And as we actually have “The Natural” we should take a page from his book and follow his lead, and do that just as well as the rest of the Blazers have, and that is: PACE. If you watch Bradon you sees that he knows when to trun it up. We and he know that he can turn it up at any moment, but like in a race if you lead for over half the race but still can’t finish at the front when it ends, it’s all for not. Why blow your boost prematurely?
Brandon knows this as does KP&Co. That is no coincidnce either; there’s always a trickle down effect from the top. They’ve given us NO reason to not trust them, so why all the worry? We need to stop being the over-protective-mothers of the basketball world and let our team go, and grow how it has been for the past few years, and that is: pace, an unbelievable pace.
Yes folks we’ve seen our baby basketball team from it’s inception, grow faster beyond our expectations, and before we ever thought was possible we see the anticipated future gleaming in all it’s glory… and now we think even after the unprecedented leadership that made it possible to even get to this point that it’s not good enough?
Trust, trust that what we’ve helped nurture is what it is. The pace is good people! Does anyone see? Take a step back. We are setting the pace, no one else can keep up when we have the best pace setters in the league like we do from top to bottom.
P.S. I wouldn’t mind if you were to repost that reply I mentioned in here as11osu. I think it would bolster what Dave has said.
Does this mean I have to like Diogu now???
by Ike_o_rama! on Jun 29, 2009 12:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Arguing against Dave's favorite trade then bolsters what he says now
Here was my response to Dave’s “Trade” that had us acquiring Prince and Hinrich
I loved Tayshaun Prince last year as an acquisition
This year, with Batum firmly on board, in the starters role already, and not looking out of place, I’m not willing to gut the roster (especially if it’s Rudy, and secondarily if it’s Przy that got dealt). In a year and a half or two years, I wouldn’t put money on Tayshaun being the better player. Like Batum, he relies a lot on his quickness, and that’s going to really start to go this year, as he’ll reach 30 years old. There’s the added problem regarding Prince, in that he duplicates what Batum already does, and doesn’t do defensively. If you’ve seen Tayshaun versus LeBron (and bigger perimeter players), you know what I’m talking about. He’s just not big or strong enough to properly defend him, or even at this point slow him down. If you’re planning on Championships in the next 5 years, you have to assume it’s LeBron you’re going to be going against, and thus, having a bigger perimeter defender might be necessary to at least frustrate LBJ.
If you can get Prince or Hinrich as part of a value trade (not giving up Roy/LMA/Oden/Rudy/Batum/Przy) you should go ahead and do that, but I don’t think either player would be worth giving up part of our core for. I’ll agree it sounded good when it was said on the podcast. If you get Hinrich AND Prince, that would merit being able to get rid of Rudy or Przy. That just isn’t how this thing plays out though (being two separate trades). The first trade looks good for either player, until the second trade comes in and you throw in one our core pieces. That second trade might as well not happen, It’s really quite a bit about value. Hinrich alone or Prince alone doesn’t equate to one of our core pieces. That’s the point of our depth and roster versatility right now. You’re trying to add a core piece by giving the exterior pieces.
I know you have to give value to get value, but we STILL have that. Even without giving up Rudy or Joel. Take a look at all we’d have to offer these teams, without core pieces.
Steve Blake, Jerryd Bayless, Sergio Rodriguez, Martell Webster, Travis Outlaw, Joel Freeland, a re-signed Channing Frye (possibly), #24, #32, #38, future first round picks, 8 million in cap space, possibly taking on additional bad contracts.
There are so many great value pieces in this bunch, getting these players very well could come by mixing and matching these movable assets.
Although Przy and Rudy technically play the same positions as Oden and Roy they’re absolutely vital to our situational lineups and tendencies. If you trade Rudy, defenses get to key even more on Roy than they already do, and you don’t have another guy they really have to worry about through entire games. You also don’t have that player that can take advantage of a guy without an offensive game. Rudy offensively is the best player you have that fits with Roy (Last year statistically Roy played better with Rudy than he did with any other player), and I don’t think you take away that weapon away. Throw in how well Rudy played in his rookie season, his contract, his age and his skill set, and it makes a trade for a 30 year old small forward with a 2 year life (before Batum takes over) seem a lot like you’re mortgaging your future, when our window may not be open for that many years in the first place. Joel is vital to keeping Greg fresh and worry-free regarding foul trouble. You don’t realize how much of a luxury something like we have is until it’s gone. Getting 48 minutes per game from true NBA quality centers is a luxury few teams have. Our rebounding differential from last year to this year alone should show how vital it is, and that’s without even factoring in potential injuries. http://www.blazersedge.com/2009/6/12/907007/the-trade#16890865
by as11osu on Jun 29, 2009 6:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The debate is fine but the rush to judgment is puzzling
I was surprised by the intensity of attack towards management from here. I guess I was not alone.
Dave said:
I was surprised at the number of comments I saw during the draft that claimed Kevin Pritchard had lost his touch or was afraid to pull the trigger on a real deal.
We are the guys and gals who have been privileged as much as any fans for any teams in memory with deep analysis, timely updates, exclusive interviews and access to the players and the coaches as well as management. I want to respect the organization that has opened to us and, especially after three years of experience with them, trust that they know far more than they can tell us and analyze that data with far more sophisticated tools than most of us possess. That trust has been established by the historical rise of this team and the amazing perceptions of KP and his crew.
Your point about not needing to add a fading star is so apt to me. These young men we have are proving that they are working hard and getting better each month. The ceiling is still high above them based upon their talent. A piece or two to support this effort will be appreciated. But no more stars are needed to make this ship fly.
What KP has said is that with Greg in the middle we need to surround him with shooters. Each of the players drafted have good shooting skills. It will be fun to watch them develop (with limited minutes).
by lee3022 on Jun 29, 2009 3:04 AM PDT reply actions 4 recs
Agreed. The number of commenters attacking KP on draft night was pretty amazing.
The “Impatience Posse” was out in force. KP has an extremely impressive track record. His evaluations and moves have brought this franchise a long way in a very short period of time. To me, those who attack him demonstrate a lot of hubris.
It is fine to say you disagree with a pick or that you think an opportunity was missed, but such criticisms should be extremely tempered. KP has access to a great deal more information than anyone here. We don’t know what the overall strategy is. We don’t have access to confidential medical reports. We don’t know what the scouts and advanced metrics indicate.
I little more humility, and a lot more patience, on the part of some posters would seem well advised.
by upper left corner on Jun 29, 2009 7:49 AM PDT up reply actions 3 recs
Have to rec this.
I have yet to understand how some fans can possibly think they are more knowledgeable or better capable of evaluating team needs and players than the Blazer brain trust.
It’s one thing when you happen to root for a team with inept management. There are a few of them out there. In cases like that, a fan believing he could probably do as well is not totally outside the realm of believability. But that is not the case here in Portland. We’ve seen the opposite of ineptitude. So why is it that fans think they can call KP out? I’m still waiting for one of the critics to provide even the least plausible explaination as to why they think they know what’s best compared to Pritchard.
hakkaa päälle !
by timg56 on Jun 29, 2009 9:00 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Doesn't apply to me, but ...
perhaps it’s a leftover from the Whitset/Nash eras????
by kacee on Jun 29, 2009 10:41 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think that does have a large part to do with it.
I know I used to think that way when they resigned Miles and drafted Telfair.
hakkaa päälle !
by timg56 on Jun 29, 2009 11:38 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly!
We’re are so totally blessed to have what we do now compared to what once was!!
I mean do we really want to go back to the “Rash Nash” era???! Geeze.
Does this mean I have to like Diogu now???
by Ike_o_rama! on Jun 29, 2009 12:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
We live in age of instant gratification.
One hour programs solve the world’s problems. Too many seem to think that any General Manager can just reach out and make great trades without giving up major pieces of our already great team.
Oden is just 21 years old; LMA will be just 24 in July, Travis will be 25 in Sept; Rudy is 24; Martell will only be 23 in Dec; Steve Blake will only be 26 in Sept; Bayless will only be 21 in August (Claver is only 10 days younger than Jerryd); Brandon will be 25 in July; Mills is one day younger than Jerryd; Batum will not even be 21 until Dec; Cunningham and Pendergraph are both 22 and our grizzled veteran Przybilla only reaches 30 years of age in October.
Please be patient people. We have great young guys who can and I predict will be championship players. Just give them time to mature a little and improve a little. They just had their first taste of the playoffs. They know what is needed. They will do it.
Stu Inman: a soft-spoken, witty and brilliant basketball guy -- who had so much to do with Portland's only championship. He believed that you won with not just great players, but with great people. (D Jaynes 2-2-07 Portland Tribune)
by OrygunRod on Jun 29, 2009 7:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It seems like people have very short memories in this regard
This is the guy (team actually with a great owner) who found a way to get LaMarcus AND Brandon on draft night, shipped out a ton of bad characters and contracts, found Rudy, Batum and Rex. But, within a couple months goes from being genius to less than capable. That seems like a pretty quick slide.
by Montavilla Steve on Jun 29, 2009 2:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll take some blame for his
I have been waiting for something since the trade deadline. I left some comments and had people respond and shook me out of my disappointment. I have been preaching patience for years, and then I go and do the exact opposite. I was also really sad to see Sergio go for so little, and I didn’t take the exemption into account. Excuses asid, I will retract my comments about the front office not getting it done. I guess they didn’t do a lot, but they did what they needed to do. That’s the important part. I also appologize for inciting the dormant Trader Bobs in the fan base. I have no one but myself to blame.
It took my two years to come up with an avatar and sig
and this is the best I could come up with.
by einman77 on Jun 29, 2009 8:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I Agree
Great article! I think one of the things that sets us apart from those other teams is how fresh we are out of rebuilding this team. We don’t have the established system like they do, we don’t have that kind of identity that a team like San Antonio does. It would be great to see those final parts come together soon and grow with the rest of the team as opposed to just plugging in a big name down the road and seeing if that pushes us over the top.
I’d hate to see the future put in jeopardy by (another) huge contract mistake but I also don’t want to see these young guys struggle because they are missing something to round out the team. I don’t think we need a superstar, we don’t need to be looking for a savior next year like some teams are. We don’t know how much wheeling and dealing will happen next year or if it will happen at all but it might be good to go find your guy(s) while there are less teams able to make an offer on them.
by JonathanPDX on Jun 29, 2009 3:05 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Agree! Agree! Agree!
Thanks Dave! I hate hearing people say any guy has lost his touch immediately after doing something they don’t agree with. You are the voice of reason. : )
I believe in Pritchard. He hasn’t failed us yet. He thinks 2 steps ahead of everyone in the NBA.
If this is the team we see at the end of next season, I will still be happy. I think this team will take us past the first round this upcoming year the way it is. Defense is the piece that the Blazers need to add/fix to make it to the finals.
I can’t wait!
by jnb58 on Jun 29, 2009 3:11 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
"PG" Upgrade
Can someone really explain to me what available PG is out there that will be a significant upgrade over Blake? I certainly understand the need for a banger at backup PF, and it seems Pendergraph may address that, but who are going to have a legit shot at getting to upgrade the 1? Chris Paul (as much as I want to talk myself into it, considering they want to dump salary and drafted a PG in the first round) isn’t available.
Is Kirk Hinrich the answer – you know, the guy Chicago was so happy with that they drafted Derrick Rose? If there was a Chauncey Billups type available for a couple of years, I’d do that while Bayless develops in the backup role, but who do you guys think we can get that becomes a serious improvement?
by skyman375 on Jun 29, 2009 3:41 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Drafting Derrick Rose is an obvious choice, Hinrich or not.
Why would they not draft the best player in the draft who also happens to be a hometown kid and had a good chance in becoming a top 3-5 PG in the NBA just because they have Hinrich?
Hinrich is pretty much as good as Blake at shooting and better at everything else. His numbers this past season don’t tell the real story considering he was injured this year and played much more shooting guard than he should.
He’s better than Blake at running the pick, something we really need. And his defense isn’t even comparable.
He would be a significant upgrade, even if it doesn’t seem like it by looking at stats. Hinrich is no star no, but he’s exactly the type of PG this team could use. I personally think his contract is fair for a starting PG of his caliber as well.
The most realistic “star” we could go after who’s under 30 would be Harris. The chances of that though, are slim to none without giving up Aldridge (and the fans would want Roy).
by Bskey on Jun 29, 2009 4:17 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Someone over Blake?
We need someone who can bring what Blake can’t to the table. Our PG is our weakest link in scoring offense. He can carry the ball and hand it over to Roy and watch him do something with it. Is there anyone confident in Blake’s 3 pointers? Or when he has the chance for a one on one? Blake is enough to lead us to the playoffs since he’s surrounded with enough talent. But to take the next step we need someone who can do more.
I don’t think Hinrich is the answer. He’s a decent PG and actually played well in the 2006 World Championships with a good staff around him. But he wouldn’t really justify his cost looking at the NBA performance in the last couple years.
There’s Kidd available, of course not an easy signing but he’s probably the best option for a team developing the future PG. Who can teach Bayless better than him? He’s still playing at a high level and will make a lot of sense for us. He’s a very good defender which we need and a great offensive mind, which we also need.
The upgrade is a matter of the name brought in. I don’t think anyone would consider Hinrich an upgrade, or at least worth the risk. But noone would question someone like Fisher or Chris Paul. I’m not saying we should get them (of course we can’t) but if the available option is good enough then we have to pull the trigger.
by SithLord13 on Jun 29, 2009 6:08 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm confident with Blake's 3 pointers.
I would also definitely consider Hinrich an upgrade. Fisher, not so much.
You might want to be careful making your arguments in such a way that calls people nobodies who disagree with you. I don’t think you intended it that way. But the way we word things matters. Just please be aware of that in the future. There are legitimate issues that people can disagree on, both of whom are in full control of their mental faculties.
μὴ φοβοῦ, μόνον πίστευε.
by T Darkstar on Jun 29, 2009 6:37 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
I don't see where he used the word "nobodies"-is that even a word?
He did say “noone” (presumably meaning “no one”) “would question someone like Fisher or Chris Paul”. If this is what you’re referring to, I don’t understand what you’re upset about.
by kuhnsmith on Jun 29, 2009 10:27 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have to agree with kuhnsmith, Darkstar.
I think you’re blowing the whistle a little early in the game.
by MiledAnimal on Jun 29, 2009 3:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree that Hinrich is better than Blake, but has a similar game
Looking for a PG who can better lead the fast break, who is more dangerous on the pick-and-roll, who plays more intense defense (but, of course, can also dribble down and hand the ball to Roy), you simply look down your bench for Bayless. (And if he doesn’t show significant improvement this year, he may have to be replaced.)
If you bring in any of those “other” PG – Kidd, Harris, CP3, – how happy will they be to defer to Roy in the offense?
by kacee on Jun 29, 2009 7:05 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fisher?
I would definitely question that move. I don’t understand how Hinrich’s defense is not an upgrade over Blake.
"I been ridin' the midnight train, got ice water in my veins." -Bob Dylan
"Sasha? That's a sissy name." -Mike Rice
by koyote on Jun 29, 2009 10:33 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
With Hinrich you get a Steve Blake who can also guard half the players in the NBA
Remember that Blake/Roy won 54 games. It needn’t be a drastic change to that backcourt to get the Blazers to a championship. Factor in the improvement of Greg, Nic, Rudy, and Jerryd.
"I been ridin' the midnight train, got ice water in my veins." -Bob Dylan
"Sasha? That's a sissy name." -Mike Rice
by koyote on Jun 29, 2009 10:39 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think you also have to consider the circumstances.
The Bulls already had a logjam at the PF position (TyTom and Bozo the clown). Did they really need a 3rd PF?
There really were only two logical choices for the Bulls, and they made the most logical choice of the two. Point guard (along with Center) is the hardest position to find top shelf talent. You take a phenom when you can get him.
All aboard the Kirkwagon!
by Arby on Jun 29, 2009 9:39 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
A+
GO
THE TEACHER ......come into my classroom "THE PAINT" for some tutelage.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"The rancor reflected in that remark I won't dignify with comment. But I'll address your general attitude of hopeless negativism." – Everett "O Brother, where art Thou?"
by Blazer1342 on Jun 29, 2009 5:34 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Man I hate flying. Takeoff the most.
Ah but the view is so sweet….
by pxilpooshr on Jun 29, 2009 5:59 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Judging by the (mixed) metaphors
some of us have been looking at this all wrong. The rest of the league is trying to climb to the top of the mountain and ward of competitors; we are planning to fly over the mountain and safely look down on the competition in one of Paul Allen’s jets. Stop thinking so literally, people!
by unemployedreflection on Jun 29, 2009 6:38 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree with the tone of this article
I’m not of the “stand pat” party, but I wouldn’t see it as a total disaster if KP didn’t make a move. I’d see it as a serious lost opportunity. This summer will likely be the last opportunity to do something big before the next rebuilding cycle begins – hopefully some ten years and multiple titles from now.
Failing to make a significant upgrade this summer would lower the chances of winning a title which would explain why some fans are gripping the trade bat so hard it’s turning into saw dust. On the other hand, making the wrong move could cripple the title chances.
For two years now the chant has been “wait until the summer of ’09”, not “wait until the draft of ’09”. In a week or two that summer period begins. If we get into August and nothing has happened then I’d say it’s okay to start beating the drums, but for now, patience.
by LaughingJon on Jun 29, 2009 6:46 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Think "trade deadline" too!
K.P. admitted at the last trade deadline that he was “standing pat” with this team, going to war with them, trusting them to carry the ball. They rewarded his trust with 54 wins and almost made it out of the first round.
The key is that he wouldn’t have made that statement if he hadn’t been seriously considering change at the point. He had RLF’s big expiring contract to offer, and next February, if mostly nothing happens this summer, he’ll have Miles’ big contract and significant cap room. Keep the faith through Fall camp and the first half of the season (and keep those drums covered).
by kacee on Jun 29, 2009 7:14 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I could be wrong but
I don’t think they have any trade benefits with the Miles situation as they did with the RLEC. They released Miles, they still have to pay him, it counts on the cap, but they can’t trade him (or his contract) because he no longer belongs to them. But at some point they will get cap relief when their obligation to him expires.
by LaughingJon on Jun 29, 2009 7:30 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I assumed it would work the same, but I don't know for sure
They will also have expiring contracts of Blake and Outlaw (possibly along with cap space depending on this summer’s actions) IF it is decided that either of them will not enhance our chances for the stretch run. The cap relief which arrives next July when Mile’s contract expires will be eaten up by the new contracts of Roy and Aldridge, so now to the trade deadline is when K.P. can fulfill Mr. Allen’s directive to “improve the team now”!
by kacee on Jun 29, 2009 8:24 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nah, We have Miles' Contract, but not Miles.
By waiving him, the contract and the player were separated. We can’t trade contracts, only players. Or something like that.
μὴ φοβοῦ, μόνον πίστευε.
by T Darkstar on Jun 29, 2009 9:38 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, thanks for the clarification! So, no cap space after July 1, 2010
as long as we resign Roy and Aldridge this year. I still like saving some/all of our present cap space for the Feb. trade deadline. K.P. may not like to mess up the chemistry at that time, but a bit of tinkering at that point in a successful season can be very advantageous for the stretch run.
by kacee on Jun 29, 2009 10:47 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yet beating the drums if no big deal comes forward is still the same ...
… as thinking you are better capable at understanding what it takes to put together the best team than Portland’s management does.
If I had to choose a position between those fans who say we have to DO SOMETHING and a Portland team that starts next season with basically the same rotation, with perhaps a couple of tweaks, it’s really no choice at all. On my own I can see what amounts to a very good team that is likely to get better without any changes at all. If that happens to be the conclusion of management, then I’ll get a small feeling of satisfaction, but more importantly, I will be reassured that the team we have is one heck of a team, because people far more capable than I have reached that conclusion.
hakkaa päälle !
by timg56 on Jun 29, 2009 9:08 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Stash Mills and Sign David LEE
Both are ballers and Mills has great potential and may even be nba ready ( even if the guys at the draft didn’t seem to understand). David lee of the knicks is a scorer and is a double double machine who would bring youth and toughness to the team.
by hotsauce710 on Jun 29, 2009 7:16 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
NO!
Lee is a great player, but we know where his ceiling is. We don’t have a clue with Aldridge and we’re already seeing a potential all-star in him.
Are you a Mexi-CAN or a Mexi-CAN'T?
by raggmopp on Jun 29, 2009 7:43 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why then
would Lee come to Portland? To play 10 min a game? Thats pretty silly if you ask me.
by bad karma on Jun 29, 2009 7:45 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
See my post below
As much as I like the thought of Lee in a Blazers uniform, I think his presence would create more issues than it would solve. Lee is a good scorer and a great rebounder. We have solid scoring and excellent rebounding already. Now, would you grab Lee in order to make LMA available for, say, CP3?
You’d have to definitely consider it, wouldn’t you? That said, there’s no way CP3 is on the market, but we’re talking hypotheticals here, so why not???
Are you a Mexi-CAN or a Mexi-CAN'T?
by raggmopp on Jun 29, 2009 8:00 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd do that deal
but I’m sure the hornets wouldn’t
by mwalter on Jun 30, 2009 1:37 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
I’ve stayed away from all the weekend churn and glad I did. There are NO moves that we see as needs that KP, TP and PA aren’t fully cognizant of and have turned ’round their collective brain many times over.
True starting PG – check: Hinrich may be available at a reasonable price (you know they’re exploring this)
True starting SF – check: Webster MAY come back this season and start a fire…he may not. We have Travis as either a player or a valuable trading commodity and we won an astounding 54 games last season with Nic and Outlaw. You can bet the brain trust (notice the word “TRUST”???) are working every possible angle (including Crash Wallace) on this one.
Help at the PF – check: They grabbed Pendergraph in the draft. This guy was MADE to back Aldridge. Time will tell, of course, but he smells like a keeper. After the Knicks’ draft, it looks like David Lee is more available than ever…look for the Triumvirate to explore that possibility as well. The only question there is what do we lose to make that happen? And what message does that send to LMA? That particular move might raise more questions than answers. Don’t get me wrong, I love Lee, but he’s not a great defender. Would he start at the SF…the PF or the 5 (his listed position on the Knicks roster)?
I don’t know about you, but I LOVE this time of year!
Are you a Mexi-CAN or a Mexi-CAN'T?
by raggmopp on Jun 29, 2009 7:42 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
The reason the Blazers need to make a move now is that they have capspace now
After they re-sign Roy and Aldridge, they won’t have capspace.
Additionally, I believe the Blazers window can start next year with a few shrewd moves. Brandon Roy is already in his prime. I believe Aldridge can improve, but I think he’s pretty close to his ceiling. Oden is likely to make the biggest jump of his career next year. Will next year be this team’s best year? Almost certainly not. However, I completely disagree that the Blazers should be looking 3 years out. They should be thinking about next year. Now, that doesn’t mean the Blazers should hurt their window by bringing in a 30 year old at high cost, but it does mean the Blazers should be looking to add an important piece right now.
The reason I have limited faith in Kevin Pritchard is that he’s proved he’s great at drafting and rebuilding but we have no evidence he’s equally good at swinging a big deal where he parts with one of his main guys. He failed to get a player for Raef’s contract at the last deadline— will he be able to take advantage of the Blazers’ capspace right now? I hope so. I think so. I just don’t know for sure.
by jksnake99 on Jun 29, 2009 7:49 AM PDT reply actions 1 recs
oh ye of little faith
What KP has done in a few years is terrific. He’s the right person in the right job. The move not made (during last season’s trading deadline) was the right move.
by rburg on Jun 29, 2009 7:59 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think I agree
Because KP has gone on record saying he’s not a fan of the big in-season move. Disrupts chemistry, less time for players to gel, etc.
I feel really good about their cap analysis at this point in time. Tom Penn is a highly respected capologist if such a thing exists and the blazers made sure he stuck around. I think if there is a deal out there that improves the team without mortaging the future then we’ll do it.
I just think its not realistic to think the blazers are ready to kick that door open for their championship run. Its a bit unrealistic to expect 3rd and 4th year players with one playoff series loss to approach the L*kers, Celtics, Cavs, etc. I think we’ll get there, just not next year, and maybe not the year after.
by Haymon45 on Jun 29, 2009 8:01 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just as a simple comparison,
D. Howard is in his 5th year, and he just won awards and carried his team to the finals. GO will be in his second year, so I don’t think it is unreasonable to predict that he won’t make large strides forward for several years in a row. The “window” will continue to open for this team for several years.
by kacee on Jun 29, 2009 8:32 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Next year, Oden will be the same age as Howard was in year 4
I absolutely agree he could make large strides several years in a row. Its even possible, albeit unlikely, that he could pull a Brandon Roy and make an even bigger leap between year 2 an 3 than between year 1 and 2 (but that’s rare, especially for a 4 year college player like Roy).
The odds suggest Oden’s biggest jump will come this offseason. We don’t know that for sure, and it doesn’t mean he can’t continue to improve for several more years, but I still think the Blazers window starts next year if (a) Oden comes to camp in shape and (b) the team makes a smart move to add a key piece. Will they be favorites under that scenario? Certainly not, but the Blazers can be a contender.
by jksnake99 on Jun 29, 2009 8:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure that age is more important than years in the league
There’s probably something to be said for each……but the problem with comparing Oden now with Howard in his 4th year is that Howard simply has had so much more time to learn how to play at this level. So few players “get it” right off the bat….no matter what their age.
I do agree that the Blazers window really starts to open this coming season. I think WCF is not a totally unreasonable target.
by antediluvian on Jun 29, 2009 9:27 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually
The reason that we can’t compare Howard and Oden is that Howard is a physical and athletic freak, and Oden hasn’t shown that in the NBA. I understand he had the microfracture surgery and that he’ll regain SOME of his former athleticism over time, but if we’re holding out hope that Oden will become another Dwight Howard I feel we will be sorely disappointed.
Sorry to be blasphemous, by the way…
by GMan83201 on Jun 29, 2009 9:33 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How athletic is Oden?
While his post moves this past year didn’t look all that good (in comparison with 7 footers in general), he can shoot with both his hands, his feet can be quite quick, he did try a variety of shots, and I saw one jump shot (from 8 feet or so) which looked very good. While his biggest improvement hopefully will come in not fouling, I think (optimistically) we could really see an offensive force in 2 or 3 years which will make Howard look more like a robot.
by kacee on Jun 29, 2009 10:55 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The cap space represents opportunity, nothing more.
And that opportunity is very conditional. It is conditioned on the right player being obtainable and not costing us too much else.
That the team has opportunity is not the same as saying it isn’t good enough now and is doomed if it doesn’t fully take advantage of that opportunity.
And lets not forget that there are other means to add a key peice besides cap space. I can’t reacll for sure, but I think I’ve read that a team can combine the two exemptions (veteran and mid-level) to sign a player. That is pretty close to the dollar figure we have in cap space. Which means that it only matters to Paul Allen, not us fans, as he signs the paychecks.
hakkaa päälle !
by timg56 on Jun 29, 2009 9:18 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If now means this year, I agree with you.
If now means July 8th or bust, then I don’t. I don’t think free agency is the right move with the capspace (yay lopsided trade!). Roy and Aldridge’s don’t hit the books until 2010-2011. Meaning a move even at the trade deadline will still mean we have capspace. Still, as you point out, KP isn’t a trade deadline kind of guy. I expect something to happen this summer, and I hope it happens July 8th. But if it doesn’t that doesn’t mean the opportunity is gone yet.
μὴ φοβοῦ, μόνον πίστευε.
by T Darkstar on Jun 29, 2009 9:44 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why July 8?
Unless K.P. and team have targeted a specific player at a specific price as a #1+++ priority, I think they’d be more likely to show some continuing interest and then wait to see if the player (and their agent) are also interested. In a down market it is likely many players will be disappointed with the offers they receive. We’ll also be hearing a lot of media (agent driven) claiming “Portland’s interested!!” because of our cap space and Mr. Allen’s wallet. I’m not saying we’ll get someone really good for a really cheap price, just that the wait and see game will be fully in play for most of the free agents and for teams looking to trade at least through July and, perhaps, up to Fall camp.
by kacee on Jun 29, 2009 11:03 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also remember
If KP had made a move at the deadline we probably have no capspace now ass we would have taken on a new contract
by We-B-Dunkin on Jun 29, 2009 11:44 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
chemistry
gained by a group playing together is worth more than adding random talent. Good stuff to from dave , as usual he is the voice of calm rationality.
by twggyy on Jun 29, 2009 7:55 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
blazers
Agree with the general tone of the article. Some people were disappointed that there were some good deals made by other teams around draft day, while not the Blazers.
But geez, there are, what is it, 30 teams in the NBA, even if they are very good at dealmaking, there are obviously going to be other teams that also are smart at taking advantage of opportunities.
And, as I have seen some people point out, you cannot have a whole team of all stars. If for no other reason, that would lead to a huge bubble in the payroll, which would have to pop at some point.
That being said, since they have a window of opportunity to pick up a veteran or two on account of salary cap, and that window of opportunity will probably close next year and remain closed for a number of years after that, if they can make a smart trade or free-agent acquisition this is the time to do it.
And they seem to be very desirous of making such a deal. But, if the right deal doesn’t come along, then I agree with those who say let’s go with the team they already have, these guys are already good and liable to be considerably better still next year.
As to positions, in my opinion, forget about getting a small forward. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. What about if it “might be broke”? In other words, what if Martell’s broken foot still hasn’t healed? Some commentator said they could potentially put Roy and Rudy both on the floor sometimes, with Roy at the 3 and Rudy at the 2. If God forbid Martell still can’t play, this would seem to be part of the solution to the resulting hole at the 3.
The consensus is the position that would be most prudent to upgrade with a veteran is PG. If they are going to get a veteran, they should get someone at the position where it would do the most good.
Even at PG, it is not clear how essential that is. I do believe Bayless is really going to make a big leap forward this year. They’re not going to have a super distributor on the team, but instead of putting the best player you can find who fits some classic definition of a PG, etc., you’re better off with a better player even if they don’t completely fit a mold. That’s Bayless.
What about backup PF? I imagine everyone feels about the same as I do, really hard to know whether either Pendergraph or Cunningham is good enough to fill that role. But, from what Nate and KP have said about the tryouts, these guys certainly at least have the playing style that they are looking for at PF.
So, anyway, they probably will acquire a veteran or two, but don’t shed any tears if they don’t because there is every reason to believe they will be one of the best teams in the NBA next year even with the players they already have.
by lsjogren on Jun 29, 2009 8:34 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
good one
“Tom Penn is a highly respected capologist "
Well said, as complex as the rules are, it is fitting to give it the status of a profession unto itself.
I guess PSU could offer business degrees in capology.
by lsjogren on Jun 29, 2009 8:38 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
pops
“Unless that move is available, however, it would be the height of folly to sacrifice what you’ve built up in terms of talent and flexibility just to keep up with the Popoviches. "
I agree with that and I don’t think there is concern in that regard. People have commented from time to time that KP and company tend to fall in love with their players.
Well, I’m glad. For example, I would be very disappointed if they traded Batum. A strong defensive player like him is a gem, and if he develops his offense further then we are looking at near all star or actual all star type ability.
But I don’t think the Blazers will give up their promising young players. The main ones at issue I think are Batum and Bayless.
I think these should be the guiding rules:
1). Key to success will be defense. DO NOT trade your defensive specialists. Pryzbilla, Batum
2). Do not trade young players who have a lot of upside in their skills. Oden, Bayless, Webster, Batum
3). Do not trade your crown jewels. Roy, Aldridge
Note that Batum fits TWO of these categories, all the more reason they need to keep him.
By those criteria, Blake and Outlaw in my view are the only ones that are clearly tradeable. What about Rudy? I would say his case is borderline, so my feeling is they would have to get a lot in return if they were to trade him. His style is an asset that you have to put some value on as well. The kind of player that sells tickets and gets people enthusiastic about the team.
by lsjogren on Jun 29, 2009 8:52 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Dave = Smarter Than Us
At least about basketball anyway. :)
Outstanding post that clarifies (in much more eloquent terms) why I think Portland did the right thing in not making a huge deal for a veteran player in his 30’s just because some were available both at the trading deadline and during the draft.
I still think that even with the whole circus going on right now that it might be worth a look to see if Rubio couldn’t be had on the cheap from Minnesota, but otherwise the only big deals I want to see this team make are for players that are not yet at their prime.
Yes! Yes! In the face!
by LeafHawk on Jun 29, 2009 9:21 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I doubt Rubio is cheap.
Minny wants him too, even if they have to wait a couple of years to get him.
μὴ φοβοῦ, μόνον πίστευε.
by T Darkstar on Jun 29, 2009 9:46 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Championship window
I’m not a big fan of trading any of our core players to possibly move us into the championship window earlier, but then again its hard to say when that window is open. The 77 Blazer’s championship window was apparently open for just a couple of years and probably ended due to Walton’s injury problems. Obviously if a major star like CP3 or LeBron becomes available you have to at least look at how it might change the team, but I can’t see adding a random star ust because they have been successful in the past without considering how they fit with your team and what you have to give up to get them. I do like the idea of watching our young players develop and succeed, rather than just buying a team of all-stars (ala Boston), but there is no guarantee that will lead us to the championship.
I’d be interested in a discussion of what plausible trade scenarios do make sense. for the Blazers.
by dogbert on Jun 29, 2009 9:36 AM PDT reply actions 1 recs
If this whole philosophy holds true
Then we shouldn’t be worried about the signings of Turkoglu, Kidd, Nash, Andre Miller, or any other “past their prime” stars (Hedo’s prime is debatable, but I can’t see him getting any better considering he already peaked).
All aboard the Kirkwagon!
by Arby on Jun 29, 2009 9:37 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn't be
concerned about any of those necessarily. If we get one then KP thought he was the right fit, but you can make an argument why any of them would be wrong for this team, even Hedo. (Though he and Miller are the most attractive names on that list right now. But I would have rather had Miller a year or two ago.) With everybody on that list getting them is fine, losing out on them isn’t a tragedy.
—Dave
by Dave on Jun 29, 2009 10:51 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
All that being said, I think it is clear KP didn't do anything because his deal wasn't there
You can talk about windows and all that, but KP is a natural talent collector. The problem is that he is a best player available type talent collector. He is not a best fit talent available person – like Popovich. I think the biggets change that will affect this team is a new coach. I like Nate, I saw him as a player and a coach in Seattle, but 55 win teams are his trademark. Like Sloan in Utah his system will win lots of regular season games, but it will most likely not win champtionships.
by Sonic Boom on Jun 29, 2009 9:43 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Actually, it's the players that win;
the coaches are only there to facilitate. I was impressed this season with how Nate inspired many of the Blazers to improve their games. (Notice how we heard a lot less about “Sarge”?) Next he needs to focus on those who need the confidence boosting the most: Webster, Bayless, and Oden.
by kacee on Jun 29, 2009 11:09 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I want to agree here
The logic is sound, it just begins to feel compensatory when every other post preaches calm and patience:
Everybody stay calm
…logic…context…singularity of current situation…
Echoed by the comments:
Don’t freak out.
No really it’s ok
Just wait until (this year + 1)
…Pritchslap…
Be patient
Who is worried (other than sidebar hail mary’s and commenters who quickly bore of dave’s maddeningly even keel)? I don’t dwell here as often as some, and don’t swim through seas of comments, so maybe I’m missing something, but after a while it begs just a twinge of paranoia, or at least cynicism. If every other article in the paper argues against eating rocks, and letters to the editor vigorously agree, thoughts will move from “why on earth would i eat rocks” to “is there a side I’m not seeing that’s meriting such opposition”
"The Right Way Crusades appear to be over. In their place, though, a new bone of contention has arrived, one which may well define the sport for the next decade or so. I speak, of course, of the bloody, and often chaotic, March of the Positional Revolution." - FD
by stikit on Jun 29, 2009 11:18 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I will admit to being an even keeler
and maybe Dave’s lap dog but I think they make the most sense.
I know each draft day has had fireworks with KP and people expect him to magically trick all the GM’s and agents in the association. This is exactly what Blazer fans expect when KP talks to prospective free agents.
KP: What’s that Hedo? You want 5 years and 50 million. No, no you don’t. You want 2 years and 6 million.
Hedo’s Agent: Do you think I’m an idiot?
KP: You are an idiot. You want this deal.
Hedo’s Agent: I am an idiot. I want that deal.
Hedo: What!? Going to where? Port-LAND? Ory-GUN?! It doesn’t have any sun?! You’re an idiot!
I wish that were true. But the blazers management team has a process of evaluating players and so far its worked pretty well. I think remaining even keeled and trusting in the process which has netted us Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge will continue to be successful. It doesn’t mean do nothing, it means make moves that are meaningful and will set you up when your players hit their prime, they will be in position for a good run.
by Haymon45 on Jun 29, 2009 3:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
This may be a dumb question
but, if a Hinrich deal really is imminent, what is the hold up? We saw a few large deals get consummated shortly before the draft. I know that the Stoudemire deal is rumored to be delayed until the free agency period begins becaus of some of the players involved. But why would a Hinrich deal not have been completed before the draft? None of the rumored players involved are free agents. This may have been answered before and I just missed it but I would appreciate someone wiser indulging me. Thanks!
SOME PEOPLE ARE LIKE SLINKIES. NOT REALLY GOOD FOR ANYTHING BUT THEY BRING A SMILE TO YOUR FACE WHEN PUSHED DOWN THE STAIRS.
by MrGrinch on Jun 29, 2009 1:35 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
It's possible
that there’s a deal ready to go, but it works better using next year’s salaries and cap space. And no one felt the need to leak it to the press.
by pualo on Jun 29, 2009 3:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Our window is opening now
The Trailblazer window opens this year, heavily weighted by what we do with our cap space. As I understand it, we are not expecting much cap space in the upcoming years due to the large contracts that are going to be necessary to keep the pillars we already have in place.
In other words, if we screw up now, we will be paying for it for years. With this in mind, we need to think long term, think in terms of what is best over the next several years, not just what is best for next year. Sure, we could win one title, and then miss out on three more. I say, don’t hyperventilate over experience. Experience will come one way or the other if we don’t get short sighted.
by KINGofMACct on Jun 29, 2009 4:05 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
Patience
Patience is a virtue. And a little virtue never hurt anybody. Not even a Blazer fan. I’m with Dave on this one. The patience shown by the front office shows they know what they’re doing and we’re a bunch of emotional Rip City Railroad passengers. I’m going to stop speculating and just chill for the next week and wait for “Christmas”. Good Luck K.P. All I want for Christmas is a PG that can play some “D”. HoHoHo
by Chris-8ally on Jun 29, 2009 10:52 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
No
Making a move to follow those teams at this time is silly. There windows are now, Ours is a possibility, But after this next year our window will be for 5-7 years. Vince in Orlando will be a Bust. Shaq in Cleavland has more of a chance to fail than succeed in my eyes. San Antonio is prolonging the inevitable, Jason Richardson will be similar addition as Finley was.
Next year we can add a top flight free agent that will help us win our championships. 2009-2010 will be a another developing year with 54-58 wins and a chance at the NWD title.
by irishnick1980 on Jun 30, 2009 11:41 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
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