Blazers Introduce Wesley Matthews
by Ben Golliver on Jul 21, 2010 1:40 PM PDT
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The Portland Trail Blazers introduced the star of their summer free agency -- guard Wesley Matthews -- in a short and sweet ceremony at a park in North Portland Wednesday morning. "When we looked into the free agent market, the guy that we targeted is the guy we ended up getting," Blazers President Larry Miller said. "We're thrilled to be here today to introduce to you the newest Trail Blazer, Wesley Matthews."
Matthews, wearing a white and purple shirt and tie combination, began his remarks by thanking the Utah Jazz organization, who brought him into their 2009 training camp after he went undrafted out of Marquette. "For me as a person and as a player, to embrace the present and prepare for the future, I feel you have to acknowledge the past. I really need to thank the Utah Jazz for giving me this opportunity to live my dream out and be an NBA player. The fans of Utah embraced me, the coaching staff, the organization trusted me, my teammates trusted me as a player, and soon we came friends and I just need to thank them for all that they've done."
At virtually the same instant that Matthews was taking the high road, Salt Lake Tribune beat writer Ross Siler took to twitter to blast Matthews and his agent, joking that there was "no giant vanity check unfortunately" at the ceremony and claiming that the Jazz were left stranded during the negotiation process. "This is getting ridiculous as far as what Wesley Matthews is claiming. Jazz were strung along in negotiations for close to two weeks... Jazz tried to set up a meeting in Orlando during summer league to talk contract," Siler tweeted. "They were blown off. Next day Wes was flying to Portland."
Hell hath no fury like a franchise scorned, apparently.
The negotiations and the final price tag for Matthews's services remain the biggest storyline around his acquisition, bigger than his rise from undrafted to playoff starter and bigger than the touching story of his relationship with his mother. Yesterday, Kelly Dwyer suggested Matthews was worth $10 million, and yet the Blazers reportedly gave Matthews a 5 year contract worth $35 million, using their entire mid-level exception on a player who will almost certainly come off the bench.
No one was sure how Matthews would answer the inevitable "Are you overpaid?" question. "My answer to that is that I'll be in the gym," he said this morning. "I appreciate the money. I appreciate it more for my family. The money is for them, this game is what's for me. I love this game and before I signed, I said this money isn't going to change a thing about me. A lot of people respected what I did because of how hard I played, how hard I went. That wasn't to get a big contract like this. This big contract helps my family out. I'm alright as long as I play this game."
He then admitted that the criticism of his contract might be valid.
"People that say I'm overpaid -- I might be. We never know. I know one thing is that I'll be in the gym and I'll be working to give myself a chance to be the best that I can be."
Matthews talked about his defensive abilities and toughness but didn't know exactly how the Blazers plan to use him. It's assumed he will be back up Brandon Roy and Nicolas Batum but Matthews wasn't ready to concede that. ''I'm not sure what the role is. They want me to come in and I'm going to play. Whether that's backing up Brandon, whether that's playing alongside Brandon, I'm not sure... That's what training camp is for, that's what preseason is for."
While the jury is still out on whether he can meet the expectations that go along with his contract, there is no questioning Matthews's charisma, moxie or attitude. Reports about his great personality have flooded out from Utah over the last 10 days or so and he lived up to that billing this morning, addressing reporters and fans directly, respectfully, thoughtfully and patiently. He handled a question about Portland's front office drama brilliantly. "There's turmoil everywhere, any job," Matthews joked. "Whether it's basketball or banking. There's turmoil within any business. That's just part of business."
Watching the morning play out, Mike Born's words from last week -- that Matthews is "a terrific fit for us. He's everything we're about. He's a great kid, a great worker, a great teammate" -- were playing on repeat in my head.
There are legitimate doubts about Matthews's value and worth -- and legitimate questions about his fit on the roster -- but none of them are coming from Portland's side. They remain tickled to have acquired his services and have no regrets about the price.
Click through for a few more pictures.
-- Ben Golliver | benjamin.golliver@gmail.com | Twitter
-- Ben Golliver | benjamin.golliver@gmail.com | Twitter
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I'm certainly happy.
Seems like a good guy. Glad to have him aboard.
by Seven06Renault on Jul 21, 2010 1:48 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
He's exactly the type of person we want in Portland...
We’ll win it with ONLY players that really deserve and championship!!! This city deserves a championship and so do our classy players.
I'm glad it's all official now.
My only concern with everything I’ve heard so far today is that he might have expectations of starting. Unless we’re moving Roy to point, I don’t see this happening. I just don’t want controversy like last year between Miller and Blake.
"Nicolas! You're the strongest boy in the world!"
I don't think he expects to start
he does expect to play a lot – and he will
remember he was an undrafted free agent, he probably doesn’t have the entitlement thing going (cough, Rudy, cough)
by rip_city_swagger on Jul 21, 2010 1:55 PM PDT up reply actions
Matthews said he was open and up front when discussing desire to start during negotiation process with Portland.
Matthews said he considers himself an NBA starter. However, he understands his situation and will be professional.
Big part of the reason Matthews signed a five-year deal was in <em>the hope he would eventually start for Portland.
"I want to be traded to a contender" is almost always code-speak for "I'm a loser."
-Dave, 2/5/2010: http://www.blazersedge.com/2010/2/5/1297509/no-amore-for-amare
Let's hope his version of "being professional" is quieter than Andre Miller's.
CKTK: A music blog. We write about what we want to write about.
#14
well, Miller was clearly outperforming the guy ahead of him on the depth chart
If Wes is outperforming Brandon we have larger problems…
"Oh Yeah!" ~ Kool Aid Man
well, Wesley is 2-3 years younger than Brandon
and even though there’s no comparison between the two of them offensively, Roy’s knees may give out just as Matthews is reaching his prime. It’s never too early to be planning ahead for the “next generation”
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Please explain
If Fernandez chooses to play elsewhere, Blazers could place him on suspended list. Team doesn’t think it will come to that, though.
hg
I think that means that he isn't required to suit up or even be at games.
And maybe be able to go back to Spain and sit out.
Being a Blazer fan is not exactly healthy.
not sure about this one myself
I took it to mean that if Rudy plays overseas without negotiating a buyout with us(pretty long odds – most European leagues and team honor NBA contracts, but there are likely some league/teams who would do it), then the Blazers could put him on the suspended list. I haven’t read up enough on the CBA recently to determine if that means they can hold his pay (I assume they could and would) or whether it frees up a roster spot (no idea)
"I want to be traded to a contender" is almost always code-speak for "I'm a loser."
-Dave, 2/5/2010: http://www.blazersedge.com/2010/2/5/1297509/no-amore-for-amare
From Larry Coon's site
Players are not paid while they are suspended. If a player is suspended by his team, then all of his salary counts as team salary. If the player is suspended by the league, then 50% of the salary lost due to the suspension counts as team salary.
.
A suspended player can be traded.
.
By the way, the money from fines and suspensions is put to good use — it’s given to charities of the NBA’s and Players Association’s choice.
Still on the Rex bandwagon.
well, here' what Larry Coon has to say
http://members.cox.net/lmcoon/salarycap.htm
Players are not paid while they are suspended.
If a player is suspended by his team, then all of his salary counts as team salary.
A suspended player can be traded.
so, sounds like he WOULD still count against our 15-man roster limit and toward our cap figure, but he would NOT actually get paid.
"I want to be traded to a contender" is almost always code-speak for "I'm a loser."
-Dave, 2/5/2010: http://www.blazersedge.com/2010/2/5/1297509/no-amore-for-amare
Just because he comes off the bench...
doesn’t mean he won’t still play more minutes than the guy he’s backing up, if it’s Nic Batum. Batum always seems to start off the game and then is only used in defensive situations and times when his defense is needed. Mathews will play plenty of minutes if it’s up to Nate.
the Blazers reportedly gave Matthews a 5 years contract worth $35 million
I think this needs some clarification – I have heard anywhere from $32.6m to $35m.
"Parting ways is not the end of the world. Ultimately, it may not be a bad thing at all, but right now I know the emotions are pretty raw. But it doesn't serve anyone to bash the Trail Blazers or Paul. It is after all a business of tough decisions. So, for the sake of the players, coaches and everyone who believes in Trail Blazers basketball, let's turn the page, move on and keep our eye on the prize." -KP
by The Cactus Leaguer on Jul 21, 2010 1:52 PM PDT reply actions
Front-loaded too
Which is why the Jazz couldn’t match, would have cost them about $18M extra ($9M in tax and $9M in salary).
"Good evening Blazer fans, wherever you may be!"-Bill Schonely
not exactly
assuming Utah is already over the tax, matching Matthews would have added 5.76 million to their cap number. While it’s true they would have had to pay 9.2 million salary this year, they would only have had to pay 5.76 million in tax.
"I want to be traded to a contender" is almost always code-speak for "I'm a loser."
-Dave, 2/5/2010: http://www.blazersedge.com/2010/2/5/1297509/no-amore-for-amare
They are already 1.8M over the tax level
With 9 players under contract.
"Good evening Blazer fans, wherever you may be!"-Bill Schonely
the point is the same
matching on matthews would have cost them an extra $15 million this year, not $18 million.
"I want to be traded to a contender" is almost always code-speak for "I'm a loser."
-Dave, 2/5/2010: http://www.blazersedge.com/2010/2/5/1297509/no-amore-for-amare
Still a lot of $ for a team with new owners (yes they are the kids of the previous owners but still)
That is not going to compete for a title this year.
"Good evening Blazer fans, wherever you may be!"-Bill Schonely
absolutely
"I want to be traded to a contender" is almost always code-speak for "I'm a loser."
-Dave, 2/5/2010: http://www.blazersedge.com/2010/2/5/1297509/no-amore-for-amare
Last year of the Kirilenko deal
Jazz fans should have a party the day that contract comes off their books
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Actually,
The tax hit difference between Bell and Matthews would have only been $2.4 million.
right, exactly
"I want to be traded to a contender" is almost always code-speak for "I'm a loser."
-Dave, 2/5/2010: http://www.blazersedge.com/2010/2/5/1297509/no-amore-for-amare
If the Jazz want to get pissy about his negotiations
That’s too freaking bad.
Welcome aboard Wes.
"Good evening Blazer fans, wherever you may be!"-Bill Schonely
by skywaker9 on Jul 21, 2010 1:52 PM PDT reply actions 4 recs
which jazz player y'all going to target w/ front loaded contract next season? do you know, or just randomly pick one every off-season?
(just joking. you’ll love wes. he’s fantastic and you are lucky to have him)
Follow me on Twitter: AllThatAmar
Check out: slcdunk.com
E-Mail me at: allthatjazzbasketball@hotmail.com
Really, I'm totally not lonely or anything . . .
by AllThatJazzBasketball on Jul 21, 2010 2:17 PM PDT up reply actions
If Nate doesn't get past the first round...
we’re coming for Sloan.
Stealth > Wealth
by 500dogs on Jul 21, 2010 2:40 PM PDT up reply actions 3 recs
sloan is the man
It would be if Sloan was our coach!!
Which player are the Jazz going to let become a restricted free agent next?
I’m joking, too. Seriously, though, the Jazz need to negotiate with their own players when they have a chance. This “Let the market determine our own player’s value” policy has cost the team Matthews, Maynor, and Brewer.
by Sean M on Jul 21, 2010 2:42 PM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
yep
I made this point last week when they announced they weren’t going to match. If they want to gamble, they have to be prepared to lose.
"I want to be traded to a contender" is almost always code-speak for "I'm a loser."
-Dave, 2/5/2010: http://www.blazersedge.com/2010/2/5/1297509/no-amore-for-amare
by douglast on Jul 21, 2010 3:14 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Brewer and Maynor were traded
Jazz made a business decision on those and one many fans agreed with. I don’t think you can lump them in with Matthews situation.
The trades of Brewer and Maynor were financially necessary because the Jazz matched on Milsap.
The Jazz could have resigned Milsap but choose to let other teams determine his worth. As a result, they had to trade Brewer and Maynor to save on luxury tax.
Well, Boozer's huge contract is gone too, so...
How much did the Jazz pay for Millisap to stay?
by OBrienSchofieldismyHero on Jul 22, 2010 5:44 PM PDT up reply actions
Jazz fan (errrrr beat writer) is whiniest fan in the league.
"He's not your Vydas or my Vydas, he's Arvydas."
Press Conference Video
http://blog.oregonlive.com/behindblazersbeat/2010/07/blazers_video_watch_the_wesley.html
Mathews sounds like Webster. Close your eyes and listen.
"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith
different
I think I get what you mean about how they sound similar…they both posses a strong clarity and focus..but I notice a difference….to me, this guy has much more of a chip on his shoulder…he has something to prove…he is defensive and super competitive….it will be interesting to see how it plays out with him…
Summer League & Wes' Integration
It would have been nice to see him play alongside DC, JP and AJ. However, there is going to be a lot of pontificating on how this kid is going to play and and if his performance is going to be on par with his contract or underwhelm. There is no indication that Wes will become a star but anything short of 6th man of the year candidate will be underwhelming to most fans and prognosticators. I’m crossing my fingers but any young player coming to a new team is likely to be a turbulent process at the start and it may take a couple years for any sort of true return to be realized. Patience will be key but at this point I’m not sure I’m ready to be patient for full MLE. Good luck Wes!
There is no indication that Wes will become a star but anything short of 6th man of the year candidate will be underwhelming to most fans and prognosticators
Is Lamar Odom a 6th man candidate? Just because a guy comes off the bench and contributes to his team’s success doesn’t mean he should be considered “underwhelming”
It’s a mid-level contract, it’s not like WM’s going to be making 19 mil/year like AK47 has
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Really don't know...can only speak for myself and don't know if the following block quote is true or not.
will be underwhelming to most fans and prognosticators
I will be just fine if Wesley is not 6th man of the year. All he has to do is his best and I’m sure that will be good enough for me.
as far as 6th man of the year candidate,
it’s hard to say he’ll be 6th on or own team. I bet both joel and camby will be more productive.
Ph'nglui mglw'nafh Cthulhu R'lyeh wgah'nagl fhtagn
Welcome
If he’s the stand-up guy he seems to be, then I hope he competes for a starting position
Honor Alaa Abdelnaby.
First in the NBA. At least alphabetically
by OhOhOden on Jul 21, 2010 1:57 PM PDT via mobile reply actions
Yes!!
Great addition. On paper, this team looks so much better than last year’s 50-win team. Can we start playing games yet?
Sad to lose him.
As a life-long Jazz fan, I was looking forward to seeing Wes Matthews in a Jazz jersey for a long-time. On the other hand, I have family in Portland and they’ve been my second favorite team. The Jazz could have matched the contract and should have, even though it was front loaded, the cap hit was still only for the MLE. I’m glad he got his money and I’ll cheer for him all but 4 times a year. Congrats Wes and maybe we’ll see you in a Jazz jersey in the future.
by jdenquist on Jul 21, 2010 2:31 PM PDT reply actions 3 recs
I wish...
the Jazz organization was half as classy as the Jazz fans we’ve seen around here lately.
Stealth > Wealth
by 500dogs on Jul 21, 2010 2:41 PM PDT up reply actions 4 recs
I'll second that
We’ve seen nothing but pure class out of these Jazz fans. And I’m glad to know the Jazz fans wanted Utah to match. I take that as a sign that this was a good signing.
Absolutely.
It’s been very encouraging, with respect to both Wesley and humanity in general. Thanks, classy Jazz fans!
You can measure skill and talent with your eyes, but productivity is shown through statistics.
Playoff caliber defense in the 4th quarter
PG Roy
SG Matthews
SF Batum
PF Camby
C Oden
Who scores on that?
/praying to the health Gods!
Really love your peaches, wanna shake your tree.
by trailblazerfan1969 on Jul 21, 2010 2:33 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
my thoughts exactly
not to mention we might have a bit of a tough time scoring ourself with that lineup
"I want to be traded to a contender" is almost always code-speak for "I'm a loser."
-Dave, 2/5/2010: http://www.blazersedge.com/2010/2/5/1297509/no-amore-for-amare
I think it's a fine lineup
and I think it still works with Aldridge to help alleviate your offensive concerns. Roy isn’t going to get burned guarding the third best perimeter player on the other team.
If the Blazers only had a PF with a silky smooth shot and the ability to score 22 pints on any given night, that lineup would be workable.
Never mind. A guy like that probably wouldn’t rebound.
Oden answers both questions.
The person Roy is guarding is not going to get a lot of penetration so he better shoot a very good percentage. Conversely, Oden’s going to get offensive rebounds, putbacks, and if we’re lucky they’ll intentionally get the ball to him inside, probably via Camby.
Of course, it’s up to the players themselves to make that lineup work, but I think it has enough promise that they’ll probably experiment with it in camp or maybe even pre-season.
Like the Whos down in Whoville they did it without boxes or ribbons or bows, they did without centers or posting down low. They won without All-Stars and Spaniards and Frenchmen. They won with old geezers and sub-par defense-men. They won playing rookies from deep off the benches. They won with their grit and their guts in the trenches. And some who observed them have been known to say that their hearts grew three sizes (at least!) on the way. One hopes with their poise and their passion now proven that once they are healthy their game will be groovin'. -- Dave
by conspirator5 on Jul 21, 2010 9:59 PM PDT up reply actions
Nah.
Just switch Roy onto whoever is up at the top of the circle and we’d be fine. With Batum’s length and Matthews quickness we’d be pretty solid on the perimeter and Camby/Oden is scary in the paint.
just have roy guard the weakest perimeter player
Michael Jordan is the Nicolas Batum of America
marty>babbitt
by thomasikehara on Jul 21, 2010 5:05 PM PDT up reply actions
I was thinking that our franchise, max contract player could actually learn to play defense.
And that the fanbase would actually demand that of him.
Roy can play defense when he want to. This past season, it seemed like
it was VERY easy to score against him. Maybe this was due to injuries? Didn’t really pay attention to his defense the year before…was Roy as crummy at defense all along and I just didn’t notice?
You are right.
I should have said “I was thinking our franchise, max contract player could make it a priority to play consistently tough defense.” Roy can play stingy defense. I just wish he would make it a priority. Roy is “The Man” in Portland. His leadership is vital to the success of this team. My comments stem from the belief that Roy should be held to a very high standard by his teammates, the fanbase, the coaching staff, and himself. Rather than the “Brandon eats first around here” attitude which implies he can do no wrong, I’d like to see someone actually call him on his deficiencies. Isn’t that how players get better? I’ve seen the Zen Master lay into Kobe. Pop screams at Duncan all the time. I don’t want Nate yelling at Brandon in front of the team. That would be counterproductive. However, I’d like someone (Nate, Camby, Joel) to have a frank, private discussion with Roy when he does the superstar thing and takes possessions off. That should be unacceptable. If Roy can’t lead by example, he won’t be the player that takes this team to the next level IMO.
by Sean M on Jul 21, 2010 6:15 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
I think we all agree that he doesn't put out the consistent defensive effort he's capable of.
And the interview he had during SL showed that Roy is at least somewhat aware of him and LMA needing to step it up on defense. I completely agree that it’s the next step for him to take as a player (along with playing with an actual PG).
But the issue I think is more with consistent effort than ability. Hopefully he won’t have to worry about tiring himself out so much this year if everyone stays healthy and Wesley and Batum both play well and get increased wing minutes.
You can measure skill and talent with your eyes, but productivity is shown through statistics.
I forgot about that interview.
It was encouraging.
Yep...
Because EVERYBODY can score on Roy… (come on!..)
It seems that every string lately has snide comments regarding Brandon’s defense. Why can’t we just welcome Wesley and be happy for the new flexability we now have with our rotation. Batum guarding the point… Matthews guarding the most dynamic wing and Roy on the remaining wing with Camby, Oden, Pryz or even that marshmellow (sarcasm) LMA is a stout defensive team….
…by the way I’m pretty sure that group could score a few points with BRoy, Oden and Matthews. Throw in some 3 point daggers from Batum and I think we’d be alright.
It’s great to have you here Wesley… I look forward to many years of cheering for you!
Whoever...
Plays Center for the opposing team, since Oden won’t get to the All-Star break with breaking an osteoporosis ravaged bone. Of course, that’s why the prayer to the injury Gods.
One of the very few lineups that look capable of defending the Heat
Along with the Bucks and the lakers
I think the Heat are going to defend themselves
Their “big 3” are all players who are best with the ball in their hands and are better scorers around the basket than outside… last I checked there’s only one ball and basket per possession so i’m not so sure it’s going to work all that swell. The only real benefit will be that oppossing teams won’t be able to double any one player altogether.., but they can just play zone and shut them down altogether except when Miller is in the game and is hitting his shots.
Zones will help.
And there will be somewhatat of a diminishing return since they can’t all have the ball.
But at the same time, they’ll always have a fresh wing scorer putting pressure on the defense, they’ll have some insane p’n’rs with say Wade and Bosh, etc…
I think there will be an adjustment period but by the playoffs, barring injury, that team will still be scary.
You can measure skill and talent with your eyes, but productivity is shown through statistics.
I think LeBron is pretty good from the 3. Seems to me he scored from the outside against
the Blazers..no problemo.
I'd count the Blazers as one; and the Lakers as 2
Gasol, Bryant and Odom neutralize a big chunk of the Big 3 – but a healthy Bynum would be a big difference maker.
Oden is the major reason for optimism if the Heat make it to the finals to challenge the Blazers.
by blacknoiseNW on Jul 21, 2010 8:34 PM PDT up reply actions
Locked Down
I was having Visions of the very same Players on the Floor at times…
I can hear the Rose Garden now D-Fense clap clap clap
On game day, I leave the turkey alone because it is some chemicals in that thing. Nate Mcmillian 11/26/09
This Kid
Has Swagger. Not the kind that annoys you (B-Rex), but the kind that makes you believe in him. I’m stoked.
I'd say Rex has good swagger too
Because he’s pretty self-aware about his deficiencies, works really hard, and isn’t arrogant. He’s just confident (and has some of that killer instinct).
Still, a good thing for Wesley to have as well.
You can measure skill and talent with your eyes, but productivity is shown through statistics.
I like Bayless's fearlessness. Very much. He's a huge competitor. He is not at all arrogant.
At least doesn’t seem to me to be arrogant. Self confidence does not = arrogance!!!
LeBron is arrogant.
This is the final move of the Kevin Pritchard Era.
The Cho Era starts now.
Matty Walker: You're not too smart, are you? I like that in a man. - Body Heat (1981)
by BlazerFanSince1970 on Jul 21, 2010 2:50 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
This is the final move of the Kevin Pritchard Era.
If you say so. Even though there’s no evidence that KP had any input re: the decision to offer Matthews the full MLE. (For all we know he may have argued against it)
Sigh. I have a feeling that I’ll still be hearing the name “Kevin Pritchard” for months and years to come. Like “this never would have happened if KP was still the GM” or “KP would’ve gotten more in that deal than Cho, Rich gave up way too much to get player X” or “if Paul Allen had a clue, he never would’ve replaced KP!”
Has Kevin been canonized, yet? I expect the local media to hold a candlelight vigil in his honor, one of these days
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
The local media LOVE KP. He was their GUY.
It’s amazing what being available to the press for leaks etc. will do for the GM’s media coverage!
Well Matthews can't be part of the Cho Era since Cho had nothing to do with the offer.
It seems like Cho was purposely absent from the Press Conference today. I know he said he had loose ends to tie up in OKC, but surely he could have arranged to be here today if he wanted to be. I don’t think it means he doesn’t like the deal, but let’s just say he didn’t go out of his way to be there. Better to start tomorrow with a clean slate.
Matty Walker: You're not too smart, are you? I like that in a man. - Body Heat (1981)
by BlazerFanSince1970 on Jul 21, 2010 7:36 PM PDT up reply actions
The Matthews signing was part of the "interim era"
When the Blazers had no GM but were still getting some positive things done
FWIW, Matthews is on Cho’s roster now. I don’t suppose that will change very soon, so regardless of how Rich felt about the MLE signing, Wesley’s long-term Blazer future is in his hands
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Born and Buchanan indicated at at least part of their strategy had been planned out with KP.
Of course it’s silly to say KP made this happen, but I think he certainly had an influence on the original planning (and you can bet they were planning free agency even before the draft)…and it certainly wasn’t part of the “Cho era”.
I mean, yes, it’s more interim than anything, but the interim era still smacks strongly of KP and when we’re looking at eras, 4 weeks really isn’t one.
You can measure skill and talent with your eyes, but productivity is shown through statistics.
(and you can bet they were planning free agency even before the draft)
Actually, no. Either Mike or Chad were interviewed before the draft and said they hadn’t started talking about FAs yet, because they were focused on the draft process
So I suspect that KP was out of the loop by the time Matthews was being discussed in late June…but feel free to extend Kevin’s legend for a few more weeks, I’m pretty sure your theory will gain traction
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
and from Ben's interview with Cronin
it sounds like Joe was more involved in the Matthews offer sheet than KP was
the changing of the GM guard occurred on draft day. What happened next was a group effort (of course, that’s what was happening during the “Pritchard era” too, it just wasn’t usually characterized that way by the local media…) Sure, KP’s seat was left vacant for a few weeks, but the duties of the GM job continued—and it’s a good thing—because I wouldn’t want to be Rich Cho having to pick through the remaining FAs right about now, if the Blazer’s front office had thrown up their hands after KP left because they over-relied on his previous autocracy
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
The press release on Matthews was issued from Cho's desk.
PORTLAND, Ore. – The Portland Trail Blazers have signed guard Wesley Matthews, it was announced today by General Manager Rich Cho. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
That’s a perfectly suitable corporate compromise. Can’t be here, but hired yesterday, therefore it’s his announcement even though he’s not actually there.
Like the Whos down in Whoville they did it without boxes or ribbons or bows, they did without centers or posting down low. They won without All-Stars and Spaniards and Frenchmen. They won with old geezers and sub-par defense-men. They won playing rookies from deep off the benches. They won with their grit and their guts in the trenches. And some who observed them have been known to say that their hearts grew three sizes (at least!) on the way. One hopes with their poise and their passion now proven that once they are healthy their game will be groovin'. -- Dave
by conspirator5 on Jul 21, 2010 10:12 PM PDT up reply actions
This reply should have actually appeared...
Like the Whos down in Whoville they did it without boxes or ribbons or bows, they did without centers or posting down low. They won without All-Stars and Spaniards and Frenchmen. They won with old geezers and sub-par defense-men. They won playing rookies from deep off the benches. They won with their grit and their guts in the trenches. And some who observed them have been known to say that their hearts grew three sizes (at least!) on the way. One hopes with their poise and their passion now proven that once they are healthy their game will be groovin'. -- Dave
by conspirator5 on Jul 21, 2010 10:13 PM PDT up reply actions
I'm actually not that up in arms about the contract...
Honestly, we are basically done messing with cap space for a while anyway. I’ll come out and say we are overpaying him quite a bit unless he ends up playing beyond where I think he will, but hell, it’s not my checks. The only real downside is it makes him unmoveable early on.
Playing bully contract with paul allen’s money once we have a solid core group, which we do now, works fine for me. Especially front-loading contracts which aren’t quite as “bad” in the longterm as they seem but are really effective on scaring luxury tax teams out of matching.
"We Believe" - Rudy Fernandez
I agree.
It’s fine as long as PA isn’t scared of paying the luxury tax, which I don’t think he is.
You can measure skill and talent with your eyes, but productivity is shown through statistics.
Spend it Baby!
The blazers had the 29th total salary for 2009 and that included 9 million to Darius Miles.. It’s time to spends some $$$ It’s nice to have a owner with fat pockets and willing to do whatever is necessary to win. If Rich Cho can sell Paul Allen with his player stats and pie charts I have no doubt that Paul will go as far over the cap as needed if it meant a legitimate shot at a Championship. My greatest fear of the Blazers though is not the player roster, it’s Nate McMillian. IMO if the Blazers are to make a real run at the West Coast Finals either Nate is going to have to seriously change his offensive game plan, substitutions, use the rookies, set picks and score in transition or pack his bags.
The first 30 games of this season will be very telling. If after 30 games the Blazers are 20-10 then things need to change
On game day, I leave the turkey alone because it is some chemicals in that thing. Nate Mcmillian 11/26/09
Paul is willing to (over)spend
but he’s been waiting until the team is a bonafide championship contender again, and they’ve been stubbing their toe for the past few post seasons. Last year at this time we heard that Paul felt that the team was 12 months behind in their development to win a championship—and that was before all the injuries struck
I think Nate’s job is safe until next May. If the team fails to advance past the first round again, I don’t think think that even “Mr. Sonic” will survive the purge.
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Where's Cho? I know this wasnt his signing but why isnt he at the press conference? This is his team now after all. Or was here there, just not pictured?
Have they already banished him to some dark room in the basement of the RG to crunch numbers?
Contingent Deniability
Matty Walker: You're not too smart, are you? I like that in a man. - Body Heat (1981)
by BlazerFanSince1970 on Jul 21, 2010 7:39 PM PDT up reply actions
...down here,
Like the Whos down in Whoville they did it without boxes or ribbons or bows, they did without centers or posting down low. They won without All-Stars and Spaniards and Frenchmen. They won with old geezers and sub-par defense-men. They won playing rookies from deep off the benches. They won with their grit and their guts in the trenches. And some who observed them have been known to say that their hearts grew three sizes (at least!) on the way. One hopes with their poise and their passion now proven that once they are healthy their game will be groovin'. -- Dave
by conspirator5 on Jul 21, 2010 10:14 PM PDT up reply actions
If he's your guy, you go get him
There are plenty of unproductive players in the league making tens of millions, if this kid can contribute and make our team better he’s worth every penny. He’s young, we know he’s not afraid to play in big games, and he fits with the players we have and the way they play.
I’m excited to see him suit up and I think by the end of summer we’ll have a pretty solid rotation without the defensive holes that used to crop up when we went to the bench. This does make me wonder about Roy’s minutes, and if having a quality 2 guard might allow Roy to shave a couple minutes off his playing time in the first half. You want your best guy on the floor, but perhaps Matthews will allow him just a little more rest before crunch time, which could add up to better health by the end of the season.
not to mention
Batum or Matthews will defend all the SFs, so Roy won’t have to (except on switches)
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
hopefully this move means that were gonna see some roy at the point
batum and wesley can guard the two better wing players and roy can guard the weakest of the three
no kidding
Watching Roy get beat backdoor for layups and weakside offensive rebounds night after night last year while he stood still guarding no one got old as heck.
"I want to be traded to a contender" is almost always code-speak for "I'm a loser."
-Dave, 2/5/2010: http://www.blazersedge.com/2010/2/5/1297509/no-amore-for-amare
yes, but remember he played a fair amount of SF last season
and he’s not a SF…
Geriatric Dunk Squad!
1/4/10 - Juwan Howard dunks on Chris Kaman.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTkOqDgLb6s
3/7/10 - Andre Miller Tomahawk jams on the Denver Nuggets.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-JVgm7F1QA
4/12/10 - Marcus Camby drops 30 and 13 on OKC to cement 50 wins. http://www.nba.com/blazers/media/camby_chant_041310.mp3
by Eat Politicians on Jul 21, 2010 5:05 PM PDT up reply actions
the position he played had nothing to do with him standing flatfooted halfway between his man and the basket..
…and not noticing and/or being too slow to react to the guy cutting back door on him for the pass or layup.
"I want to be traded to a contender" is almost always code-speak for "I'm a loser."
-Dave, 2/5/2010: http://www.blazersedge.com/2010/2/5/1297509/no-amore-for-amare
we'll have to come up with a new "dinosaur name" for Wesley
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Pachycephalosaurus?
They’re the one’s that headbutted the crap outta the dinosaur kingdom.
Stealth > Wealth
The Utah sour grapes remind me so much of Golden State's attitude re/ Mario Ellie back in the day
Like Mathews, Ellie was a “discovery,” a “nobody” who took advantage of his opportunity and showed he belonged in the NBA. Like the Jazz today, the Warriors back then refused to accept that their discovery was entitled to make real money following his Cinderella season. When Ellie signed with the Rockets, Don Nelson stated that he could find plenty of other guys just as good as Ellie in the CBA.
But it didn’t work out that way. While the Ellie-less Warriors struggled in subsequent seasons, Ellie helped the Rockets win a pair of championships. Here’s hoping the Jazz find egg on their faces as well, as the Blazers proceed to dominate the NW division—with major help from Mathews—the next decade.
I was born in '52, and I believe in #52. Hang in there, GO.
You too, Przy: everyone knows you're the heart & soul of the Blazers.
great comparison
kind of a similar game too. Elie was an off-the ball offensive player who wasstout and strong enough to guard both wing positions, despite being under-height for a 3, and made his offensive living by hitting open threes and scoring on fast breaks and cuts to the basket, combined with energy and hustle.
Sound like anyone we just signed?
"I want to be traded to a contender" is almost always code-speak for "I'm a loser."
-Dave, 2/5/2010: http://www.blazersedge.com/2010/2/5/1297509/no-amore-for-amare
Mario was also with the Spurs in '98-99 when Duncan won his first ring
Matthews is more athletic than Elie was, but they have the same “dog” inside
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Elie came to Portland
before going to the Rockets and then the Spurs. Unfortunately, Clyde was hurt that year and Duck put on a ton of weight and the Blazers couldn’t get out of the first round.
You could see he was a winner ,even with Portland. He hit big shots and played tough perimeter D, very much like Horry did with the Rockets, Lakers and Spurs.
Elie belongs in the role player Hall of Fame along with Michael Cooper, Derek Fisher and Horry.
Matthews has some of the same attributes, and a solid gene pool.
by Rip City Reign on Jul 21, 2010 9:36 PM PDT up reply actions
yes, I remember
Mario was a cool dude, and I wasn’t happy when he left. But there was a lot “not to be happy about” back in those days, the glory of the early 90s was fading as “the window” creaked shut for awhile
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
I wish Larry Miller would dress more like a business man on occasions like this.
"Ain't nothin' in this world for free."
This is Portland man
relax…
Geriatric Dunk Squad!
1/4/10 - Juwan Howard dunks on Chris Kaman.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTkOqDgLb6s
3/7/10 - Andre Miller Tomahawk jams on the Denver Nuggets.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-JVgm7F1QA
4/12/10 - Marcus Camby drops 30 and 13 on OKC to cement 50 wins. http://www.nba.com/blazers/media/camby_chant_041310.mp3
by Eat Politicians on Jul 21, 2010 5:06 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
I'm always surprised when I see people here wearing suits.
Take it off or move somewhere else.
Disclaimer: everything I know about basketball I learned on Blazersedge.
he looks like SupaFly
On game day, I leave the turkey alone because it is some chemicals in that thing. Nate Mcmillian 11/26/09
Matthews for Webster
Will some of the “overpaid” doubters consider looking at this as a swap of Webster for Matthews and a first rounder (Babbitt)? Does this make the Matthews signing seem like less of a risk?
Matthews costs a little more than Webster and his contract runs for longer (bigger risk), but we’re getting a superior player and a better fit. This all for a few million of Paul Allen’s money.
by lankownia on Jul 21, 2010 4:20 PM PDT reply actions 4 recs
The thing I'm most excited about Wesley....
Is seeing his mentality on the court influencing his teammates. Brandon especially. It’s hard not to want to work harder when one of your teammates is giving it his all on the court.
Already
The best smile picture of the season. That first pic is great.
Greg Oden ate my baby. Need money for body-building training so that I may take my revenge.
watching the videos of Wesley speaking
I thought I saw a little bit of Stevie Wonder, in some of his facial expressions
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Between Kelly Dwyer correctly stating about how terribly overpaid Wes Matthews is combined with how ...
Wes Matthews lacks an understanding on the way that he’ll integrated into the Portland Trail Blazers — which reminds me somewhat of Andre Miller ordeal to start last season — it appears that this has bad news written all over it.
Matthews, who can’t play the 2 at all whatsoever in the high-low zone offense due to his piss-poor handles and inability to create for himself one-on-one in iso plays, is just a glorified version of the equally one-dimensional Martell Webster. All things considered, signing Matthews to a bloated long-term contract is an imprudent use of financial resources.
Undoubtedly, this contract will come back to bite the team in the you know what, too, as do most short-sighted full-sized MLE contracts. If nothing else comes about from the likely season-long lockout beginning in 2011, it’s that the MLE — and other equally damaging cap exceptions — will die a much-needed death.
Meanwhile, Roger "perfect fit" Mason Jr is still looking for a gig
I suppose we’re going to keep hearing this exclusive scouting report on Matthews (and your hackneyed comparison to Damien Wilkins) until the games begin in November, just like we did re: Andre Miller last year at this time. Give it a rest, clearly the Blazers scouts and head coach have an 180-degree different concept of roster-building and style of play than you do.
At least Paul Allen hired a GM that you approve of, so you’ll have to be content with that
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Oh I'm sure you will
and If he does well (or even above average) I’ll try to be kind
I understand your concerns on the offensive end, but I think WM was acquired to defend the tough 2s and 3s, and not complain about his role. You can’t put a price on that; finding that kind of player isn’t easy, as I mentioned back when this process started. I grade the transaction an “A” because players like Wesley are at the heart of what all championship teams have in common. You can’t win without good offensive players, but you also can’t advance far in the post season without hard-nosed defense and BBIQ. The Blazer’s wing position has now been upgraded in both categories, over the past 2 years
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Let's wait until we see him play.
He shot 51% from the left corner. He could be a mistake or he could be a better version of Bruce Bowen. Who knows.
by Nick Van Excellent on Jul 21, 2010 10:14 PM PDT up reply actions
Big deal.
There’s still enough flexibility to pair him with Batum and Roy. Who cares if he’s the three on offense? He’s still better right now than Webster or Rudy ever were and is more likely to develop into a legit 2 than either of those guys. The Blazers basically replaced two mediocre players (Rudy and Web) into one slightly better player who still has upside. That’s some pretty fine roster consolidation if you ask me. It’s not a hard contract to trade after this season so the risk is really low. At worst they paid an extra million or two a year for a player who gives them better production than what they had.
Roster consolidation! You should be happy.
by Nick Van Excellent on Jul 22, 2010 3:01 AM PDT up reply actions
Which is perfect for when we trade Batum for Paul. ;)
Blazersedge, keeping haterade in business for years
Where is the video for this press conference? I demand video!
"You know, when you are in the game, you hear 20,000 people behind you, you don't feel anything."
- Nicolas Batum on playing through his shoulder injury during the 2010 playoffs.
Nevermind..
http://blog.oregonlive.com/behindblazersbeat/2010/07/blazers_video_watch_the_wesley.html
"You know, when you are in the game, you hear 20,000 people behind you, you don't feel anything."
- Nicolas Batum on playing through his shoulder injury during the 2010 playoffs.
he sure is handsome
and a nice smile too, look out rudy you are no longer the hottie on the team, we might just have to trade you.
by doomsdaymachine on Jul 21, 2010 7:15 PM PDT reply actions
Matthews and his agent must have had one eye on the federal income tax
increases that will happen January 1, 2011. The tax rate for a yearly income over $384,860 goes from 35% to 39.6%. Lower brackets also increase. Matthews by getting the entire $9,000,000 in 2010 will save in the neighborhood of $414,000 on his federal income tax.
Stu Inman: a soft-spoken, witty and brilliant basketball guy -- who had so much to do with Portland's only championship. He believed that you won with not just great players, but with great people. (D Jaynes 2-2-07 Portland Tribune)
Playoff caliber defense in the 4th quarter PG Roy
SG Matthews
SF Batum
PF Camby
C Oden
A better defensive lineup:
PG Batum
SG Matthews
SF Camby
PF Przybilla
C Oden
Bayless and Armon can get after it, as well
don’t forget the “little” guys (who really aren’t that little)
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Really like the Rotations
Cunningham, Matthews and Camby give us a deep 8 man rotation with Miller, Roy, Batum, Aldridge and Oden. Should be great for playoffs.
yes, it should
but don’t leave out Joel
When reached 40 years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
I think Jazz fans are more upset
at slimey agents than anything. Matthews is a good kid and I hate to see him go. He deserves good things that he is getting. What irks is that it appears Matthews agent was not telling him the whole story. Wes thinks Jazz did little to nothing to negotiate, when the truth is the Jazz tried, but were blown off. That is what Siler was steamed about.
But whats done is done, you guys have a great player in Matthews. But be aware, there have been players in the past whom Sloan/Jazz has made look good, then signs big contracts with other teams, then turns out to be extremely average. I don’t think this is the case with Wes, but it has happened.
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