Preseason Game Thread: Sonics vs. Warriors
Posted on Tuesday, October 23rd, 2007 at 2:30 pm by Big Chris
Hopefully tonight we will see something more closely resembling the rotation that coach PJ Carlesimo plans to use in the coming season. I suspect this might be a high scoring affair.
From Kevin Pelton’s Monday Practice Notes:
Robert Swift isn’t likely to play much, if at all, in the game. At this point, back-to-backs are a tough order for Swift’s knee, and he’ll probably see more action against the bigger Blazers on Wednesday in Portland.
October 23rd, 2007 at 2:35 pm
I hope so that Wally will make his 1st 20+ points game and Sonics win….
October 23rd, 2007 at 2:51 pm
Considering the Warriors have sever problems rebounding from the their main rotation of players it would be interesting to see who wins the battle of the glass tonight.
Also, M. Ellis is playing his second game since his neck injury I would look for him to see about 30 mins tonight. If so, that would be tremendous mismatch for Durant on Offense and equally disasterous mismatch on defense. I would like to see PJ give us a small ball look tonight, because that what warriors will do to. I think it a great opportunity to get Collison and Wilcox on the floor at the same time. Or to even through out a lineup with Durant at the 3 and Green at the 4 spot.
October 23rd, 2007 at 3:00 pm
I would like to see the matchup of Sene or Swift on Biedrins. See if they can stop his rebounding.
October 23rd, 2007 at 3:00 pm
I would trot out a starting lineup that had a huge size advantage and one that could keep up with the Warriors. Thus, Wilcox at center, Green at PF, Durant at SF, Luke at PG, and Wilkins at SG is what Iwould try tonight.
October 23rd, 2007 at 3:10 pm
I remember games from last season where Biedrins completely dominated Nick Collison at the center position. I doubt Wilcox would do significantly worse at that position against Biedrins.
October 23rd, 2007 at 3:51 pm
Who thinks Baron knocks Luke on his ass tonight?
October 23rd, 2007 at 3:54 pm
I can relate to Carlisimo and what he’s going through. I’ve coached a lacrosse team that has come second in the province 3 years in a row( the team we keep losing to draws from 4 times the numbers I can and hasn’t lost a game in 5 years).
Finally this season a number of players(5) have decided to sit out and I’ve brought in what I think are highend replacements from other areas. But the chemistry just isn’t there and after a month and a half I’m still juggling lines and tactics trying to find what works.
It all takes time to get it right and since I know it’s a long season( field lacrosse goes until march, when box lacrosse takes over) I am patient. I know at some point the experimenting has to stop but for now I’m still looking at the big picture when the championships begin at the end of February, beginning of March.
I know pro sports doesn’t allow one the luxury of every team making the playoffs like I have, but PJ needs to be patient, not hit the panic button and melt down,and keep the combos rolling until the right mix shows itself.
I think the fans also have to realize this as well.
With it looking like the Warriors are going to have a smaller lineup this should be a better test for the centers/power forwards. I’d like to get an opinion on Bellinelli. From what I’ve seen he’s all one way with little defense,yet he’s getting alot of hype because of his summer league play. Let me know what everyone thinks of him.
October 23rd, 2007 at 3:55 pm
“I hope so that Wally will make his 1st 20+ points game and Sonics win….”
Careful, you’re already on the hot seat. One more mention of Wally and you get five across the eyes from Dick Tate!
October 23rd, 2007 at 3:55 pm
Word to the wise, here is what the Warrirors team blog had to say about the injured players for tonights game with the Sonics.
“Andris Biedrins (sprained big toe, left foot), Troy Hudson (sore left groin) and Monta Ellis (neck sprain) are all listed as game-time decisions.”
The only one of the three that see definitely playing is Ellis, because he’s missed so much time this preseason with a neck injury. I wouldn’t be surprised if Biedrins didn’t play at all and we saw more of Harrington, O’Bryant, Wright, Perovic, Croshere & Barnes rotation around the 4 and 5 spots for the Warriors tonight. Rumor down here in the Bay Area also has it that Pietrus (Wing player) might get some run tonight at 4 spot as well.
Again, I highlight that this might be a great night for the Sonics to try some small ball lineups. Or if Biedrins is definitely not playing to give Sene 15 to 20 mins of action to see if can make a difference on the boards, since out side of Biedrins the Warriors are soft on crashing the boards, therefore I believe Sene could prove quite effect tonight. Plus if Wright or O’Bryant are in then I’d also like to see Green or even Durant at 4 spot, because those guys a physically weak players therefore, the Sonics would get away with playing either of our Rookies on them without much worry about them getting pushed around the lower block.
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:14 pm
I wish Wilcox would wear his hair out for a game, just to see what it looks like. Ben Wallace-like maybe?
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:16 pm
Interesting lineup Alex. I have off and on wondered about Wilcox at center. Given his defensive performance and general nature on court it goes against traditional defensive design and its aspirations; but if defensive aspirations are not realized by these players (in time, in this system. they havent been in past systems but we have to see what impact PJ has.) maybe you go heavy the other way, emphasize offense… til the player mix changes.
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:20 pm
“I highlight that this might be a great night for the Sonics to try some small ball lineups.”
Yes, but how impressive is it that Troy Hudson has both a left and right groin?
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:21 pm
DK, as a coach, you believe in using some roughly equal weight tandems at positions for bringing different attributes suitable for different matchups or sticking to a clear #1 and 2 with very few exceptions so a lead unit gets maximum reps, familiarity, improvement or somewhere in between depending on specific of player and position? Further coach talk in that vein might be interesting to hear.
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:25 pm
I can relate to Carlisimo and what he’s going through. I’ve coached a lacrosse team that has come second in the province 3 years in a row
I liked your comparison of the Sonics trying to find a rotation that works to your lacrosse team dilemma. But what is a “province”? Is that like some misspelled city in Rhode Island you are from?
TAKE OFF, EH?
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:30 pm
Any links to see this game on TV?
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:31 pm
….in between depending on specific of player and position? Further coach talk in that vein might be interesting to hear.
Crow, this is true as long as we don’t have to hear it in his crude and boorish Mountie Canadian accent.
“Yes, Crewwww, I’ll tell you all aboot my coaching after I doon a few beers”
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:37 pm
Lacrosse. Whats that all aboooot?
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:40 pm
DK: ” …PJ needs to be patient, not hit the panic button and melt down,and keep the combos rolling until the right mix shows itself.
I think the fans also have to realize this as well.
”
Yes. Even us fans here on this board. It can be harder to do in real life than on paper. But then again, there’s a limit. I believe Bob Hill hit that limit, surpassed it, and then continued on with the same, thoroughly confusing guys on their role with his bizarre changeups. Please PJ, we don’t wanna see that again. For some reason, I have more faith in PJ than I ever did in Hill. Hopefully it’s not misplaced.
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:41 pm
Take off you hosers.
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:47 pm
Strange Brew.
So funny.
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:50 pm
Versio, unfortunately this link doesn’t look like anyone is posting the game online, yet:
http://www.myp2p.eu/NBA.htm
I’ll look around for any other links though.
This will be on NBA TV, correct? Perhaps we have to out to see this one.
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:12 pm
Take off, to the Great White North, take off, it’s a beauty way to go!
coo-roo-coo-coo-coo-coo-coo-coo! eh?
You: No thanks Bob, I just ate. Say, you guys like my toque?
Bob: Yeah. It’s a beauty.
You: Doug, don’t you like my toque?
(Pause)
Bob: Hey, hoser…
Doug: What?
Bob: Our guest asked you a question.
Doug: There’s nobody here but me and you, hosehead.
———–
We had the cassette tape as kids. This was a great flashback, thanks.
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:19 pm
Earl Watson is starting for the Sonics tonight. I’m going to look for the difference in defense when Watson is playing compared to Ridnour. It seemed like the Sonics we’re playing good D at the start of the Lakers game and started to get killed from the perimeter once Ridnour checked in.
My biggest concern with Ridnour is his inability to contest jump-shots. I think a huge reason for that is the fact that he has really short arms and doesn’t have any length. Players are able to catch the ball on the perimeter and shoot the ball over him without being bothered. If the Sonics are going to rely on zone defense they could just get destroyed from the three-point line, when Ridnour is in the game.
I realize Watson has his flaws, but at least he’s able to contest jump-shots, as well as stay in front of his man. Part of me thinks the Sonics should start Delonte West at PG and use Watson as the backup. He’s done well in that roll in the past and defense would be consistent in both your starting and backup PG.
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:51 pm
McWalter said: “Rumor down here in the Bay Area also has it that Pietrus (Wing player) might get some run tonight at 4 spot as well.”
So I take it Pietrus has resigned for the one-year minimum, has he? Can’t remember seeing that one reported.
SonicComic said: “Yes, but how impressive is it that Troy Hudson has both a left and right groin?”
I knooow! What has that boy been doing this week?
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:29 pm
lakers and Jazz play on NBA TV. I don’t see it on league pass.
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:57 pm
what about audio?
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:08 pm
Damnit, I can’t find this game on any of the channels. Looks like I’ll have to settle for audio.
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:09 pm
I can’t find it on League pass or NBA TV.
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:20 pm
Bloody hell. The game won’t be televised.
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:26 pm
Dammit, my boy was coming over with his “The City” Warrior shirt on and everything!!! This would be a good game to watch too. One interesting team and the Sonics. hehe
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:30 pm
Since the game is not on league pass, I’ve been watching the lakers vs. jazz. It really shows how bad our bigs are or how good utah’s bigs are. La’s bigs look nothing like they did against Seattle’s.
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:41 pm
So far, one thing I like the way the Sonics are playing is that they are getting a lot of FTs. 14 attempts in 1st Qtr is a lot. Not like recent teams we had.
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:45 pm
Before the end of this year, I am determined to be able to spell Wally’s last name….
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:51 pm
We’ve got a lead, we’ve taken more shots and more ft, regardless of the fact that our shooting % has been not so good. Maybe fast and loose is how we should play, with our 3 7 footers watching from the bench.
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:51 pm
This group on the floor at the end of the 1st and the beginning of the 2nd has been looking great. I believe they started with a 7 point deficit that dropped to 10, but have brought the Sonics back for the lead! Gotta like that. Wally’s shooting is looking nice.
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:53 pm
Also I gotta say that the offense is looking nice with the run-and-gun with Ridnour at PG
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:55 pm
Sam Says:
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:45 pm
“Before the end of this year, I am determined to be able to spell Wally’s last name…. ”
I have fought that battle, gave up a long time ago. But if you get it right, maybe I’ll have to take up the challenge anew.
Sucks that the game is not televised. WEAK! I thought NBA League Pass has “it all”. I guess not.
Wally Z has 9 points and 4 rebounds in 4:33minutes played? Must be something screwy about this boxscore.
http://www.nba.com/games/20071023/GSWSEA/boxscore.html
Next leading scorer shows as Wilkins with 8 and 3 in 11 and a half mins.
Durant looks to be having a quiet night.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:00 pm
Wilkins with a block…
Rid has 4 and 6 asst in around 10 mins. Not bad.
The announcer said the Supes are getting exposed on the inside. Maybe we need more of them 7 footers on the floor.
Ouch…. Green with 3 fouls in like 6 mins. Don’t be goin’ Petro on me, now.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:04 pm
Wally Z is on fire! 14 and 5 in 15 mins.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:08 pm
By the sounds of it, Wally is playing the 4 with Thomas at center. Interesting eh.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:12 pm
I told you,when Wally hit his jumpers and one more player is on fire,like Willkins now,Sonics might lead and play well…
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:13 pm
KD is waking up, nails a three.
Wilkins with back to back threes… might he be showing off, perhaps trying to set up a little friendly competition between him & Durant tonight?
Even Watson sounds like he’s making it happen out there.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:14 pm
I’m guessing you like Wally Szczerbiak.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:16 pm
who said this team can’t score? 66 in the first half…
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:21 pm
Man 42 points in a quarter is a lot. And again, I really like how they go to the line. 26 FT attempts in first half alone! I remember that they attempted a lot of FT’s vs Rockets also. Hope this trend continues ..
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:23 pm
Wish I was at the game. 68 points for the half? WOW!
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:31 pm
68 points in a half….This brings to me memories of NBA Live 07. I am outrageous on that game…I beat the Warriors by 100…
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:32 pm
Wilkins took 5 more shots than Durant already. Is this a product the selfishness that others have spoken of, or is this Wilkins actually stepping up his game?
We outrebounded, out assisted, and outscored these guys so far tonight. Not bad for this newly acquainted rook roster with a few vets thrown in.
Green out with 3 PFs early… probably gives more fly time for Wilkins & Wally, which has been a good thing for the offense.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:33 pm
I am sure the Warriors didn’t expect the two Ws, Wally and Wilkins, to put up 33 points on 50% FG shooting and 62.5% from beyond the arc at halftime.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:35 pm
ouch - KD gets his third foul already on what sounded like an illegal screen
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:37 pm
Alex Chan Says:
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:33 pm
“I am sure the Warriors didn’t expect the two Ws, Wally and Wilkins, to put up 33 points on 50% FG shooting and 62.5% from beyond the arc at halftime. ”
Yes. Teams given time to react to this potential will be able to counteract it going forward. Plus we prob should not expect this same performance from these two day in and day out.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:39 pm
Kyle Lowry records a triple double today. God I wish we can give them back Earl for him.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:41 pm
What’s up with Green’s ft shooting. Please don’t be Vin Baker #2.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:41 pm
Damien with another 3 for 20pts. Before that it sounded like 3 or more minutes of horrid scoreless play and turnover city by both sides.
Green feeds KD for 3! Or did I hear that right? Perhaps it was a two as KD went to the line right after & missed the extra point.
Up 10 in the third… better than I expected tonight.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:47 pm
Baron Davis injures himself fouling KD’s drive to the hole. Woah, glad that one didn’t go the other way.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:49 pm
Rid just gets smacked in the face and goes out.
Watson, meanwhile, has a cool 10 assists.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:49 pm
Damien is having a similar preseason as Nick had last season. Let’s hope that Damien can actually bring it when the real season opens.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:00 pm
Wilcox is quietly (well, less quietly as the game progresses) working up a double-double.
So far this second half has sounded more like a case in what not to do, versus a strong performance by either team. Lots of turnovers and stupid moves.
Green finally gets to the rack… and one, in a move that was lauded by the announcer vs Harrington. Looks like his FT% has sucked so far.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:06 pm
Harrington’s in foul trouble with 5 at the start of the 4th. Pietrus has 4.
Most of the Sonics have 3 fouls each. Woops, JG just got his 4th. Sit his ass.
It’s a foul party!
Damnit, GS is closing the gap on us.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:08 pm
Is NBA League Pass actually gonna air this game after the fact, or did I hear that wrong?
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:10 pm
Hallulela! Jeff Green makes a fre-throw…
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:11 pm
…only to miss another…
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:14 pm
Yeah, DWilk is kicking arse out there tonight. But then again, if the box is correct he has been in for the entire game save perhaps 1 minute. I’d expect him to be very tired at this point…
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:18 pm
JG has what, Shaq-level freethrows going on out there tonight… ugly.
Wally Z has 18 and 7 rebounds… wow.
Wilcox gets the double-double with 16 and 10. Yeah, boyeeee….
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:21 pm
Wally for the block… and another R. He could get a double double tonight too. Digging that.
Weezy with 18, but they robbed him and now he only has 9 rebs. WTF?
Are we really gonna win this game? 109-106 Seattle with like 3 mins.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:24 pm
we’re still kicking butt on rebs and assists, but turnovers are mostly equal. This is way too close for comfort.
KD busts a trey, he has 21. Seems a quiet 21 compared to Wilcox, Wally and Damien’s games out there. But 6 rebounds! Very nice, unexpected.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:25 pm
OH shit, KD is injured…?
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:25 pm
limping… talking to the injury guy not good.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:27 pm
KD in the locker room. F!#$%#$^.
Any new news on this would be very appreciated folks.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:30 pm
What a finish,i hope so that Wally will hit this freethrow like he always do that at the end of the games…
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:31 pm
All hail Szrcrbiak…oh shucks…Szczerbiak, I am getting close.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:32 pm
missed the FT… ouch.
What - they put Petro in there? Noooo…
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:32 pm
not petro!!!!!!!
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:33 pm
KD left the floor favoring his left foot and ankle
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:33 pm
Wait what?! KD injured? Keep your fingers crossed!
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:34 pm
Watson steals the ball for overtime. Nice!
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:34 pm
I cant believe that Wally missed that one…We will watch OT…
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:35 pm
Any news on KD? Did he walk off on his own?
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:39 pm
Scoring from Durant, Wilcox, Wilkens, Sczcerbiak. Is this a preview of the season? Well, where the scoring would come from has been a question, but I’m not comfortable relying on Wilkens as lead scorer… Maybe he’ll turn me around.
I just tuned in a few minutes ago, what are your impressions of Damien’s game.
Charge on Damien in OT, flashback!
Lack of D in OT, flashback!
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:39 pm
Sounds like we are playing our starters and they are playing their bench.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:39 pm
Yeah, he walked off limping, favoring the left foot/ankle. Hopefully just a sprain.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:41 pm
Ridnour & Watson low and average on 3 pt shot rate last season but in preseason they are taking under 2 a game combined and have hit none. And tonight no such 3 pt attempts from them, though notably more from the wings. Could be several things including opponent defense and random variation but wonder if they have been instructed on this and what that instruction is and if it lasts.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:42 pm
Watson is so hard for me!!!! He does great things like getting the steal at the end of the 4th, but he has 4 turnovers!!!! like the one he just gave up
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:45 pm
Collison/Wilcox together… I’m liking it.
“Weezy getting it done in OT” - back to back rack moves/ put backs.
Damien has been shooting really well tonight, and has over 36 mins in the game. Shot more than KD. I’m not sure any of these things can/will continue through the season.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:47 pm
Random note–kinda fun to watch the box score on nba.com if you’re listening. You can see the players on the floor with the > next to their name. Well, it’s more or less right most of the time.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:47 pm
Sprained left ankle for KD.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:47 pm
Durant–sprained left ankle. I’m sure you all heard that, though.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:52 pm
Somebody please tell me what Watson was doing there??? Driving in with plenty of time to get off a good shot and getting blocked??? Ahhhhhhhhhhh….>!!!!!!!!
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:52 pm
^^^^^ yeah, talk about flashbacks… yukk.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:53 pm
Maybe he was trying to pull a Ridnour?
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:54 pm
Or a Flip Murray perhaps?
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:55 pm
Wally must take all last shots when KD is not in the game….
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:57 pm
I always use to call Flip “Flip the Dip”…
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:57 pm
Wally World Says:
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:30 pm
What a finish,i hope so that Wally will hit this freethrow like he always do that at the end of the games…
SonicComic? Ron Jeremy? Leather perhaps?
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:01 pm
Of the Sonics who played more than 30 mins tonight, only Collison and KD held fewer than 4 turnovers. Watson, Wilkins, Wally with 4 each and Wilcox with 5. This is a big part of the problem. We were lucky tonight that the Warriors were equally inept at caring for the ball. But not lucky enough.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:02 pm
Dick, IMO this is no troll, but I haven’t given huge analysis to the point yet.
I was thinking we should go into business marketing computer screen cleaner.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:04 pm
Well i really think that the Sonics are going to need Delonte West more and more the way i see Ridnour and Watson. Both can be inconsistent, and while Watson has the ability to play defense better then Ridnour, Ridnour can run the offense better, neither score a ton of points, both can garner assists when they have playing time (if they couldn’t that would be just plain sad), and Ridnour seems to do a better job of taking care of the ball like tonight where he had 0 turnovers, 2 steals, and 2 blocks, while Watson had 3 steals which were offset by his 4 turnovers and 0 blocked shots. Watson did out-rebound Ridnour 4-0, but he also played about double the minutes so it would be nice to see his numbers reach beyond those of Lukes, but they actually look pretty similar if not worse considering the minutes and playing time differential. West is going to have to factor into the equation at some point hopefully, and one of the other two will need to be dealt… personally I think that Watson should go and Luke should stay, but I see arguments for both sides.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:06 pm
Sam, IMO all of these pgs have been trying to carry AD’s torch to the rack, but ended up getting burned in the process. Perhaps Delonte will be able to find more success in that effort.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:10 pm
Super Nate, someone earlier mentioned that Luke & Watson were kind to leave the threeball alone for the entire evening, and that this kindness may have come as a response to direction from PJ. Both this and the fact that they kept their shooting to a minimum tonight should be a good thing for the team, however we’re going to have to find some replacement for that lost scoring esp from Rid. I would like to agree that Delonte may be the answer. It’s just hard to put our apples into the Delonte basket when he’s been injured 4 times already and we’re still in preseason.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:14 pm
I heard that Watson ended up with 14 assists!
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:17 pm
Yeah, along with speedcat, I am worry about how much people are relying on West. He is very good, but he has been racked with injury problems and the season hasn’t officially started yet. Also, I am wondering on how passitive West is also. To me, he seems like a guy with the attitude of “I’m gonna take you to the rack, and I am going to jam this ball down your throat.” I am not saying this is a bad thing, that is the thing I actually like, but as a player, you need to rely on your point guard to be pass first. Now this being said, if West could play shooting guard and Durant could play small forward, it would be great, but we don’t all live in a perfect world…
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:23 pm
TukwilaSonic Says: “I heard that Watson ended up with 14 assists!”
Ya, he did, but again that was after over 34 minutes of playing time. If he didn’t have at least that many there would be a serious problem. It’s the other numbers that are worrying (see previous post above)
Speedcast, I agree that it is hard to put all our apples into the Delonte West basket, but that is why i mentioned I would rather keep Ridnour over Watson, and use a subbing method that would give Watson time at both the 2 and the 3. From a previous post on Sunday I said that it would look something like this:
“a lineup of Ridnour, West, Durant, Wilcox, Swift… from there my subbing would move West to the PG and sit Ridnour, bring in Green/Wilkins/Wally???, and move Durant accordingly. Then the next rotation would be Ridnour coming back in with Wally/Green/Wilkins??? depending, and sit West and Durant. Then when West and Durant are ready to come back in, start over again, placing them at the 2 and 3 positions, Luke stays at PG, and repeat.”
What is your impression of something like that?
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:24 pm
I think that’s what PJ may end up doing, though.
Rid
West
KD (here’s hoping it’s just a minor sprain)
Wilcox
Collison
But this does leave us a little short in the backcourt. It won’t work some of the time. But we have enough redundancy and multi-talented players to mix it up when needed against bigger lineups.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:27 pm
“a lineup of Ridnour, West, Durant, Wilcox, Swift… from there my subbing would move West to the PG and sit Ridnour, bring in Green/Wilkins/Wally???, and move Durant accordingly. Then the next rotation would be Ridnour coming back in with Wally/Green/Wilkins??? depending, and sit West and Durant. Then when West and Durant are ready to come back in, start over again, placing them at the 2 and 3 positions, Luke stays at PG, and repeat.”
Overall I like it - it should work. I’d keep Swifty coming in off the bench, though, and start Collison at the C. We don’t know how long it will take to get Swifty 100% again.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:35 pm
Wilcox was a beast. GS could not guard him on the post and they wasted the mismatch most of the night.
Wilikens took most of his shots in the offense. Durant was guarded. His early shots were not in the offense but he relaxed a few minutes in.
They do not have a fast break offense so far. Only Luke and Wilcox are running.
Wilcox needs to pay attention on the break.
Wally went to give a high five to PJ as he left the floor after he missed the key free throw and PJ wouldn’t even look at him. He should have won the game and PJ was not letting him forget it. He is a harda$$.
Earl blew the OT with back to back foolish plays.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:40 pm
No TV makes it hard to analyze tonight but I wonder in general about screening action. Anybody listen close enough to judge how much effort they were making setting screens tonight or have observations from past games? Were the wings using them or doing it mainly on their own? Allen & Lewis seemed to have good spacing, help from screens at times, quick release. Wonder how the current wings compare of these criteria.
I assume the PG werent getting screens for 3s. Are they getting screens for penetration? Seems likely that defense is unafraid of their drives, playing them tight?
Any sign of pick n roll development yet? “Too early” on PJ’s schedule for that?
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:41 pm
Too bad you guys could not make it to the game because there was nobody there. Looked like we were playing in a highschool gym and actually some highschool probably have more fans then we had tonight. Not really something a city needs while their team is threatening to leave. I know its only preseason, but where is the love? If its anything like this in the regular season then we’re in trouble.
For the game, we looked good but we got beat in overtime by their reserves. We didnt have durant or west but we took some bad shots and made some dumb plays towards the end. Durant was limping but walked off by himself. I hope he’s ok. Wally and Wilcox came to play. Wilkens played well but took some bad shots also. Some shots he would dribble up the court and throw up a shot without working the ball around at all. But he’s definately got a lot more offensive moves now. Collison is one of my favorite players, but he didnt do too much.
We have a lot of good players that can make good plays, but they also make some poor decisions pretty often. If we can limit those mistakes and find some go-to guys at the end of the game, then i think we’ll surprise some people. But we NEED PEOPLE IN THE STANDS! Only 15 dollar seats and in you’re in the building.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:43 pm
Does Green screen or look for the shot?
Wilcox and Collison both going to low post or coming out to high post area much? Where is Thomas moving most of the time?
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:57 pm
Crow, why didn’t you go to the game? I got in free again, plus they gave me 2 free tickets to the upcoming Memphis regular season game once I got in the building. The Sonics are just giving tickets away. I heard they gave people who went to the scrimmage at SPU a couple of weeks ago free tickets to tonight’s game. There were still only around 4,000 to 5,000 people at KeyArena tonight.
Green and Thomas don’t do much of anything on offense. Wilcox spends his time down around the basket, as does Collison. Collison took only one jump shot that I can remember, and Wilcox did most, if not all of his scoring right at the hoop.
Ridnour had another of his typical 1-for-7 shooting games. What a dog. The Sonics just don’t have a point guard. If West is not their starting point guard this season, then they are in a world of hurt. And West isn’t that great, either.
Durant hasn’t done anything that Rashard Lewis didn’t do, and Rashard did it better than Durant. I don’t see any reason to believe that the Sonics won’t be worse this year than last year. Green looks like he’s in over his head so far.
October 24th, 2007 at 6:53 am
“Crow, why didn’t you go to the game?”
Because I am close to a 100 miles away and it is pre-season.
October 24th, 2007 at 9:50 am
“Durant hasn’t done anything that Rashard Lewis didn’t do, and Rashard did it better than Durant.”
That’s got to be one of the most short-sighted, stupid things I’ve heard regarding expectations for Durant.
He hasn’t played a game that counts yet and you’re comparing him to a guy who’s on a max contract.
Here’s a question: what skills does Rashard have that Durant isn’t likely to acquire?
October 24th, 2007 at 10:35 am
Durant = R. Lewis 2.0
October 24th, 2007 at 10:43 am
Well, the only skill that really matters for small forward or shooting guard is shooting. So let’s see if Durant will be as good a shooter as Rashard. The thing about Durant is that he is so young that nobody can really tell how good he will be or not be.
What do you think Durant will be better at than Rashard?
Contracts have nothing to do with anything. That’s really a stupid comment. All rookies have relatively “small” contracts compared to established players. Has nothing to do with how good players are.
Crow: that’s a good reason not to go to last night’s game. I live one mile from KeyArena, so I have a slight advantage on you.
October 24th, 2007 at 11:02 am
“What do you think Durant will be better at than Rashard?”
Basketball.
If you want a couple specifics, he’s got a better handle and ability to create shots for both himself and teammates. He’s better at spacing out the floor and not getting out of position. His lateral quickness is better than Rashard’s ever was.
Lewis didn’t have the talent to come out at 19 and drop 15-20 a night. With experience and such he was able to get to that level. I expect Durant at 20 to be better than Rashards best year on an daily basis.
October 24th, 2007 at 11:17 am
“What do you think Durant will be better at than Rashard?”
I think he’ll be as good or nearly from 3pt - RL’s only saving grace
better ball handler - he already is
better defender - though I’m not sure he’ll be an upper-echelon defender in the L
better clutch performer - won’t disappear in the playoffs
More dynamic scorer - 3pt shot, mid-range and post skills are there, strength isn’t yet.
“Well, the only skill that really matters for small forward or shooting guard is shooting”
Yeah, perimeter defense isn’t important at all, espescially with a formidable front line like ours.
As for contract amounts, you’re right, espescially in Rashard’s case. My point however, was to illuminate the fact that you’re comparing a rookie who has yet to play a meaningful game with a former All-Star who’s been in the league for nearly a decade. You’re also relying heavily on anecdotal tidbits that you caught from two preseason games; not reliable means of assessing a player’s abilities, IMO.
October 24th, 2007 at 12:22 pm
Durant can’t guard anyone on the perimeter. Any small forward or shooting guard in the league can take Durant off the dribble. Durant is not quick. Durant is not a good ball handler.
Durant shot just slightly better from the college 3-pt line than Rashard has shot from the NBA 3-pt line for his career. That is a 4-foot difference for many of those shots. They also play better defense in the NBA, so Durant will have a hand in his face more often in the NBA than he did in college. I’ve already seen Durant get a 3-pt attempt blocked in the NBA. Wonder if that ever happened to him in college….
I don’t know if Durant will shoot as well in the NBA as Rashard has, or not. But I think that is the key to how good a player Durant will be. If he’s a great shooter, he’ll be a great player. If he’s an ordinary shooter, he will be an ordinary player.
That’s my take on Durant.
October 24th, 2007 at 12:33 pm
Lewis didn’t have the talent to come out at 19 and drop 15-20 a night. With experience and such he was able to get to that level. I expect Durant at 20 to be better than Rashards best year on an daily basis.
Minutes and emphasis in the offense had a little something to do with that, don’t you think? Rashard wasn’t the designated go-to guy the day he was drafted.
October 24th, 2007 at 12:41 pm
“Minutes and emphasis in the offense had a little something to do with that, don’t you think? Rashard wasn’t the designated go-to guy the day he was drafted.”
Absolutely. But do you think that would have mattered when Lewis first came out? His third year he nearly got to 15, then it took him another 4 years to get to 20. He was at bare minimum the second option by his fourth year.
There’s not a scout in the land that would tell you that Lewis was the prospect Durant is coming into the league, he simply doesn’t have the natural talent.
October 24th, 2007 at 12:52 pm
There’s not a scout in the land that would tell you that Lewis was the prospect Durant is coming into the league, he simply doesn’t have the natural talent.
I’m not arguing that point. I just don’t think the scoring numbers will be comparable. This is the first season where Rashard will be the #1 option.
October 24th, 2007 at 1:30 pm
I agree with Big Dipper that shooting is the first and probably biggest measure of the impact of Durant.
I’ll agree with others that Durant comes into league a more skilled overall player than Lewis.
I hope with time Durant is making a number of positive contributions and not too many or big negatives. I think there is a high probability he will work out as quite positive net, with right coach, right instruction, right teammates but how well it will work (sorta good, good or great) and how fast is pretty foggy to me.
October 24th, 2007 at 3:36 pm
“Minutes and emphasis in the offense had a little something to do with that, don’t you think? Rashard wasn’t the designated go-to guy the day he was drafted.”
Wouldn’t minutes and offensive emphasis be, in some ways, a reflection of his skills and NBA readiness?
October 24th, 2007 at 3:43 pm
“Wouldn’t minutes and offensive emphasis be, in some ways, a reflection of his skills and NBA readiness? ”
Yeah, I’m sure Detlef Schrempf starting ahead of him played no part in it either.
October 24th, 2007 at 3:54 pm
“Yeah, I’m sure Detlef Schrempf starting ahead of him played no part in it either.”
Well, so much for my point. Thought Det was in Portland by then.
October 24th, 2007 at 4:38 pm
Not only was Det on that team in Lewis’s rookie season, the Supes also had Hesey Hawkins and Dale Ellis, and when they were on the court together, Ellis was the small forward. So Rashard had bot Detlef and Dale Ellis ahead of him. Two pretty good players.