Lemme just note that I didn't watch any games today for the first time this season, for reasons that should be fairly obvious Fortunately the NBA has a shred of business sense and didn't schedule too many games today. I wonder if it were any coincidence that all three teams were
SUNS 114, NETS 86
The Nets lost the first three quarters by 5 points each before giving up in the 4th to get blown out by 28. The Nets shot 33% from the field to the Suns 63% so they should have lost by even more than that.
STUDS
Raja Bell (PHX)
Suns big men easily dominated this game which probably gave Bell some wide open looks as he went 6-6 on threes.
DUDS
Josh Boone (NJN)
2 points, 3 rebounds (0 defensive), 3 fouls. Looks like Shaq can still have his way with some players.
CELTICS 103, ROCKETS 99
Possible Finals matchup here.
STUDS
Ray Allen (BOS)
Allen apparently reads my blog as I had ripped him twice prior to his offensive explosion of 29 points (11-15 FG) along with 5 reb and 5 ast.
Tracy McGrady (HOU)
26 points after struggling in his first few games.
Luis Scola (HOU)
21 pts and 9 boards to quietly pace KG's 14 and 11.
DUDS
Yao Ming (HOU)
4-14 shooting as Boston clamped down inside. Didn't attempt a FT, didn't block a shot (but had his sent back 3 times), and didn't log an assist (but committed two turnovers).
MAVERICKS 98, SPURS 81
STUDS
Jason Terry (DAL)
Terry was the 3rd starting SG for Dallas in four games and exploded for 29 poiints and 6 assists.
Jason Kidd (DAL)
9/8/10 and the team shot 53%
DUDS
Bruce Bowen (SAS)
5 points in 12 mins isn't bad, but the fact that he only played 12 minutes is. He was not deemed quick enough to deal with Terry or Howard - he's showing his age.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
NBA RECAP 11/3/08
Kudos to Brent who compiled the Recap today, I really didn't have the time.
One problem I'm noticing is I'm making so many blog posts in one day, it's getting to the point where it might be better to start consolidating. Do you guys think the Recaps belong here, or should I actually start a seperate/linked blog for real life NBA views and keep this one gaming related?
Sixers - 125 Kings - 91
The Kings start the year with four straight losses, but the next game is awfully winnable with a home game against Memphis next on the schedule.
Studs
Green 16 pts 5-6 fg 2rebs 2ast
Thompson 17 pts 8-12 fg 6rebs 5 ast I'd be shocked if he wasn't starting soon.Young 18 pts 8-14 fg 2 rebs 1 ast 1 stlBoth Kareem Rush and Donyell Marshall cracked double figures in limited minutes, but it was just from open jumpers in garbage time after the Kings made it obvious they weren't interested in playing and defense.
DudsBrand 15 pts 4 rebs 29 min. Even with limited minutes the way Elton had been rebounding (14.3 rpg before tonight) you expect more from Elton.Martin 14 pts 4-10 fg 0 rebs 0 stl 1 ast. Continues to struggle out the gate scoring under 20 for the third time of four games this season.Moore 0 pts 0 rebs 18 min. Started and did almost absolutely nothing (3asts) needs to step it up to keep getting minutes (4.5 pts ONE reb per game this season in 19.3 mpg)The Kings defense, they allowed 125 pts 59% fg shooting and 77%! from 3 from the sixers. They got out worked and out hustled ALL night.
Pistons - 101 Bobcats - 83
Larry's homecoming was rather uneventful as the Piston's cruised to an easy victory, at least his losses don't make the front page anymore like they did in New York
Studs
Brown (the player) 16 pts 4-8 fg 3 asts 4 stls 0 to in 26 min. Actually ran the offense for about 10 minutes or so, impressive performance off the bench for someone who seemingly was struggling to stay in the league.Hamilton 19 pts 9-18 fg 5 asts 4 rebs Typical Rip, I'm curious to see how the Iverson trade will affect him, running the offense more often? Less shots?Bynum 23 min 12 pts 4 asts 1 to Did a more than adequate job when Stuckey was on the bench, can't see him getting many minutes when Iverson comes to town though.
Duds
Brown (The coach) starts his new job 1-2 with his starting forward off the active roster for essentially being too fat, when will the calls to the front office for trades start?Richardson 4 pts 2-10 fg 5 asts 33 min Wasn't so much the Pistons defense (although Rip and Prince when called upon did a good job) as it was Jason even missing open shots tonight.
Magic - 96 Bulls - 93
The Magic pulled out the win to scrape back to .500 as Gordon missed a game winning shot, and Nocioni missed a game tying shot that was predictably followed by complaining to Dick Bavetta for about the 50th time tonight even as both teams were heading to the locker rooms.
Studs
Gooden 21 pts 9-16 fg 3 rebs 3 asts fouled out. Will the real Drew Gooden please stand up? Consecutive games of 7 pts 21 rebs and 21 pts 3 rebs continues his career of seemingly random production.Lewis 21 pts 11 rebs. Although he struggled from deep (2-9 3pt fg) Lewis even played really solid defense helping the Magic shut down Deng all night.Howard 22 pts 15 rebs (8 offensive!) 5 blks Another monster game from superman.Nocioni 21 pts 3-4 3pt fg 7 reb
Duds
Deng 0-8 fg 1 pt 7 rebHinrich 34 min 5 pts 5 rebs 3 asts A trade is becoming more and more likely as Kirk hasn't shown the ability to effectively play the two next to Rose.Noah Only 5 minutes. 12 minutes in his last two games. Gray is worth more time on the floor, really Del Negro? Played 42 min combined their first two games.Hedo shooting 3-16 but making up for it with solid defense 7 boards and 7 assists
Warriors - 75 Grizzlies - 83
Memphis starts the year off 2-0 at home for the first time in franchise history largely due to the Warriors struggling from the 3pt line shooting just 3-20!
Studs
Biedrins 16 pts 22 rebs 9 offensive Continues his great start to the season with his eleventh straight double double dating back to last year.Gasol 27 pts 16 rebs 9-11fg Battled back and forth with Biedrins, showed some more offensive game then some people thought he had showing a few jumpers including a long 2 and a 3 that was waived off (shot clock violation). Depending on health Gasol might end up being the center on the all rookie team when all is said and done.
Duds
Maggette 13 pts 2 stl 4-16 fg 0-5 3pt fg Couldn't buy a bucket outside the paint all night.Harrinton 6pts 3-15 fg 0-4 3 pt fg 6 rebs Similar to Corey his shot was just off, I'd say maybe the trade talk/demands were distracting him but they seem to be around him every season anyways.
Cavaliers - 100 Mavericks - 81
The Cavs took out the Mavericks in Dallas largely due to what carried them last season, defense and rebounding, out-rebounding the Mavericks 52-35 and holding Dirk to EIGHT points. Ben Wallace also woke up after being a shell of his former self for the better part of the last two seasons, who know how long this will last?
Studs
James 29 pts 8 rebs 3 asts 2 stl 1 blk. Typical LeBron, actually a lil short on assists but when you are complaining about 29 and 8 you don't have much to complain about.Illgauskas 17 pts 11 rebs 2 blks. The forgotten man this offseason when people talked about the cavs this summer as LeBron and scrubs.Cav's starting backcourt Gibson and West combined for a total 28 pts 3 stls 11 asts 4 3pt fgs and 8 rebs. Keeping this up will take alot of pressure off James.
Duds
Nowitski 8 pts 3-11 fg 6 rebs. Was really shut down by the combination of Wallace, Varejao, and even LeBron here and there. Was denied the ball all night being forced to start outside the three point line instead of the pinch post and top of the key where Dirk is by far the most comfortable.Terry 5 pts 1-8 fg 3 asts 3 tos. A combination of blanket defense by Delonte West and just not looking himself tonight.
Jazz - 89 Clippers - 73
Although they are still missing Deron Williams the Jazz were clearly the much more talented team tonight against the Clippers who are working Davis and Camby back into the fold after injuries.
Studs
Millsap 24 pts 8-12 fg 9 rebs 2 asts 2 stls 1 blk. This guy is a beast off the bench it would be interesting to see if he keep put up his per minute averages if he had an opportunity to start somewhere else, may see next year if Boozer bolts.Kaman 19 pts 10 rebs 3 blks. The one Clipper who really showed up tonight scored on all the big men the Jazz threw at him tonight.Ak47 15 pts 4-10 fg 11 rebs 4 stls 2 asts
Duds
Boozer 13 pts 8 rebs. Not terrible but when these are the only two stats Carlos really contributes you really want more out of him in both fantasy and real life.Mobley 10 pts 4-15 fg 3 to 37 min. It's hard to hate on an alumni of the University of Rhode Island but Mobley could not do ANYTHING against Brewer tonight, alot of his shots were just forced in frustration it seemed.Brewer He played his typical great defense but after shooting above 50% last season 1-8 and 2 pts just isn't enough.
One problem I'm noticing is I'm making so many blog posts in one day, it's getting to the point where it might be better to start consolidating. Do you guys think the Recaps belong here, or should I actually start a seperate/linked blog for real life NBA views and keep this one gaming related?
Sixers - 125 Kings - 91
The Kings start the year with four straight losses, but the next game is awfully winnable with a home game against Memphis next on the schedule.
Studs
Green 16 pts 5-6 fg 2rebs 2ast
Thompson 17 pts 8-12 fg 6rebs 5 ast I'd be shocked if he wasn't starting soon.Young 18 pts 8-14 fg 2 rebs 1 ast 1 stlBoth Kareem Rush and Donyell Marshall cracked double figures in limited minutes, but it was just from open jumpers in garbage time after the Kings made it obvious they weren't interested in playing and defense.
DudsBrand 15 pts 4 rebs 29 min. Even with limited minutes the way Elton had been rebounding (14.3 rpg before tonight) you expect more from Elton.Martin 14 pts 4-10 fg 0 rebs 0 stl 1 ast. Continues to struggle out the gate scoring under 20 for the third time of four games this season.Moore 0 pts 0 rebs 18 min. Started and did almost absolutely nothing (3asts) needs to step it up to keep getting minutes (4.5 pts ONE reb per game this season in 19.3 mpg)The Kings defense, they allowed 125 pts 59% fg shooting and 77%! from 3 from the sixers. They got out worked and out hustled ALL night.
Pistons - 101 Bobcats - 83
Larry's homecoming was rather uneventful as the Piston's cruised to an easy victory, at least his losses don't make the front page anymore like they did in New York
Studs
Brown (the player) 16 pts 4-8 fg 3 asts 4 stls 0 to in 26 min. Actually ran the offense for about 10 minutes or so, impressive performance off the bench for someone who seemingly was struggling to stay in the league.Hamilton 19 pts 9-18 fg 5 asts 4 rebs Typical Rip, I'm curious to see how the Iverson trade will affect him, running the offense more often? Less shots?Bynum 23 min 12 pts 4 asts 1 to Did a more than adequate job when Stuckey was on the bench, can't see him getting many minutes when Iverson comes to town though.
Duds
Brown (The coach) starts his new job 1-2 with his starting forward off the active roster for essentially being too fat, when will the calls to the front office for trades start?Richardson 4 pts 2-10 fg 5 asts 33 min Wasn't so much the Pistons defense (although Rip and Prince when called upon did a good job) as it was Jason even missing open shots tonight.
Magic - 96 Bulls - 93
The Magic pulled out the win to scrape back to .500 as Gordon missed a game winning shot, and Nocioni missed a game tying shot that was predictably followed by complaining to Dick Bavetta for about the 50th time tonight even as both teams were heading to the locker rooms.
Studs
Gooden 21 pts 9-16 fg 3 rebs 3 asts fouled out. Will the real Drew Gooden please stand up? Consecutive games of 7 pts 21 rebs and 21 pts 3 rebs continues his career of seemingly random production.Lewis 21 pts 11 rebs. Although he struggled from deep (2-9 3pt fg) Lewis even played really solid defense helping the Magic shut down Deng all night.Howard 22 pts 15 rebs (8 offensive!) 5 blks Another monster game from superman.Nocioni 21 pts 3-4 3pt fg 7 reb
Duds
Deng 0-8 fg 1 pt 7 rebHinrich 34 min 5 pts 5 rebs 3 asts A trade is becoming more and more likely as Kirk hasn't shown the ability to effectively play the two next to Rose.Noah Only 5 minutes. 12 minutes in his last two games. Gray is worth more time on the floor, really Del Negro? Played 42 min combined their first two games.Hedo shooting 3-16 but making up for it with solid defense 7 boards and 7 assists
Warriors - 75 Grizzlies - 83
Memphis starts the year off 2-0 at home for the first time in franchise history largely due to the Warriors struggling from the 3pt line shooting just 3-20!
Studs
Biedrins 16 pts 22 rebs 9 offensive Continues his great start to the season with his eleventh straight double double dating back to last year.Gasol 27 pts 16 rebs 9-11fg Battled back and forth with Biedrins, showed some more offensive game then some people thought he had showing a few jumpers including a long 2 and a 3 that was waived off (shot clock violation). Depending on health Gasol might end up being the center on the all rookie team when all is said and done.
Duds
Maggette 13 pts 2 stl 4-16 fg 0-5 3pt fg Couldn't buy a bucket outside the paint all night.Harrinton 6pts 3-15 fg 0-4 3 pt fg 6 rebs Similar to Corey his shot was just off, I'd say maybe the trade talk/demands were distracting him but they seem to be around him every season anyways.
Cavaliers - 100 Mavericks - 81
The Cavs took out the Mavericks in Dallas largely due to what carried them last season, defense and rebounding, out-rebounding the Mavericks 52-35 and holding Dirk to EIGHT points. Ben Wallace also woke up after being a shell of his former self for the better part of the last two seasons, who know how long this will last?
Studs
James 29 pts 8 rebs 3 asts 2 stl 1 blk. Typical LeBron, actually a lil short on assists but when you are complaining about 29 and 8 you don't have much to complain about.Illgauskas 17 pts 11 rebs 2 blks. The forgotten man this offseason when people talked about the cavs this summer as LeBron and scrubs.Cav's starting backcourt Gibson and West combined for a total 28 pts 3 stls 11 asts 4 3pt fgs and 8 rebs. Keeping this up will take alot of pressure off James.
Duds
Nowitski 8 pts 3-11 fg 6 rebs. Was really shut down by the combination of Wallace, Varejao, and even LeBron here and there. Was denied the ball all night being forced to start outside the three point line instead of the pinch post and top of the key where Dirk is by far the most comfortable.Terry 5 pts 1-8 fg 3 asts 3 tos. A combination of blanket defense by Delonte West and just not looking himself tonight.
Jazz - 89 Clippers - 73
Although they are still missing Deron Williams the Jazz were clearly the much more talented team tonight against the Clippers who are working Davis and Camby back into the fold after injuries.
Studs
Millsap 24 pts 8-12 fg 9 rebs 2 asts 2 stls 1 blk. This guy is a beast off the bench it would be interesting to see if he keep put up his per minute averages if he had an opportunity to start somewhere else, may see next year if Boozer bolts.Kaman 19 pts 10 rebs 3 blks. The one Clipper who really showed up tonight scored on all the big men the Jazz threw at him tonight.Ak47 15 pts 4-10 fg 11 rebs 4 stls 2 asts
Duds
Boozer 13 pts 8 rebs. Not terrible but when these are the only two stats Carlos really contributes you really want more out of him in both fantasy and real life.Mobley 10 pts 4-15 fg 3 to 37 min. It's hard to hate on an alumni of the University of Rhode Island but Mobley could not do ANYTHING against Brewer tonight, alot of his shots were just forced in frustration it seemed.Brewer He played his typical great defense but after shooting above 50% last season 1-8 and 2 pts just isn't enough.
BIGGEST MOVERS 2.1
I was on my way to doing a few more, but the Iverson trade forced my hand today.
Batum has 18 points, 5 steals, and 2 blocks in his 43 minutes (3 games) of action this season. It's not much of a sample size but he's at least shown he can be an effective hustle player off the bench. He's certainly had a better start to his rookie year than Jerryd Bayless.
Derrick Rose (+1)
Rose is looking like the Rookie of the Year favorite already, and seems to have forgotten his age. The only PGs to perform at a high level at age 19 were Magic, Zeke, and CP3, so this bodes very well for Rose's future prospects if he keeps it up.
Bayless has struggled badly out of the gate and is not getting the big minutes some expected after he dominated the summer league. It's been said many times, but summer league tells us absolutely nothing about a player other than how much of a ball hog they are (the bigger the hog, the greater S.L. success - for reference see: Donte Greene, Anthony Randolph, Nate Robinson, Lonny Baxter, Marco Belinelli, etc.).
SOARING LIKE AN EAGLE...
Thaddeus Young (+1)
Young has averaged 14 ppg in only 28 mpg, while shooting 58% from the field. He has notabily hit 5 of his 9 threes in his first 3 games, a stark difference from the 6 of 19 he compiled in all of last season. He was 10-22 from 3pt range in the preseason so his improved stroke is definitely for real. What remains to be seen is exactly where his percentage will level off as his sample size grows - he is currently a 39% career 3pt shooter thanks to his early season outburst although I expect him to finish somewhere in the mid-30s.
Young has averaged 14 ppg in only 28 mpg, while shooting 58% from the field. He has notabily hit 5 of his 9 threes in his first 3 games, a stark difference from the 6 of 19 he compiled in all of last season. He was 10-22 from 3pt range in the preseason so his improved stroke is definitely for real. What remains to be seen is exactly where his percentage will level off as his sample size grows - he is currently a 39% career 3pt shooter thanks to his early season outburst although I expect him to finish somewhere in the mid-30s.
In any event, this is great news for his development as his questionable long-range shooting is what led the Sixers to sign Kareem Rush and Donyell Marshall. Both have barely gotten off the bench, and we could see a rise in Young's minutes as the season progresses. Iggy and Lou and combined for 4-22 3PT so Young may have emerged as the team's top perimeter threat (and at worst has shown he's just as capable shooting the rock).
Rudy Fernandez (+1)
OMG NO PICTURE!
Rudy has already established himself as a legitimate Sixth Man of the Year contender, averaging 14 ppg in 27 mpg off the bench. He is second on the team in pp36 and has only committed two turnovers. The assists haven't been there, but he hasn't had to play the facilitator role with Blake, Rodriguez, and Roy running the offense.
Nicolas Batum (+2)
Batum has 18 points, 5 steals, and 2 blocks in his 43 minutes (3 games) of action this season. It's not much of a sample size but he's at least shown he can be an effective hustle player off the bench. He's certainly had a better start to his rookie year than Jerryd Bayless.
Derrick Rose (+1)
Rose is looking like the Rookie of the Year favorite already, and seems to have forgotten his age. The only PGs to perform at a high level at age 19 were Magic, Zeke, and CP3, so this bodes very well for Rose's future prospects if he keeps it up.
However, for Rose to reach that level, he's going to have to make his teammates better. He is averaging 18 and 4, and I'd probably be more impressed if that were 15 and 6. I get the feeling Rose is headed towards "Bigger/Athletic Tony Parker" rather than CP3/D-Will territory. B.A.T.P. is essentially Agent Zero minus his 3pt chucking and terrible vision, which is pretty good, but I don't know if we've ever seen a player like that win a championship. But I'm rambling about a Bushless future right now, let's stick to the present (Vote on Tuesday)!
DECLINING LIKE THE ECONOMY...
Jerryd Bayless (-2)
Bayless has struggled badly out of the gate and is not getting the big minutes some expected after he dominated the summer league. It's been said many times, but summer league tells us absolutely nothing about a player other than how much of a ball hog they are (the bigger the hog, the greater S.L. success - for reference see: Donte Greene, Anthony Randolph, Nate Robinson, Lonny Baxter, Marco Belinelli, etc.).
Anyway, 83 Offensive Awareness is a bit high for a 20 year old rookie PG with below average vision. Bayless is essentially the 3rd string PG and SG behind the Spanish connection of Sergio and Rudy. It doesn't look like he'll get much of a chance until next season barring injury.
Latest News 2.1
LATEST NEWS
Allen Iverson (DET)
Iverson was traded to the Detroit Pistons Monday afternoon.
9 years after Matt Geiger vetoed the original deal, the Pistons finally get their man. Expect Iverson to take over starting PG duties in Detroit. His position was changed accordingly.
Rip Hamilton (DET)
Rip is expected to sign a three year extension in the near future.
It was reported as a done deal but his agent claims details are still being ironed out. Sounds like it's just a matter of time.
Chauncey Billups (DEN)
Billups was traded to the Denver Nuggets.
This is Billups second stint in Denver and he immediately replaces Anthony Carter in the starting lineup.
Antonio McDyess (DEN)
McDyess was traded to the Dnever Nuggets.
This is Dyess' 3rd sting in Denver and it should be his shortest, as he seeks a buyout to return to the Pistons. Rex Chapman has stated he expects McDyess to report but that is likely posturing on his part. Still, they could use his help if he does stick around and he'd have a prominent bench role if that happened.
J.R. Smith (DEN)
Smith is likely to become the new starting SG in Denver.
Iverson was limiting Smith's minutes, so this is huge news for him. On a cynical note, George Karl will probably go with Anthony Carter as the new starter.
Anthony Carter (DEN)
Carter lost his starting job to Chauncey Billups.
Shucks.
Cheikh Samb (DEN)
Samb was traded to the Denver Nuggets.
Like you care. He's waiting for the D-League to start.
Juwan Howard (FA)
Howard was waived by the Nuggets to make room for Antonio McDyess.
He had the only non-guaranteed contract on the roster. He'll be back if McDyess is bought out. If Dyess sticks around, the Fab Five's run will be officially over.
John Lucas III (FA)
Lucas was waived by the Thunder after three games.
He didn't see any court time in his stint. He could hang around in the D-League waiting for a callup or take a European offer (my money's on the D-League).
Fabricio Oberto (SA)
Oberto has been cleared to return to action.
He had a heartbeat scare and could resume his starting job within the week.
Marcus Camby (LAC)
Camby made his season debut Monday night.
He'd been battling a heel injury and played 27 minutes off the bench.
Allen Iverson (DET)
Iverson was traded to the Detroit Pistons Monday afternoon.
9 years after Matt Geiger vetoed the original deal, the Pistons finally get their man. Expect Iverson to take over starting PG duties in Detroit. His position was changed accordingly.
Rip Hamilton (DET)
Rip is expected to sign a three year extension in the near future.
It was reported as a done deal but his agent claims details are still being ironed out. Sounds like it's just a matter of time.
Chauncey Billups (DEN)
Billups was traded to the Denver Nuggets.
This is Billups second stint in Denver and he immediately replaces Anthony Carter in the starting lineup.
Antonio McDyess (DEN)
McDyess was traded to the Dnever Nuggets.
This is Dyess' 3rd sting in Denver and it should be his shortest, as he seeks a buyout to return to the Pistons. Rex Chapman has stated he expects McDyess to report but that is likely posturing on his part. Still, they could use his help if he does stick around and he'd have a prominent bench role if that happened.
J.R. Smith (DEN)
Smith is likely to become the new starting SG in Denver.
Iverson was limiting Smith's minutes, so this is huge news for him. On a cynical note, George Karl will probably go with Anthony Carter as the new starter.
Anthony Carter (DEN)
Carter lost his starting job to Chauncey Billups.
Shucks.
Cheikh Samb (DEN)
Samb was traded to the Denver Nuggets.
Like you care. He's waiting for the D-League to start.
Juwan Howard (FA)
Howard was waived by the Nuggets to make room for Antonio McDyess.
He had the only non-guaranteed contract on the roster. He'll be back if McDyess is bought out. If Dyess sticks around, the Fab Five's run will be officially over.
John Lucas III (FA)
Lucas was waived by the Thunder after three games.
He didn't see any court time in his stint. He could hang around in the D-League waiting for a callup or take a European offer (my money's on the D-League).
Fabricio Oberto (SA)
Oberto has been cleared to return to action.
He had a heartbeat scare and could resume his starting job within the week.
Marcus Camby (LAC)
Camby made his season debut Monday night.
He'd been battling a heel injury and played 27 minutes off the bench.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Breaking down Allen Iverson for Chauncey Billups
Why the Nuggets traded Allen Iverson
While it was an intriguing experiment the first season and a half, it became clear that the Nuggets were not going to contend for a championship with AI and Melo. With Iverson in a contract year at age 33, Denver decided the risk of signing Iverson long-term was not worth it, especially as they try to avoid the luxury tax.
Why the Nuggets acquired Chauncey Billups
Billups is a better fit on this team than Iverson. He is a pure PG and it should not surprise if Melo averages close to 30 points this year now that Iverson isn't taking his shots. He is also a sound defensive player, and his penchant for the big shot should remind us of Sam Cassell's Milwaukee days. No more Iverson means no more Anthony Carter in the starting lineup, which is music to Denver's ears. J.R. Smith should be a starter now, and his size and age are very ideal for what Denver is trying to accomplish.
There is also the issue of money. Billups is making only 11 million this year, compared to Iverson's 21. While Billups has 3 years and 36 million left on his contract after this year, it's probable that Iverson would have been commanding even more than that in free agency. Denver also almost certainly gets some additional luxury tax savings from buying out Antonio McDyess.
One final reason: while Iverson is a former regular season MVP, Billups is a former Finals MVP. His championship experience and playoff resume far exceed Iverson's. He's been part of a winning program and one has to hope he will pass on some of that to Melo. Lord knows Iverson did zilch for Melo's maturation (and may have even hindered it).
Why the Pistons traded Chauncey Billups
Joe Dumars is eager to rebuild this team, and Billups' four year contract was not aiding matters (though his 4th year is a team option that would almost certainly be declined). Dumars is not afraid to make moves in the best interest in the franchise, and Billups value was only going to go down from here. Assuming Iverson is a goner next season, Rodney Stuckey is officially the PG of the future in Detroit.
Why the Pistons acquired Allen Iverson
Iverson's expiring contract along will be a great asset to the team. Along with Sheed's expiring deal, the Pistons will be able to be players in Summer of LeBron as they'll get to make a pitch for their arch nemesis, as well as their original nemesis (Wade), although the player they end up with is likely to be the player they should have drafted in the first place in 2003 (Chris Bosh). On the plus side, Dumars didn't mortage this season either and the Pistons will at least have an interesting angle en route to their annual playoff collapse.
Biggest Winner
J.R. Smith
Smith is finally out of Iverson's shadow and he should be poised for a breakout season.
Smith averaged 23.0 pts per 36 minutes last season, compared to Iverson's 22.8, so he is more than ready to fill the scoring void. He isn't the playmaker Iverson is, but that's what Billups is for. One would hope that Billups forces Smith to go to the basket more since Billups will be mostly a long jump shooter and will continue to be one as he ages.
Biggest Loser
Jamaal Tinsley
So much for that trade to Denver, eh? I guess we know now why talks died weeks ago. This guy is officially screwed, as I can't imagine there being another team in the league willing to pick him up. With LeBron and co entering free agency in two years, never has a player picked a worse time to have a 3 year deal.
The Future of Denver
C: Nene (26) 3 years/31 million (or 4 years/43 million if he doesn't opt out)
PF: Martin (32) 3 years/47 million
SF: Anthony (24) 3 years/47 million
SG: Smith (23) 3 years/15 million
PG: Billups (32) 3 years/36 million
Denver has some huge commitments, but after the starting lineup nearly the entire team has an expiring contract or is working on a veteran's minimum contract.
I have to think this trade is the main reason Linas Kleiza didn't get the extension he was looking for a couple days ago. Kleiza may have to prove he belongs with this team, otherwise I have a feeling he could be dealt at the deadline.
The Future of Detroit
C: Wallace (34) 1 year/14 million
PF: Johnson (21) 2 years/7 million
SF: Prince (28) 3 years/30 million
SG: Hamilton (30) 4 years/44 million* (or 3 years/33 million)
PG: Iverson (33) 1 year/21 million
Maxiell (25) 5 years, 22 million (4 year/20 million extension recently signed)
Brown (26) 2 years/8 million
Stuckey (22) 3 years/6 million
Afflalo (23) 3 years/4 million
Other than Rip, the Pistons are a group of young, reasonably signed players. Stuckey will not be looking at a new contract until after the summer of 2010.
Speaking of Rip, he signed a contract extension shortly after the Iverson trade. I'm sure his conversation with Joe Dumars went something like this earlier today.
Rip: **** this I'm out.
Joe: How about an extension so you'll play good soldier?
Rip: Kay.
I thought it was interesting that Rip's extension came after the team picked up Iverson, you would think there wouldn't be any pressure to get a deal done with your former top scorer when you just picked up one of the greatest scorers in NBA history. I guess this was to show fans they are committed to NOT re-signing Allen Iverson unless he plays ridiculously well with Rip (and even then, it'd probably only be a one year deal). It gives Rip slightly more job security, but let's not forget Billups was not too far into his deal before getting the axe. I'm guessing Dumars felt that at age 30 Rip is still capable of two more Riplike seasons before he has to sell high on him.
Rip also could have opted out at the end of this year, and Detroit wants around to at least have the option of deciding he fits in with the new look Pistons when that time comes. I don't know how serious the talk is, but there's word Hamilton could become the sixth man in Detroit and let Stuckey start with Iverson. I think that's something we look at maybe two years from now when he's a bit older, but not when he's 30 years old and still in the prime of his career.
While it was an intriguing experiment the first season and a half, it became clear that the Nuggets were not going to contend for a championship with AI and Melo. With Iverson in a contract year at age 33, Denver decided the risk of signing Iverson long-term was not worth it, especially as they try to avoid the luxury tax.
Why the Nuggets acquired Chauncey Billups
Billups is a better fit on this team than Iverson. He is a pure PG and it should not surprise if Melo averages close to 30 points this year now that Iverson isn't taking his shots. He is also a sound defensive player, and his penchant for the big shot should remind us of Sam Cassell's Milwaukee days. No more Iverson means no more Anthony Carter in the starting lineup, which is music to Denver's ears. J.R. Smith should be a starter now, and his size and age are very ideal for what Denver is trying to accomplish.
There is also the issue of money. Billups is making only 11 million this year, compared to Iverson's 21. While Billups has 3 years and 36 million left on his contract after this year, it's probable that Iverson would have been commanding even more than that in free agency. Denver also almost certainly gets some additional luxury tax savings from buying out Antonio McDyess.
One final reason: while Iverson is a former regular season MVP, Billups is a former Finals MVP. His championship experience and playoff resume far exceed Iverson's. He's been part of a winning program and one has to hope he will pass on some of that to Melo. Lord knows Iverson did zilch for Melo's maturation (and may have even hindered it).
Why the Pistons traded Chauncey Billups
Joe Dumars is eager to rebuild this team, and Billups' four year contract was not aiding matters (though his 4th year is a team option that would almost certainly be declined). Dumars is not afraid to make moves in the best interest in the franchise, and Billups value was only going to go down from here. Assuming Iverson is a goner next season, Rodney Stuckey is officially the PG of the future in Detroit.
Why the Pistons acquired Allen Iverson
Iverson's expiring contract along will be a great asset to the team. Along with Sheed's expiring deal, the Pistons will be able to be players in Summer of LeBron as they'll get to make a pitch for their arch nemesis, as well as their original nemesis (Wade), although the player they end up with is likely to be the player they should have drafted in the first place in 2003 (Chris Bosh). On the plus side, Dumars didn't mortage this season either and the Pistons will at least have an interesting angle en route to their annual playoff collapse.
Biggest Winner
J.R. Smith
Smith is finally out of Iverson's shadow and he should be poised for a breakout season.
Smith averaged 23.0 pts per 36 minutes last season, compared to Iverson's 22.8, so he is more than ready to fill the scoring void. He isn't the playmaker Iverson is, but that's what Billups is for. One would hope that Billups forces Smith to go to the basket more since Billups will be mostly a long jump shooter and will continue to be one as he ages.
Biggest Loser
Jamaal Tinsley
So much for that trade to Denver, eh? I guess we know now why talks died weeks ago. This guy is officially screwed, as I can't imagine there being another team in the league willing to pick him up. With LeBron and co entering free agency in two years, never has a player picked a worse time to have a 3 year deal.
The Future of Denver
C: Nene (26) 3 years/31 million (or 4 years/43 million if he doesn't opt out)
PF: Martin (32) 3 years/47 million
SF: Anthony (24) 3 years/47 million
SG: Smith (23) 3 years/15 million
PG: Billups (32) 3 years/36 million
Denver has some huge commitments, but after the starting lineup nearly the entire team has an expiring contract or is working on a veteran's minimum contract.
I have to think this trade is the main reason Linas Kleiza didn't get the extension he was looking for a couple days ago. Kleiza may have to prove he belongs with this team, otherwise I have a feeling he could be dealt at the deadline.
The Future of Detroit
C: Wallace (34) 1 year/14 million
PF: Johnson (21) 2 years/7 million
SF: Prince (28) 3 years/30 million
SG: Hamilton (30) 4 years/44 million* (or 3 years/33 million)
PG: Iverson (33) 1 year/21 million
Maxiell (25) 5 years, 22 million (4 year/20 million extension recently signed)
Brown (26) 2 years/8 million
Stuckey (22) 3 years/6 million
Afflalo (23) 3 years/4 million
Other than Rip, the Pistons are a group of young, reasonably signed players. Stuckey will not be looking at a new contract until after the summer of 2010.
Speaking of Rip, he signed a contract extension shortly after the Iverson trade. I'm sure his conversation with Joe Dumars went something like this earlier today.
Rip: **** this I'm out.
Joe: How about an extension so you'll play good soldier?
Rip: Kay.
I thought it was interesting that Rip's extension came after the team picked up Iverson, you would think there wouldn't be any pressure to get a deal done with your former top scorer when you just picked up one of the greatest scorers in NBA history. I guess this was to show fans they are committed to NOT re-signing Allen Iverson unless he plays ridiculously well with Rip (and even then, it'd probably only be a one year deal). It gives Rip slightly more job security, but let's not forget Billups was not too far into his deal before getting the axe. I'm guessing Dumars felt that at age 30 Rip is still capable of two more Riplike seasons before he has to sell high on him.
Rip also could have opted out at the end of this year, and Detroit wants around to at least have the option of deciding he fits in with the new look Pistons when that time comes. I don't know how serious the talk is, but there's word Hamilton could become the sixth man in Detroit and let Stuckey start with Iverson. I think that's something we look at maybe two years from now when he's a bit older, but not when he's 30 years old and still in the prime of his career.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)