The streak continues to 0-5. As hard as the ESPN 2 announcers tried to say how much talent the Lynx had, the gap between the Fever and our ladies was obvious. As with the other games, poor defense, no real inside game to speak of, no ball movement, a few screens and a lot of Seimone Augustus. Coach Z has got to design a better offense. Everyone's standing around; there's way too much dribbling. SA is something though, a very good individual player. There were a few other decent signs; Lindsey Harding is starting to find her shot and Svetlana Abrosimova had some good minutes. It's apparent that Coach is still trying to find his rotation...I can help:
Tiffany Stansbury can't hit a free throw, and is not a long term solution, but should be playing the low post, Kathrin Ress is the back up
Nicole Ohlde should be playing the high post or be seated; she simply can't finish inside. Even the announcers noticed that tonight. When Tamika Raymond is healthy, she can rotate in
Svet can play small forward, Kristen Mann is the sub
SA can do what she does, Noelle Quinn comes in.
Harding plays the point, Amber Jacobs provides relief.
Right now, you've got to have a mix of veterans and your young stars on the court, to provide stability. Once again, we hear the phrase "playing hard", but there's nothing coming out of that, no real chemistry to speak of. They need to play better defense, so they can score easier baskets and hopefully let SA work in transition. You won't win many games shooting such a low percentage.
Everyone needs to step up a bit, especially the coaching staff. I've said it before; I can't believe this guy was ever on a Flip Saunders staff. Simply incredible.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
FUBAR
In this case, it means fouled up beyond all recognition.
Anytime a team shoots and makes twice as many free throws as the opposition, usually the team going to the line more wins. There was a lot of weeping and gnashing of teeth in Utah last night, and a Jerry Sloan ejection, but the Jazz have no one to blame but themselves. Especially in the second half, there were key times where the Jazz had the opportunity to go ahead in the game, but turned the ball over repeatedly. Both Carlos Boozer and AK-47 had trouble throwing outlet passes, and Deron Williams--who was still very good last night--could not catch a break when he penetrated and tried to create contact. I think the Spurs got the benefit from some calls, especially since Duncan got some ticky-tack fouls called in Game 3, but when it came down to crunch time, the Jazz simply didn't get it done.
Now for the real meaning of FUBAR. As I was watching the Jazz-Spurs last night, I decided to browse to the KFAN web site and check their on-demand audio section. Because of work, I usually don't get to tune into Chad Hartman, and sure enough, he had Jim Petersen as an in-studio guest last week, right after the NBA lottery selections. Anyone reading my contributions to Britt Robson's blog in the past knows I disagree with Petersen on just about everything. I've been told he's a great guy, but please as a public figure, I find him to be arrogant, a homer commentator, and really wrong on most issues related to pro basketball. What I heard from him last night was again one more reason for the Wolves NOT to consider him for any coaching or front-office position.
First, let's start with his defense of the Diaw-Amare suspensions in the Suns-Spurs game. Jim Pete mentions how Stern was absolutely right in his decision to suspend those two; bringing up--as Stern did--the "punch", Kermit Washington's vicious smack to Rudy T's face. David Stern is the boss, and therefore has the right to interpret the rule, but here's why their stated rationale is disingenuous. "The Punch" occurred in 1977. The NBA leaving the bench rule was adopted before the ‘94-’95 season. So, where was the concern for players during those missing years?
The current rule is not a direct result of that incident, it was an attempt to try and maintain order during an increasingly fractious and contentious period of the league. They had an image to protect after all, and it was getting worse at that time. So for Jim Pete and the Commish to defend it on "The Punch" is ludicrous. That's what spin artists do these days. They bring up the worst possible scenario or example to illuminate the point, instead of actually intelligently talking through the issue. It's flat out wrong not to punish the instigators more than players who broke the letter of the law by leaving the bench, but not the spirit of the law by going back to the bench and not getting involved. Isn't that the intended result of all these rules, not getting involved in a fight and throwing a punch?
The second issue is in his assessment that the top need for the Wolves is a big small forward or in hoops vernacular, a "three".
What?!
You've got a soft front-court with no offensive rebounding to speak of, no interior defense, very little shot blocking, and you're saying our primary need is a big SF? Let's review. Here's a guy that was spinning Mark Blount to be the second best center in the Western Conference at one time and a guy who advocated the signing of Mike James. Just like his right wing brethren, when has Jim Pete been correct about anything in the couple of years? Jeff Green as the Wolves #1? Please, not another wing man.
This is the true definition of FUBAR.
Anytime a team shoots and makes twice as many free throws as the opposition, usually the team going to the line more wins. There was a lot of weeping and gnashing of teeth in Utah last night, and a Jerry Sloan ejection, but the Jazz have no one to blame but themselves. Especially in the second half, there were key times where the Jazz had the opportunity to go ahead in the game, but turned the ball over repeatedly. Both Carlos Boozer and AK-47 had trouble throwing outlet passes, and Deron Williams--who was still very good last night--could not catch a break when he penetrated and tried to create contact. I think the Spurs got the benefit from some calls, especially since Duncan got some ticky-tack fouls called in Game 3, but when it came down to crunch time, the Jazz simply didn't get it done.
Now for the real meaning of FUBAR. As I was watching the Jazz-Spurs last night, I decided to browse to the KFAN web site and check their on-demand audio section. Because of work, I usually don't get to tune into Chad Hartman, and sure enough, he had Jim Petersen as an in-studio guest last week, right after the NBA lottery selections. Anyone reading my contributions to Britt Robson's blog in the past knows I disagree with Petersen on just about everything. I've been told he's a great guy, but please as a public figure, I find him to be arrogant, a homer commentator, and really wrong on most issues related to pro basketball. What I heard from him last night was again one more reason for the Wolves NOT to consider him for any coaching or front-office position.
First, let's start with his defense of the Diaw-Amare suspensions in the Suns-Spurs game. Jim Pete mentions how Stern was absolutely right in his decision to suspend those two; bringing up--as Stern did--the "punch", Kermit Washington's vicious smack to Rudy T's face. David Stern is the boss, and therefore has the right to interpret the rule, but here's why their stated rationale is disingenuous. "The Punch" occurred in 1977. The NBA leaving the bench rule was adopted before the ‘94-’95 season. So, where was the concern for players during those missing years?
The current rule is not a direct result of that incident, it was an attempt to try and maintain order during an increasingly fractious and contentious period of the league. They had an image to protect after all, and it was getting worse at that time. So for Jim Pete and the Commish to defend it on "The Punch" is ludicrous. That's what spin artists do these days. They bring up the worst possible scenario or example to illuminate the point, instead of actually intelligently talking through the issue. It's flat out wrong not to punish the instigators more than players who broke the letter of the law by leaving the bench, but not the spirit of the law by going back to the bench and not getting involved. Isn't that the intended result of all these rules, not getting involved in a fight and throwing a punch?
The second issue is in his assessment that the top need for the Wolves is a big small forward or in hoops vernacular, a "three".
What?!
You've got a soft front-court with no offensive rebounding to speak of, no interior defense, very little shot blocking, and you're saying our primary need is a big SF? Let's review. Here's a guy that was spinning Mark Blount to be the second best center in the Western Conference at one time and a guy who advocated the signing of Mike James. Just like his right wing brethren, when has Jim Pete been correct about anything in the couple of years? Jeff Green as the Wolves #1? Please, not another wing man.
This is the true definition of FUBAR.
Monday, May 28, 2007
The James Gang
The whole cliche of putting a team on your back presupposes there's a team willing to be led, and and perform when called upon. The difference in the NBA ECF last night was clearly Lebron, but it was Daniel Gibson, the rookie out of Texas, who I thought made key contributions in the second half that helped put the Cavs over the top. James had his gang show up last night.
All along the conventional wisdom has been that James needed a couple of other folks to step up and eliminate the one on five mentality the Pistons were taking when guarding him. Drew Gooden was a part of the gang early, but by the fourth quarter was taking bad shots and getting too emotionally involved with the refereeing, getting a technical late in the fourth. When Gibson was in the game, the Pistons tried to exploit him on both offense and defense...and failed. He was able to withstand Billups' repeated attempts to post him up, and hit a couple of big shots when the ball was rotated to him. It will be interesting to see his development, since Cleveland paid big money to Larry Hughes to run the point.
Lebron was the show though, and his dunk late in the fourth was a highlight to last his entire career. He's undergone some of the same criticism KG has during his career; the difference is at 22, Lebron listened, KG really hasn't. King James' aggressiveness and refuse to lose posture last night got them three more baskets than Detroit. Just about everything else stats-wise was roughly similar. The superstar rose to the occasion. It's what we've been begging KG to do for years--go hard to the basket, try and get easy baskets or get to the line. The NBA rewards aggressiveness.
In the end we see a contrast between winning and losing teams: superstars needing other players to step up, when they do, the superstar then fiercely and aggressively leads the team into competition. No excuses; it's clear what the pecking order is. If Lebron can perform at that level the rest of the series, for the Cavs to win his gang will need to show up. If the Wolves are going to regain respectability, if a team can be assembled around him (a BIG if), he must approach leadership with a fierceness that he hasn't displayed, despite all the talk to the contrary.
I still think Flip gets his team into the Finals against the Spurs, but we may be seeing one of those emerging moments where a superstar gets to be Nova class, and a team rises to yet another level. It's something Minnesota basketball fans have always dreamed, but seen little of.
All along the conventional wisdom has been that James needed a couple of other folks to step up and eliminate the one on five mentality the Pistons were taking when guarding him. Drew Gooden was a part of the gang early, but by the fourth quarter was taking bad shots and getting too emotionally involved with the refereeing, getting a technical late in the fourth. When Gibson was in the game, the Pistons tried to exploit him on both offense and defense...and failed. He was able to withstand Billups' repeated attempts to post him up, and hit a couple of big shots when the ball was rotated to him. It will be interesting to see his development, since Cleveland paid big money to Larry Hughes to run the point.
Lebron was the show though, and his dunk late in the fourth was a highlight to last his entire career. He's undergone some of the same criticism KG has during his career; the difference is at 22, Lebron listened, KG really hasn't. King James' aggressiveness and refuse to lose posture last night got them three more baskets than Detroit. Just about everything else stats-wise was roughly similar. The superstar rose to the occasion. It's what we've been begging KG to do for years--go hard to the basket, try and get easy baskets or get to the line. The NBA rewards aggressiveness.
In the end we see a contrast between winning and losing teams: superstars needing other players to step up, when they do, the superstar then fiercely and aggressively leads the team into competition. No excuses; it's clear what the pecking order is. If Lebron can perform at that level the rest of the series, for the Cavs to win his gang will need to show up. If the Wolves are going to regain respectability, if a team can be assembled around him (a BIG if), he must approach leadership with a fierceness that he hasn't displayed, despite all the talk to the contrary.
I still think Flip gets his team into the Finals against the Spurs, but we may be seeing one of those emerging moments where a superstar gets to be Nova class, and a team rises to yet another level. It's something Minnesota basketball fans have always dreamed, but seen little of.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Sky's the Limit
It's official: we're the worst team in the WNBA. It's early, but losing at home to the Sky--a second year expansion team with no wins previously--is inexcusable. Kudos to the front office, coaches, and players for taking up the challenge and delivering. Opposing teams are shooting over 50% against us, a sure sign of bad defense and lack of chemistry. Poor shooting percentages on offense, no bench scoring to speak of, save for new addition Tiffany Stansbury, who also had 13 rebounds last night, and no energy. All of those elements add up to a bad team, at least for right now.
Lindsey Harding played a better game against lesser competition, but a two person game won't cut it in this league, and I'd like to see Harding play well against better clubs. We finally out rebounded a team, but even those stats are deceiving. If a team shoots as badly as we do, there will be more offensive rebounds available to grab. We dominated that stat last night 19-6, which helped keep us in the game, along with Seimone Augustus. But in the end, it was the failure of our low post players to finish and poor defense that did us in last night.
At least for the near future, it's a season of moral victories, playing hard, and pleas for patience. If this continues, I would fully expect Augustus to ask for a trade, or an increase in salary, merely because she's trying to do the work of two or three players. Ever since the Katie Smith trade, our rebuilding efforts have plummeted us further down the abyss. Not only are we unable to create a team chemistry that has failed to provide hope, but we failed to add any local talent (Lindsey Whalen, Janel McCarville) that would help keep people in the seats until we could see signs of progress.
Other key failures that can't be passed over are the contributions of both of our U Conn #1's--Svetlana Abrosimova and Tamika Raymond. While not total busts, they have not been close to performing at the level expected when they came out of that storied program. Add to that the mediocre play of Ohlde and minimal contribution of Vanessa Hayden while she was ON the team, and you have four major reasons why the team is exactly where it is today. One star player, a bunch of others, and one rookie guard trying to show some promise. Kind of reminds you of another Minnesota professional basketball team, doesn't it?
Lindsey Harding played a better game against lesser competition, but a two person game won't cut it in this league, and I'd like to see Harding play well against better clubs. We finally out rebounded a team, but even those stats are deceiving. If a team shoots as badly as we do, there will be more offensive rebounds available to grab. We dominated that stat last night 19-6, which helped keep us in the game, along with Seimone Augustus. But in the end, it was the failure of our low post players to finish and poor defense that did us in last night.
At least for the near future, it's a season of moral victories, playing hard, and pleas for patience. If this continues, I would fully expect Augustus to ask for a trade, or an increase in salary, merely because she's trying to do the work of two or three players. Ever since the Katie Smith trade, our rebuilding efforts have plummeted us further down the abyss. Not only are we unable to create a team chemistry that has failed to provide hope, but we failed to add any local talent (Lindsey Whalen, Janel McCarville) that would help keep people in the seats until we could see signs of progress.
Other key failures that can't be passed over are the contributions of both of our U Conn #1's--Svetlana Abrosimova and Tamika Raymond. While not total busts, they have not been close to performing at the level expected when they came out of that storied program. Add to that the mediocre play of Ohlde and minimal contribution of Vanessa Hayden while she was ON the team, and you have four major reasons why the team is exactly where it is today. One star player, a bunch of others, and one rookie guard trying to show some promise. Kind of reminds you of another Minnesota professional basketball team, doesn't it?
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Wittman's Wonders
The fraternal order is complete for another year. With a signed, possible three year contract in hand, Randy Wittman is now the official head of the Wolves. Sad, but true. He did nothing to deserve another shot, and doesn't have all that much to work with. If they would happen to win 5-10 more games, but not make the playoffs, will that constitute success, or failure? If he loses more games than this year, or stays even, will he be fired, or be given another year to try and make it work? When you're part of a frat club, those decisions become harder and convoluted.
It looks like Roy Hibbert realized his value would go up if he stays in school another year. Too bad for the Wolves. I've read on plenty of other boards where people don't like him much, but I think the club couldn't have passed him up, he was a late bloomer to be sure, but he has all the skills that the Wolves needed, rebounding, interior defense, shot blocking, some low post moves. Which leads me to the popular opinion that the Wolves will take Corey Brewer at seventh. That my friends, would be a disaster. A good player, but another swing man? Nope. At this point, I'm taking Noah or Horford. Horford will probably be gone, so Noah is my choice. So what if he can't shoot much? He's athletic, intense, rebounds and runs the court well, and can play decent interior defense. They don't need a shooter like Mark Blount, they need someone to contest for offensive rebounds, defend penetration and change shots. Since they can't get rid of the Blounster, they can tandem together. I don't think he'll like the weather much up here, but unless Conley is available at that pick they absolutely need a front court player. Unless someone comes out of the shadows who has all those qualities, Noah's my guy.
It looks like Roy Hibbert realized his value would go up if he stays in school another year. Too bad for the Wolves. I've read on plenty of other boards where people don't like him much, but I think the club couldn't have passed him up, he was a late bloomer to be sure, but he has all the skills that the Wolves needed, rebounding, interior defense, shot blocking, some low post moves. Which leads me to the popular opinion that the Wolves will take Corey Brewer at seventh. That my friends, would be a disaster. A good player, but another swing man? Nope. At this point, I'm taking Noah or Horford. Horford will probably be gone, so Noah is my choice. So what if he can't shoot much? He's athletic, intense, rebounds and runs the court well, and can play decent interior defense. They don't need a shooter like Mark Blount, they need someone to contest for offensive rebounds, defend penetration and change shots. Since they can't get rid of the Blounster, they can tandem together. I don't think he'll like the weather much up here, but unless Conley is available at that pick they absolutely need a front court player. Unless someone comes out of the shadows who has all those qualities, Noah's my guy.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Seventh Heaven?
From reading the other boards and blogs--as well as Reusse's column this morning--you'd think the Rapture had come, and we were the ones left behind. It's obvious people are looking for quick fixes (e.g. - Allen Iverson), because there is absolutely no faith in the Wolves Nation that the front office will do anything right. That's a very fair observation. However, the time for quick fixes are over for this club. Either they are going to have to find someone competent to rebuild this team, or the weeping and gnashing of teeth will continue.
There are plenty of good to great players available to draft at seventh. It's conventional wisdom to select the most talented player available in the draft, but considering the putrid status of the Wolves front court--especially at center with the soft, inconsistent, jump shooting Mark Blount--they can't let one of three players go by.The three that most intrigue me are Horford and Noah from Florida, and Hibbert from Georgetown. These are the three players who could best compliment KG in the front court. I think Horford will be gone by seven, but Noah and Hibbert should still be there. Hibbert would be considered a stretch at seven, but I think he's the type of player the Wolves need the most, a space eater who is a shot blocker, and already has a bit of a offensive post game. The only exception I might make is if Conley dropped into their lap. Hibbert would initially be in foul trouble a lot his rookie year, just as Craig Smith was this year, but he has all the dynamics the club needs. Noah gives you a similar game, but can run up and down the court, Horford is a bit smaller, but powerful. Power, rebounding, interior defense and shot blocking are key ingredients to the Wolves success for next year.
The bottom line: I have no faith in the front office either, but the Wolves at some point are simply going to have to make their own good luck.
As for the Lynx, they're now 0-3. Get used to hearing this phrase: "They played hard." That seems to be the first available spin line for this team. I heard Andrea Lloyd Curry say it on Sunday, and Brian Sieman repeat it again last night. Here's another familiar line: "this game is very simple." The Lynx, especially on offense, are working very hard just to get any offensive spark at all. Nicole Ohlde--who I'm not picking on, BTW--had 14 points, but only a couple of rebounds. Simply put, that can't happen. As I was inferring with my last post, there needs to be better ball movement and tougher defense, with the goal being easier shots. Keep the game simple, not lazy. However, it is early yet, and with five rooks on the team, what legitimately fans should be looking for is progress. The Lynx best chance for a win in this early season will come this Friday at home against Chicago. Their first two games have come against legitimate championship contenders; Chicago is more their caliber of team. This will be a better measuring stick of where the team is at. If Chicago blows them out, or wins decisively, then we know they will have trouble winning ANY games this year. If they can pick up a win, the logic that this is simply a young team trying to get itself together will suffice...for now.
There are plenty of good to great players available to draft at seventh. It's conventional wisdom to select the most talented player available in the draft, but considering the putrid status of the Wolves front court--especially at center with the soft, inconsistent, jump shooting Mark Blount--they can't let one of three players go by.The three that most intrigue me are Horford and Noah from Florida, and Hibbert from Georgetown. These are the three players who could best compliment KG in the front court. I think Horford will be gone by seven, but Noah and Hibbert should still be there. Hibbert would be considered a stretch at seven, but I think he's the type of player the Wolves need the most, a space eater who is a shot blocker, and already has a bit of a offensive post game. The only exception I might make is if Conley dropped into their lap. Hibbert would initially be in foul trouble a lot his rookie year, just as Craig Smith was this year, but he has all the dynamics the club needs. Noah gives you a similar game, but can run up and down the court, Horford is a bit smaller, but powerful. Power, rebounding, interior defense and shot blocking are key ingredients to the Wolves success for next year.
The bottom line: I have no faith in the front office either, but the Wolves at some point are simply going to have to make their own good luck.
As for the Lynx, they're now 0-3. Get used to hearing this phrase: "They played hard." That seems to be the first available spin line for this team. I heard Andrea Lloyd Curry say it on Sunday, and Brian Sieman repeat it again last night. Here's another familiar line: "this game is very simple." The Lynx, especially on offense, are working very hard just to get any offensive spark at all. Nicole Ohlde--who I'm not picking on, BTW--had 14 points, but only a couple of rebounds. Simply put, that can't happen. As I was inferring with my last post, there needs to be better ball movement and tougher defense, with the goal being easier shots. Keep the game simple, not lazy. However, it is early yet, and with five rooks on the team, what legitimately fans should be looking for is progress. The Lynx best chance for a win in this early season will come this Friday at home against Chicago. Their first two games have come against legitimate championship contenders; Chicago is more their caliber of team. This will be a better measuring stick of where the team is at. If Chicago blows them out, or wins decisively, then we know they will have trouble winning ANY games this year. If they can pick up a win, the logic that this is simply a young team trying to get itself together will suffice...for now.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Standing Pat
Or, insert the names of Lauren, Lindsey, Nicole, or Amber. Or just about anyone on the Lynx other than Seimone Augustus. Did this coach actually serve under Flip Saunders? Watching last night's game was fun, especially in the second half, but as feisty as it was, the tilt was never in doubt. Teams that stand around like the Lynx did on offense last night deserve to get beat. Flip at least believed in ball, if not player movement. No screens, no moving the ball from side to side, it was awful. And, no post play. The first adjustment I'd make is to sit Nicole Ohlde down. She's not able to physically compete with veteran championship-tier post players. No physical or mental toughness whatsoever. I always thought she was quick to the basket, but a poor finisher. Last night, she could do neither, and her paint play was HORRENDOUS. She's been in the league three years now; overall, women's post play in the WNBA has improved, she has not kept up, as was demonstrated last night. Kathrin Ress from BC would be a much better starting center at this point. She's got the wider body, intensity, and though she will probably get in foul trouble in the beginning, you can tell she's got a lot of upside to her, being only a rookie.
It's early yet, but you won't win games just by giving the ball to SA and getting out of the way. And, I would hold back the ROY for Lindsey Harding; she's got a LONG way to go to be a top notch point guard in this league. Again, she has some intensity, but a team that disrupts people defensively like the Monarchs do has to move something--either the ball or people. The coach and PG are the ones who need to get it done.
Let's hope these are simply growing pains, the result of five rookies on the roster. Otherwise, it's hard to think this club could win five games this year, if any.
It's early yet, but you won't win games just by giving the ball to SA and getting out of the way. And, I would hold back the ROY for Lindsey Harding; she's got a LONG way to go to be a top notch point guard in this league. Again, she has some intensity, but a team that disrupts people defensively like the Monarchs do has to move something--either the ball or people. The coach and PG are the ones who need to get it done.
Let's hope these are simply growing pains, the result of five rookies on the roster. Otherwise, it's hard to think this club could win five games this year, if any.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Setting Suns and Missing Lynx
Last week was something wasn't it? NBA suspensions, controversial playoff close-outs, Jerry Falwell passes away...wait, that's not sports related. Nonetheless, all the hubbub around these events made for an interesting week. For anybody who cares, check out the exchange between Christopher Hitchens and Sean Hannity regarding Falwell's death. You'll find it on You Tube. Very corrosive and revealing.
Unfortunately for Phoenix, the NBA decided to pay homage to the letter of the law instead of common sense. That's their call, and there's no use whining about it. Hopefully they'll change the rule in the off season to reflect the desired outcome of the initial effort--no additional players contributing to a fracas. The Suns played hard, but there was no way they were going to match up with a pretty deep Spurs team. I noticed Jalen Rose and Marcus Banks never got off the bench. D'Antoni was hinting in the Phoenix papers today about chemistry problems on his team. Hmm...wonder where those problems came from?
Still, the major impact of that series for me was the dwindling respect for the Spurs as an organization. Again, I thought Popovich's response to the whole Horry debacle was disappointing and unprofessional. Who I am I to be calling Pop unprofessional? I am no one in particular. As a fan and ardent follower of the NBA, however, I think there's a time and place for ordinary people to stand up and voice their displeasure regarding those who refuse to hold themselves accountable in events that degrade the events we hold dear. In the end, it really doesn't mean much in the scheme of things that the Suns were screwed; with all that's going on the world, it's a small blip. But it's one more tattered fiber in society's tapestry; leaders who refuse to publicly acknowledge mistakes and flaws in organizational or personal behavior. We all can have different perspectives on the issue, but the fact is on that night, Horry did something by all accounts thuggish and cheap. Whether Nash flopped after getting knocked down to dramatize the act by no means lessens the initial action. I haven't heard Pop apologize for that initial act, or criticize Horry for it. I think admitting the mistake and showing actual remorse for that type of cheap shot is the least he could do, especially since he's got Bruce Bowen on his team--the dirtiest player in the NBA. I thought Pop had more class than that, but it appears not. He's still a great coach, but maybe just a little less of a human being.
Moving on to our Lynx team...wow, what a start! And we're hearing familiar strains from the organization, regarding the lack of low post presence. Despite unanimity in the national media regarding Lindsey Harding being ROY in the league, couldn't they have found a way to get some more low post help?
Glen Taylor is ruining basketball in this market. His failure to hire people with any sort of clue in running a basketball operation is truly disturbing. I'm happy for Katie Smith, who won a championship last year with the Shock. I might eventually have the same joy for KG; but it's a little more apples and oranges with him, because of the salary he's making. My contention all along is that it's not only loyalty, but money that's at the heart of his issues. It's much easier to move women star players around than the men, because of the drastically lower salaries. Katie got traded, we got a bunch of draft choices, and for the last two years we essentially got the two #1's in the draft. What are we going to have to show for it? Despite the two quality backcourt players we obtained, until we get those few missing pieces in the front court, it's still looking pretty cloudy for this team's future.
Last night, we actually out rebounded the Fever, but couldn't shoot fish in a barrel. Our star of last year--Seimone Augustus--may be out for a while with a knee injury. We're still relying on Nicole Ohlde to find out how to gain enough upper body strength to actually FINISH a play around the basket which illuminates the bigger issue: both Minnesota teams can't get off the jump shooting team ethic. If you can't find a way to get easy buckets, through great defense, offensive execution, or low post excellence, then there will be nights where the shots simply don't fall, creating inconsistency. People who have played ball in grade school through YMCA leagues understand this--why can't they? Until you strike the right balance, our teams will never break through.
I love watching sports in downtown Minneapolis on a summer night. Put the Twins fairly close by and the warehouse district should be buzzing and an attraction for years to come. I hope the Lynx can find a way to stick around, despite the buffoonery of their front office. When it's right, women's basketball is a fast, team oriented game. It doesn't play much above the rim, and the shooting percentages have to be better, but the athletes are getting better by the year. Given the ticket pricing and playing season, it's a game for the rest of us. Based on those dynamics, I'm willing to go out and give my money to even a bad team, if they have some hope for the future. That's why I'm going this year...in search of hope.
Unfortunately for Phoenix, the NBA decided to pay homage to the letter of the law instead of common sense. That's their call, and there's no use whining about it. Hopefully they'll change the rule in the off season to reflect the desired outcome of the initial effort--no additional players contributing to a fracas. The Suns played hard, but there was no way they were going to match up with a pretty deep Spurs team. I noticed Jalen Rose and Marcus Banks never got off the bench. D'Antoni was hinting in the Phoenix papers today about chemistry problems on his team. Hmm...wonder where those problems came from?
Still, the major impact of that series for me was the dwindling respect for the Spurs as an organization. Again, I thought Popovich's response to the whole Horry debacle was disappointing and unprofessional. Who I am I to be calling Pop unprofessional? I am no one in particular. As a fan and ardent follower of the NBA, however, I think there's a time and place for ordinary people to stand up and voice their displeasure regarding those who refuse to hold themselves accountable in events that degrade the events we hold dear. In the end, it really doesn't mean much in the scheme of things that the Suns were screwed; with all that's going on the world, it's a small blip. But it's one more tattered fiber in society's tapestry; leaders who refuse to publicly acknowledge mistakes and flaws in organizational or personal behavior. We all can have different perspectives on the issue, but the fact is on that night, Horry did something by all accounts thuggish and cheap. Whether Nash flopped after getting knocked down to dramatize the act by no means lessens the initial action. I haven't heard Pop apologize for that initial act, or criticize Horry for it. I think admitting the mistake and showing actual remorse for that type of cheap shot is the least he could do, especially since he's got Bruce Bowen on his team--the dirtiest player in the NBA. I thought Pop had more class than that, but it appears not. He's still a great coach, but maybe just a little less of a human being.
Moving on to our Lynx team...wow, what a start! And we're hearing familiar strains from the organization, regarding the lack of low post presence. Despite unanimity in the national media regarding Lindsey Harding being ROY in the league, couldn't they have found a way to get some more low post help?
Glen Taylor is ruining basketball in this market. His failure to hire people with any sort of clue in running a basketball operation is truly disturbing. I'm happy for Katie Smith, who won a championship last year with the Shock. I might eventually have the same joy for KG; but it's a little more apples and oranges with him, because of the salary he's making. My contention all along is that it's not only loyalty, but money that's at the heart of his issues. It's much easier to move women star players around than the men, because of the drastically lower salaries. Katie got traded, we got a bunch of draft choices, and for the last two years we essentially got the two #1's in the draft. What are we going to have to show for it? Despite the two quality backcourt players we obtained, until we get those few missing pieces in the front court, it's still looking pretty cloudy for this team's future.
Last night, we actually out rebounded the Fever, but couldn't shoot fish in a barrel. Our star of last year--Seimone Augustus--may be out for a while with a knee injury. We're still relying on Nicole Ohlde to find out how to gain enough upper body strength to actually FINISH a play around the basket which illuminates the bigger issue: both Minnesota teams can't get off the jump shooting team ethic. If you can't find a way to get easy buckets, through great defense, offensive execution, or low post excellence, then there will be nights where the shots simply don't fall, creating inconsistency. People who have played ball in grade school through YMCA leagues understand this--why can't they? Until you strike the right balance, our teams will never break through.
I love watching sports in downtown Minneapolis on a summer night. Put the Twins fairly close by and the warehouse district should be buzzing and an attraction for years to come. I hope the Lynx can find a way to stick around, despite the buffoonery of their front office. When it's right, women's basketball is a fast, team oriented game. It doesn't play much above the rim, and the shooting percentages have to be better, but the athletes are getting better by the year. Given the ticket pricing and playing season, it's a game for the rest of us. Based on those dynamics, I'm willing to go out and give my money to even a bad team, if they have some hope for the future. That's why I'm going this year...in search of hope.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Suspensions of Belief
The villains have won this round. If the NBA wanted to send a message, it's the wrong one. With the suspensions of Stoudemire and Diaw, you've given every team who's in a tight series a possible opportunity to regain an advantage. Much like hockey, you can rent-a-thug, bring him out the last few seconds of a game and:
1) Physically assault one of the other teams best players, with the hope of
2) Inciting other key players from that team to leave the bench and get at least a one game suspension.
It's ironic that in a country where the wealthy and politician classes are rarely held accountable to the rules they set, the NBA in its corporate wisdom decides to forgo what's truly correct in this matter, and adhere to the letter of the law. Who cares about the actual intent of the law; it's more important to blindly follow the rule, no matter what.
If the Spurs win this series, it will be tarnished, even in many of their own fans eyes. Buck Harvey of the SA Express came down pretty hard on his club this morning. Sure, if they get to raise the trophy, memories will be short for the faithful. But especially with the way Gregg Popovich has been addressing the matter, the Spurs image as the bland, good guy citizens has been changed. I have to believe that in the NBA backroom, a little respect has been lost for him and their team.
It's pretty easy to draw the line between hard, physical play and thuggery. The Warriors/Jazz series clearly demonstrates this concept, especially in the last two games. The way Nellie's team responded with cheap shots as the frustration level rose for their club is indicative of the type of characters on their roster. The Jazz don't have Stockton or Malone anymore--as mentioned in my last post--but the hard but clean fouls have carried on to a new generation. Anyone paying attention can see the difference. Hopefully, Deron Williams and Carlos Boozer will not degrade into the dirty (but crafty), whining louts Stockton and Malone did by the end of their careers.
The real tragedy of this decision for me personally is that I have to agree with Charles Barkley. The NBA should look at changing this rule in the off season, and focus on the intent of the players leaving the bench. If the players don't participate in the incident and retreat quickly, leave them alone. If they start trash talking, or intercede, those are grounds for suspension. The whole point of the rule is to prevent escalation of the incident, not where a player is physically standing when a cheap shot occurs. That must be way too basic for Stu Jackson. Why is he still in the league anyway?
1) Physically assault one of the other teams best players, with the hope of
2) Inciting other key players from that team to leave the bench and get at least a one game suspension.
It's ironic that in a country where the wealthy and politician classes are rarely held accountable to the rules they set, the NBA in its corporate wisdom decides to forgo what's truly correct in this matter, and adhere to the letter of the law. Who cares about the actual intent of the law; it's more important to blindly follow the rule, no matter what.
If the Spurs win this series, it will be tarnished, even in many of their own fans eyes. Buck Harvey of the SA Express came down pretty hard on his club this morning. Sure, if they get to raise the trophy, memories will be short for the faithful. But especially with the way Gregg Popovich has been addressing the matter, the Spurs image as the bland, good guy citizens has been changed. I have to believe that in the NBA backroom, a little respect has been lost for him and their team.
It's pretty easy to draw the line between hard, physical play and thuggery. The Warriors/Jazz series clearly demonstrates this concept, especially in the last two games. The way Nellie's team responded with cheap shots as the frustration level rose for their club is indicative of the type of characters on their roster. The Jazz don't have Stockton or Malone anymore--as mentioned in my last post--but the hard but clean fouls have carried on to a new generation. Anyone paying attention can see the difference. Hopefully, Deron Williams and Carlos Boozer will not degrade into the dirty (but crafty), whining louts Stockton and Malone did by the end of their careers.
The real tragedy of this decision for me personally is that I have to agree with Charles Barkley. The NBA should look at changing this rule in the off season, and focus on the intent of the players leaving the bench. If the players don't participate in the incident and retreat quickly, leave them alone. If they start trash talking, or intercede, those are grounds for suspension. The whole point of the rule is to prevent escalation of the incident, not where a player is physically standing when a cheap shot occurs. That must be way too basic for Stu Jackson. Why is he still in the league anyway?
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Getting the Cold Shoulder
Rick Mahorn should be proud. Over the last two nights, we have seen significant fourth quarter cheap shots delivered by members of the losing squad. Of the two, Robert Horry's is much more significant than the one Baron Davis delivered to Derek Fisher. Cheap Shot Rob--as both San Antonio and Arizona papers are now calling him--has created a situation that will challenge the NBA's ability to enforce it's own rules. Who cares if Horry is suspended; it's the potential one game bans of Stoudemire and Diaw that cast a pall over this series at such a crucial moment.
Last night's game was excellent for it's drama, not necessarily for its execution. The reason why San Antonio built an 11 point lead was because of over 50% and 3 point shooting. However, they hit the cold spell and Phoenix hung around until Nash could work his magic in the last few minutes of the game. In winning the contest, Phoenix continued the tradition of playoff victors generally outrebounding and shooting more free throws than the losers. They also have displayed a fair amount of mental and physical toughness. The next 12 hours could be a test to that moxie, depending on what happens to Amare and Diaw.
The game was disappointing however for a number of other reasons:
1) Gregg Popovich's post game press conference. Not that he cares what ordinary people think, but I've always respected his ability to coach in the big series and games. His refusal to show the slightest amount of accountability for his players was disturbing. Let's be clear: Bruce Bowen IS a dirty player, and Horry is one as well. I've always thought Rob got a free pass, because he was crafty about how he would try to hurt players and he was the "big shot" guy.
Pop and Jerry Sloan to me are coaches out of the same mold; guys who get a squad to be an extension of their own apparent toughness. Defense, fouling and physical play with offensive execution have been the hallmarks of their success. Sloan had Stockton and Malone, who were also very dirty players. Neither of them are apologetic, but I think when a line has been crossed, you can acknowledge it. Neither Sloan or Popovich has ever done that, and for sportsmanship's sake, they need to. Pop showed a lot of arrogance last night.
2) The Suns spin on Stoudemire's leaving the bench. Does anyone really believe that? Please. It would be better to say that initially there was the rush of emotion, he quickly got under control, and both Stoudemire and Diaw's actions were a non-factor. Ask for the mercy of the court, straight up.
3) Shaq's appearance on TNT last night. He barely had anything to say, making sound effects and platituding his way through the evening. He offered to come back, if the money were right. Please, can we pay him NOT to show up again? At least get a player who has some interest in either a) the game of basketball or b) a broadcasting career after retirement. Interesting how KG rarely shows up to these telecasts, not that Smith and Barkley have had great comments about Da Ticket lately.
TNT's catch line IS that "they know drama". Looks like we'll have more in store very soon.
Last night's game was excellent for it's drama, not necessarily for its execution. The reason why San Antonio built an 11 point lead was because of over 50% and 3 point shooting. However, they hit the cold spell and Phoenix hung around until Nash could work his magic in the last few minutes of the game. In winning the contest, Phoenix continued the tradition of playoff victors generally outrebounding and shooting more free throws than the losers. They also have displayed a fair amount of mental and physical toughness. The next 12 hours could be a test to that moxie, depending on what happens to Amare and Diaw.
The game was disappointing however for a number of other reasons:
1) Gregg Popovich's post game press conference. Not that he cares what ordinary people think, but I've always respected his ability to coach in the big series and games. His refusal to show the slightest amount of accountability for his players was disturbing. Let's be clear: Bruce Bowen IS a dirty player, and Horry is one as well. I've always thought Rob got a free pass, because he was crafty about how he would try to hurt players and he was the "big shot" guy.
Pop and Jerry Sloan to me are coaches out of the same mold; guys who get a squad to be an extension of their own apparent toughness. Defense, fouling and physical play with offensive execution have been the hallmarks of their success. Sloan had Stockton and Malone, who were also very dirty players. Neither of them are apologetic, but I think when a line has been crossed, you can acknowledge it. Neither Sloan or Popovich has ever done that, and for sportsmanship's sake, they need to. Pop showed a lot of arrogance last night.
2) The Suns spin on Stoudemire's leaving the bench. Does anyone really believe that? Please. It would be better to say that initially there was the rush of emotion, he quickly got under control, and both Stoudemire and Diaw's actions were a non-factor. Ask for the mercy of the court, straight up.
3) Shaq's appearance on TNT last night. He barely had anything to say, making sound effects and platituding his way through the evening. He offered to come back, if the money were right. Please, can we pay him NOT to show up again? At least get a player who has some interest in either a) the game of basketball or b) a broadcasting career after retirement. Interesting how KG rarely shows up to these telecasts, not that Smith and Barkley have had great comments about Da Ticket lately.
TNT's catch line IS that "they know drama". Looks like we'll have more in store very soon.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Whoa Nellie!
My two most overrated coaches--Flip Saunders and Don Nelson--hit the fork in the road over the weekend. Flip is well on his way to the Eastern Conference final, while Nellie is fading into the Bay Area sunset. The Pistons have the look of championship stock right now; I thought the Bulls would play them much harder. Whether they can maintain the defensive intensity they need to get them to the finals is really a benchmark of Flip's progress as a coach. What happens when a team can stand up to that intensity and still execute? These playoffs have been intensely physical, and there's a significant difference between those teams who win the regular season and those who thrive in the post-season. Both Flip and Nellie strike me as better regular season coaches, because of their reliance on offensive strategies.
The Warriors-Jazz series has been most fun to watch, and is a case in point. Here we have two coaches--Nelson and Jerry Sloan--successful players in the 60's and early 70's, who have been among the elite in pro basketball for many years. Nelson's the offensive genius who never knew quite what to do with a center, Sloan is the tough, no-holds-barred coach who focuses on defense and team play. Both haven't won championships as coaches, and both are in the last years of their career. The Warriors are coming off their big upset of the Mavs and come in with their philosophy of spreading the floor, three point shooting and new found intensity. The Jazz have a new, younger cast of characters, but still have the Sloan lunch pail ethic--grinding, fouling, physical, and equally as intense.
Last night, bodies were literally being thrown around at each other in the paint, which favored the Jazz. The Warriors physical ethic is more of the individual thug variety, as witnessed by both Stephen Jackson and Baron Davis. Davis has been generally spectacular in the post season, but hit the wall last night and delivered a cheap shot to Derek Fisher after Fisher hit a couple of crucial threes in the fourth. Jackson's attempts to "take over the game" in the second half--trying to split defenses off the dribble and create contact in the paint--cost the Warriors last night along with poor team free throw shooting. Jackson and Davis are the poster children for today's NBA--a lot of individual talent, occasional flashes of brilliance, but in the end, punks. The Jazz's physicality is based on a team philosophy and effort--everyone gets into the act. It has a mental toughness strategy to it--grind it out for four quarters and we'll see who's on top. Even guys like Mehmet Okur--European style big men who like to play away from the basket--play physical and board on at least one end of the court. Mark Blount would be at the end of the bench on a Jerry Sloan team.
In the end, because coaches like Nellie and Flip have sacrificed defensive intensity for offensive execution, they have never been able to reach that final level. Sloan hasn't won a championship either, but at least has been in the finals; he was unlucky enough to run up into Jordan at his prime.
The other coach who has successfully advocated an offense-first approach--the Suns Mike D'Antoni-is also down against the Spurs. Of the three, it looks like Flip has the best shot to reach the Finals, but it will be because of the Pistons defense, not their offense.
The Warriors-Jazz series has been most fun to watch, and is a case in point. Here we have two coaches--Nelson and Jerry Sloan--successful players in the 60's and early 70's, who have been among the elite in pro basketball for many years. Nelson's the offensive genius who never knew quite what to do with a center, Sloan is the tough, no-holds-barred coach who focuses on defense and team play. Both haven't won championships as coaches, and both are in the last years of their career. The Warriors are coming off their big upset of the Mavs and come in with their philosophy of spreading the floor, three point shooting and new found intensity. The Jazz have a new, younger cast of characters, but still have the Sloan lunch pail ethic--grinding, fouling, physical, and equally as intense.
Last night, bodies were literally being thrown around at each other in the paint, which favored the Jazz. The Warriors physical ethic is more of the individual thug variety, as witnessed by both Stephen Jackson and Baron Davis. Davis has been generally spectacular in the post season, but hit the wall last night and delivered a cheap shot to Derek Fisher after Fisher hit a couple of crucial threes in the fourth. Jackson's attempts to "take over the game" in the second half--trying to split defenses off the dribble and create contact in the paint--cost the Warriors last night along with poor team free throw shooting. Jackson and Davis are the poster children for today's NBA--a lot of individual talent, occasional flashes of brilliance, but in the end, punks. The Jazz's physicality is based on a team philosophy and effort--everyone gets into the act. It has a mental toughness strategy to it--grind it out for four quarters and we'll see who's on top. Even guys like Mehmet Okur--European style big men who like to play away from the basket--play physical and board on at least one end of the court. Mark Blount would be at the end of the bench on a Jerry Sloan team.
In the end, because coaches like Nellie and Flip have sacrificed defensive intensity for offensive execution, they have never been able to reach that final level. Sloan hasn't won a championship either, but at least has been in the finals; he was unlucky enough to run up into Jordan at his prime.
The other coach who has successfully advocated an offense-first approach--the Suns Mike D'Antoni-is also down against the Spurs. Of the three, it looks like Flip has the best shot to reach the Finals, but it will be because of the Pistons defense, not their offense.
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Catching Them on the Rebound
Something for the Wolves (and Lynx) intelligentsia to absorb: teams that dominate on the boards are looking pretty good these days. In Sunday's games both Cleveland and San Antonio worked glass magic; last night both winners substantially outrebounded their opponents.
There's always a debate between those who feel guard play is of primary importance to a team and those like myself who feel front court play is the key to winning championships. Look at the Wolves for example. We've heard the Iron Ranger say in years past they want to play smash mouth basketball. Yet, the last two seasons they focused mainly on acquiring point guards, with very little emphasis on the front court. Having a Nash or Davis in the back court is indeed important; however, if you don't have a front court to rebound and defend, regular season winning is all you get.
Much to my chagrin, how good have the Pistons been? I'm not a huge Flip fan; in fact, Billups, McDyess, Prince and Hamilton are the only members I like on that squad. I remember that Britt Robson was mentioning in his blog awhile back about Chris Webber being a good guy.
What ?!?
This poser deserves nothing. He's an articulate scoundrel. If he happens to help Detroit to a championship, those Michigan alumni with short memories can be crossed off the list of those who'd like to take a poke at the guy, just behind Don Nelson, given the college scandal and the clubhouse lawyering he's done over his career. Still, he was very good last night.
I've been one of the people on record saying Flip will never win a championship-and it's a long way to go yet-but their defense has been outstanding. Saunders has never valued defense the way he does offense, but I think last year's fiasco was humbling for both him and the players who thought they were hall of fame material. Most of these guys love the jump shot, but they know when to get to the basket, specially Hamilton and Prince coming off the curls. Very aggressive, and high percentage. If Flip can keep them as intense and focused as they have been, this is going to be very interesting, because I'm not sure Cleveland has the mental toughness to challenge them coming out of the East. A San Antonio-Detroit championship series would be an excellent match-up, especially since SA was usually in the way of the Wolves in the West. Would he finally be able to beat Pop, and actually match the high opinion he has of himself? If Saunders doesn't make it out of the East, I think he's through, so the stakes are high.
There's always a debate between those who feel guard play is of primary importance to a team and those like myself who feel front court play is the key to winning championships. Look at the Wolves for example. We've heard the Iron Ranger say in years past they want to play smash mouth basketball. Yet, the last two seasons they focused mainly on acquiring point guards, with very little emphasis on the front court. Having a Nash or Davis in the back court is indeed important; however, if you don't have a front court to rebound and defend, regular season winning is all you get.
Much to my chagrin, how good have the Pistons been? I'm not a huge Flip fan; in fact, Billups, McDyess, Prince and Hamilton are the only members I like on that squad. I remember that Britt Robson was mentioning in his blog awhile back about Chris Webber being a good guy.
What ?!?
This poser deserves nothing. He's an articulate scoundrel. If he happens to help Detroit to a championship, those Michigan alumni with short memories can be crossed off the list of those who'd like to take a poke at the guy, just behind Don Nelson, given the college scandal and the clubhouse lawyering he's done over his career. Still, he was very good last night.
I've been one of the people on record saying Flip will never win a championship-and it's a long way to go yet-but their defense has been outstanding. Saunders has never valued defense the way he does offense, but I think last year's fiasco was humbling for both him and the players who thought they were hall of fame material. Most of these guys love the jump shot, but they know when to get to the basket, specially Hamilton and Prince coming off the curls. Very aggressive, and high percentage. If Flip can keep them as intense and focused as they have been, this is going to be very interesting, because I'm not sure Cleveland has the mental toughness to challenge them coming out of the East. A San Antonio-Detroit championship series would be an excellent match-up, especially since SA was usually in the way of the Wolves in the West. Would he finally be able to beat Pop, and actually match the high opinion he has of himself? If Saunders doesn't make it out of the East, I think he's through, so the stakes are high.
Monday, May 7, 2007
Blood and Guts
Where's Burgess Meredith when you need him?
A great game yesterday between the Suns and Spurs. I've never seen a contest outside of boxing that depended on a trainer's ability to stop the bleeding of a star's nasty gash. They couldn't do it, and the Suns lost. The two teams experienced somewhat of a role reversal, with the Suns scoring more points in the paint, shooting more free throws, and turning the ball over less than the Spurs. Where the Spurs won the game is in rebounds--especially on the offensive end. As we know all too well with our club, generally if you get out rebounded by 14, your chances of losing the game go WAY up. Tim Duncan had as many offensive rebounds as the entire Suns team. Some very tough play down low between Duncan and Stoudemire/Thomas of the Suns. Sorry KG fans, it's another prime example of why Duncan is superior to KG at the power forward position. His strength, but more importantly, Duncan's mental toughness is more advanced at this stage of his career than Garnett's. Right now, I'm not sure KG is the third best PF in the Western Conference any more. If Amare were playing at his natural position, he'd be a cut above KG as well.
A couple of other observations:
The backup PG guards are going to be a bigger key in this series than I thought. Jacque Vaughn was terrible yesterday, and he provided little stability while Parker sat. If Tony needs to be a scorer in this series--especially a seven game series--he's going to need proper rest during the game. Vaughn's ability to hold serve while Parker sits is going to be important. Jacque gives the word journeyman true meaning. And to think coming out of Kansas, I wanted the Wolves to take him!
Barbosa was better in the first half than in the second, and his decision making at the end of the game sans Nash demonstrated why basketball is as much a mental as athletic game. Bad shots, and a bad foul really hurt the team in the waining minutes of the game.
I'm not sure the Spurs can keep playing at the Suns tempo. If they outrebound Phoenix maybe, but generally they need to keep the score under 100. The Spurs used the three pointer to keep them in the hunt during stretches of the game. They actually made one more than the Suns did, and it helped them greatly last night. I would be surprised if they could do that the entire series however. That and keeping turnovers under the 15 they had yesterday will be very important as the series continues.
Many think the winner of this series will win the championship. I tend to agree, but there's a lot of great basketball left to be played. The Mavs-Warrior series was just a primer. Now it gets really interesting. Hopefully, a good cut man will be available at all times for the rest of the playoffs in each venue.
A great game yesterday between the Suns and Spurs. I've never seen a contest outside of boxing that depended on a trainer's ability to stop the bleeding of a star's nasty gash. They couldn't do it, and the Suns lost. The two teams experienced somewhat of a role reversal, with the Suns scoring more points in the paint, shooting more free throws, and turning the ball over less than the Spurs. Where the Spurs won the game is in rebounds--especially on the offensive end. As we know all too well with our club, generally if you get out rebounded by 14, your chances of losing the game go WAY up. Tim Duncan had as many offensive rebounds as the entire Suns team. Some very tough play down low between Duncan and Stoudemire/Thomas of the Suns. Sorry KG fans, it's another prime example of why Duncan is superior to KG at the power forward position. His strength, but more importantly, Duncan's mental toughness is more advanced at this stage of his career than Garnett's. Right now, I'm not sure KG is the third best PF in the Western Conference any more. If Amare were playing at his natural position, he'd be a cut above KG as well.
A couple of other observations:
The backup PG guards are going to be a bigger key in this series than I thought. Jacque Vaughn was terrible yesterday, and he provided little stability while Parker sat. If Tony needs to be a scorer in this series--especially a seven game series--he's going to need proper rest during the game. Vaughn's ability to hold serve while Parker sits is going to be important. Jacque gives the word journeyman true meaning. And to think coming out of Kansas, I wanted the Wolves to take him!
Barbosa was better in the first half than in the second, and his decision making at the end of the game sans Nash demonstrated why basketball is as much a mental as athletic game. Bad shots, and a bad foul really hurt the team in the waining minutes of the game.
I'm not sure the Spurs can keep playing at the Suns tempo. If they outrebound Phoenix maybe, but generally they need to keep the score under 100. The Spurs used the three pointer to keep them in the hunt during stretches of the game. They actually made one more than the Suns did, and it helped them greatly last night. I would be surprised if they could do that the entire series however. That and keeping turnovers under the 15 they had yesterday will be very important as the series continues.
Many think the winner of this series will win the championship. I tend to agree, but there's a lot of great basketball left to be played. The Mavs-Warrior series was just a primer. Now it gets really interesting. Hopefully, a good cut man will be available at all times for the rest of the playoffs in each venue.
Sunday, May 6, 2007
About Last Night...
I purchased the Mayweather - De La Hoya extravaganza last night, so me and the boys were flicking between the fight(s), the Twins game, and the NBA matches. A great night of sports, full of drama and disappointment; especially for Oscar and Tracy McGrady. It looks like McGrady and Carmelo Anthony are going to compete with KG for the title of Most Unfulfilled Superstar--MUS. Carmelo has a long way to go in his career, and it looks like he will have no problem finding a team to compete for a ring if the Nuggets don't work out. However, both McGrady and KG are showing signs of wear and tear, emotionally and physically. Ironically enough, both players came right out of high school and have played a LOT of games, so while their chronological ages identify them to be still in prime shape, McGrady's back issues and KG's knees are demanding a more "Take me to the Ring" approach.
What I found incredible was the TNT crew's assessment of McGrady's situation. Here was Charles Barkley, telling us that McGrady didn't have enough around him to win.
What !?!
With apologies to the usually incorrect Jim Petersen, as opposed to our Mark Blount, the Rockets have the first or second best center in the Western Conference as a running mate in Yao Ming. Plus, they have a still effective Juwan Howard and Shane Battier. KG would kill for that type of supporting cast. In addition, they have a better than average coach in Jeff Van Gundy. I'm sorry, that should generally get a team out of the first round. It wasn't the lack of a decent posse that prevented the Rockets from going further in the hunt, it was the Jazz simply outplayed them when it counted. With their great coach leading the way, they were mentally tougher and executed when they needed to--on the Rockets home floor to boot.
It's time to stop making excuses for the superstars.
What I found incredible was the TNT crew's assessment of McGrady's situation. Here was Charles Barkley, telling us that McGrady didn't have enough around him to win.
What !?!
With apologies to the usually incorrect Jim Petersen, as opposed to our Mark Blount, the Rockets have the first or second best center in the Western Conference as a running mate in Yao Ming. Plus, they have a still effective Juwan Howard and Shane Battier. KG would kill for that type of supporting cast. In addition, they have a better than average coach in Jeff Van Gundy. I'm sorry, that should generally get a team out of the first round. It wasn't the lack of a decent posse that prevented the Rockets from going further in the hunt, it was the Jazz simply outplayed them when it counted. With their great coach leading the way, they were mentally tougher and executed when they needed to--on the Rockets home floor to boot.
It's time to stop making excuses for the superstars.
Saturday, May 5, 2007
NBA Awards curse
Similar to the SI Cover jink, it looks like we have the NBA Awards curse. Dirk Nowitzki--the probable MVP winner--and Sam Mitchell, the Coach of the Year, both go down in the first round. Another reason why they should include the playoff matches before they hand out the awards. I'm happy for Sam, always a favorite of mine, but they should have been able to pull out the victory last night. He's come a long way though from having to be McHale's public spokesperson at every Wolves basketball related event. MLK day, intra-squad scrimmages, fan appreciation...it was yeoman's work for the fellow. He did what KG never could or wanted to do.
Now, he's the hot property for many teams looking for a new coach in the offseason. Indiana, Memphis, Charlotte--all are looking to hire him. Barreiro went off on a rant yesterday on his radio show, asking why the Wolves aren't considering him. He's always given to hyperbole, but it's a fair question. What has Randy done to deserve a chance at the top spot? The coaching situation is another example of a lost opportunity to build a stronger fan base.
Many of my previous posts have labeled the Wolves as an arrogant organization that shows a high level of distain for their fans, unless those fans buy the company pitch hook, line and sinker. No "fire McHale" signs at the T.Center, very few programs that allow input from the average fan--especially if you're not a season ticket holder--and no more summer league games, to name a few. Having avenues for fans to comment and express--either negative or positive--helps in both good times and bad.
For example, how about a poll asking the fans which coach they should hire? Of course, you can't do it now because they've committed to Wittman, but what would it be like to actually ask for fan input? What buzz it would create to keep KG, get a decent draft pick, and hire someone like Mitchell, all in the same off season! It wouldn't quite match the summer of Sam and Latrell, but after the last two fiascos of a season, it would be a welcome positive push in a different direction.
Just another idea lost in the wilderness....
Now, he's the hot property for many teams looking for a new coach in the offseason. Indiana, Memphis, Charlotte--all are looking to hire him. Barreiro went off on a rant yesterday on his radio show, asking why the Wolves aren't considering him. He's always given to hyperbole, but it's a fair question. What has Randy done to deserve a chance at the top spot? The coaching situation is another example of a lost opportunity to build a stronger fan base.
Many of my previous posts have labeled the Wolves as an arrogant organization that shows a high level of distain for their fans, unless those fans buy the company pitch hook, line and sinker. No "fire McHale" signs at the T.Center, very few programs that allow input from the average fan--especially if you're not a season ticket holder--and no more summer league games, to name a few. Having avenues for fans to comment and express--either negative or positive--helps in both good times and bad.
For example, how about a poll asking the fans which coach they should hire? Of course, you can't do it now because they've committed to Wittman, but what would it be like to actually ask for fan input? What buzz it would create to keep KG, get a decent draft pick, and hire someone like Mitchell, all in the same off season! It wouldn't quite match the summer of Sam and Latrell, but after the last two fiascos of a season, it would be a welcome positive push in a different direction.
Just another idea lost in the wilderness....
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Is Imitation Truly Flattery?
Fini for the Lakers and Nuggets last night. For the Lakers, it was expected. Kobe is demanding something be done now. Wolves fans, beware. There's not much they have that I would want, and I don't think a combo of KG and Kobe would win a ring. The more interesting bunch of losers are the Nuggets. Let's take a minute to examine the particulars.
If you take a look at that team, they're everythiing we wanted for the Wolves: two legit stars, a strong frontcourt with the defensive player of the year at center, a decent backcourt, good role players, and an accomplished coach. But, much like the Wolves futility against the Spurs in the late 90's-early 2K, they couldn't match up. At least Carmelo didn't compare his plight to KG's as he did last year. But, with four straight first round losses, they are becoming a robust imitation of the Wolves in those years.
Of course, KG and the Wolves were in the hunt for Allen Iverson. Many thought he would be a piece to compete for a ring or go deep into the hunt. With his performance in this playoffs, how do you think Wolves fans would have reacted with the same result for their team? They'd be bitching to high heaven! Then the reality sets in: two fading stars, making half of the salary cap, with limited ability to upgrade the team because the VP traded away his draft choices. In the Wolves case, they didn't have nearly the quality front court the Nuggets do, and have a lot more to do to get better. This is exactly why AI was NOT a good fit for the Wolves. You're not going to be able to quick fix this team; you can show progress, but it will take a good few years to rebuild the talent pool, even more if McHale is left running the team. A team vastly superior in talent to the Wolves added Iverson, and they only won ONE game? At least we didn't hear George Karl say it was because AI didn't have a training camp with the team. Go tell that one to the Warriors. Congratulations to Chris Mullen, who somehow brought in a gaggle of new players mid-to-late season, and actually pulled a great upset WITHOUT a training camp.
BTW, a generous comment from Britt Robson on my last post. I enjoy tweaking him now and then, but let me be clear: he's one of the best Wolves commentators around here. With Aschburner in limbo, there's not much to turn to for perspective.
If you take a look at that team, they're everythiing we wanted for the Wolves: two legit stars, a strong frontcourt with the defensive player of the year at center, a decent backcourt, good role players, and an accomplished coach. But, much like the Wolves futility against the Spurs in the late 90's-early 2K, they couldn't match up. At least Carmelo didn't compare his plight to KG's as he did last year. But, with four straight first round losses, they are becoming a robust imitation of the Wolves in those years.
Of course, KG and the Wolves were in the hunt for Allen Iverson. Many thought he would be a piece to compete for a ring or go deep into the hunt. With his performance in this playoffs, how do you think Wolves fans would have reacted with the same result for their team? They'd be bitching to high heaven! Then the reality sets in: two fading stars, making half of the salary cap, with limited ability to upgrade the team because the VP traded away his draft choices. In the Wolves case, they didn't have nearly the quality front court the Nuggets do, and have a lot more to do to get better. This is exactly why AI was NOT a good fit for the Wolves. You're not going to be able to quick fix this team; you can show progress, but it will take a good few years to rebuild the talent pool, even more if McHale is left running the team. A team vastly superior in talent to the Wolves added Iverson, and they only won ONE game? At least we didn't hear George Karl say it was because AI didn't have a training camp with the team. Go tell that one to the Warriors. Congratulations to Chris Mullen, who somehow brought in a gaggle of new players mid-to-late season, and actually pulled a great upset WITHOUT a training camp.
BTW, a generous comment from Britt Robson on my last post. I enjoy tweaking him now and then, but let me be clear: he's one of the best Wolves commentators around here. With Aschburner in limbo, there's not much to turn to for perspective.
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