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Breaking News: Portland And Hedo Have Reached An Agreement in Principle

Ben_tiny by Ben. on in News Comment 951 comments

According to Henry Abbott of TrueHoop, as first reported on ESPN's SportsCenter, the Portland Trail Blazers have reached an agreement in principle with free agent forward Hedo Turkoglu.  The terms of the deal have not been finalized.

The rumored structure according to multiple sources is that the Blazers' offer will approach the 5 years and $50 million previously reported.

Via Google Chat, Henry Abott writes...

There are a lot of players Portland could have offered that money to. But there are not a lot who can both shoot and create for other shooters. When you get that in a player who is also extremely long, comfortable in crunch time, and playoff-tested ... it makes a lot of sense.    

The earliest the deal can be announced is Wednesday, July 8. 

Update (11:44AM): Here's the ESPN link.

Although a verbal commitment may be announced sooner, the terms of the contract cannot be finalized until Wednesday, after the NBA informs teams what next year's salary cap will be.    

Update (12:08PM): Ken Berger has confirmed this report.

Update (12:31PM): On ESPN INSIDER, John Hollinger writes...

At first, it makes no sense. Why would the Portland Trail Blazers pay Hedo Turkoglu $50 million?

Thanks to his position as a key ballhandler on a conference champion, Turkoglu has become one of the league's most overrated players: a 30-year-old forward who has had league-average PER numbers the past three seasons. Clearly, he isn't worth $50 million, which is the rumored price, and in a couple of years he might not be worth half of $50 million.

Yet in a roundabout way, it makes a lot of sense for Portland to offer him $50 million.    

Update (1:30PM): Henry Abbott went on 95.5FM The Game to discuss the Hedo Turkoglu signing. I tried to transcribe as carefully as I could in real time... here's some of what he said...

Initial thoughts

It's an interesting move... you never love free agency because you take a whole bunch of money and are choosing from a limited menu... given their options, it makes all kinds of sense to me... it makes a ton of sense to me... you're already spreading the floor with shooters... now Turkoglu can be a second option to take some pressure off Brandon Roy... He has wanted 5 years and 50 million dollars... Portland has agreed to get there or darn close to there..

Did they overpay?

Probably a little.. but that's the way free agency works... a much poorer value is to have 9 million under the cap and not get somebody... especially when he's 35 it will really look like they are overpaying...

Who else were they looking at?

The Blazers really don't take on any players that can't shoot... that limits their options... as long as that's the case you're choosing from a very limited menu...

What do they want from Hedo?

You've got to be a teammate, you've got to be a winner, you've got to be a shooter... almost alone among NBA players that you can plug into the Blazers team and run the same things they've been running and just get more efficient scoring.

Will this change the team's approach?

I wonder if maybe having a 30 year old guy who has been deep in the playoffs might inspire Nate to loosen the reigns a little bit on the fast break.

95.5's online stream cut to commercials during that portion of the interview. 

Update (1:30PM): Jason Quick offers this confirmation...

The 6-foot-10 small forward, one of the top commodities in this year's free agent market, arrived in Portland on Thursday afternoon and reached tentative agreement on a five-year, $50 million deal shortly before noon today.    

Turkoglu and his agent, Lon Babby, are expected to be at the team's practice facility around 2 p.m., for a meeting during which details and formalities will be ironed out.

...

Kevin Pritchard intimated that he has at least one more move ahead this summer, which figures to involve one of the Blazers three returning small forwards - Travis Outlaw ($3.6 million this season), Martell Webster ($4.3 million) or second-year player Nicolas Batum ($1.2 million).

Update (1:45PM): Ric Bucher on ESPN News just said... 

They do not have an agreement. There is a deal, 5 years and 52 million that is apparently on the table. I've been told by a couple of sources it's not done yet. It's not a matter of fit. It's a matter of going to Portland, quite honestly. I know his wife is very interested in going to Toronto. They right now are sitting back to see what happens. I would say Turkoglu is either going to leave Portland and have a deal done or closing the door on that situation and moving forward with Toronto. I was told it was very close this morning but the fact that we don't have anything concrete at this point suggests that there's still some mulling being done on the part of Turkoglu.

What?

Update (2:13PM): ESPN's original report on the agreement in principle remains up on ESPN.com.    

Update (2:24PM): Henry Abott offers his take on Hedo-to-Portland by citing this section of Hollinger's analysis...

Portland's approach makes sense even if the dollars seem excessive at first glance. Yes, they're overpaying Hedo Turkoglu, and given his age it's possible they'll end up eating the last two years of the contract. But the way cap space works is that a team might get only one shot at using it, and must take advantage by making the best, strongest move it can for the best fit available.

Turkoglu for $50 million is an imperfect solution, certainly, but it's a far better one than squandering the space by waiting, or by paying similar money to jam a square peg into a round hole. And as Turkoglu's soon-to-be-former teammates in Orlando showed last month, even in the current economic situation overpaying for a part that fits can work out awfully well.

Update (2:56PM): Jason Quick re-writes his lede...

Despite published reports to the contrary, Hedo Turkoglu has not reached an agreement with the Trail Blazers, a team source announced at 2:20 p.m. Friday.     

Update (6:20 p.m.):  Jason Quick now says no deal

The Oregonian has learned that free agent forward Hedo Turkoglu has rejected an offer to sign with the Trail Blazers and has ended negotiations with the team.

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

Poll
Hedo Turkoglu is finally a Portland Trail Blazer.
Hooray!
1568 votes
Boo!
514 votes
Meh!
811 votes

2893 votes | Poll has closed

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You should post that video as a fanshot ^

People need to watch that. It might change alot of people’s perception of him.

by ajinoregon on Jul 3, 2009 5:07 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

BREAKING NEWS!

Hedo breaks off talks…rejects Blazers. Really? That’s like asking some ugly girl out as a favor to a friend and she say ‘no’. It hurts! What now?

"The Edge... there is no honest way to explain it because the only people who really know where it is are the ones who have gone over."

by GonzoFan on Jul 3, 2009 6:24 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

How much real impact will length and terms have?

Obviously it would be nice if we don’t have to renounce Koponen and Freeland.

Obviously it would be nice if we still had enough spare change to pick up another vet or take back a little extra salary in a trade.

Beyond that, the reality is that once this season begins, the Blazers are going to be in “luxury tax hell” for as far as the eye can see. We are unlikely to be under the tax until “the big three” leave or retire. Given this fact, how much does it matter if Hedo is on the books for four vs five years? Not much, IMHO.

I would prefer a longer term with lower initial dollars, because that might give us a little wiggle room this summer.

by upper left corner on Jul 3, 2009 11:56 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

The problem with $$ and length are...

Hedo is 30 and last year his production dropped. So many are concerned that while Hedo may be a quality addition for the next two years, four or five down the road when we are hopefully making title runs (or defenses) Hedo will not be contributing and be a large & unmovable contract that ties our hands in potentially brining in new talent to help improve.

by JCook on Jul 3, 2009 12:04 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I understand. I disagree about the significance of the terms.

I understand why people are concerned. What I am attempting to argue is that it does not matter much, if we have Hedo under contract in four or five years, even if he is out of the league, because we are going to be in luxury tax hell anyway with three max contracts for the big boys and a number of sizable extensions of the young role players.

by upper left corner on Jul 3, 2009 12:28 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

He won't tie our hands at all

because with Greg, Brandon, and LaMarcus will be way over the cap, anyway. So any moves will have to be made with that restriction, Hedo or no Hedo.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 12:29 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

LOL

Upperleftcorner beat me to it by less than a minute.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 12:30 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Trailblazers Close Deal on Back-Up PF and Veteran Point

I am on record saying that we should upgrade the back-up 4 and that we need a distributor who can create his own shot. While I might congratulate myself for recognizing what we needed, I was wrong in thinking this meant we needed to get a classic banger PF and an upgrade at Point Guard.

Well folks, KP done did it again! He found those qualities in a 6’10" package he calls Hedo Turkoglu.

As you guys pointed out, it does not really matter how much we spend on a big FA this year as long as PA is willing to reach into his pocket: We will have no cap space the the length of that contract, anyway.

What this means is that we are getting the best player available for a position not already locked in. While we have a great number of developing and serviceable SFs, none are as of yet world beaters.

There are practical reasons for the acquisition: the ability he has to create his own shot, passing, rebounding and versatility that make Hedo very attractive. The dude moves great for 6’10" and he has a very high BBIQ. He plays either forward position and with his ability to play point forward, that means Nate could go to a line-up of Roy, Rudy, Turkoglu, Aldridge and Oden in stretches. Try defending those guys sometime with all of the passing. Their rebounding and height should offer enough cover against most teams.

So if we have to shoot the wad on somebody, who would you rather have splurged on? Battier would have been one step ahead of doing nothing. Better D is cool, but he lacks versatility especially for us, because Battier should never take playing time from Rudy and Roy. And Odom playing behind LMA? Not happenin’.

Thanks for thinking, KP. (Any more moves in the works? Go Andre Miller!)

And thank you, Paul Allen, for your commitment to getting this team the quality player it needs.

by LaoTzu on Jul 3, 2009 1:57 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Shane Battier

I actually think the Blazers could still be interested in acquiring Shane Battier

Say what?! Doesn’t this team already have enough small forwards?

Portland likes players who can shoot, and that’s one of Battier’s strengths. He’s also got a high BBIQ, something that the Blazers could still stand to add to their roster, even after acquiring Hedo

Battier is set to make 6,864,200 this year. The Rockets just subtracted Artest and added Ariza, so there may be some “duplication” between Shane and Trevor?

Outlaw + Bayless’ combined salaries would match Battier’s. It would leave the Blazers thin at PG and even deeper at SF, but it would also add another smart veteran who can shoot the 3-ball at a high percentage. That’s a skill that will always be in great demand in Portland, so I don’t think you can completely rule him out

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 3:57 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah

It helps to salary match if we do a big deal down the road.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 2:19 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

yup, the HTEC could be a good piece for us. I wonder if it should be pronounced “high-tech.”

by Cablinasian on Jul 3, 2009 5:15 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I would be fine if they renounced Koponen because I have my doubts about him from what I’ve seen and read.

Freeland could be the backup banger that we’ve been dreaming of someday, I would be kind of bummed if we let him go but I trust KP.

MLB2PDX!!! (someday...)

by The Cactus Leaguer on Jul 3, 2009 12:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't think most fans could care less

about length and $$. The average fan doesn’t have a clue where we stand with the salary cap; all they know is that Mr Allen has the dough, and Hedo improves the team.

by levelhed on Jul 3, 2009 12:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Maybe that's the way KP feels about it, too

Mr. Allen has the dough and Hedo improves the team.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 12:31 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly

Hedo is a solid player, but I don’t think he’s worth 5/50 at this stage of his career. I hope he proves me wrong, and his skills will fit well with the pieces in place. The real question for me now is the next deal – who moves, and what PG do we get in return? That’s when I think we can really make a final judgment on the off-season.

Team Bayless - The takeover begins in 2009

by blazeraddict on Jul 3, 2009 4:44 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

WOO!!!!

Yes!!!!im so happy.

Oden...Aldridge...Roy.....THE REAL BIG THREE

by CroRupt on Jul 3, 2009 11:36 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Yessss

This has potential to make us much better.

by bearcatsoftball on Jul 3, 2009 11:37 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

It's time to rally around our candidate

no matter which side of the pre-election debate you were on

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 11:38 AM PDT reply actions   1 recs

Rally around the candidate!

That’s the one I forgot.

by AndrewD on Jul 3, 2009 11:39 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I changed my sig to reflect this.

"SAY NO TO HEDO." Well that campaign FAILed....

by dpnim on Jul 3, 2009 11:50 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Time to circle the wagons

Jump on board, get on the bandwagon, whatever.

Hedo is a Blazer, and no matter what you thought of it three days ago, I think it really improves this team. Now let’s find a PG!

by AndrewD on Jul 3, 2009 11:39 AM PDT reply actions   1 recs

yeah baby!!

I’m a happy camper….pick and roll here we come!!

by Debra on Jul 3, 2009 11:39 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Sounds Good

he will bring experience and help for BRoy!

by 5_Master_Tigers_Of_Portland on Jul 3, 2009 11:39 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

let's see the details...

I was down on this when we first started courting Hedo, but after really thinking about the possibilities he could open up I came around. He could be a great fit. Hopefully.

Now let’s see how much we’re paying him….

by aster on Jul 3, 2009 11:40 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

This definitely helps short term

Long term makes me a little nervous, but we’re instant condenders now.

Witty Unpredictable Talent and Natural Game

by iDea on Jul 3, 2009 11:41 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I agree but I wouldn't say were instant contenders quite yet.

"SAY NO TO HEDO." Well that campaign FAILed....

by dpnim on Jul 3, 2009 11:52 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hooray it's over!

No more speculating anymore. I didn’t want it to happen, but now that it has, I’ll learn to live with it.

μὴ φοβοῦ, μόνον πίστευε.

Blazersedge.com || New to Blazers' Edge?

by T Darkstar on Jul 3, 2009 11:41 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I agree

I was against this signing, but there are a number of aspects on which to reserve judgement:

1. What, if anything, Pritchard does in terms of trades, e.g., picking up a starting veteran point guard
2. What reaction, if any, other “core” Trailblazers have, especially Roy, Rudy, and any remaining small-forward-types, and whether this means anything at all.
3. How, if at all, the team gels after all the trading, etc., is through and everyone’s on the court together.
4. How well, if at all, Turkoglu and any new Blazers perform and stay healthy.

I just can’t see this guy fitting in and contributing what we need him to contribute for five years. But I don’t know him that well, and I was definitely against the Zach Randolph trade, especially hearing all those New York fans cheering how great they were(n’t) going to be that year.

Thank goodness KP’s vision exceeds mine.

Honor Alaa Abdelnaby.
First in the NBA. At least alphabetically

by OhOhOden on Jul 3, 2009 12:32 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

SALARY CAP

I don’t understand the concern about Hedo’s contract. We are going over the cap with or without him. Time now to prepare for KP’s next move which could be even bigger!

by hayeclan on Jul 3, 2009 11:43 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I think this is a great move for the Blazers

it will be even better if that 5th year is a team option as rumored.

by JasonT on Jul 3, 2009 11:43 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Not thrilled but...

As others have said, time to circle the wagons and get on with it!

To summarize: Wade too quick, Kobe too skilled, LeBron too physical - Batum

by Ltlgto on Jul 3, 2009 11:44 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

What number will he wear?
  1. is in the rafters by Larry Steele. How bout 14 or 16? Either way, kinda gross

by TrailBlazerChief on Jul 3, 2009 11:44 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

50,000,000

The Chicago Bulls.....the more profitable Los Angeles Clippers.

by Ozzie Montana on Jul 3, 2009 11:55 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

that's a big number.

I hope it doesn’t break his back under the strain. – Elgin

Without you out there, we're nowhere here

by 22baylor on Jul 3, 2009 1:03 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think the 5 and last 0 would disappear under his arms

But then he’d look like his number is 000000, and in a sense (not a mathematical one, though) that’s like multiple Gilbert Arenases. And that’s a pretty good signing for only $50,000,000.

In honor of the dearly departed, I declare July PB&J month - everyone raise a sandwich to the memory of Ben!

by wjb1492 on Jul 3, 2009 3:51 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Here's the poll that should have been run

The phrases “Hedo Torkoglu” and “bad contract” will first appear in the same Blazer’s Edge post in:

- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- Hedo wins the Finals MVP before that ever happens.

by Kaboomm on Jul 3, 2009 11:45 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Good timing

Like I’ve said earlier, there’s no reason that KP couldn’t package Hedo and Rudy and trade them in a few years.

My favorite scenario right now is for KP to trade Turk/Rudy for the rights to Rubio in a few years

By then Kahn should be desperate. Rudy will be asking “out” and Ricky will be older and ready to go

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 1:01 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

July 3, 2009.

But I don’t think he’ll ever be a “bad contract”… at worst, he might become HTEC in 2014.

MLB2PDX!!! (someday...)

by The Cactus Leaguer on Jul 3, 2009 12:20 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

ugh

That hurts.

Honor Alaa Abdelnaby.
First in the NBA. At least alphabetically

by OhOhOden on Jul 3, 2009 12:33 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I just hope rudy is happy

I think he will be very good these next few years.

by tevisthe4th on Jul 3, 2009 11:45 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

and Martell is mad

at both of them

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:08 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I hope Rudy is being traded

for a good PG

Keep in mind that everything I know about basketball I learned on Blazers Edge.

by pualo on Jul 3, 2009 12:09 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Signing Hedo mean's we don't really need one

Steve Blake is a good point guard and KP thinks Bayless is the future. I bet the Blazers just get an old guy at PG now.

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:14 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I have to imagine some trade is coming.

We just added another player to an already overcrowded rotation. And if a trade is coming, point guard makes the most sense.

Keep in mind that everything I know about basketball I learned on Blazers Edge.

by pualo on Jul 3, 2009 12:16 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah

I agree, but I like Hollinger said below, and I don’t trust the guy, but he has a point, that the Blazers could play Hedo, Rudy, and Roy at the same time. No one could guard the point guard, but not every team has a point guard that needs an elite defender. The Blazers think that Bayless might become elite some day.

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:29 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Right about Bayless

If the Blazers aren’t making a point guard deal, Bayless is going to have to be the guy. I hope so.

by Kaboomm on Jul 3, 2009 12:31 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm in agreement

You can only have so many stars. Gotta have some journeymen and Steve is just that.

by levelhed on Jul 3, 2009 12:22 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I hate this idea that Hedo is going to play point guard

He’s just a 6’10" forward with some mobility. He’s not an angel from heaven who can do miracles.

by Kaboomm on Jul 3, 2009 12:26 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't think he will

But it’s another guy who can dribble the ball up court. I hope it means more fast breaks. (I didn’t manage to type that with a straight face.)

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:35 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Magic ran some, with Hedo

It’s not a conventional fast break, but it gets the job done (easy baskets) Kind of like the Rudy baseline lob and the Blake’s “kick-ahead” passes to LMA

I don’t think the Blazers are ever going to be an uptempo team with Brandon in the lineup. Maybe Bayless and the 2nd unit will get out and run, some. But just in small portions and not the main course

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

He tells them to increase the pace almost every possession

Roy plays at his own pace, and while I want us to play faster, we’ll only go as fast as he wants us to.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 3:06 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

yeah, an older PG who can defend and hit 3s

would be ideal

Keyon Dooling and Travis Outlaw’s salaries match up, BTW (see “the list” below)

But KP may use Trav’s salary to add depth at PF/C, as well

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:55 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Great News!

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 11:46 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm very scared

I think Hedo helps us next year, but I think he’s going to be really bad in 3 years let alone 4-5.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 11:46 AM PDT reply actions   2 recs

Yeah I think so

To Memphis for a top 7 protected pick? Fair for both sides I think.

by AndrewD on Jul 3, 2009 11:47 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

yea they would take him since he hit 2 game winner 2 succesive seasons there

"shaq and zach randolph have the same trainer... "

best one liner i ever heard.

by bowdown on Jul 3, 2009 11:48 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sarcasm or not?

Doesn’t come across well online.

I mean, if we can get the Bulls to agree to the mythical Trout+Blake for Hinrich trade then I’m all about that. If he can’t be used to upgrade at PG or PF then I don’t see the point.

by AndrewD on Jul 3, 2009 11:52 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I made a list of veteran big men

That earn around 3.6 mil year (Outlaw’s salary) and “could” be trade target

now I just have to find it…oh here it is

Brian Scalabrine 3,413,793
Steven Hunter 3,696,000
Fabricio Oberto 3,800,000
Brian Cook 3,500,000
Luis Scola 3,284,667
Carl Landry 3,000,000
Marc Gasol 3,240,000
Kurt Thomas 3,800,000
Amir Johnson 3,666,667
Kevin Love 3,401,040
Matt Bonner 3,256,500
Kris Humphries 3,200,000

Keyon Dooling 3,564,000 could be an option as a #3 PG who can shoot the 3-ball

See anyone on that list you like, and that could reasonably be “got” for Trav?

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:17 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Brian Scalabrine 3,413,793

DING DING DING WINNER!

The NBA: Where amazingly bad officiating happens, is encouraged, and rewarded.

by The Roybot on Jul 3, 2009 12:20 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

BS wouldn't be my first choice

but whatever floats yer boat

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:48 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

BTW, Amir was just traded

so I don’t think he could be re-acquired for 60 days?

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:20 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ha - I was just glancing through and thought you wrote "vegetable" big men....

In honor of the dearly departed, I declare July PB&J month - everyone raise a sandwich to the memory of Ben!

by wjb1492 on Jul 3, 2009 12:43 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Love would be a nice fan move. Local kid, quality backup PF. But no min.

B.S. Liberal Studies OSU '06
Trade for Gerald Wallace!!

by TyboOSU on Jul 3, 2009 3:34 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Its actually not sarcasm, just get rid of him at this point for best value...

I would much rather prefer that mythical trade, but he’s just not going to see minutes next year, and trade value will go down…

by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 12:33 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Can you imagine how big a lineup we'd be sporting??

Hinrich
Roy
Hedo
LMA
Oden

That’s a lot of man to cover…

by mwalter on Jul 3, 2009 2:36 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Doesn't Trout make 4 mil?

The number we should be focusing on isn’t Trout’s salary… it’s Trout + Blake.

The answer is Hinrich.

Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.

by KP Corleone on Jul 3, 2009 12:29 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

That would suck...

I doubt it will happen, though. Trout has too much value around the league to be tossed into an unnecessary sign and trade. The only reason to do that would be to get Turkoglu a little more money, and I think the Blazers can do almost 50 mil without a sign and trade.

Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.

by KP Corleone on Jul 3, 2009 12:38 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

There's another possible reason

If KP is making a trade for which we need a little cap space. But in all probability, you would just include Travis in that trade instead.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 12:39 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Can't Orlando just cut him and not pay him?

I might be wrong on that, but if the salary cap comes in lower and the Blazers don’t just want to release folks, they would at least have to try to do something with Orlando.

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:47 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't see Blake heading out of town, now

He’s too valuable as a 3 point “outlet” option, and KP/Nate really like him

(and I’ve already written enough about the Bulls and Kirk, down below)

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:50 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

And it KP brings in Hinrich

It won’t just be Rudy’s agent who will be squawking about PT

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:52 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Travis = 3.6 mil, Blake = 4 mil

http://www.storytellerscontracts.info/resources/09-10salaries.htm

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:51 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

yes, he has to be traded. I envision Hedo taking almost all of travis's minutes at the 3 and the back up 4.

Also, Travis is sexy because he is young and talented and his contract expires this season, so a team looking to clear space should want him.

by dario argento on Jul 3, 2009 11:48 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Travis is done

the question is does he get packaged with 1 or 2 others for a PG upgrade and/or banger-type 4/5, or do we just ship him off for either an emergency PG/PF or a future pick. wonder what his worth is in a solo deal

How did you guys win that?
"We scored enough points. We scored 107, they scored 105.
-Nate McMillan Postgame, 3/4/2009

by douglast on Jul 3, 2009 12:17 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I dont think he will break down as fast as people think

He plays a controlled style of game and doesnt have a history of injury problems.

He will be a good fit.

Hi fans it Brandon Roy.
And ME.....LaMarcus Aldridge

by Derftron on Jul 3, 2009 11:51 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Chi-town

The captain is on the way

Hinrich/ Bayless
Roy/Rudy
Turk/Nic/Martell
LMA/Pend./Cunningham
Oden/Przy

I love it. I agree Turk’s skills MAY decline over the next two-three years, but at that point it’s just PA’s money. No way the Blazers could get under the cap then, anyway. And there are no available younger free agents to upgrade the three spot (except, maybe, Gerald Wallace).

Turk’s game is not dependent upon athleticism or vertical leap. He should age pretty well. He’s a good passer and a good shooter, and he will stay that way even if he loses a step.

Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.

by KP Corleone on Jul 3, 2009 12:22 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

We only need 2-3 years from him, anyway

By then, Nic will be Tayshaun.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 12:33 PM PDT up reply actions   1 recs

You think the Bulls will want Blake/Outlaw and their expiring contracts more than Cap'n Kirk?

I wouldn’t be so sure. If KP has that deal in his pocket and doesn’t have to include Rudy/Batum, I’d be impressed. Maybe he’ll trade Victor Claver’s rights as a sweetener?

I just expect the Bulls to be hanging onto Hinrich, now that Gordon’s gone. We’ll see

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:46 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

They want to be able to make a max offer next year

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 12:47 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

If that's the case I hope KP knows what he's doing

‘cause if he brings in Hinrich Rudy’s going to have kittens

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 1:26 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

11.5 million in 2014 when Roy, Aldridge, and (possibly) Oden will have extensions

If there isn’t a Finals appearance in that time-frame, it may hurt just a little bit.

The Chicago Bulls.....the more profitable Los Angeles Clippers.

by Ozzie Montana on Jul 3, 2009 12:25 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Since there will be 3 championships by then

we’ll suffer through the pain of it.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 12:33 PM PDT up reply actions   1 recs

what im most excited about

that a lot of columnists etc have mentioned is the matchup problems he creates for other teams. I also think with the logjam we have now that a trade for a point guard is immminent.

- Sam

by RipCitySam on Jul 3, 2009 11:46 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Not necessarily

I was all for upgrading the starting PG postition, going back to February and especially after the Houston series. But now with Hedo, there’s isn’t as much of a need for another great ballhandler, in fact it would be counter-productive. What Blake offers is what Fish give the L*kers, or what Hodges/Paxson/Kerr did alongside Scottie and MJ: an outlet who can spread the floor and knock down the open 3. MIller or Sessions aren’t going to help nearly as much, in that area. If KP can’t hit a HR and get Devin Harris, I vote for “none of the above” when it comes to acquiring a new starting PG.

The other benefit of Turk is the opportunity for Nate to play Roy and Rudy together in the backcourt. Add a new PG who needs to play 30+ mpg and Rudy will soon really be complaining about his “progression” being restricted. The “big” lineup will be hard to defend, and Nate can have them all playing a sagging zone defense to take advantage of their length.

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:02 PM PDT up reply actions   3 recs

yes!!!

this is the type of chatter we need. call for the Rudy/Roy/Hedo lineup…

by retirecards51 on Jul 3, 2009 12:04 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree...

Not only will he himself create a tough match up but we become more flexible overall creating match up problems elsewhere. We can put Batum on the Aaron Brooks, Tony Parker type guys and not only have a long quick guy guarding them but then they also have to guard Batum… or Roy… or… somebody bigger on the other end.

I also really like the Roy / Rudy backcourt for stretches. We all know how well they produce together and time will only make that more significant.

Use Travis to maybe get us a cheap banger. See if Martell can go. We stil have some questions to answer but I like our position.

by Ilikeemall on Jul 3, 2009 12:20 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

BTW, going after Hinrich would still be OK

but I’m very skeptical that KP has a package that would interest the Bulls, now that the cap-space is gone. (Unless he throws in Rudy or Batum, which I don’t think any of us would advocate)

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:23 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Salmon can play SG...

not likely, but a small chance a package of 3 million, Outlaw, Blake, Claver, #1 pick might get us him…I don’t really want to lose our other players

by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 12:24 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes, that's the main benefit to them with a Blake/Outlaw deal

Chicago would get 7.6mil in expiring contacts next July

But I think the Bulls still like Hinrich a lot, especially now that Gordon’s gone

I would think they’d try to deal Deng for an expiring contract first, if it’s possible

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:42 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

"NBA China" or any actual experts out there on Hedo's game???

I’d really like to know if H*DO can bring the ball up on offense to initiate if he’s in a tough playoff series…

I"d really like to see a lineup of .) Roy 2.) Batum 3.) Hedo 4.) LMA 5.) Oden… where Batum guards the other teams PG, or in the case of the Lakers, I think Roy could guard "pg" while Batum goes after Kobe… (**please note, the whole pt of this is to save BRoy from having to bring the ball up the court)

I’d like an honest appraisal of whether Hedo could really run the whole show offensively though, or whether he could get rattled if Fish or Artest goes full court press on him…

by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 11:48 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Uh...

Did you see the ECF and finals? Hedo was the only guy for the Magic who could do much of anything on offense. His passing and pick and roll effectiveness are why Dwight (who is about as skilled offensively as Oden) could average 20+ ppg.

by AndrewD on Jul 3, 2009 11:50 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Roy is taking the ball up in crunch time

We will give the ball to Hedo once we get past half court if thats what Nate wants or thats what the other team gives us but Roy will still be running the show. It’s just nice to have another option late in games to help create.

by jgvaldez3 on Jul 3, 2009 11:56 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

few teams have 2 good perimeter defenders

we will also take that into account.

by Falcao on Jul 3, 2009 11:58 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Lakers have 2 (kobe/artest)...

all my thoughts are geared on getting by those guys

by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 12:00 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Lakers

are one hell of a team.
We need Bayless to step up his game big time to improve our chances.
Fast PG is the key to kill the lakers.

by Falcao on Jul 3, 2009 12:04 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

C’mon! Didn’t you watch the Magic in the playoffs? (sorry to go all Dwight Jaynes on you)

Yes, Hedo can bring the ball upcourt against pressure. He did it quite a bit after Jameer Nelson went down. Turk reminds me of Earvin Johnson, back in the day. Magic would turn his body sideways, use his shoulder to rock his defender back and crab-dribble his way into the halfcourt location where he needed to go. All the while his eyes were on the other players, waiting for a teammate to come free. Hedo can do that for the Blazer next year, and enable Roy and Rudy to play "together" in the backcourt

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:04 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

thank you for the update!

I watched quite a few Magic games, but never with a critical eye, didn’t think we’d go after Turk…and my memory just tells me Rafer & Jameer brought the ball up…

If Hedo can do this, it sounds like it could really help us utilize Rudy & Batum nicely this year, while Roy can use his energy for scoring…Hedo wasn’t my first choice, but “it is what it is,” and that’s not bad considering this teams continued growth probably meant more than 54 wins last year…

with Hedo, 60 wins is a ‘nobrainer’ barring serious injuries, not too shabby!

by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 12:10 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hedo initiated offense moreso in the 4th quarter

The Magic’s favorite pet play is the high pick and roll with Hedo and Dwight Howard. With Nelson out with an injury, Hedo was their best ballhandler/shooter since Rashard Lewis can’t take more than 3 steps without fumbling the ball, and Courtney Lee can’t really be trusted with that job.

I’m fairly certain Pritchard watched the Magic, realized the Blazers really haven’t made much of an effort to really get Oden involved on offense due to Nate McMillan’s offense, and envisioned a lineup that could run the pick and roll with Hedo/Oden, as well as Roy/Aldridge. It gives the lineup a lot more versatility, and Houston exposed how reliant Portland is on Roy’s ability to create for himself and others.

Hedo’s not an All-Star, nor an elite talent, but he’s a pretty good player, and 50 million is what you spend for above average these days. He’s shown to be a good worker, did what Stan Van Gundy asked of him, and the Magic made the Finals despite not looking that strong on paper.

The Chicago Bulls.....the more profitable Los Angeles Clippers.

by Ozzie Montana on Jul 3, 2009 12:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's my take as well

He’s a good player, a good offenive upgrade, and by pretty much filling the Outlaw role, it is a clear upgrade both offensively and even defensively.

I think people here will really like having a point forward. He’ll open up a lot of possibilities for an already good offense.

Like everyone else, I worry about his age and his contract, but like I always say, it ain’t my money and we’re in lux tax heaven regardless of WHO we sign. He doesn’t have any injuries that affect his game, and his game isn’t predicated on athleticism. He WILL help us, and as a 3rd option could be very dangerous.

Now, it pretty much forces a trade with our other forwards, and since Martell has a foot ouchie and Batum is awesome, I imagine it’ll be Trout. Really, it’ll be doing Trout a favor to move him, since Hedo will steal all of his minutes. This is a contract year for Trout, he will be dealt to someone who will play him.

My personal priority this offseason was an upgrade at our PG spot, and this doesn’t preclude it from happening. It just means it won’t involve capspace for the deal.

Mortimer

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:22 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

If we have a point forward

and a point SG (Roy), do we even need a PG upgrade?

Or do we play two ball-handling SGs (Roy and Rudy) and a point forward, and create matchup nightmares?

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 2:28 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I expect that lineup to close games

But Rudy chasing Parker/Harris/Paul/Williams/Brooks/… all game isn’t really the way to go.

Although as said elsewhere it’s possible KP targets another position according to Quick.

by Norsktroll on Jul 3, 2009 2:32 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

It makes it so we don't need a strong playmaking PG

But I’d still prefer a defensive upgrade at PG.

The Bayless Theory (a guy who can penetrate, isn’t a strong playmaker, but can defend PGs) would fit really nicely, but he’s prolly not ready yet.

We don’t need a gangbusters Steve Nash playmaker at all, but we could REALLY use a defensive upgrade there…

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:43 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Perhaps Bayless is ready

If he doesn’t really have to be a PG on offense.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 2:49 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

That WOULD change things

If the Bayless Theory became The Actual Bayless.

Right now that’s a HUGE if, though.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:51 PM PDT up reply actions   1 recs

Bayless can be the best match in defense, but with Roy, Rudy and Hedo your offense

is more balanced, you have two killer shooters and a killer driving guy, IMO worths to play Roy at PG in the way Nate’s has used him in the past, just to bring the ball up, not looking to feed your centers.

Sergio Free!

by ABSF on Jul 3, 2009 2:55 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

shooters

the Blazers like shooters who can spread the floor

Blake and Rudy can do that, but adding another guy wouldn’t hurt

Outlaw for Keyon Dooling? The salaries match and KD shot 40+ from downtown last year. Good candidate for the #3 PG position, may even push Bayless for #2

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 4:04 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yup, a poor mans magic all the way really.

Turks game also reminds me Roy’s a lot, just slower.

B.S. Liberal Studies OSU '06
Trade for Gerald Wallace!!

by TyboOSU on Jul 3, 2009 3:36 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yea

Hedo can bring the ball up the court…there was a stretch when Nelson was injured and Alston hadnt arrived yet where he took many of the minutes fully running the point. He even brought the ball up alot when Alston or Nelson was on the court after a missed basked and he got the rebound for a quick feed down low to Dwight or alleyoop.

by NBA China on Jul 3, 2009 5:59 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

This has been hashed over ad nauseum

But Hedo is a really good player.

He is going to make our team better and be a valuable piece going forward. He has championship pedigree and is a smart player.

It is wierd to me that so many people are luke-warm on the idea. He is head and shoulders above any SF we have on our roster, and unlike most of them, he doesnt choke in the playoffs.

And at around 5 years / $50 Million, thats not that inflated of a price tag. A combo guard that can only score just got $55 million for years. Hedo does a lot more than just shoot.

I like this deal.

Hi fans it Brandon Roy.
And ME.....LaMarcus Aldridge

by Derftron on Jul 3, 2009 11:49 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Hedo is a good player

I can’t go along with putting “really” in there.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 11:49 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

jsnake is right

Hedo is a pretty good player.

by Kaboomm on Jul 3, 2009 11:50 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

well would you rather have gordon?

who can only shoot.. and more expensive rather than hedo whos multi dimensional

Oden...Aldridge...Roy.....THE REAL BIG THREE

by CroRupt on Jul 3, 2009 11:57 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah if Gordons worth $55 mill.

Hedo’s definately worth $50 mill

by Ilikeemall on Jul 3, 2009 12:27 PM PDT up reply actions   1 recs

Hey, that's true

For our team that doesn’t struggle to score and could use another playmaker mis-matchy type, Hedo is more valuable than Gordon.

M—

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:23 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

i would say no.

because i think of someone like Dan Marino. He was a championship caliber player, just never really got the right tools to get there.

by geoffm on Jul 3, 2009 2:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nah, I agree with Miled

One deep playoff run doesn’t equal championship pedigree.

I mean, Marino was an alltime great, right? Hedo is a good nice player.

M.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:24 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I wasn't including Hedo in the conversation.

I was just saying, that you don’t have to have a championship to be a championship caliber player. i will agree that Hedo is a nice good player, but definitely has his downside.

by geoffm on Jul 3, 2009 4:02 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

To depth or not to depth

that is the question. Having depth is good considering how long the sean is and how physical the playoffs are.

by 5_Master_Tigers_Of_Portland on Jul 3, 2009 11:49 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Its finally done!

Watch out L*kers, we’re coming for you!

"be where you are when you're there"

by BLAZER_FAN_199 on Jul 3, 2009 11:50 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

He-dough. Lots of it.
;-)

Good night, Blazer fans, whereEVER you may be.... DAA-daddle-a-DA-da-da-DA-da-da-DAA

by jerome glide porterworth on Jul 3, 2009 3:49 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

i think the blazers

will have a good chance to fight it out in the western conference finals with the lakers. i don’t really like the length of the contract, but hey this was their one year they could sign a “big” free agent and they did. i hope they not only get a pg now but one who can help us for the next 4 years.

Chili Davis - the closest thing the MLB got to a real life Pedro Cerrano.

by NW angels Fan on Jul 3, 2009 11:50 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

was there ever any doubt?

not from this quarter

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:26 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

No travis

and a new offense?
next year will very interesting

by Falcao on Jul 3, 2009 11:52 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I used to cringe

every time Outlaw got the ball. I’ll be glad if he goes

by TrailBlazerChief on Jul 3, 2009 11:55 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

yeah it should...

I’ll be sorry to see Trout go, but I can describe Travis in a two sentence conversation I had with a total stranger at the Rose Garden.
Stranger: Why the heck did he take that shot??!!
Me: Because he’s Travis
Stranger nods in agreement.

by jenstcy on Jul 3, 2009 12:02 PM PDT up reply actions   1 recs

I'll be ok with Trav leaving... but

It’s sad to this last years team broken up.. I love this group of guys. I’ll remember this team for a long time.

by Cool Hand Roy on Jul 3, 2009 11:54 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

when will the bobbleheads be available?

The cowards never started
The weak died along the way
Only the strong survived
They were the Trailblazers

by lukeyhere on Jul 3, 2009 11:55 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

cap-space is gone

t would require a S&T with Dallas

And Cuban isn’t likely to deal JKidd

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:27 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Do you have a couple of teams in mind

That would be willing to do those deals? The available cap-space is shrinking rapidly, all over the league

Maybe Memphis would like Travis, but they’ve already got Rudy Gay

Not sure “who” would like Blake, but I know KP/Nate would have a tough time dealing him, even if they knew it would lead to signing Kidd

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 1:30 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

loll thats costco pizza i can tell

had it last night

Oden...Aldridge...Roy.....THE REAL BIG THREE

by CroRupt on Jul 3, 2009 11:58 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

All this concern over Hedo eating junkfood before games is kind of silly.

Anyone see that Michael Phelps at only junk food while training? High caliber athletes need calories, and sometimes junk food can be the most efficient way to get calories in you. You can’t play an NBA game with a bloated stomach chicken and broccoli.

by dario argento on Jul 3, 2009 11:58 AM PDT up reply actions   1 recs

Brandon Roy = chicken strips and fries

load up on the carbs, so “i won’t get hungry, later”

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:28 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I take back everything bad I said about Turkeyglue

now excuse me while I hit the CostCo pizza line

Honor Alaa Abdelnaby.
First in the NBA. At least alphabetically

by OhOhOden on Jul 3, 2009 12:42 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Someone call Apizza Scholls

there’s possible sponsorship here or maybe he’d like a pie from Whiffies

"Should I ask? What's a punani?" - by annthefan on May 3, 2009 1:55 PM

by Sexual Tyrannosaurus on Jul 3, 2009 2:55 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

i was opposed at first...

but i think the blazers need(ed) to add Hedo in order to not regress next year in the western conference. I like thinking of Hedo as a PG replacement instead of a SF replacement (although obviously he’ll start at SF), hoping that the 4th quarter lineup looks something like Roy, Hedo, LA, Oden, Rudy/Batum (offense/defense). If Gordon gets $11 mil per and Charlie V is getting similar pay, Hedo is definitely worth $10 per (probably not the last couple years of the contract, but whatever).

by retirecards51 on Jul 3, 2009 11:58 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm kind of excited we have Hedo.

We have another scoring option, someone who can run the pick and roll, someone to take the pressure off of Roy in the fourth quarter. Blazers are a better team now.

by jenstcy on Jul 3, 2009 11:58 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I wonder if Hedo

would be wiling to workout with Bayno, Greg and Brian Grant?

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 12:30 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

NICE idea!!

I love it. Not sure it’ll happen, but imagine if Greg got to work with Hedo all summer??

Whoa.

by pdxrob on Jul 3, 2009 1:52 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Welcome Hedo!

I disagreed with going after Hedo but now that he’s a Blazer I will not be all bitter and sullen. I will hope for the best and welcome Hedo with open arms.

At least it won’t be the same ole, same ole this year……

by neutroticblazerfan on Jul 3, 2009 12:02 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I´m such a bandwagon fan

I didn´t like Hedo at all.
I thought he was a good passer with great skills and clutch player but also chucker and bad decision maker.
But then it became likely that he would be a Blazer and then I started to put more weight on his “goods” than his “bads”.

by Falcao on Jul 3, 2009 12:02 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

why do people care about the money??

we’re going to be over the cap for the next 5 years anyway and paul allen can afford it. hedo can make oden / la that much more effective. 50 million 50 shmillion

by colinmarsh on Jul 3, 2009 12:02 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

A mentor for Batum

That’s why I’m excited. I think he’s perfect for Batum to play behind for a couple seasons. With the small world of euro ball, I’m sure they know each other already.
And our second unit will be so young, fast and exciting.

by blazers'nb'ham on Jul 3, 2009 12:03 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Is price really that important?

Yes, 5 years and $50 million is a lot of money for a player of Hedo’s abilities. But I really think a lot of folks aren’t thinking through what the Blazer’s financial position is, and what it’s going to be in a few years.

Later this summer, both Brandon and LMA are going to get max (or at least nearly max in LMA’s case) contract extensions. a 6-year $85 million dollar deal for Brandon is a bargain, and similar numbers for LMA mean that this team is going to be at or near luxury tax territory for a decade to come. We’re not going to be able to go after free agents any more after this. (Well, we’ll have mid-level exceptions and such, but there will always be stiff competition from other teams for free agents at that price-point.)

This was our one chance to land a free agent that almost no other team could match. Hedo was simply the best player available right now, when our opportunity presented itself. Are we overpaying for Hedo? Perhaps a bit. Does it matter? Only if you think Paul Allen can’t afford it, because this move is a 100% free move for us otherwise. We’re not giving up a single player, draft pick, or any other asset other than money.

For a team that won 54 games last year, and has an incredibly solid nucleus of young players, picking up a player of Hedo’s skill for NOTHING BUT MONEY is a huge boost, and there’s really no downside. Sure, it would have been nice if we could have gone after a LeBron, or CP3, or Deron Williams or something, but they’re not out there this year, and THIS YEAR was our chance.

Just look at it this way: the only think to be gained by NOT signing Hedo now is saving the Blazer’s organization money going forward. We’d still be over the salary cap next year after Brandon and LMA sign extensions, and if we didn’t sign someone now, then that precious cap space would have just evaporated with nothing to show for it.

I’m glad KP had the wherewithall to make the most from our financial position while the getting was good.

Oh, and thinking back to the last second shot that helped the Magic steal their visit to the Rose Garden last year… Signing Hedo means that same player won’t ever be torching us that way again. At least, not for the next 5 years.

Portland Trail Blazers, Future World Champions 2010-2021.

by Majikj0n on Jul 3, 2009 12:04 PM PDT reply actions   4 recs

money is everything in this league

fiscal responsibility is very important to winning a championship, and it shouldn’t be dismissed so lightly. Look how many teams made moves this year that helped them more financially than on-the-court production.

Yes we will be over the cap, but that doesn’t me have to stay there forever.

Woof

by Charles Barkley McLovin on Jul 3, 2009 12:10 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

and how many of those teams will be contending for the title?

yeah, none of them. the teams in the title hunt are the ones spending. The Lakers are going to be WAY over the tax. Same with the Celtics. The Spurs just added a huge contract, and want to add Wallace at the full MLE (so do the Celtics). Cleveland picked up a 20 million dollar contract and wants to add more. Orlando added a guy making more than double what Hedo did.

title contenders are Lakers, Spurs, Blazers, Nuggets and Boston, Cleveland, Orlando. EVERY one of them spent big money in the last 2 weeks except the Nuggets, who were already into luxury tax zone.

All those team cutting costs are going to see their W-L records going the wrong direction.

How did you guys win that?
"We scored enough points. We scored 107, they scored 105.
-Nate McMillan Postgame, 3/4/2009

by douglast on Jul 3, 2009 12:24 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

rec

One quibble — there is one thing lost in this deal. Now, we can’t do an unbalanced trade to acquire a top talent. But could we have done that anyway? Doubtful.

That would require us to find a trading partner that is willing to deal with us in that way, and there is probably a lot of pressure around the league not to make any such deals with Portland, because we are already going to be a 60+ win team.

We’re past the point of depending on someone else to make a deal with us.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 12:27 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

exactly

that’s really been my only quibble with getting Hedo. At this point I just have to assume that we explored all possible options for an unbalanced trade for a premier point guard, and came up empty, or weren’t willing to be extorted for too many of our young players. Hedo is a very good second option, and having a playmaking SF will mitigate the need to get a playmaking point.

How did you guys win that?
"We scored enough points. We scored 107, they scored 105.
-Nate McMillan Postgame, 3/4/2009

by douglast on Jul 3, 2009 12:32 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Absolutely

There was no better FA option. It was Hedo or trade, and none of us know what trades were available.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 12:37 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Which of those were available

to us at a price we were willing to pay?

Artest and Ariza weren’t trades, they were free agents. Hedo was a better option than them, IMO (and in KP’s, apparently).

The other two wouldn’t exactly be a great fit for us. And for them, we would have to send back real talent to make the salaries work. We get Hedo without giving up any talent.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 12:42 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

or Ariza and Artest just didn't want to come to Portland

We can debate about fit, but both those guys are better all-around players than Hedo, and Portland could use help on D. Not saying Hedo’s playmaking ability won’t be useful for Portland, but we don’t know how much interest KP had in Ariza and Artest.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 12:45 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

can you justify the ariza love?

8 and 4 is a better player than 17 and 5?

Definition of DISASTER:
Darius Miles Letter meets Hedo meets Thank You Posts meets Bedge Challenge.

by TheTinfoil on Jul 3, 2009 12:48 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

do you really believe ariza is a better player than Turk?

Seems to be a serious case of PER obsession to me.

Definition of DISASTER:
Darius Miles Letter meets Hedo meets Thank You Posts meets Bedge Challenge.

by TheTinfoil on Jul 3, 2009 12:50 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes, I do

Defense is just as important as offense, plus Hedo’s shooting percentages are really bad. He takes a lot of bad shots— he’s got a lot of Travis in him.

Its not just PER— Ariza grades out better in other advanced metrics like WP48 and both offensive and defensive rating (basketball reference) as well as win shares per minute.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 12:52 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

but it's just so obviously untrue

i don’t know how else to put it.

Definition of DISASTER:
Darius Miles Letter meets Hedo meets Thank You Posts meets Bedge Challenge.

by TheTinfoil on Jul 3, 2009 12:53 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ariza was a fourth option

Hedo was the second option after Howard. They really aren’t comparable as Ariza undoubtedly had more uncontested looks.

Ariza is nice, but we have his skillset already in Batum. What we didn’t have was a point forward.

by NWfan on Jul 3, 2009 3:09 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Its what was lacking in our loss to Houston

We needed more points on the board.

"Knowledge will get you from A to B. Creativity will get you anywhere." Einstein

by Garden of ODEN on Jul 3, 2009 4:32 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Context is everything

Ariza had better stats than Hedo as the fifth or sixth option on the Lakers, taking exclusively wide open jumpers. On the other side, Hedo was the Magic’s primary offensive initiator. Hedo was asked to do much (much much) more with the ball than Ariza, and he had to take much more difficult shots. Reverse the roles, and Hedo knocks down a better percentage of wide open threes than Ariza does, and does a little creating for other guys, as well.

The Blazers need someone who can not only hit open shots (like Ariza, Blake, Nic, Martell, and Travis) but who can also create shots for other guys (none of those guys can do that consistently, except sometimes Blake).

Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.

by KP Corleone on Jul 3, 2009 1:14 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

let's just keep this in house okay?

no need to sully our reputation on other sites

Definition of DISASTER:
Darius Miles Letter meets Hedo meets Thank You Posts meets Bedge Challenge.

by TheTinfoil on Jul 3, 2009 1:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

what i mean is..

remember how some people tried to argue that Sarah Palin was qualified to be VP? A few people bought it, but mostly it was a joke. Stats or not, Ariza over Hedo is kind of a flat earth argument, at least according to public opinion.

Definition of DISASTER:
Darius Miles Letter meets Hedo meets Thank You Posts meets Bedge Challenge.

by TheTinfoil on Jul 3, 2009 1:22 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think Turk or Ariza would have both been good

Too bad we couldn’t sign more with miles money and then have that kind of change up. that would also free us up to make more enticing trades to teams with good PG. I hate memphis

"Knowledge will get you from A to B. Creativity will get you anywhere." Einstein

by Garden of ODEN on Jul 3, 2009 4:36 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

WP48 shouldn’t be part of the discussion. It is arguably a mathematically bad model in addition to being a model that gives unreasonable weights and incorporates hidden formulas to fudge the results.

For those who really believe in rebounding, it’s a pleasing model. However, rebounding is only a dimension of basketball, and WP48 is far worse with overrating rebounding than PER is with overrating scoring (which it does IMO).

by poster on Jul 3, 2009 2:44 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think the major point is in ability

Hedo can get the ball into oden where he can score, where as ariza will not. They are very dissimilar players. The blazers had more need for a guy who can get the ball to a big man and is still a threat to score. Batum is redundant with Ariza but younger and therfore behind in the curve, but otherwise plays a similar role.

by NWfan on Jul 3, 2009 3:15 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

that's fair

Hedo clearly brings abilities to the table that Ariza does not. Whether you think Hedo is a better fit depends on whether you think the abilities you mention are more important to the Blazers than Ariza’s ability to play 1v1 defense.

In a vacuum though, Ariza is the better 2 way player.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 3:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

In the playoffs he was

Better PER, better TS%, better defense. I think Nic is our Ariza, but I fear Nic will be at least as pissed as Rudy about this acquisition.

by Norsktroll on Jul 3, 2009 12:53 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Considering The Rudy Fury is made up by ESPN

Are you saying he would need to talk to management about playing time, I agree Batum will be squeezed for playing time.

"Knowledge will get you from A to B. Creativity will get you anywhere." Einstein

by Garden of ODEN on Jul 3, 2009 4:38 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Come on.

Zach Randolph has a career PER of 19. We should trade for him.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 12:53 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Randolph is a case where a qualatative look at defense is needed

A qualitative look at defense shows us that Hedo is not the defender Ariza and Artest are. That, combined with the mainly offensive stats like PER, give us a pretty good indication that Ariza and Artest are both better players than Hedo. That doesn’t necessarily make them better fits, of course, but they are better players.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 12:55 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

but you have to take into account the roles

each player had in their teams.
Only by stats one might think that Przy is an efficient player on offense.

by Falcao on Jul 3, 2009 12:56 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Put stats in context.

Hedo, Ariza, and Artest all play different roles for their respective teams. You’re trying to compare apples and oranges.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 12:57 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

stats like PER do a pretty good job taking that into account

by factoring usage into the equation. Hedo gets a boost due to his high usage, and still grades out worse than those guys.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Usage rates does not simulate the responsibilites of the player

Hedo can do things that Ariza can’t do. And Ariza likewise. Basketball is an art, not exact science.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 1:02 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Stats tell a different story with defense though.

Hedo may be a better defender than Ariza by stats. 82games.com has the Magic as 3.1 points better on defense with Turkoglu. The Lakers are only 0.6 better on defense with Ariza. Orlando was also an elite defense while the Lakers were merely very good.

Opponent PER for Turkoglu was 13.2 in the position where he played over 90% of his minutes. Opponent PER for Ariza was 16.0 for the position where he played over 90% of his minutes.

Basketballprospectus’s dMULT stat has Ariza as a poor defender at 1.073 (1.000 is average) and Turkoglu as an average defender at 0.978.

Turk’s DRtg using Basketball on Paper stats is 104 while Ariza’s DRtg is 102. This is one stat that shows Ariza is the better defender.

by poster on Jul 3, 2009 2:51 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

very interesting

as we know though, its tougher to measure defense than it is to measure offense, so we are forced to rely more on qualitative measures with respect to defense.

Ariza is often assigned to defend the other team’s top scorer, while Hedo did not have to do so (with Pietrus and Lee on his team). In my opinion, Ariza is qualitatively the better defender, by a good margin.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 2:54 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I would say

It’s an example of defensive stats coming up lacking with accurate portrayal of who is a great defender.

Hedo is similar to Blake, where he knows what to do and where to be, and he is big and strong. Ariza is CLEARLY a better defender though, watching them, though perhaps not as intelligent as Hedo.

but that’ll come with experience.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 3:04 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wow, I don't see that

I can’t call those guys better than Hedo. And he fits the culture and the team makeup more than either of them. Artest might have made a pass or two in his day, but it made headlines if he did. We could use his defense, and I wouldn’t have complained about getting him, but Hedo is better.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 12:50 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

No, Hedo isn't better

But he’s a whole lot better for our team.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 2:29 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't see it as so clear cut.

Arguments could be made either way, but I’m not attached to either, so I won’t bother.

by PoliSam on Jul 3, 2009 2:33 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Only Ariza was a better option and a better fit for your team

The rest would have submarined the efficiency of the offense. And Nate McMillan would be fired by season’s end if Artest is on the team, no joke.

The Chicago Bulls.....the more profitable Los Angeles Clippers.

by Ozzie Montana on Jul 3, 2009 12:43 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

More importantly, what would we wear?

That sounds like a JD question.

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

May I suggest the Staples Center?

Make sure it’s on the weekend, to make sure no Clippers or their fans are accidentally hurt in the shooting spree…all 30 of them.

by xedubx on Jul 3, 2009 1:50 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Clipper fans are already dead inside

Sort of like zombies that couldn’t afford Laker tickets

by Furious Styles on Jul 3, 2009 2:11 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Clippers fans I've talked to at Clippers Nation

are some of the nicest and most loyal sports fans around. Bash Sterling and the organization if you must, but please be respectful to the fans. They deserve better.

by MiledAnimal on Jul 3, 2009 2:52 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

It ain't just you my friend

Right when the Clipper fan got here lotsa people attacked his fanhood for no good reason.

That isn’t fun!

Being a Clipper fan is tough enough as it is.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 3:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed

They have the patience of a saint.

by Furious Styles on Jul 3, 2009 3:28 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

AAAAAIIIIIEEEEGGGGHHH!!!

I toldja I would scream the next time someone mentioned Shawn Marion

(now don’t make me stop this car…)

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 1:36 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nah

Can’t they just take a guy or two and we get Hedo?

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 3:10 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Perchance we shall!

If Orlando doesn’t wanna lose him for nuthin’ and we wanna give cap savings to someone else.

But, they got VC to cover for Hedo, I bet they don’t wanna add anymo’ money.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 3:11 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah

I think they got 4 point guards though.

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 3:17 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

i agree

welcome to portland Hedo!

Woof

by Charles Barkley McLovin on Jul 3, 2009 12:17 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Congrats on getting "your" guy, guys

Hope it works out great!

In honor of the dearly departed, I declare July PB&J month - everyone raise a sandwich to the memory of Ben!

by wjb1492 on Jul 3, 2009 12:13 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Thanks

You are good people.

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:16 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Great.

What are people gonna make fanposts about now?

"Man, you are one pathetic loser. No offense."

by Roybot on Jul 3, 2009 12:14 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

The “need a nickname for Turk” posts should start soon.

The cowards never started
The weak died along the way
Only the strong survived
They were the Trailblazers

by lukeyhere on Jul 3, 2009 12:16 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh good call

I like to call him, “Turd-koglu.”

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:17 PM PDT up reply actions   1 recs

On the Fan

there was a call for “Electric Turkaloo”

by retirecards51 on Jul 3, 2009 1:39 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Turkish Merc

Since he’s only here for the $$$

by Furious Styles on Jul 3, 2009 2:12 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I believe "The Turkish Bath"

may already be taken by Mehmet Okur, but if not, its worth considering.

by Pooh Richardson on Jul 3, 2009 3:10 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hedo will definitely help the Blazers. No argument there.

The good:
 - a good 3 point shooter is definitely going to help the Blazers offense. I think he’s around 38% last year right? That’s pretty darn high. This spaces the floor for the low post players like LMA and Oden.
- a point forward who can handle the ball. You can never have enough ball handlers in a starting lineup. Roy should be fresher at the end of playoff games.
- A person who can create his own shot.
- A dependable scoring option at the end of close playoff games.

The bad:
- I wish he were a better defender.
-Not exactly the most athletic player.

Overall, I think this essentially helps the point guard issue. Although we’ll still have issues with those small speedy guards, at least we can counter that with size. Can you imagine Aaron Brooks trying to guard Hedo in the post?

I think defensively, the Blazers still need some help to stop Denver, but at least this provides them with an additional consistent 15 points of offense every game.

A lot of people are concerned about Hedo’s 3-5 year sof the contract. I really don’t see him being that different when he’s 35. If you look at Grant Hill, he’s 36 and averaged about 12 pts a year this past season. Hedo’s been relatively healthy, hasn’t played a lot his first few years in the league. I don’t think he’ll be that different when he’s 35. Sure he may be a bit slower, but how many 6’10" defenders in the league are quick enough to guard 3 point shooters and forwards who can drive to the basket.

By my calculations for the upcoming year:
Roy – 22 pts
LMA – 19 pts
Rudy – 10 pts
Webster and/or Outlaw – 10 pts
Oden – 10 pts
Hedo – 15 pts
Batum – 5 pts
Blake – 10 pts
Pryzbilla – 5 pts
Bayless – 5 pts

I think this puts the Blazers in that 110 point range offensively.

If Bayless and Oden can both develop into Most Improved Player candidates, the Blazers will have a good chance to beat the Lakers.

by dannyboy888 on Jul 3, 2009 12:16 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

ok

Hedo shot 35% from 3 last year, but the years before that he shot 38%+, and he should be a big help to both Brandon and whoever the point guard might be.

There is no way the Blazers score 110 ppg, not even the Suns and Warriors do that! A good goal would be to be at 100. Also there is not enough minutes to go around for Blake, Hedo, Oden, Outlaw/Webster, Rudy, Lma, and Roy to all score 10+ points. That is 7 players, when most teams, even very high scoring teams who run run run, have 5 maybe 6, ( The suns did have 7 this year and last, but that is because of their trades and injuries, looking back further when they were really good they had 5 or 6).

As far as what players will avg point wise, there is no point in doing it yet, because there are going to be more changes, as they don’t have enough playing time to get them all on the court as much as they all deserve.

Ben II Blazersedge.com || New to Blazers' Edge?

by usmcr3049 on Jul 3, 2009 2:00 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

last season

we tied the series with the L*kers…we know we can beat them. now with Turk, our odds just got better.

"be where you are when you're there"

by BLAZER_FAN_199 on Jul 3, 2009 2:08 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hopefully Tom Penn is earning his keep...

My first thought as this news breaks is if Tom Penn really is as advertised and understands the intricacies of the cap it may bode well in terms of how the deal is structured vis a vis all other future contractual issues and bending trade deals.

by balladofgregoden on Jul 3, 2009 12:19 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm in "Wait and see" mode now

I think this is a great move IF KP supplements it with another move to strengthen the point guard position and/or backup PF.

If this is the last move the Blazers make this summer, I thinks it’s a terrible one. Here’s why:

1) The logjam at the 2 and 3 spots. 6 guys vying for 2 positions. It’s an incredible waste of talent and can only lead to the devaluation of certain players (Rudy, Travis) and the atrophied development of others (Batum, Martell).

2) Our team just got worse, defensively. Hedo helps us score points, he does NOT help us stop them. Quick, who’s the above-average defender in our projected starting lineup (if Greg starts)? Really? Oden is the only above average defender? But he’s not even above average yet! He’s barely got his feet wet. Our whole defense is now MORE dependent on the center position. The last thing Oden’s development needs is to continue leaving his assignment to play the last-resort help-defender role.

3) This still doesn’t fully answer our toughness problem.

4) Blake is not the answer at PG. And I doubt Bayless is either. Even IF his is, we don’t know that yet. We need to proceed as if he’s NOT the answer, and hope that he pans out in the end.

by TB-till-I-Die on Jul 3, 2009 12:24 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Hedo is better than Outlaw defensively

Therefore, defense got better. Oden must be to the dominant defensive center if the Blazers want to be title contenders, Hedo or no Hedo.

Toughness doesn’t win championships. Were the Lakers considered tough? How about those Spurs teams?

KP will trade Outlaw or Webster this summer. Maybe even Bayless or Blake. KP is ahead of the game.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 12:29 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree

Outlwas D is terrible…

by TrailBlazerChief on Jul 3, 2009 12:30 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

agreed

If Hedo primarily gets Outlaw’s minutes (with Nic and Rudy seeing roughly the same amount of minutes as last year), we got better on both ends.

The length of the deal terrifies me, as I’ve said, but short term it will help as long as Nate doesn’t start riding Hedo for 40 minutes and the expense of Rudy and Nic.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 12:32 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

But Hedo will be a starter, not taking Outlaw's spot

Hedo will be booting our best perimeter defender, Batum, out of the starting lineup. Maybe I was unclear—technically, we couldn’t get WORSE defensively as a team because we’ve only added a player. But Turk is an absolute downgrade in the starting lineup.

Yes, the Lakers are tough. And the Spurs were absolutely tough.

by TB-till-I-Die on Jul 3, 2009 5:40 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes to Point 4 -- Bayless becomes pivotal

Just as much as we are hanging on Oden’s development, we now have to hang on Bayless’s development too. Assuming we have lost flexibility to make deals at PG.

by Kaboomm on Jul 3, 2009 12:34 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Quiet, it's all about Rudy Rudy Rudy now

Should have made the Hinrich deal before acquiring Hedo.

The Chicago Bulls.....the more profitable Los Angeles Clippers.

by Ozzie Montana on Jul 3, 2009 12:38 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't think Chicago wanted too

They were waiting on Ben.

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:48 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think they got some NJ in them

They are scared of getting burned on a deal so they always overprice their placers.

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:59 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Portland? Or Chicago?

Seems several teams are in the practice of overpaying their own players.

The Chicago Bulls.....the more profitable Los Angeles Clippers.

by Ozzie Montana on Jul 3, 2009 1:00 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

you'd be better off asking the Blog-a-Bull-ers

Some of them don’t like Hinrich, though, So consider the source

And I’ll bet 99% don’t know who Victor Claver is

(they do know Rudy and will request that he be included in the Kirk deal…as if)

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 1:13 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

totally agree

this is a team sport and not an individual sport.

by 5_Master_Tigers_Of_Portland on Jul 3, 2009 12:30 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Until Portland warms up and adds a few dozen more titles

We aint getting the deals the Lakers do (regularly).

by levelhed on Jul 3, 2009 12:34 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

lol

There are a number of reasons why I don’t love this deal, but that isn’t one of them.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 12:35 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

how long will it be, before we hear

hey all of you hedo fanboys!

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 1:15 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Artest is also a nutjob

I agree with you both, but the nutjob-ness makes his price come down. I would only think by $10 million though.

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:39 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Artest's contract could be longer if he wants it to be

He has the option of either 3 years 18, or 5 years 33 million.

The Chicago Bulls.....the more profitable Los Angeles Clippers.

by Ozzie Montana on Jul 3, 2009 12:45 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Love the move, especially if it's followed by Hinrich

Abbott put it as simply as it can be put – Hedo can both shoot (playing off the ball and stretching the court for Roy) and create for other shooters (taking some of the playmaking pressure off Roy). That’s a very valuable combo.

The follow up has to be Trout + Blake for a PG upgrade. Let’s hope it’s the captain. A backcourt of Hinrich plus Roy plus Hedo has three guys who can all shoot from deep, work the pick and roll, and create for others. Combine that with LMA and Oden/Przy and the line up is LETHAL.

Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.

by KP Corleone on Jul 3, 2009 12:32 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

That's what I hope as well

Makes sense to me!

If we had got Hinrich first, and THEN Hedo, everyone would agree it was brilliant, instead of us talking ourselves into it.

’orty

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:33 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm happy enough

And I’m sure Brandon is thrilled to have another player who can create and take the load off down the stretch.

by levelhed on Jul 3, 2009 12:32 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Hedo!

I’m glad. Although, we are overpaying. Just when the teams in front of us are getting great and smart deals.

But that just shows you the distance we have yet to go.

Anyone know? Does this mean that Portland has to make a trade before the 8th? Or can they structure the deal to pay only what our cap allows this year, and defer the rest of the money until later?

by Blazin' on Jul 3, 2009 12:34 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Do you guys realize we just signed the Michael Jordan of Turkey?

We signed Michael Jordan people! LOL.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 12:36 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

as Ben tweeted:
he blazers now have the michael jordan of turkey, the scottie pippen of france and the steve blake of america

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 12:38 PM PDT up reply actions   2 recs

Steve needs to be the Grand Marshall

of the 4th of July parade, tomorrow

(just please don’t tell him that I said that facially he reminds me of Timothy McVeigh…)

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 1:17 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hedo can both shoot (playing off the ball and stretching the court for Roy) and create for other shooters (taking some of the playmaking pressure off Roy). That’s a very valuable combo

He’s a destitute man’s LeBron

by levelhed on Jul 3, 2009 12:37 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

or a pauper's

Magic Johnson

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 1:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

That’s the comparison I was looking for.

by levelhed on Jul 3, 2009 1:28 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nah, just Travis has to go

The Blazers like wings who can play multiple positions, Hedo qualifies

Nate can play a big or small lineup. Not one starter is going to get “max” minutes, which will be good for everybody’s career over the long haul

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 1:20 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hollinger is Insider

Can’t read it, which is a shame because this is one thing I really want his opinion on.

by neutroticblazerfan on Jul 3, 2009 12:41 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

The article is posted in the comments above.

Scroll up.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 12:42 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I just dont see it

How does this move make us any better next season ? Last season i would have sung praises about this but this off season with Jefferson making a 4 headed monster with Parker Ginobili and Duncan, Artest putting aside his beef with Kobe to make the Lakers EVEN BETTER AFTER WINNING THE CHAMPIONSHIP for pennies on the dollar, Carter on the Magic, Gordon and Charlie V on the Pistons, Shaq on the Cavs and ther Celtics trying to wooo Sheed i dont think this move was a big enough splash. If this is the only move we make this off season i think we took a step back or stood still espacially with that huge contrtact for an aging player when as I mentioned previously Artest was signed for relativly cheap for a player of his caliber…. did we even talk to Artest ? did we try to lower the offer after the Artest verbal agreement ?…. I hope this isnt our only move this off season becasue to me we didnt get that much better taking into consideration the moves other teams made this off season… guess Ill just have to wait and see

The Blazers will play beautiful basketball.

Brandon will shoot the lights out. Blake will run and LMA will finish strong at the hoop. Bayless will play because we’ll be so far ahead in the 4th quarter, giving all the Jerryd fans something to smile about.

But wait, that’s not all. Rudy will go 5 of 5 from distance. Batum will posterize someone. And Channing will NOT lead the team in points.

qoute from ofred

by Kingzilla on Jul 3, 2009 12:43 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Artest WANTED to be in LA

Remember those shots of him in the crowd at Staples when his season ended?
We’d have had to pay much more to get him. A lot of vets who’ve made their $$ are looking to win a championship and some media spotlight. You play with the LeBron, Kobe, or Garnett and you’ll get it. We have a nice little team here, but playing with some talented youngsters in Portland, Oregon just doesn’t have the cachet required to attract the veteran role players for cheap.

Yeah, it sucks, but it is what it is.

by levelhed on Jul 3, 2009 1:36 PM PDT up reply actions   1 recs

i hate u :(

The Princess of Blazersedge

by BlazerFan1 on Jul 3, 2009 12:45 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm just trying to show up some consequences of this acquisition

Hedo has started in at least 73 games in each of the last 3 seasons.

by Norsktroll on Jul 3, 2009 12:46 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

i know everyone knows

but dang u dont have 2 throw it in my face!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

S

The Princess of Blazersedge

by BlazerFan1 on Jul 3, 2009 12:48 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

You gotta think Papa Hedo is going to teach Batum some moves

Nic could be the better player 3 years down the line and be the starter.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 12:47 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nic has a good handle for a young wing…. in time, I think he could evolve into a Hedo point forward type player.

by Cablinasian on Jul 3, 2009 5:26 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

do you remember the New Jersey game in March? Batum ran a few SWEET pick and rolls and Mike Rice was practically hyperventilating in excitement.

by Cablinasian on Jul 3, 2009 5:32 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

He can already dribble the ball upcourt better than Martell/Trout/Rudy

And he dished the ball well, and seems to be a student of the game who came into the NBA equipped with a good head for offensive movement.

It’s why I think he’ll be better than Ariza.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 5:33 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

maybe good ol’ Uncle Hedo will show Nic a few tricks on the 3/5 pick and roll.

by Cablinasian on Jul 3, 2009 5:34 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I felt like Roy did more as the season went along. E.g. in the last San Antonio game he passed to Oden on the roll for 2-3 dunks.

by Cablinasian on Jul 3, 2009 5:36 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

yeah

in fairness, its hard to blame Roy for not really trusting Oden last year.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 5:37 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yup… Roy has added to his game well each year. I am expecting a focus on getting Oden the ball and better defensive attention. He no longer has the “weight of his world on offense” excuse to slack off on D.

by Cablinasian on Jul 3, 2009 5:39 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

the frustrating thing is that when he focuses, I think he is a really good defender.

by Cablinasian on Jul 3, 2009 5:40 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree

I can see him being a playoff defender, a when it counts defender, who coasts during most of the regular season (and understandably).

He’ll make a few good plays in the playoffs on defene, get lauded for it, and have the rep of a good defender.

We’ll know thw truth, and love him all the same.

—M

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 5:43 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Everyone says Kobe is one of the best perimeter defenders of his generation, but he’s pretty lazy in the regular season. Heck, Tex Winter said that he was really overrated on defense.

I am interested to see if Hedo’s involvement in the offense allows Roy to be a more focused defender.

by Cablinasian on Jul 3, 2009 5:46 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think even without Hedo

Roy was gonna come out and try to be that two-way player, to get his championship grind on.

All the help he can get offensively will only help. A lot of it has to be mindset, though.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 5:47 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

He STILL shoulda' hit him more, thrown more lobs to him after penetration.

Of course, with Oden’s foul troubles it was nigh impossible to get a good flow going with everyone. Roy could get it into Oden for a dunk when he focused on it, but it wasn’t necessarily in the proper flow of the offense.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 5:46 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think Hedo will lead the way

and once Roy sees Greg grab the feed and flush it, Brandon will start “looking” for Oden more often as well.

I think this “confidence” is a big reason why KP targeted Turk. All he had to do was watch and see how Hedo helped Dwight Howard improve his inside game, and visualize the same “rewards” heading Greg’s way

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 6:15 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I want him to start

Same logic as last year. But I don’t think he will.

by Kaboomm on Jul 3, 2009 12:45 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

he didn’t specify which team he would be starting for

The cowards never started
The weak died along the way
Only the strong survived
They were the Trailblazers

by lukeyhere on Jul 3, 2009 12:51 PM PDT up reply actions   2 recs

Snap!

That’s gotta hurt, Nic….

Honor Alaa Abdelnaby.
First in the NBA. At least alphabetically

by OhOhOden on Jul 3, 2009 12:54 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

hmmm? I remember Nic saying that he would either start or be part of a fast-paced second unit.

by Cablinasian on Jul 3, 2009 5:26 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

My view of portland lineup next year

And why KP is not looking for a PG

Roy
Rudy
Hedo
Lamarcus
Oden

Sergio Free!

by ABSF on Jul 3, 2009 12:48 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

It'll be a good lineup till we face...

Fish, Kobe, Artest, Gasol, Bynum…..U gonna have Rudy cover Fish & force Roy to cover Kobe, or force Rudy to cover Kobe, lol…Lakers will have it tough too…

but I still worry they’ll be able to outscore us, the mismatches just seem to favor them…

by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 12:55 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Joel will probably start the year as starter

At least until Oden learns not to foul.

Proud member of Duck nation!

by skywaker9 on Jul 3, 2009 1:09 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I believe

Oden will earn the starting spot in training cap/preseason.

I also believe they won’t start Rudy at the 1, but if he is still here, and I hope he is, he will see some serious time there against some teams.

Ben II Blazersedge.com || New to Blazers' Edge?

by usmcr3049 on Jul 3, 2009 2:03 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

that's my crunch lineup

of course, we will see Blake a lot at PG, Rudy backing up Roy and Hedo, Batum stopping opponent guards etc… as usual. But last years in playoffs we saw Roy and Rudy playing together, and no need to say that Roy Rudy & Hedo can scary any team, if opponent teams open the defense to stop perimiter shooting you let paths for Roy, if you close paths, yo have Rudy and Hedo killing you from the outside.
In Nate’s offensive scheme the PG is not a central piece, as Portland centers are not a threat if they get the ball guarded, of course in defense you have a mismatch, but it comes to defense quick PG’s, Blake has not proven anything.

Sergio Free!

by ABSF on Jul 3, 2009 2:45 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

wiki

WIKIPEDIA was right!!

by Debra on Jul 3, 2009 12:51 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

wheels

is on 95.5 live talking about it

by Debra on Jul 3, 2009 1:08 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

One step closer

To a title today, one big step.

Proud member of Duck nation!

by skywaker9 on Jul 3, 2009 1:09 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Probably

I trust KP.

Proud member of Duck nation!

by skywaker9 on Jul 3, 2009 1:23 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

i trust him too

there has to be a reason he made this move, that probably not too many people know about. way to go, KP

"be where you are when you're there"

by BLAZER_FAN_199 on Jul 3, 2009 1:33 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

BLAZERS WIN!

Proud member of Duck nation!

by skywaker9 on Jul 3, 2009 1:12 PM PDT reply actions   2 recs

beautiful picture

"be where you are when you're there"

by BLAZER_FAN_199 on Jul 3, 2009 1:33 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wow, I'm not sure when I clicked that link

But one thing is for sure, I’ve heard over a dozen 13 commercials and have yet to hear someone from the station talk.

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 1:33 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, I was wondering what the heck was going on, too

Rex is a starter by the 2010 trade deadline. Watch.

by dan_the_man on Jul 3, 2009 1:34 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I almost left to walk my dog

Did you have a long pause with nothing then must more commercials?

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 1:38 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes, but it works now

I think it went to the show after about 8 minutes.

Nice work, 95.5. You suck.

Rex is a starter by the 2010 trade deadline. Watch.

by dan_the_man on Jul 3, 2009 1:46 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wow

I was wondering why Henry Abbott sounds like Antonio Harvey.

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 1:52 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I live in Hawaii too, so I have to stream, they cut off Abbot and went to commercial for like 10 min I about clicked it off, thought they pulled a game night thing we’re they don’t broadcast but play commercials the whole time. They just cut off again to commercials. They doing that over air too?

by Jaedin on Jul 3, 2009 1:56 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Bunch of jerks if you ask me

Cut off right in the middle of JH.

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 2:07 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Clipper fan checking in.

Congratulations on landing Hedo. If Rudy F. turns out to be unhappy with the signing, are there any trades with the Clips that would interest you fans? Please be realistic.

by oneight on Jul 3, 2009 1:21 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Realistically, no.

your team is the armpit of sports, and nobody likes armpits.

Definition of DISASTER:
Darius Miles Letter meets Hedo meets Thank You Posts meets Bedge Challenge.

by TheTinfoil on Jul 3, 2009 1:23 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

thats harsh. they do have good young talent like Thorton and Gordon

and the caveman himself along with DeAndre jordan who is descent.

"shaq and zach randolph have the same trainer... "

best one liner i ever heard.

by bowdown on Jul 3, 2009 1:24 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

really?

he looked really good vs blazers

"shaq and zach randolph have the same trainer... "

best one liner i ever heard.

by bowdown on Jul 3, 2009 1:28 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

A perimeter player looking good against Portland? Shocking

The Chicago Bulls.....the more profitable Los Angeles Clippers.

by Ozzie Montana on Jul 3, 2009 1:41 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

says a fan of the team that let Travis Outlaw score 30. :)

by Cablinasian on Jul 3, 2009 5:27 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

33!

and on only 14 FGAs!

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 5:30 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Why are we trading someone so efficient?

Gives you an idea what his ceiling is, eh Jake and Cab?

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 5:32 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

He's 26, older than Roy, and not better than Outlaw

Thornton is a 6’5" all-offense SF who shoots bad jumpers.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:37 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Why we being mean to a Clippers visitor?

Sorry Clippers fan, Rudy ain’t likely to be dealt without it being for a big deal.

Congrats on getting Griffin!

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:37 PM PDT up reply actions   3 recs

Dirk Nowitzki. Oh wait, you passed up on him too.

I want Greg Oden to tuck me in at night and tell me stories about the old times

by Juiceman76 on Jul 3, 2009 1:25 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

nothing that I can think off

I want Devin Harris, maybe Gordon but I dunno if you guys would go for it.

by Falcao on Jul 3, 2009 1:25 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

gordon is sg right?

"shaq and zach randolph have the same trainer... "

best one liner i ever heard.

by bowdown on Jul 3, 2009 1:26 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

yeah but

do we really need a pure pg right now?
but he´ll be better than Rudy so they won´t accept it.

by Falcao on Jul 3, 2009 1:29 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Eric Gordon would be OK

the Blazers like shooters, but they’re not trading Rudy right away for anything less than Devin Harris

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 4:17 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

There are Clippers fans?

News to me.

Proud member of Duck nation!

by skywaker9 on Jul 3, 2009 1:27 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fans love him

I think he would be overpriced.

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 1:27 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I for one am not trashing the Clippers

I’m thinking, if Phoenix (almost certainly) and Houston (conceivably) drop out of the playoff race this year, which team starts rising to the next level? Seems to me, if Blake Griffin has a Rookie-of-the-Year quality rookie year, the Clippers might push their way into the playoffs.

by Kaboomm on Jul 3, 2009 1:32 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

that's what people thought with the baron davis trade

then they’re all psych! bye bye mr. brand.

MillsFanBoy

by appel82 on Jul 3, 2009 2:13 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Chris Kaman

but the Clips will have to pick up all but 1 mil of his salary

Seriously, Brian Skinner might fill a role, but not for Rudy

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 4:15 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

sign and trade?

The Skin man is the right “kind” of player, but probably not the “right” player

not enough playoff experience, etc

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 6:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Time to get rid of travis!

by CoffeeBean on Jul 3, 2009 1:26 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Guys we might not improve defensively straight up

but consider this
Steve Blake (or Hinrich) – 6’3- 6’4
Brandon Roy – 6’6
Hedo Turk- 6’10
L Aldridge – 6’11
G Oden —7’0

we have length which is always good. we got longer and beefier with this signing. maybe it will be some improvment in defense

"shaq and zach randolph have the same trainer... "

best one liner i ever heard.

by bowdown on Jul 3, 2009 1:28 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

and i like being a good team again

we are on front page of espn NBA. I feel so important

"shaq and zach randolph have the same trainer... "

best one liner i ever heard.

by bowdown on Jul 3, 2009 1:31 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm wondering what KP has in mind for next...

This can’t be the end of it. He now has an irrelevant Travis Outlaw and, PERHAPS, Steve Blake available in a move for a veteran PG.

I would be happier with this move were I to know this was only the first with more on the way.

fingers are crossed

Are you a Mexi-CAN or a Mexi-CAN'T?

by raggmopp on Jul 3, 2009 1:33 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

blazer fans sound so arrogant on espn comments

"shaq and zach randolph have the same trainer... "

best one liner i ever heard.

by bowdown on Jul 3, 2009 1:35 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I mean LA fans sorry

"shaq and zach randolph have the same trainer... "

best one liner i ever heard.

by bowdown on Jul 3, 2009 1:36 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I am not a big fan of this move...

I want better defense, Hedo doesn’t provide that. KP’s plan is clear though, he wants to have offense so potent that no team can match up with it. He isn’t worried about how the blazers are going to guard the elite point guards. He is thinking that other teams should be worried about how they are going to guard a Rudy/Roy/Turkoglu offense. Throw LMA and Oden down low and it is a matchup nightmare for every team in the league. Its not traditional, curious to see how it works out….

The Bedger formally known as ????????

by Rudiculous on Jul 3, 2009 1:37 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Hedo's BBIQ will make the Blazers defense better

He’ll know when to hell “help.”

- Carl

by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 1:39 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

plus 3 of our guys in starting lineup are 6'10 and above

"shaq and zach randolph have the same trainer... "

best one liner i ever heard.

by bowdown on Jul 3, 2009 1:40 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

When the other team's best players

all foul out trying to stop a team like that, you don’t have to worry about having just an average defense.

But notice the quote from KP in Quick’s article. He isn’t done yet.

He had two assets to leverage to improve the team, cap space and an abundance of young talent. He’s only used one of those so far.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 1:47 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hedo rocks

Welcome to Portland Hedo

Get out of Joel's way or he will eat your freaking face!

by Prezthrilla on Jul 3, 2009 1:40 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I think Martell is leaving

Trout will stay and back up the PF till his contract expires and there is no way Battum leaves

Draft Cole Aldrich 2010

by jlarose78 on Jul 3, 2009 1:50 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

travis is leaving because he was way more value right now

"shaq and zach randolph have the same trainer... "

best one liner i ever heard.

by bowdown on Jul 3, 2009 1:51 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Update (1:45PM): Ric Bucher on ESPN News just said…

They do not have an agreement. There is a deal, 5 years and 52 million that is apparently on the table. I’ve been told by a couple of sources it’s not done yet. It’s not a matter of fit. It’s a matter of going to Portland, quite honestly. I know his wife is very interested in going to Toronto. They right now are sitting back to see what happens. I would say Turkoglu is either going to leave Portland and have a deal done or closing the door on that situation and moving forward with Toronto. I was told it was very close this morning but the fact that we don’t have anything concrete at this point suggests that there’s still some mulling being done on the part of Turkoglu.

What?

Blazers Edge.com 

by Ben. on Jul 3, 2009 1:53 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

5 at 52

WAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYY TO Much!!!!!

Draft Cole Aldrich 2010

by jlarose78 on Jul 3, 2009 1:54 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hedo still shopping?

Makes sense. Leave Portland with an offer on the table and see what else is out there.

by Blazin' on Jul 3, 2009 1:59 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

but is any other team truly interested?

earlier it sounded like Toronto was going to re-sign Marion.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 2:00 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

At this point,

I hope they do re-sign Marion. I want the Turk.

by Blazin' on Jul 3, 2009 2:01 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

LOL.

Ric Bucher.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 1:59 PM PDT up reply actions   1 recs

PLEASE

I really really really really really hope Hedo turns down Portland. We can do better

"It’s a good ol’ fashioned Rip City beat down!"

by Magnum on Jul 3, 2009 2:05 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Give me some names.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 2:06 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

first of all

just NOT signing Hedo is better.

I’d rather use the capspace for a lopsided trade. I’d rather go into the trade deadling with cap space to take advantage of team desperate to shed contracts. I’d rather not use the capspace at all. That’s how much I don’t want Hedo.

"It’s a good ol’ fashioned Rip City beat down!"

by Magnum on Jul 3, 2009 2:08 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

The mythical lopsided trade.

Here’s a list of guys who were traded recently in lopsided trades.

Marcus Camby
Jason Richardson
Zach Randolph

It’s a use it or lose it situation with the cap space.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 2:13 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

the lack of lopsided trades is because

so few teams have capspace. And teams that do have cap space tend to sign FAs. Except, that this is one of the worst summers for FAs in recent memory.

There are several factors that make a lopsided trade plausible this season. The bad economy, next years FA bonanza and the Blazers array of young, cheap talent.

And I’d rather lose the cap space that sign Hedo. I’d rather take that 10 million a year and light it on fire.

"It’s a good ol’ fashioned Rip City beat down!"

by Magnum on Jul 3, 2009 2:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

The players that get traded are usually big overpaid contracts

There’s a reason teams are wanting to unload these big contracts. The production doesn’t merit the contract. Free agency pool is limited, but players who are on the market for cap relief is more limited.

Seeing how you seem adverse to what you consider overpaid players, lopsided trades wouldn’t satisfy your criteria.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 2:22 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I can deal with a trade that involves a good player

and a deadweight player with a bad contract. But to pay an average, 30 year old a big contract is just dumb.

"It’s a good ol’ fashioned Rip City beat down!"

by Magnum on Jul 3, 2009 2:26 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think your marginalizing the important role Turk will play on this team.

There’s plenty of discussion why he would be a great fit and his salary wouldn’t hinder our flexibility, or lack thereof, in the future. I won’t summarize them, so I’ll just say I disagree and leave it at that.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 2:31 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hollinger on 95.5 right now.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 1:58 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Yea, me too

Hollinger is just repeating the article he wrote.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 2:05 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I wanted to hear it

Since I don’t have insider.

Rex is a starter by the 2010 trade deadline. Watch.

by dan_the_man on Jul 3, 2009 2:06 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

what the heck is 95.5 doing

for the 2nd time in 30 minutes, they’ve preempted an interview with a national NBA writer for commercial

How did you guys win that?
"We scored enough points. We scored 107, they scored 105.
-Nate McMillan Postgame, 3/4/2009

by douglast on Jul 3, 2009 2:02 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Their stream sucks, I’m getting tired of them cutting of the interviews to go to commercial, thats the 3rd time now.

by Jaedin on Jul 3, 2009 2:05 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think they have an auto-schedule for commercials.

95.5 does not have regular local programming during this time slot.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 2:05 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

?

Wheels at work is on every weekday at this time.

Ben II Blazersedge.com || New to Blazers' Edge?

by usmcr3049 on Jul 3, 2009 2:11 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Really? I thought programming didn't start until 3pm for BFT.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 2:14 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

nope

they have MSP in the morning, then Wheels at work starting at noon, then BFT, then Strong at Night. They have the best local Sports talk, but today was not their finest hour.

Ben II Blazersedge.com || New to Blazers' Edge?

by usmcr3049 on Jul 3, 2009 2:15 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

They have no clue

Right now it is dead air, and they gave everyone the day off today and decided to reair FOX sports radio, when they knew Hedo was in town, and would most likely either get a deal done, or not, either way it is breaking news. They dropped the ball today as far as I am concerned.

Ben II Blazersedge.com || New to Blazers' Edge?

by usmcr3049 on Jul 3, 2009 2:06 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I am listening to it

Right now on the radio and it isn’t doing that.

by Cory2669 on Jul 3, 2009 2:07 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

it sounds like Hedo might take less money to play in Toronto

Truth never was or can be propagated by fire and sword - Albert Gallatin

by Zaron5551 on Jul 3, 2009 2:03 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

let him do so

hel never win a ring then and get less monhey to play ona worse team

Oden...Aldridge...Roy.....THE REAL BIG THREE

by CroRupt on Jul 3, 2009 2:05 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

YES!

"It’s a good ol’ fashioned Rip City beat down!"

by Magnum on Jul 3, 2009 2:13 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

LOL

ya right, Hedo might take more money to go to Toronto, but that is because he is going to take the most money, no matter where it is.

Ben II Blazersedge.com || New to Blazers' Edge?

by usmcr3049 on Jul 3, 2009 2:07 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

John Hollinger brought up a good point...

This was the only season Portland could actually get anyone they liked through free agency, since next season presumably, Roy’s and Aldridge’s extension will kick in, pushing the team over the cap.

Devise Method

Founder of the "Crash Batumcoot" Movement.

by damir on Jul 3, 2009 2:09 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

right

which is why it made sense to sign someone this summer even if it wasn’t ideal. but 5 years at 10+ mil for Hedo is still scary.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 2:11 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

was thinking the same thing

anyone who spends anytime on BE should know this. We’ve all been pointing it out pretty much constantly for the past 2+ years straight.

How did you guys win that?
"We scored enough points. We scored 107, they scored 105.
-Nate McMillan Postgame, 3/4/2009

by douglast on Jul 3, 2009 2:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Would we have any exceptions left after the Turkoglu trade? Would Freeland and Petteri be renounced?

I would assume no and yes for at least one of those depending on where the cap comes in.

by Norsktroll on Jul 3, 2009 2:10 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

no

all exceptions would have to be renounced, as well as Reaf, Shav, and Ruffin.

Ben II Blazersedge.com || New to Blazers' Edge?

by usmcr3049 on Jul 3, 2009 2:12 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Shav is gonna sign a pretty nice deal

by Norsktroll on Jul 3, 2009 2:13 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

no exceptions left

the question remaining is whether we are renouncing Freeland and/or Koponen.

How did you guys win that?
"We scored enough points. We scored 107, they scored 105.
-Nate McMillan Postgame, 3/4/2009

by douglast on Jul 3, 2009 2:20 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I've really warmed to the Idea of Hedo

over the last couple of days. That might make me sound lame, but the more I think about it the more it makes sense. My only real concern is the other players on the team that might lose time. Hopefully they work all that out and Nic and Rudy still get time.
    I think Hedo was the key player on a team that was a few missed shots away from being champions. It seemed like the Lakers smacked them good, but weren’t there a couple games that were decided by the smallest of margins? I think it will be good, and it was this or nothing it sounds like.

by twggyy on Jul 3, 2009 2:10 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

weren’t there a couple games that were decided by the smallest of margins?

yes

Missed layin (and goal tend non-call) cost them one game

2 missed FTs (Howard) and an incredible made 3-pointer by Fish cost them another

And after that 2nd game, school was out

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 4:24 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I wonder

if Lee had hit that lay in, and howard made those FTs, there would be no way they would have let the guy go that was a main guy on a championship team. In a way we got on of the best players in the entire playoffs. A guy who almost helped get a NBA title.

by twggyy on Jul 3, 2009 6:34 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Just keep Batum.

I’ll learn to love this move, but don’t rob me of the joy of watching Nic Batum become the player he’ll be.

by sagcat on Jul 3, 2009 2:11 PM PDT reply actions   1 recs

At this point, I don't see what better option Portland has with its money.

I don’t like what this does to Portland’s financial flexibility, but what better option to improve the team are we going to get? I think he can work with Batum and make him better, in fact. In two seasons, Batum will be too good to hold back and will be starting with Hedo coming off the bench. And it won’t be because Hedo is losing it.

I hope the Blazers finish this deal so the team can prepare for the season.

Yes! Yes! In the face!

by LeafHawk on Jul 3, 2009 2:17 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Update (2:13PM): ESPN’s original report on the agreement in principle remains up on ESPN.com.

hint hint

Blazers Edge.com 

by Ben. on Jul 3, 2009 2:17 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Somebody in the know

told Ben the original report is right. But he’s not allowed to say so directly, so he’s hinting.

Hedo is coming to Portland. Book it.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 2:19 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

sigh

I was rather happy for a few minutes.

Back to futilely convincing myself that Hedo will help the team instead of make our defense look like swiss cheese.

"It’s a good ol’ fashioned Rip City beat down!"

by Magnum on Jul 3, 2009 2:21 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I really see a non-traditional lineup of PG: Hedo Sg: Roy Sf: Batum

a lot of the time, that’ll be an offensive, and defensive improvement of Blake, Roy, & Batum

by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 2:24 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

batum

can’t guard PGs for extended minutes.

Rudy can’t do it either.

"It’s a good ol’ fashioned Rip City beat down!"

by Magnum on Jul 3, 2009 2:27 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Depends on the PG

Either of them could probably guard Fisher adequately. And that’s the most important PG to stop for the next couple of years, probably.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 2:32 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Billups as well, though Batum could guard him very effectively.

by Cablinasian on Jul 3, 2009 5:30 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Rudy can't do it at all...

I don’t see why Batum can’t do it for some significant minutes, a lot of speedy guards have been neuatrlized by players like him

by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 2:39 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

You don't have to stop PGs

just funel them to the big guy down low

by NWfan on Jul 3, 2009 3:37 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly...

After all nobody can stop Paul or Tony Parker alone.

by Ilikeemall on Jul 3, 2009 3:39 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

create a wall of defense

it takes BBIQ and communication. No weak links or missed assignments that leave lanes open.

Hedo >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Outlaw

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 6:21 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Orlandos defense wasn't exactly Swiss Cheese...

…and it could be argued that outside of Howard their individual players aren’t any better defenders than ours.

by Ilikeemall on Jul 3, 2009 2:31 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Turk might not be as athletic

but he plays ALOT better D than travis…

by Ilikeemall on Jul 3, 2009 2:38 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

The original post...

I replied to above said that Hedo was going to make out defense look like Swiss cheese… So I guess you didn’t… and you’re right those 3 guys are good wing defenders. Got the posters mixed up…sorry

by Ilikeemall on Jul 3, 2009 2:48 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

hint hint?

I don’t get it? Maybe you’re not in the know?

by tandur on Jul 4, 2009 1:04 AM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not sure how you can complain about this move

This is not New York or L.A. we just signed the best available free agent on the market, had to be done this year with BRoy and LMA getting new contracts we were going to have zero cap space in the future, great move In KP I trust!

by runanjum on Jul 3, 2009 2:27 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

The thing I don't understand is...

KP does not seem to be giving an attention to improving the Blazers’ defensively. Hedo is 100% a move to improve the offense. If they aren’t going to do anything at PG, how do they expect to move from the 10-13th best defensive team in the league?

Sure, they get older, but that should help the offense just as much.

by PoliSam on Jul 3, 2009 2:45 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

In crunch time

He replaces Travis, so it IS a defensive upgrade. Not an elite one though.

And he replaces Batum, our best defender, in the starting lineup. So, it’s iffy.

We did defend a lot better as the season went on, so we got hope, but I’d rather it was directly addressed as well.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:47 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah...

I get what Hedo will do for the Blazers offense and it makes sense there… I’ve just struggled with using all of the cap space on a move that primarily improves the offense when the Blazers were the second best offense in the league. The offense was awful in the playoffs, but Houston is a great defensive team, the Blazers had nerves, and there’s always bad luck.

I’m just worried the Hedo signing represents a double overreaction: overraction to the Blazers offensive woes in the playoffs and an overreaction to Hedo’s value because his team made it to the finals.

by PoliSam on Jul 3, 2009 2:51 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I do agree

I think this move doesn’t mean we won’t make a deal that does improve us defensively, since it all but forces us to move Outlaw.

I mean, we GOTTA move Outlaw, just to be good peoples. This is his contract year and Hedo will take all his minutes.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:53 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't buy it

KP isn’t an over-reaction kind of guy.

This is in large part because he’s a guy who is very good at playing with a dominant center and making him better. It is as much about making Oden better as anything else.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 2:54 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

The rumors always said

We had been trying to get Hedo in the past.

I guess KP just always liked him. And, he fits— tall for his position, lengthy (wink), can shoot, versatile…

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:55 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I aint selling anything

KP certainly stresses not overreacting, but all of the quotes from Quick about Pritchard’s reasoning suggest a huge emphasis on this seasons playoffs.

Of course, those quotes could reflect Quick’s focus on recent events rather than KPs.

by PoliSam on Jul 3, 2009 3:02 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Your last sentence

says it all, IMO.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 3:05 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

It doesn't work with us who pay attention

But that is a way to “sell” it to average fans, I guess.

I’d hate it if that was why we loved him so, since everyone always makes that mistake.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 3:05 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nah...the Blazers are not the number one offense in the NBA

The efficiency stat is honestly misleading. They were the number one offensive rebounding team in the NBA. In the playoffs, the defense ratchets up and other teams would have keyed on Roy just like the Rockets. The Rockets just made it more obvious.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 2:57 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

there is nothing misleading about offensive efficiency as a stat...

that’s like saying that the team that scores the most points isn’t actually the winner. Offensive rebounding is part of offensive efficiency.

by PoliSam on Jul 3, 2009 3:00 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

So you are comfortable saying the Blazers are the best offensive team in the NBA?

Without Hedo.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 3:01 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cool.

I have a different view and douglast probably does too. I feel better about not hoping for that awful matchup in the playoffs.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 3:07 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

me too

the Blazers are less likely to have their offensive strength negated by an elite playoff defense now. That’s a plus.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 3:09 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Either way, we still were a very young team who scored very well most of the time

And we were only scratching at the surface of our offensive potential, without Hedo.

LMA, Oden, Batum, etc, even Roy would all get better offensively. But those who wanted us to have another offensive playmaker/weapon, Hedo answers that prayer.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 3:10 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

they were one of the top 4 offensive teams in the league last year

Second best by the numbers. I figure bench scoring and scores during blowouts give that stat some margin for error.

by PoliSam on Jul 3, 2009 3:04 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

One of the best, clearly

But only for the regular season, when bench scoring is more important than in the playoffs.

They weren’t a great offensive team for playoff basketball.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 3:07 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

We wouldn't have been great against anyone

In the playoffs, teams can take the time to game plan for your first two options, and that was all we had.

Obviously, the Rockets were the toughest defensive team we could have faced, with Yao, Battier, and Artest. But probably any playoff team would have defended us reasonably well. We didn’t have enough reliable options. Next year, Greg will be an offensive threat.

Our depth helped us have great offensive numbers — when we blew teams out, because of our great bench, we could really put up the numbers. That isn’t really a factor in the playoffs.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 3:17 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

We would have been slowed down to some degree against anyone-- that's the playoffs

but I have no doubt the Blazers offense would have been much more successful against literally any other playoff matchup.

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 3:19 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

there were still 8th!

and in striking distance of 4th, having played only Houston withing Yao Ming.

by PoliSam on Jul 3, 2009 3:10 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

IMHO

this was a improve your strengths move. We’re a good offensive team, let’s become a great offensive team. Maybe KP is of the opinion that we’ll never be a top 5-10 defensive squad and bringing in a defensive upgrade won’t help, but a more dynamic, well balanced offensive makes us a bigger threat.

"It’s a good ol’ fashioned Rip City beat down!"

by Magnum on Jul 3, 2009 2:49 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Even without Hedo I thought our offense would just get more dangerous

As everyone continues to develop.

Hedo makes us almost unguardable on offense. It really does help there. No more Battier and Artest doubling Roy nonstop (even though he did great still).

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:54 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

In time

I think Oden and LMA are more than enough to be the anchors of a good defensive team, like Howard was for the Magic.

But I dunno if that time is now, and I’d rather we did all we could to help Oden stay on the floor while he develops into that anchor.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:50 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

we have time though

once we lock up Roy and LMA (and Oden later) we will have our major pieces locked in. Then you just have to fill in the cracks, using the Spurs strategy

Woof

by Charles Barkley McLovin on Jul 3, 2009 2:55 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

That is true too

We got all the time in the world, and Hedo does make us better now.

Obviously, he just won’t be on the team for ALL of the championships!

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:56 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't understand how people see LMA as a future defensive anchor

Until he stops playing help defense like this, he shouldn’t even be in the same sentence as the phrase “defensive anchor.”

by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 2:56 PM PDT up reply actions   1 recs

He plays it more like Nene

Ya don’t wanna open this can of worms right now.

Great on the pick and roll, good one on one defender, will improve as a challenger of penetraters. Lotsa deflections, always outplays his opponent.

Nene isn’t a great shotblocker challenger either, but a good defender still.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 2:58 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

He's more experienced and stronger

But they defend the same way.

You really underrate him as a defender, just because he doesn’t challenge shots as effectively as he should. That is also an easy thing to improve on, and what he does well is a rare combo in a long PF like him.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 3:01 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

He has to be better defensively

Oden as well. Future championship aspirations doesn’t rest on Hedo. This is about the core. It rests on Oden being dominate defensively, LMA improving his help defense, and Roy becoming more focus defensively.

I’m sure people will blame Hedo for defensive failings, but it’s red herring to me. Oden and LMA has to step up.

"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith

by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 2:59 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

could be... and it's certainly an interesting philosophical/analytical question

is it easier to shore-up a weakness or strengthen a strength. I am used to thinking about diminishing marginal returns… that there is a limit to offensive efficiency and defensive efficiency, so that the marginal cost of making improvements around the median is lower.

by PoliSam on Jul 3, 2009 2:56 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

http://blog.oregonlive.com/behindblazersbeat/2009/07/hedo_turkoglu_agrees_to_join_t.html

saw that earlier, “pg guard upgrade is not our biggest priority” going forward this offseason, from KP, not gonna make a lot of people happy

by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 2:41 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Kenny Vance just reinterated this

"You're welcome friend
I love you."
- Tom "Dragline" inHawaii

by 92wastheyear on Jul 3, 2009 2:59 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

An interesting comment

Misdirection? Probably not.

I think KP is a Bayless believer. He would take a nice PG upgrade if it came his way, but he may be more concerned about shoring up the backup PF spot.

When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.

by jscot on Jul 3, 2009 2:58 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think this is important...

folks want to get hung up on the number of minutes available behind Aldridge, but the Blazers back-up PF last year hurt them—lost them games. Games are regularly lost in terrible 5 minute stretches.

by PoliSam on Jul 3, 2009 3:14 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

he may be more concerned about shoring up the backup PF spot.

Yep, one more big man who can play PF/C would be a nice “get”

And they have Outlaw to dangle, as bait

Memphis has Marc Gasol, with Thabeet coming in…?

Nah, Chris Wallace would never agree to “help” the Blazers

(Daruis MIles GRRR! Darius Miles…)

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 4:43 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Man the Blazers have Length

that will naturally help out our defense

Woof

by Charles Barkley McLovin on Jul 3, 2009 2:42 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

The only way that Hedo coming here can be a good thing

is if Nate and the rest of the coaching staff devise a near perfect system for this team.

The offense is going to change. We won’t be sticking Hedo in the corner to rain 3s. Actually, I think that’s Blake’s (assuming he isn’t traded) job now. We’ll need to have great ball movement and passing to take advantage of Hedo being another offensive threat.

Can we use non-traditional lineups effectively? Will Rudy, Roy, Hedo work together?

The defense is going to change. We’re going to need to study the Magic’s defensive scheme because we will have the same basic setup as they did this season. We’ll need a smart team defense.

We’re going to have to overwhelm our opponent with offense. We need to lead the league in offensive efficiency again. Hopefully a more diverse offense will boost everyone’s stats.

We need to figure out who is staying and who is being moved. Outlaw is almost certainly the odd man out. Batum should be kept to provide a different look off the bench, you know, DEFENSE.

Basically, it can work, but not if we go into next season with the exact same schemes as this year. Nate has his work cut out for him this off season.

"It’s a good ol’ fashioned Rip City beat down!"

by Magnum on Jul 3, 2009 2:45 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

O-Live

Blazers refute that deal is done

"You're welcome friend
I love you."
- Tom "Dragline" inHawaii

by 92wastheyear on Jul 3, 2009 2:50 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

The Blazers in the 4th quarter are going to be devastingly effective

Blake will play pg for most of the game, but when the last 5 minutes of the 4th quarter roll around, the Blazers have a lot of options. Imagine trying to defend a Rudy, Roy, Hedo, LMA, Oden lineup. and you could sub out LMA or Oden for Martell if you needed some 3 pointers or Batum for defense. Hedo gives us even more versatility than before.

The Blazers already won a lot of games this past year, Hedo is just going to add to that total. He will be a net positive for this team, I am sure of it

Woof

by Charles Barkley McLovin on Jul 3, 2009 2:52 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Hedophiles

"Should I ask? What's a punani?" - by annthefan on May 3, 2009 1:55 PM

by Sexual Tyrannosaurus on Jul 3, 2009 2:58 PM PDT reply actions   2 recs

Despite published reports to the contrary, Hedo Turkoglu has not reached an agreement with the Trail Blazers, a team source announced at 2:20 p.m. Friday. ESPN first reported that a deal had been reached in principle, but general manager Kevin Pritchard and Turkoglu agent Lon Babby have not confirmed the deal.

by DephlatorMouse on Jul 3, 2009 2:59 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

well they sign hedo

we can sign marion for 20m less and get a backup 4

Oden...Aldridge...Roy.....THE REAL BIG THREE

by CroRupt on Jul 3, 2009 3:16 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm warning you

don’t make me pull this car over!

When reached 39 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!

by two4larue on Jul 3, 2009 4:58 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

OK I'm no expert...

Can someone tell me if this latest update means anything?.. Is it just politics?.. Is Hedo really still most likely coming on board?

by Ilikeemall on Jul 3, 2009 3:15 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

90% sure he is

Oden...Aldridge...Roy.....THE REAL BIG THREE

by CroRupt on Jul 3, 2009 3:16 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nothing official until he signs July 8th

Unlikely, but it could happen (Blazers had such a situation, Cavs, …)

by Norsktroll on Jul 3, 2009 3:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Unlikely?..

That it is a deal… or isn’t?

by Ilikeemall on Jul 3, 2009 3:19 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

nobody can sign untill the 8th

Oden...Aldridge...Roy.....THE REAL BIG THREE

by CroRupt on Jul 3, 2009 3:20 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I understand that

But the Artest move and the Ariza move didn’t come with any … yep they’re doin it…. Well, Nope they’re not drama

by Ilikeemall on Jul 3, 2009 3:22 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, those were more decisive FA moves

Same with Detroit, the players agreed quickly and whatnot.

Hedo’s a little different since he’s got another team with cap space interested, and is maybe more sought after. I personally am surprised Ariza didn’t wait to try to get more money from whoever didn’t get Hedo, but his agents know sumthin’ different I guess.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 3:27 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Unlikely that it will fall through

If previous reports are accurate.

by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 3:21 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanks M

I’ll just hope the reports were accurate

by Ilikeemall on Jul 3, 2009 3:23 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Quit playing games with my heart JQuick

i don’t want to hear about it till it’s confirmed for petey’s head’s sake.

MillsFanBoy

by appel82 on Jul 3, 2009 3:17 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Anybody with ESPN Insider..

care to tell me what Hollinger’s saying is good about the Hedo signing?

He hooked me in but I can’t read it!

It's = It Is
Its = Belongs to It

by 12sharks on Jul 3, 2009 3:22 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs