Breaking News: Portland And Hedo Have Reached An Agreement in Principle
by Ben. on Jul 3, 2009 11:34 AM PDT
in News
954 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)
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$$$ and length are the real dealbreakers for fans i think
Woof
by Charles Barkley McLovin on Jul 3, 2009 11:35 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
turks a cool guy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FwTLlxbYusY&feature=related
Oden...Aldridge...Roy.....THE REAL BIG THREE
by CroRupt on Jul 3, 2009 11:36 AM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
You should post that video as a fanshot ^
People need to watch that. It might change alot of people’s perception of him.
by ajinoregon on Jul 3, 2009 5:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
BREAKING NEWS!
Hedo breaks off talks…rejects Blazers. Really? That’s like asking some ugly girl out as a favor to a friend and she say ‘no’. It hurts! What now?
"The Edge... there is no honest way to explain it because the only people who really know where it is are the ones who have gone over."
by GonzoFan on Jul 3, 2009 6:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How much real impact will length and terms have?
Obviously it would be nice if we don’t have to renounce Koponen and Freeland.
Obviously it would be nice if we still had enough spare change to pick up another vet or take back a little extra salary in a trade.
Beyond that, the reality is that once this season begins, the Blazers are going to be in “luxury tax hell” for as far as the eye can see. We are unlikely to be under the tax until “the big three” leave or retire. Given this fact, how much does it matter if Hedo is on the books for four vs five years? Not much, IMHO.
I would prefer a longer term with lower initial dollars, because that might give us a little wiggle room this summer.
by upper left corner on Jul 3, 2009 11:56 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The problem with $$ 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
ironically, having a large contract might be better one the Blazers
are over the cap.
by PoliSam on Jul 3, 2009 2:18 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
If he is signed for about 9 million a year
It can be called the TEC-9.
by Mortimer on Jul 3, 2009 5:30 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
Hooooray!!! .. but only if it's > 50 million
by TrailBlazerChief on Jul 3, 2009 11:36 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
no TrailBlazerChief is actually Hedo
by Cool Hand Roy on Jul 3, 2009 11:48 AM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
Whoops
Fat fingers owning me again…
by TrailBlazerChief on Jul 3, 2009 11:52 AM PDT up 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.
Ī¼į½“ ĻĪæĪ²Īæįæ¦, Ī¼ĻĪ½ĪæĪ½ ĻĪÆĻĻĪµĻ Īµ.
by T Darkstar on Jul 3, 2009 11:41 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Well you can be happy for 2+ years, then who knows how it'll play out
Woof
by Charles Barkley McLovin on Jul 3, 2009 11:43 AM PDT up 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?
- 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
It only hurts if we don't get rings first
In KP we Trust.
by LaoTzu on Jul 3, 2009 3:03 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
I heard Batum is mad that Rudy got mad when it was Batum who should have been mad in the first place
jk
- Carl
by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:05 PM PDT up 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
and chris sheridan is mad at his "scources"
bayless leaves over my dead body
by thomasikehara on Jul 3, 2009 12:10 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
the question is where Travis is getting traded (he has to be traded now, right?)
by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 11:46 AM PDT up reply actions 0 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
I LOVE the idea of trading Trout for a draft pick...
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 11:50 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
Bill Simmons couldn't guard a chair
- Carl
by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:57 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
What if Trout is traded to Orlando?
- Carl
by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:35 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
No, Travis is going to be part of our all-SF lineup when we play medium ball
by Kaboomm on Jul 3, 2009 11:47 AM 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
Chicago does want to be able to offer a max contract to a free agent after this year
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 12:26 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???
Iād really like to know if H*DO can bring the ball up on offense to initiate if heās in a tough playoff seriesā¦
I"d really like to see a lineup of .) Roy 2.) Batum 3.) Hedo 4.) LMA 5.) Odenā¦ where Batum guards the other teams PG, or in the case of the Lakers, I think Roy could guard "pg" while Batum goes after Kobeā¦ (**please note, the whole pt of this is to save BRoy from having to bring the ball up the court)
Iād 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 himā¦
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
Its one thing to be an offensive minded player, its another thing to bring the ball up the court each time when a team like the lakers is trying to pressure you from the first dribble...
and I only caught about 2 games, & never with much of an eye on Hedo, didn’t see us going after him
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 11:55 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
agreed about "crunch time," I'd be curious if a lineup with Hedo bringing the ball up the court for extended minutes could work though...
I know Pippen had the athleticism/speed to do it, not so sure about Hedo
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 11:58 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
Cāmon! Didnāt 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
Don't you have to have a championship to have a championship pedigree?
by MiledAnimal on Jul 3, 2009 12:25 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 do? Or he don't?
He do baby!!!!!
by dario argento on Jul 3, 2009 11:50 AM PDT reply actions 1 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
1 of the best things about this signing is that it definately signals KP just "threw a brick through the championship window,"...
…whether BE agrees or not, you know this signing means KP thinks we can win it all THIS year
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 11:53 AM PDT up 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
hmmm, if we cleared out Travis for a #1, Blake for a #2, I wonder if KP might surprise us and go after Kidd...
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 11:56 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
If we got rid of those two guys for draft picks, that would once again clear 7.5 million
by TrentEdwardsHoF2018 on Jul 3, 2009 12:37 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
First photo of Hedo celebrating.
"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith
by blzrfan on Jul 3, 2009 11:56 AM PDT reply actions 6 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
We may see a beast develop next year now. I think reason #1 we went after him was how well he fed Howard in the post last year in Nelson's absence.
Hedo is going to do wonders for Oden’s game. Nate needs to start teaching the side pick and roll NOW.
by dario argento on Jul 3, 2009 12:00 PM 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
IĀ“m such a bandwagon fan
I didnĀ“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
I hear broyposse has already bought a Hedo jersey
by jksnake99 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
Let me guess: Ron Artest, Trevor Ariza, Richard Jefferson, Vince Carter, ...
by Norsktroll on Jul 3, 2009 12:38 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
Ariza has a better PER, a better WP48 and is a vastly better defender
by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 12:49 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 looked to me like much the better player during the finals
Even ignoring stats.
by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 12:56 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
sounds like a serious obsessions with points scored to me
by PoliSam on Jul 3, 2009 2:29 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
and again, usage measures this and PER takes usage into account
Hedo is not a better player than Ariza.
by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 1:17 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 have a lot more respect for the John Hollingers, Kevin Peltons, etc. of the world in terms of their basketball analysis
than the general viewing public.
by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 1:42 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
when WP48, PER (as different as 2 advance metrics can be) and a qualatative look at defense all agree...
that’s when I start to get confident making this type of claim.
by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 1:47 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
I'm not sure Hedo is better than Jefferson. I guess. Maybe. Maybe not.
by PoliSam on Jul 3, 2009 2:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would say he's not, and Turk is 2 years older.
by jksnake99 on Jul 3, 2009 2:28 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
Been saying this for 3 days.
Well put.
by Free Bayless on Jul 3, 2009 3:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
marion isn't very good without steve nash
bayless leaves over my dead body
by thomasikehara on Jul 3, 2009 12:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would go on a killing spree of the Blazers ended up with Marion
- Carl
by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:15 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
What are the chances Orlando does a sign and lopsided trade using the capspace?
- Carl
by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:07 PM PDT 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 get a kick out of this argument that Hedo is too old and his game will fall off a cliff
(I have to watch how I say things because I had all my posts deleted a few days ago when I was virtually the only person here arguing that Hedo is good for the Blazers. Apparently they were too argumentative. — hhhmmmm anyway.)
Hedo had his best season by far at the age of 29. He put up similar numbers last year in leading the Magic to the Finals. 17pts 5 assts 5 rbds per game.
But MisterOden over at O Live made the case better than I could. (Hope he doesn’t mind the plagerization.)
“HEDO IS NOT TOO OLD”
“I dont’ understand how people can keep claiming that. He just turned 30 on March 19. He’s 3 years younger than Andre Miller (same birthday coincidentally), 2 years younger than Vince Carter, the same age as Ron Artest, only 1 year older than Steve Blake and Richard Jefferson, and 2 years older than Hinrich. Didn’t Steve Nash win his first MVP at the age of 31? He won another one at age 32, and nearly a third at the age of 33. He’s still very productive at 35 years old. I think Hedo gives us at least 3 quality years as a starter and perhaps another 2 quality years coming off the bench for Batum. He is the bridge that we need right now while we wait for the likes of Batum and Bayless to become legitimate starters. And the best part is, we might just win a title or two in the meantime.”
Good stuff MisterOden. I thought the good people at here at BEdge should get the chance to hear those insightful thoughts. (Maybe MisterOden’s on here too. I don’t know.)
by ajinoregon on Jul 3, 2009 12:10 PM PDT reply actions 8 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
I'd rec you
But I don’t want your idea to give anyone any ideas.
- Carl
by tominhawaii on Jul 3, 2009 12:16 PM PDT up 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