12/12/07 Box Score: Supersonics 117 Knicks 110
Posted on Wednesday, December 12th, 2007 at 8:18 pm by Big Chris
No matter what happens for the rest of this season, we’ll be able to say “Hey - at least we’re not the Knicks!”
Solid game by Kevin Durant with 30 points on 11 of 20 shooting. Jeff Green contributed 17 points on 7 of 14 shooting.
The Sonics were out rebounded by a sizable margin, but through limiting turn overs and taking good shots they were able to put another one in the win column.
SLAM Online’s coverage of the game tonight is an interesting read for anybody so inclined.
Plus/Minus
Nick Collison led the Sonics at +12 and Jeff Green was +11.
Help Value (hv=Reb+Ast+Blk+Stl-TO)
Kurt Thomas was +11 and Earl Watson was +10 for the Sonics.
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| Seattle | ||||||||||||
| Name | Min | FG | 3Pt | FT | Off | Reb | Ast | TO | Stl | Blk | PF | Pts |
| C. Wilcox | 19 | 3-7 | 0-0 | 2-4 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 8 |
| D. Wilkins | 24 | 3-6 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 6 |
| K. Thomas | 30 | 3-6 | 0-0 | 3-3 | 4 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 9 |
| K. Durant | 35 | 11-20 | 1-5 | 7-8 | 1 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 30 |
| E. Watson | 28 | 5-9 | 0-1 | 1-2 | 0 | 5 | 4 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 11 |
| N. Collison | 29 | 5-7 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 1 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 10 |
| W. Szczerbiak | 24 | 4-6 | 2-3 | 2-2 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 12 |
| J. Green | 27 | 7-14 | 0-0 | 3-6 | 1 | 5 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 17 |
| L. Ridnour | 17 | 5-5 | 2-2 | 0-0 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 12 |
| M. Gelabale | 3 | 1-1 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| R. Swift | DNP - Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||
| D. West | DNP - Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||
| J. Petro | DNP - Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||
| M. Sene | DNP - Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||
| Totals | 236 | 47-81 | 5-12 | 18-25 | 8 | 36 | 20 | 11 | 9 | 3 | 21 | 117 |
| Percentages: | .580 | .417 | .720 | Team Rebounds: 4 |
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| New York | ||||||||||||
| Name | Min | FG | 3Pt | FT | Off | Reb | Ast | TO | Stl | Blk | PF | Pts |
| Z. Randolph | 42 | 11-18 | 0-0 | 5-6 | 6 | 16 | 4 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 27 |
| Q. Richardson | 12 | 2-6 | 2-5 | 0-2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| E. Curry | 24 | 6-11 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 3 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 12 |
| J. Crawford | 41 | 11-22 | 3-6 | 4-4 | 0 | 3 | 6 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 5 | 29 |
| F. Jones | 31 | 1-5 | 0-2 | 0-0 | 0 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 2 |
| D. Lee | 32 | 7-11 | 0-0 | 2-2 | 3 | 7 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 16 |
| J. Jeffries | 23 | 2-4 | 0-0 | 2-4 | 5 | 8 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 6 |
| N. Robinson | 25 | 5-17 | 1-8 | 1-2 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 5 | 12 |
| R. Balkman | 5 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| W. Chandler | DNP - Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||
| S. Marbury | DNP - Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||
| M. Rose | DNP - Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||
| J. James | DNP - Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||
| M. Collins | DNP - Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||
| R. Morris | DNP - Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||
| Totals | 235 | 45-95 | 6-21 | 14-20 | 19 | 47 | 17 | 14 | 6 | 1 | 22 | 110 |
| Percentages: | .474 | .286 | .700 | Team Rebounds: 10 |
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| Game Info | ||||||||||||
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Technical Fouls: |
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PopcornMachine’s GameFlow
December 12th, 2007 at 8:28 pm
Just for fun, I wonder how many times KD can bench 185 now?
December 12th, 2007 at 8:36 pm
Except for Wilcox’s 3-7, every player on the team shot 50% or better - Hot stuff! Is there any way we can get the Knicks moved into our division?
December 12th, 2007 at 8:43 pm
Don’t see the need to bench 185 when you can already carry the team.
December 12th, 2007 at 8:44 pm
Green was able to avoid any turnovers in twenty-seven minutes. This game was his best in awhile. Nate Robinson may have been just as vital to the win as anybody on Seattle’s roster. I cannot wait until Kevin Durant learns how to hit the NBA three-pointer.
The shooting and offense has been very good these past two games. Hopefully it continues against Minnesota and Utah, two sub-par defensive teams.
December 12th, 2007 at 9:00 pm
I’m not sure what broadcast you all heard in Seattle, but I watched the game on NBA League pass. And it was the New York announcers. Anyway, Kenny Smith made a comment that made me think. He said… and I’m paraphrasing… “Seattle constantly plays zone defense. This is a sign of a team that does not know where they’re at on defense. You can play zone defense from time to time but man to man defense has got to be played. Otherwise the opposing offense will figure out the weak part of the zone as the game goes on and figure it out and exploit where the weakness is.” For those of you who heard that broadcast, correct me if I’m wrong in my paraphrasing and I’d be quite interested in hearing comments on what Kenny Smith said.
December 12th, 2007 at 9:10 pm
ill say it again…
the offense runs so much smoother with luke in
December 12th, 2007 at 9:18 pm
the offense runs so much smoother with luke in
True, but so does the opponents’. See Comic’s post about weak spot in the zone (ditto for Wilcox).
December 12th, 2007 at 9:18 pm
ill say it again…
the offense runs so much smoother with luke in
So noted, Underdog. Of course the inquiry has to do with defense though. And pardon me if your post had nothing to do with a response to my post.
December 12th, 2007 at 9:22 pm
SonicComic,
interesting. I’d argue that that only holds if you stick to the same zone, though.
It’s amazing the difference that can be created in your defence, simply by switching which zone you’re using.
IMHO, if PJ is trying to teach a heap of different zones, with the idea of being able to switch zones on the fly mid-game once the team is good enough, that’s hard to work against. If you attack the zone successfully twice in a row, and they respond by simply changing their zone up, you’re back to square one.
This all of course is based on the idea that your team is good at playing multiple types of zone defence, and that they’re equally good at switching between them and not getting confused in the process. I can’t say that the Sonics are either of those yet.
December 12th, 2007 at 9:23 pm
“I TOLD MY WIFE LAST NITE AFTA DA BULLS GAME THAT DURANT WILL BE THE NEXT JORDAN AT THE GARDEN..LIKE HOW JORDAN ALWAYS KILLED THEM LATE IN GAMES WITH KILLER SHOTS.. I TOLD HER..WATCH HE’S GONNA PROVIDE THAT LATE GAME DRAMA..” {slickwatts13}
“Where are the geniuses that said Durant’s going to be just another forward? LOL!!” {ajw}
“Just for fun, I wonder how many times KD can bench 185 now?” {perfect}
I still stand by that assertion that Kevin Durant is the second-coming of Tracy McGrady. From a stylistic standpoint, the similarities between Durant and McGrady are just too blatantly obvious to be ignored by anyone who’s not a homer.
As it is, McGrady’s highest success thus far throughout his career consisted of him averaging 32.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game during the 2002-2003 season — which is all fine and dandy — yet, he was unable to lead the Orlando Magic beyond the first-round of the playoffs that year, as the Detroit Pistons ousted them by winning their seven-game series.
Anyway, other than Vince Carter and Kobe Bryant, there hasn’t been a player during the past fifteen years who’s possessed the innate athleticism, strength, and coordination to compete with the legend that is Michael Jordan. Due to Durant’s poor showing at the 2007 NBA Pre-Draft Combine, he’s proven himself to be no exception in this case.
Dismayingly, “Vinsanity” possessed more intrinsic ability than both Bryant and Jordan — as was noted by his 43-inch maximum vertical leap, impressive physique, fluidity at manuvering his body, and smooth handle of the basketball — however, he lacked the mental fortitude and diligent work ethic that’s necessary to become an all-time great.
December 12th, 2007 at 9:25 pm
yeah, kenny was a wealth of information, mainly bc he’s not a real knicks announcer and bc he’s made a ten-year career on dispassionate, very good analysis of the nba. he’s right zone is a sign the sonics are bad. wilcox is unable to raise his hands on defense. even if luke isn’t great on D, i don’t think earl is much better with his height. without a bigger guy in the middle, the sonics are probably going to give up 100 ppg unless the other team goes cold. more green and collison, less wilcox is a good start though. and more luke, please more luke.
more strikingly, kenny said he thinks durant’s shot selection is fine and that he’ll naturally tend towards 45% by the end of the season. he also said we’re just one big man (see above) away from making a big leap in progress.
December 12th, 2007 at 9:41 pm
Perfect Says:
“I wonder how many times KD can bench 185 now?”
MartinH Says:
“Don’t see the need to bench 185 when you can already carry the team.”
Kudos - those are 2 of the best comments of the year so far.
December 12th, 2007 at 9:42 pm
Like I said folks, give Jeff Green 30 minutes a game…
December 12th, 2007 at 9:52 pm
“True, but so does the opponents’. See Comic’s post about weak spot in the zone (ditto for Wilcox). ”
Crawford abused Watson as well.
December 12th, 2007 at 9:58 pm
Our perimeter defense has been atrocious even with Watson in it. It’s not going to change anytime soon until we get a shot blocking machine at center that will allow our guards to overplay the outside. Watson is getting killed on defense anyways and that bastard just holds the ball way to long. Atleast Ridnour gives it up early on the break to give the guys a chance to make plays instead of putting them in bad positions to make an offensive foul or give the ball away like Watson is.
December 12th, 2007 at 9:59 pm
Robert will be back after this road trip. Cross fingers that his mobility is better.
December 12th, 2007 at 10:07 pm
It was a little painful to hear Kenny Smith mention repeatedly how we lacked for a big man to block shots and counter the wide butts of Curry and Zach. Fortunately, at least while I listened, they hadn’t done their homework enough to point out the 3 centers we drafted with successiv first round picks…
Nice win although New York is pathetic. As much as I dislike Isiah and the Knicks I couldn’t help but feel sorry for him as the fans called for his firing. I don’t know how he can take it…..ugly stuff.
December 12th, 2007 at 10:10 pm
Luke seems to be playing with confidence, which is good because that has always been the biggest hole in his game.
I thought it was pretty telling that PJ left Green in there down the stretch, and not Damien.
Durant is definitely showing improvement as the season goes on. My girlfriend, who isn’t a huge hoops fan, said this tonight about Durant: ‘How can he be so focused; he’s just a kid!’
Durant has ‘it.’
December 12th, 2007 at 10:14 pm
“Nice win although New York is pathetic. As much as I dislike Isiah and the Knicks I couldn’t help but feel sorry for him as the fans called for his firing. I don’t know how he can take it…..ugly stuff. ”
Yeah that was pretty sad. Still surprised their fans even go to their games knowing that the team has already given up on the season. Sad, sad situation.
December 12th, 2007 at 10:15 pm
“Robert will be back after this road trip. Cross fingers that his mobility is better. ”
I’m telling ya, he needs to shave his head and get back to the Robert of old! He use to fly in the open court.
December 12th, 2007 at 10:18 pm
He also used to have both original ACLs.
December 12th, 2007 at 10:23 pm
ajw Says:
December 12th, 2007 at 9:58 pm
Our perimeter defense has been atrocious even with Watson in it. It’s not going to change anytime soon until we get a shot blocking machine at center that will allow our guards to overplay the outside. Watson is getting killed on defense anyways and that bastard just holds the ball way to long. Atleast Ridnour gives it up early on the break to give the guys a chance to make plays instead of putting them in bad positions to make an offensive foul or give the ball away like Watson is.
Agreed. This has been a huge problem for the Sonics for about 6 years. Not since Nate actually got JJ to impersonate an average NBA center in his contract year have we seen anything but out-of-position forwards play the C. And they aren’t even good defending PF’s either. Not much chance for trully goo defense until the position is remedied.
December 12th, 2007 at 10:24 pm
“Our perimeter defense has been atrocious even with Watson in it. It’s not going to change anytime soon until we get a shot blocking machine at center that will allow our guards to overplay the outside. Watson is getting killed on defense anyways and that bastard just holds the ball way to long. Atleast Ridnour gives it up early on the break to give the guys a chance to make plays instead of putting them in bad positions to make an offensive foul or give the ball away like Watson is.” {ajw}
Unlike Luke Ridnour, Earl Watson can fight off screens without being pushed around like a girl and, more importantly, square up on his opponent and play solid man-to-man defense. Hell, I bet that Sue Bird could do a better job at both of those things than Ridnour.
Aside from those smarmy comments, I hope that y’all are aware of the statistical fact that Watson (2007-2008: 10.8 Assists Per 48 Minutes & 2.77 Assists Per Turnovers; 2006-2007: 9.7 Assists Per 48 Minutes & 2.62 Assists To Turnover Ratio) is a more proficient playmaker and efficient distributor than Ridnour (2007-2008: 9.2 Assists Per 48 Minutes & 2.44 Assists Per Turnovers; 2006-2007: 8.4 Assists Per 48 Minutes & 2.36 Assists To Turnover Ratio); yet, nobody would know that from reading the comments here, as a lot of folks have a favorable bias toward the local golden boy.
All in all, I’m amused that anyone would still consider Ridnour the answer point guard. It’s Derrick Rose or bust, folks.
December 12th, 2007 at 10:28 pm
MartinH Says:
“He also used to have both original ACLs.”
It may just be that Robert at 100% was going to be a solid NBA backup or even a reasonable starter for his career. But at 85% or 90% of his original talent level?? Here is hoping he gets back to 100%. An Oden type talent can probably have a very good career even if he never quite gets it all back… but Robert is not in that category so he needs to be completly healthy to contribute.
December 12th, 2007 at 10:35 pm
As for those all-important bench-press numbers, I was thinking tonight that even if Durant’s raw physical strength was perhaps in the bottom 10% of the league, certainly his skill/talent level is in the top 10% - which is more important to succeed in the NBA, and which is easier to obtain?
I would maintain that it’s far easier to gain weight and add strength than it is to learn elite-level basketball skills. But I’m sure that’s obvious to just about everyone by now.
December 12th, 2007 at 10:35 pm
“Luke seems to be playing with confidence, which is good because that has always been the biggest hole in his game.” {Big_Worm}
The biggest gap in Luke Ridnour’s game isn’t his supposed lack of “confidence,” but rather the realization that he can’t play a lick defense and is oftentimes abused by opposing players.
As it is, Ridnour’s constant attempts to gobble up steals by reaching into the passing lanes and gamblin’ on defense — as there is no way he can ever front his man successfully — doesn’t count as satisfactory defense in any way, shape, or form.
Ridnour is a horrifically streaky jump shooter, too, which makes me cringe whenever he launches the ball toward the hoop. In addition, the way he drives to the basket without any tenacity — as he trys to use finesse with his floater whenever finishing at the cup — makes me yearn for the days of Antonio Daniels.
Oh well, people seemingly adore the golden boy; thus, let’s keep giving him more chances at failure, as it’ll appease the masses.
December 12th, 2007 at 10:39 pm
I’m telling ya, he needs to shave his head and get back to the Robert of old! He use to fly in the open court.
I agree! If Swifty wants to lose some weight he needs to cut his hair. That’ll take off 5 pounds at least!
And how nice is it that Durant scoring 30 points is almost becoming a nightly occurance that we’re not even wowed by it anymore. Only 22 games into the season and 19 years old.
December 12th, 2007 at 10:40 pm
I guess the Knicks fans continue to go to games because they love basketball. I believe they have remained in the top ten in terms of attendance despite their recent struggles. The NBA wishes that every fan base was as passionate as the Knicks fan base.
December 12th, 2007 at 10:49 pm
Joshu@ is correct, let Green and Durant play 30 minutes a game and they will each give you results.
Without a decent center there will not be alot of wins, but at least they will live and learn, inconsistencies and all.
December 12th, 2007 at 10:51 pm
Good game tonight. It is frustrating to see such a good night tonight but yet wonder what was last night. You never know what Sonics squad is going to show up. It is amazing that they did not get to their NYC hotel until 4am but still managed to pull out a win. I guess they need the odds stacked against them to get wins. It is all apart of the challenges this franchise is facing. They will surviive at the end of the day!!!
December 12th, 2007 at 10:55 pm
i agree with MartinH that Sonics are banking on changing look of zones to keep opponent from drilling in on any one one weak spot consistently (like Michael Redd talked about). The results have been pretty good more often lately but still below league average.
Gary Washburn said Swift back in January. Perhaps the player and team have different timetables? I assume Brian talked to Swifty himself whereas Washburn probably talked to PJ or someone else in the organization. Maybe it ends up being split the difference late Dec.
December 12th, 2007 at 11:19 pm
the need for a Swift type center is dependent on the matchup the sonics are facing, the need for a 6-11 shot blocking front court player that can defend the post is what you need most of the time, Wilcox is a failure on defense. Replace him.
I wouldn’t have a problem resigning Thomas to a readable 3 year deal to be a veteran bigman this team has lacked for years, esp if you end up drafting a kid to replace Wilcox, Thomas knows all the stuff that Wilcox fails to learn, get a new student.
December 12th, 2007 at 11:24 pm
And on the flipside…
Stan van Gundy, in the post-game press conference, after the Bucks rolled Orlando by 14: “The defensive mentality, particularly of our starters, is nonexistent,” he said. “If the intensity and the defensive mentality does not change, then we have to make a change. We can’t continue to give up 30, 32 points every first quarter and try to fight our way back.”
Welcome to having Shard on your team, Stan! Good luck!
December 12th, 2007 at 11:33 pm
Orlando is now 16-7 after losing three straight. They completely depend on their three-point shooting to win games and their inability to hit them over the past six games has contributed to their 2-4 record. It may be nothing to worry about considering that they have been one of the elite defensive teams in the league thus far, notwithstanding Van Gundy’s comments. They may also not be challenged for the Southeastern Division title given the Arenas injury and the early struggles of the Miami Heat. I don’t think they would win a playoff matchup with Boston, Detroit, or Cleveland.
December 12th, 2007 at 11:43 pm
Just for fun:
Antonio Daniels Career:
MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG TO PPG
23.0 0.444 0.313 0.796 1.9 3.4 0.7 1.08 7.9
Luke Ridnour Career:
MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG TO PPG
27.6 0.417 0.340 0.854 2.3 5.1 1.2 1.80 9.4
December 12th, 2007 at 11:43 pm
Though Orlando should keep in mind that no #1 seed has made it to the NBA Finals since the 2003 NBA Finals. In fact, only one sixty-win team has made it to the Finals since the 2003 NBA Finals (the sixty-win Dallas Mavericks from the 2005-2006 season). Thus, no #1 seed or sixty-win team has won the championship since the 2003 NBA Finals. Some explanations for this curious trend may be that these teams are overextending themselves during the regular season or simply folding under the pressure of being the favorite.
Thus far, only Phoenix, Boston, and San Antonio are on pace to win sixty games or more. It will be interesting to see whether these three teams can avoid the sixty-win and the #1 seed curse that has plauged sixty-win teams and #1 seeds in the last four years.
December 12th, 2007 at 11:52 pm
In contrast to the NBA, four #1 seeds have played in the Super Bowl (Seattle in 2006, Philadelphia in 2004, Chicago in 2007, New England in 2004) since 2003.
Every Super Bowl participant since 2003 with the exception of the 2006 Super Bowl champions and the 2004 Carolina Panthers won at least twelve games in the regular season (the equivalent of a sixty-win season).
December 13th, 2007 at 12:04 am
As for those all-important bench-press numbers, I was thinking tonight that even if Durant’s raw physical strength was perhaps in the bottom 10% of the league, certainly his skill/talent level is in the top 10% - which is more important to succeed in the NBA, and which is easier to obtain?
In no way am I dense enough to be concerned about KD’s future. I am just interested to see how his muscles have responded to working with world-class trainers on a nightly basis.
I can’t wait for the all-star break either, as I find it hard to believe that Presti won’t hesitate to trade away unnecessary parts like the three W’s and maybe more. I don’t think any of their value can get any higher than it is now.
December 13th, 2007 at 12:12 am
“I wouldn’t have a problem resigning Thomas to a readable 3 year deal to be a veteran bigman this team has lacked for years, esp if you end up drafting a kid to replace Wilcox, Thomas knows all the stuff that Wilcox fails to learn, get a new student.” {Mr. Baker}
Why would any team sign Kurt Thomas — who, by the way, will be 36 years old to begin the 2008-2009 season — to a three-year contract during the upcoming off-season?
After this season, Thomas will be at the juncture of his career wherein he’ll most likely sign a one-year, minimum-level contract with a championship contending team — such as the Dallas Mavericks, who could actually use him right now over Juwan Howard — rather than return to a rebuilding franchise that’s in the midst of turbulent times like the Seattle Supersonics.
Besides, Thomas is a former Maverick, a Texas Christian University alumnus, and a Dallas native—so he’ll probably join his hometown team come next season.
Anyway, here’s a series of transactions that should happen sometime next week between a rebuilding New Jersey Nets, a retooling Indiana Pacers, and a Los Angeles Lakers ballclub that’s looking to compete with the Western Conference frontrunners (i.e., the Dallas Mavericks, the Phoenix Suns, and the San Antonio Spurs) during the 2008 NBA Playoffs.
TRANSACTION #1
The Indiana Pacers waive shooting guard Andre Owens.
TRANSACTION #2
FROM INDIANA & TO LOS ANGELES
C Andrew Betts (Draft Rights)
FROM LOS ANGELES & TO INDIANA
SF Trevor Ariza ($3,100,000)
2009 Second-Round Draft Pick (Via The Charlotte Bobcats)
Cash Considerations ($3,000,000)
http://realgm.com/src_checktrade.php?tradeid=4337210
TRANSACTION #3
The Los Angeles Lakers sign center Elton Brown and power forward Nik Caner-Medley to one-year, minimum-level contracts.
TRANSACTION #4
FROM INDIANA
PF Jermaine O’Neal ($19,728,000)
C David Harrison ($1,734,316)
FROM LOS ANGELES
PF Lamar Odom ($13,302,516)
C Kwame Brown ($9,075,000)
PF Vladimir Radmanovic ($5,632,200)
C Chris Mihm ($2,500,000)
PG Javaris Crittenton ($1,285,200)
2008 First-Round Draft Pick
2010 First-Round Draft Pick
Cash Considerations ($3,000,000)
FROM NEW JERSEY
PG Jason Kidd ($19,728,000)
C Jason Collins ($6,100,000)
TO INDIANA
PF Lamar Odom ($13,302,516)
C Jason Collins ($6,100,000)
PF Vladimir Radmanovic ($5,632,200)
TO LOS ANGELES
PF Jermaine O’Neal ($19,728,000)
PG Jason Kidd ($19,728,000)
TO NEW JERSEY
C Kwame Brown ($9,075,000)
C Chris Mihm ($2,500,000)
C David Harrison ($1,734,316)
PG Javaris Crittenton ($1,285,200)
2008 First-Round Draft Pick (Via The Los Angeles Lakers)
2010 First-Round Draft Pick (Via The Los Angeles Lakers)
Cash Considerations ($3,000,000)
http://realgm.com/src_checktrade.php?tradeid=4336966
TRANSACTION #5
The Los Angeles Lakers sign off guard C.J. Watson to a one-year, minimum-level contract.
The following roster could hold its own against any competition.
LOS ANGELES LAKERS
Center: Andrew Bynum
Center: Ronny Turiaf
Center: Elton Brown
Power Forward: Jermaine O’Neal
Power Forward: Nik Caner-Medley
Point Forward: Jason Kidd
Point Forward: Luke Walton
Shooting Guard: Kobe Bryant
Shooting Guard: Aleksander “Sasha” Vujacic
Shooting Guard: Coby Karl
Off Guard: Derek Fisher
Off Guard: Jordan Farmar
Off Guard: C.J. Watson
There’s no doubt about it.
December 13th, 2007 at 12:26 am
So, Luke Ridnour is a better player than Antonio Daniels? AD plays some semblance of D which makes those numbers not even worth mentioning. Opponents aren’t licking their chops on a nightly basis against AD.
I tell ya, they’re really coming out the woodwork tonight DTate. It’s as if history means nothing. It figures though, and I’m not surprised at the convenient timing of it all.
Anyway, Luke played decent tonite, and I like the fact that he was aggressive offensively. As AK said this little bit tonite doesn’t all of a sudden make him the answer for us at point though imo. It’s all about consistency, and that’s why neither he, or Earl should be considered the future as starter. Both could realistically backup a more legitimate starting point guard though imo.
The key to me was obviously KD, and then KT, Nick, Green, and even Wally Z were pretty key as well. Luke, and Earl also both had their moments, but I’d give the edge to Luke tonite…
December 13th, 2007 at 12:33 am
“Just for fun:
Antonio Daniels Career:
MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG TO PPG
23.0 0.444 0.313 0.796 1.9 3.4 0.7 1.08 7.9
Luke Ridnour Career:
MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG TO PPG
27.6 0.417 0.340 0.854 2.3 5.1 1.2 1.80 9.4” {TukwilaSonic}
Antonio Daniels (Per 48 Minutes)
FG% 3P% FT% TS% RB AST STL BLK TO PTS PER
44.4% 31.4% 79.5% 54.6% 3.9 7.0 1.4 0.2 2.3 16.7 14.8
Luke Ridnour (Per 48 Minutes)
FG% 3P% FT% TS% RB AST STL BLK TO PTS PER
41.8% 34.1% 85.4% 50.5% 4.1 8.9 2.0 0.4 3.1 16.5 14.6
After properly extrapolating Antonio Daniels and Luke Ridnour statistical production thus far during their respective careers, Daniels is shown to be a slightly more proficient offensive player than Ridnour. That, by the way, doesn’t account for the huge disparity in defense between the two guys.
Yet, that notwithstanding, Daniels has had trouble defending point guards this season — which is probably ’cause of a reduction in speed and agility due to him passing his prime — however, he’s nevertheless able to still shutdown opposing shooting guards. It’s too bad that Daniels doesn’t play point guard for the Denver Nuggets, as he’d be the perfect backcourt teammate for undersized gunner Allen Iverson.
Anyway, my point is that Daniels has had a more productive career than Ridnour.
December 13th, 2007 at 12:34 am
Who said they were PG’s of the future? I’d just rather have Durant be more ball dominant than any of our current PG’s, and Ridnour gives him that opportunity. Watson holding the ball at the top for 10 seconds while waving his hands and directing traffic is irritating. Move the freakin’ ball or get the hell out!
December 13th, 2007 at 12:35 am
Courtsense-I know u know the answer to your own question, but it’s true it’s much easier to gain strength, than skill, not to mention heart, and courage.
I remember the hoopla over the summer, and thought it was a joke to be honest…
December 13th, 2007 at 12:40 am
ajw, I wasn’t reffering to your post, and u may want that, but PJ may not want it, and the rest of the team might also have something to say about it as well. I mean do u really think that if PJ approached Earl, and said look this is what we want, that Earl couldn’t just get the ball to KD early every time down? U can’t really play like that, even though we might like to see that sometimes. I think the point is that we’re better off finding a reliable solution at PG, than to just say give the ball to KD for the next 10 years. What I was reffering to is the tone of some that Luke is the answer…
December 13th, 2007 at 12:44 am
And if Luke is the answer then he just has to prove it plain, and simple. I can accept it, in fact I invite it. I’d love to see it, but he has had his opportunities to prove it, and hasn’t as yet. Don’t mean he won’t eventually, but I guess some of us are just losing patient, just as others are losing patience with Earl. I can understand both sides, but what I can’t understand is bashing either of them continuously, and going out of our way to point out their deficiencies and, or mistakes over, and over. It’s clear that they both can play a role, but I think it has also become clear that at this point, neither can really run the show in a way that’s pleasing to the general fan base. Fair?
December 13th, 2007 at 12:46 am
Man the last dunk from KD was sick. I’m so happy that we have him.
December 13th, 2007 at 12:49 am
A nice article on Durant from the New York papers:
http://www.newsday.com/sports/basketball/knicks/ny-spberg1213,0,6279086.column
December 13th, 2007 at 12:50 am
“Who said they were PG’s of the future? I’d just rather have Durant be more ball dominant than any of our current PG’s, and Ridnour gives him that opportunity. Watson holding the ball at the top for 10 seconds while waving his hands and directing traffic is irritating. Move the freakin’ ball or get the hell out!” {ajw}
The last thing I want is Kevin Durant being called upon to consistently handle the basketball. Not only is Durant a far cry away from being a legitimate point forward — à la Marko Jaric, John Salmons, and Luke Walton — the so-called savior is also allergic to assists (Asstists Per 48 Minutes: 2.7 & Assists Per Turnovers: 0.58) and has a propensity to commit turnovers (Turnovers Per 48 Minutes: 4.6 & Steals Per Turnovers: 0.28). All things considered, it’d be an absolutely horrendous idea for P.J. Carlesimo to allot Durant any playmaking duties.
December 13th, 2007 at 12:56 am
Hey guys, I missed the game on TV. Anyone see any online highlights of Jeff Green’s block? Not on espn or nba.com
December 13th, 2007 at 1:02 am
AK, you could put any guard besides Allen Iverson, even Luke Ridnour, with the way that Camby and Kenyon Martin are dominating defensively. Their offense, rather than defense, is precluding them from being included in the conversation of the elite teams in the Western Conference. As presently situated, they are two games ahead of Utah in the loss column and will probably win the Northwest Division if they continue playing the defense they have played thus far in the season. Even brighter skies (e.g. NBA Finals) may be ahead if they can find a way to hit some three-pointers.
December 13th, 2007 at 1:21 am
“The last thing I want is Kevin Durant being called upon to consistently handle the basketball. Not only is Durant a far cry away from being a legitimate point forward — à la Marko Jaric, John Salmons, and Luke Walton — the so-called savior is also allergic to assists (Asstists Per 48 Minutes: 2.7 & Assists Per Turnovers: 0.58) and has a propensity to commit turnovers (Turnovers Per 48 Minutes: 4.6 & Steals Per Turnovers: 0.28). All things considered, it’d be an absolutely horrendous idea for P.J. Carlesimo to allot Durant any playmaking duties.”
I don’t like accusing anybody of anything, but I’m going to go ahead and assume you didn’t watch Durant make plays with the ball down the stretch tonight.
December 13th, 2007 at 1:35 am
“I don’t like accusing anybody of anything, but I’m going to go ahead and assume you didn’t watch Durant make plays with the ball down the stretch tonight.” {ajw}
I’ve also witnessed the numerous times when Kevin Durant has been stripped of the rock (41 Ball-Handling Turnovers) and, moreover, the cringeworthy instances in which he’s thrown the ball away (23 Bad Passes).
http://www.82games.com/0708/07SEA4A.HTM
December 13th, 2007 at 1:39 am
Bradon Roy, by contrast, has well over a 2.5/1 assist-to-turnover ratio playing the SG position for the Blazers. Since SG will not be Durant’s long-term position, it may not be useful to compare him to other shooting guards. While Durant’s assist-to-turnover ratio is a joke right now, Carmelo’s assist-to-turnover ratio was also under one when he was a 19-year old rookie for the Denver Nuggets. Now in his fifth year, Carmelo is averaging a career high in assists with well over a 1/1 assist-to-turnover ratio. Perhaps Durant can make the same progression as Carmelo has with his playmaking.
December 13th, 2007 at 1:44 am
Ridnour > Watson
Collison > Wilcox
Green > Wilkins & Gelabale
2 of the latter should be traded for equal value imho.
I just saw Durant rip off his Texas jersey to uncover a Sonics uniform. If Swift starts dominating down low, then somebody betta wake me up as I must be dreamin about good things.
December 13th, 2007 at 1:51 am
Statistics infer cause and effect relationships, but there are always variables affecting the results. Same concept holds true when analyzing basketball statistics and for trying to quantify a player’s relative value.
December 13th, 2007 at 1:54 am
“I’ve also witnessed the numerous times when Kevin Durant has been stripped of the rock (41 Ball-Handling Turnovers) and, moreover, the cringeworthy instances in which he’s thrown the ball away (23 Bad Passes).”
You’re right. I like watching Watson dribble out the clock and passing it when the opportunities don’t present itself as well.
December 13th, 2007 at 2:21 am
AK,
I don’t agree that KD is the second coming of McGrady.
Stylewise they are similar, but Durant is a better pure shooter (for one Durant’s FT% dwarfs McGrady’s).
I also think that eventually KD is going to develop into a solid/good defender since he actually puts effort on the defensive end unlike McGrady (and has a longer wing span).
When he fills in and starts understanding what works and what doesn’t at this level… hes going to be a BEAST man, enjoy the growing pains while they last.
December 13th, 2007 at 6:58 am
“Bradon Roy, by contrast, has well over a 2.5/1 assist-to-turnover ratio playing the SG position for the Blazers. Since SG will not be Durant’s long-term position, it may not be useful to compare him to other shooting guards.”
Durant at 23 is a more apt comparison to Roy now than the 19 year old rookie, no?
December 13th, 2007 at 8:39 am
I like how Durant, this early in his rookie season and at the age of 19, gets compared not only to McGrady (not a bad thing) but is projected to have exactly McGrady’s career ark, including his failure to win any rings. It’s as if it would be better if Durant’s skill-set matched those of a deep-bench player on one of Jordan’s championship teams. Same asinine logic.
Also, that three-pointer Durant made in the 4th wouldn’t have happened with Watson on the floor because the pass would have been a beat late (if he even attempted it). For those of you who didn’t watch the game (but are maybe pretending you did), you can see the highlight at ESPN. Watson doesn’t pass like that. He doesn’t run the offense the way Luke does at all. And merely comparing Luke’s and Watson’s assist numbers doesn’t prove anything. (It’s interesting how, on the one hand, a stat-exclusive argument is used to knock Luke when anyone watching what’s actually happening on the floor knows better, while the same person will use real-game observations about Luke’s vs. Watson’s ability to fight through screens to knock Luke on the other hand.) He positions himself and his people against the opposing defense where Watson would settle for something mechanical or haphazard or dribble into a crowd of defenders like a chicken with his head cut off. Ridnour will make a pass that leads to a pass that leads to a basket, and while that doesn’t lead to an assist for him, it does contribute to a semblance of an offense.
If this team had anything like a decent post presence there would be no Ridnour/Watson debate: Watson would be the backup and he would like it or leave. On a better team Ridnour’s strengths would dwarf his shortcomings.
December 13th, 2007 at 9:04 am
This trade makes way too much sense for it to happen.
Watson, PG
Wilkins, SF
to Miami for
Jason Williams, PG
Miami was running Penny Hardaway out there at starting SF and has now admitted that a failure and has moved on to Luke Jackson. Works from a salary standpoint and works from a health standpoint for Miami. Watson’s trade value will probably never be higher, until he is an expiring contract.
Sonics dump Watsons contract and get another expiring deal. Miami gets their starting PG and a SF who can give them some decent minutes since he won’t have to be trying to be scoring option #1b.
December 13th, 2007 at 11:31 am
I love it when we beat the Knicks, that game last year when Rashard hit that 3 pointer with Spike Lee yelling behind his back was great.
December 13th, 2007 at 11:39 am
Durant has been quite impressive at times, but this idea that he should only be compared to other 19 year olds is nuts. How many 19 yr olds came into the league and were put on a team as the instant #1 option AND average 34 min/gm?
December 13th, 2007 at 12:16 pm
epx Says:
“And if Luke is the answer then he just has to prove it plain, and simple. I can accept it, in fact I invite it. I’d love to see it, but he has had his opportunities to prove it, and hasn’t as yet. Don’t mean he won’t eventually, but I guess some of us are just losing patient, just as others are losing patience with Earl. I can understand both sides, but what I can’t understand is bashing either of them continuously, and going out of our way to point out their deficiencies and, or mistakes over, and over. It’s clear that they both can play a role, but I think it has also become clear that at this point, neither can really run the show in a way that’s pleasing to the general fan base. Fair? ”
Well said.
Moffet Says:
“I like how Durant, this early in his rookie season and at the age of 19, gets compared not only to McGrady (not a bad thing) but is projected to have exactly McGrady’s career ark, including his failure to win any rings. It’s as if it would be better if Durant’s skill-set matched those of a deep-bench player on one of Jordan’s championship teams. Same asinine logic.”
I’ve been thinking this every time we hear that our draft pick will turn out to be a “dud” like McGrady. If last year at this time we learned that a 19 year old TMac would be our draft pick, most people would have been thrilled. Ohh but we should have expected MJ or Kobe in the draft … right.
December 13th, 2007 at 12:20 pm
AK,
“Anyway, my point is that Daniels has had a more productive career than Ridnour. ”
I don’t dissagree here. I just posted the career numbers because when I looked they are remarkably similiar. AD is better defensively (but not great). The real difference is that AD has had injuries that limited his career. He would have lived up to his high draft position if not for knee and other injuries.
Nobody who watch’s Sonic basketball will confuse Earl Ridnour with any kind of Answer… we just want to see some improvement, or get someone who is better.
Good PG’s are hard to come by and drafting one will mean many years of development.
December 13th, 2007 at 12:32 pm
“Durant has been quite impressive at times, but this idea that he should only be compared to other 19 year olds is nuts. How many 19 yr olds came into the league and were put on a team as the instant #1 option AND average 34 min/gm? ”
Sigh.
December 13th, 2007 at 12:39 pm
Awesome argument, Steve.
December 13th, 2007 at 12:42 pm
I mean really, how many rookies period, no matter what their age, have been put in Durant’s position?
December 13th, 2007 at 12:57 pm
I mean really, how many rookies period, no matter what their age, have been put in Durant’s position?
Makes him pretty unique, I’d say. Especially the fact that given those unique circumstances, he’s managing to perform at a decent level.
December 13th, 2007 at 1:13 pm
Dick Tate Says:
“I mean really, how many rookies period, no matter what their age, have been put in Durant’s position? ”
This is an excellent question. His unique situation on this team almost guarantees larger numbers than most high picks get a chance to produce. On the other hand, it can be extremely hard for such a young player to be handed all this responsiblity night after night, and have all his learning curve mistakes out there on the court in front of the world. Most young players get more time to be coached in practice, review their play, etc. based on limited minutes from the real games.
He has no choice on this team–step up and play cause he’s most of what we’ve got on the perimeter.
December 13th, 2007 at 1:15 pm
Couldn’t care less about what you think Dick.
December 13th, 2007 at 1:17 pm
Great attitude for a guy that runs a forum.
December 13th, 2007 at 1:22 pm
“I mean really, how many rookies period, no matter what their age, have been put in Durant’s position?”
LeBron and Carmelo.
December 13th, 2007 at 1:23 pm
MartinH, andy and ajw: Thanks for the response about zone defense early in this thread. Great read.
December 13th, 2007 at 1:52 pm
I love the pure ignorance of some of the posters here. KD is 19. KD has already been making huge strides. KD will be your GOD. How the hell do you think you know the NBA game? What were you doing when you were 19? DO YOU REALIZE MOST PLAYERS PEAK IN THEIR MID 20s?! WOW DUDE. Ignorance to the max. Keep it up, you’ll just look dumber in the end.
December 13th, 2007 at 1:55 pm
AK IN NO WAY IS DURANT A POLISHED PRODUCT. HE IS 19! WHO THE HELL CARES ABOUT YOUR INSIGNIFICANT STATS? KD IS GETTING THE ROCK MORE THAN ANYONE ON THE TEAM. THIS IS HIS FIRST TIME PLAYING AGAINST PLAYERS OF THIS HIGH LEVEL. GIVE THE KID A BREAK. IF YOU WANT A SUPERSTAR, GO WATCH KOBE.
December 13th, 2007 at 2:16 pm
Maybe our expectations were a little too high for a rookie, but I’ve been impressed.
As for the “ignorance” comments… what could be more ignorant than blatantly ignoring a person’s observations because they don’t fit into your “KD will be your god” predictions? A lot of that going on here.
December 13th, 2007 at 4:44 pm
I mean, what a waste of a draft pick! The worst perimeter defender in the history of basketball! And his horrendous ball handling, propensity for giving the ball to the opposition at almost every opportunity (and usually on a platter), not to mention he’s just way too lanky for 19 (he’s even lankier than I was!!!), and and and and then there’s that useless killer instinct! What’s with all you people being so high on KD? There’s a lot of better stuff going on with Sonics basketball, after all!
December 13th, 2007 at 5:01 pm
“I mean really, how many rookies period, no matter what their age, have been put in Durant’s position?”
The problem here though Dick is that if I tried to compare Durant’s freshman year to Roy’s its no contest.
I don’t really think its fair to compare a 23 year old second year NBA player to Durant.
In general I agree with the notion that this is really tough to find as comparibles. The only two I can think of right off the bat were LeBron and Anthony and if he turns out like iether of those two as players (lets leave Carmelo’s off court stuff there) I’ll be estatic.
December 13th, 2007 at 5:11 pm
I agree, Scott. Durant is really in a situation where he’s tough to compare with hardly anyone.
December 13th, 2007 at 6:40 pm
AK - Your comments on Vince Carter at the top of this post are right on - ton of talent - solid career - but can’t really carry a team & not a legit superstar like Kobe - solid all-star yes - superstar no.
Hoping KD hit’s the superstar level & it will likely be more about his mkental approach & work ethic & attitude than anything else.
December 13th, 2007 at 7:00 pm
Moffet - great post on the luke/Watson discussion - I totally agree.
And who cares about how LR compares with Antonio Daniels at this point. That is an irrelevant discussion point IMO.
Luke is at a crossroad point in his career. He is a young point guard who has had some solid experience. How good can he be? Do you give up on him now or could he be on the verge of taking his game to a higher level? PG’s do take time to develop. Last year he seemed to be doing that in the first 2 months before injuries & Bob Hill messed things up. I’d give LR every chance to run the PG position for the rest of the year & if he plays big - great. If not then it’s time next summer to find anothe PG.
IMO we know what Watson can do & it is not enough - he will never be a solid starting PG in the NBA.
Could Luke be? Could he be on the verge of significant improvement? I’d give him the minutes to find out.
December 13th, 2007 at 7:04 pm
On KD….
One thing I really like is KD seems to have that unique abilbity to play big at big moments when the game is on the line. Yes he has made some key turnovers late in games but he has also made some huge shots & plays.
I agree with everyone who has basically said something like….
“Hey people - he is 19 year old rookie who is averaging 20 PPG after just 2 months in the league playing on a lousy team and he is making progree every week. He is going to be terrific. Be Patient and realistic and pay attention to the glimpses of unique greatness that are shining through along the way.”
My paraphrase I guess - but IMO KD is solid & will be a superstar.
December 13th, 2007 at 7:26 pm
Luke is at a crossroad point in his career. He is a young point guard who has had some solid experience. How good can he be? Do you give up on him now or could he be on the verge of taking his game to a higher level? PG’s do take time to develop.
Luke may only be one more 5-5 performance away from us seeing the annual Ridnour-Nash developmental comparison post.
(I guess I just put another one into the 95% drive-by category)
December 13th, 2007 at 7:37 pm
DT… Point well taken.
I doubt LR will ever be a star - I just think it is possible he has more upside that he has shown so far in his career. I could be wrong on that but I think for this season it is worth giving him a chance to find out. This year in many ways is all about auditioning current Sonics for PJ & Presti to decide who they want to have in their core they build around KD & JG. Other than KD & JG - 2 years from now I doubt many of the current Soncis will be around.
For myself - I don’t think more minutes will show us anything new on Watson as an older player who has pretty much shown what he can & can’t do.
LR played great the first 2 months last year - I’d like to see if he can get back to that level or better & see if his game can match up well with KD’s.
December 14th, 2007 at 12:03 am
The only reason I favor Rid over Watson is because he’s extremely generous with the ball. He’ll give up the ball early in the offense and gives everybody a chance to handle the rock. As a basketball player, you want to be involved in every offensive possession so that you won’t feel like you have limited chances to score. Luke gives them that opportunity.
December 14th, 2007 at 1:03 am
“The last thing I want is Kevin Durant being called upon to consistently handle the basketball. Not only is Durant a far cry away from being a legitimate point forward — à la Marko Jaric, John Salmons, and Luke Walton — the so-called savior is also allergic to assists (Asstists Per 48 Minutes: 2.7 & Assists Per Turnovers: 0.58) and has a propensity to commit turnovers (Turnovers Per 48 Minutes: 4.6 & Steals Per Turnovers: 0.28). All things considered, it’d be an absolutely horrendous idea for P.J. Carlesimo to allot Durant any playmaking duties.”–AK
I’m fine with PJ giving Durant “playmaking duties.” KD is responsible for 2-3+ of our wins this year, and he’s a pretty decent passer for a rookie. I’d rather run our offense through KD now and in the future than Salmons, Jaric, or Walton. He’s a likeable and humble star, and he openly admits he’s no “savior.” If you have to be so damn critical AK, why not save it for a loss instead of a win? KD is a pretty stellar rookie, and none of our pointguards are Magic Johnson… why not sometimes run the offense through KD so he at least can get his hands on the ball.
December 14th, 2007 at 6:56 am
If we’re to be suspicious of Durant’s performance because he’s being given an opportunity he wouldn’t otherwise get on a better team, that argument works in his favor on the other side when you consider that, on a better team, Durant wouldn’t be the primary focus of the opposing defense as his is on the Sonics.
December 14th, 2007 at 11:51 am
The only reason I favor Rid over Watson is because he’s extremely generous with the ball. He’ll give up the ball early in the offense and gives everybody a chance to handle the rock.
I really haven’t noticed him doing that to the degree that you suggest. There have been plenty of instances where i’ve seen him standing out at the top of the circle dribbling the ball back and forth between his legs for a large portion of the shot clock.
December 14th, 2007 at 11:58 am
see if his game can match up well with KD’s.
Yeah, this is really what it’s all about for the entire team, JJ. Unlike you though, I still favor Watson and think he & KD have had a pretty good chemistry together. Ideally, Watson & Ridnour will have their minutes split equally from here on out (Who’s the starter? Doesn’t really matter), and at the end of the season, whomever had the best results playing with KD should be the keeper.
December 14th, 2007 at 12:59 pm
AK: ” …makes me yearn for the days of Antonio Daniels.”
Aren’t we all yearning for those days?
December 14th, 2007 at 1:04 pm
AK: “Unlike Luke Ridnour, Earl Watson can fight off screens without being pushed around like a girl and, more importantly, square up on his opponent and play solid man-to-man defense. Hell, I bet that Sue Bird could do a better job at both of those things than Ridnour.
Aside from those smarmy comments…”
Wow, you just made my day. A sarcastic use of the word smarmy (nice one… if indeed you were being sarcastic which I sincerely hope: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/smarmy), along with the Ridnour-girl comparisons, has my knickerbockers all up in a fine little bundle. Hair of the dog is perchance in order.
December 14th, 2007 at 1:54 pm
Moffet Says:
December 13th, 2007 at 8:39 am “If this team had anything like a decent post presence there would be no Ridnour/Watson debate: Watson would be the backup and he would like it or leave. On a better team Ridnour’s strengths would dwarf his shortcomings. ”
Ridnour will never win a championship as a major-minutes guy. On championship-caliber teams, EVERYONE plays at least decent man-man defense. We have seen what Rid can do, and what he can’t. I seriously doubt he will ever be able to do that.
December 14th, 2007 at 2:03 pm
Josh said:
“… and and and and then there’s that useless killer instinct!”
LOL - nice one Josh
December 14th, 2007 at 2:04 pm
Baker:
“I wouldn’t have a problem resigning Thomas to a readable 3 year deal to be a veteran bigman this team has lacked for years, esp if you end up drafting a kid to replace Wilcox, Thomas knows all the stuff that Wilcox fails to learn, get a new student. ”
Wow, first for everything on these boards. I’ve been wondering about that for some time. Who is to say the guy is going to pot just ’cause he’s 35. What? 35? Holy shit. Nevermind then, he’s almost as old as I am.
December 14th, 2007 at 2:17 pm
Three years sounds like a pretty big risk. 53 games two years ago, 67 last year, already missed 9 out of 23 this year… I think any team that signs him would be wise to take things one year at a time at this point.
December 14th, 2007 at 5:50 pm
I like Kurt Thomas - but would no way sign him to more than 1 season after this year. Age & durability simply make that a bad risk IMO.
DT - I’m with you on this one.
December 16th, 2007 at 5:37 pm
Xerces said: “I love it when we beat the Knicks, that game last year when Rashard hit that 3 pointer with Spike Lee yelling behind his back was great.”
Oh, same here. I still remember the game Brent rolled out at MSG a few years back, where he played the complete game, including the winner on the buzzer.