According to ESPN.com Ray Allen has re-signed with the Seattle Supersonics. Allen singed a deal that is very close to the 5 year $75 million dollar deal that the Sonics offered at the deadline and before the free agency period. The contract may push towards the $80 million mark.
Obviously, this is enormous for the Sonics future. This allows them to put the finishing pieces on their roster for 2005-06 with Ray Allen as the centerpiece.
In addition, this is the type of commitment that Nate McMillan was looking for from the Sonics. In my conversations with McMillan he was very concerned about where the Sonics were heading. This answers all the questions.
Give the Sonics tremendous credit for reading the market. The Sonics held strong to their offer on two fold. First, they read the market and realized that a 30-year-old shooting guard was not going to garner the maximum deal. Moreover, the Sonics set a plateau for how much they were willing to offer, because they didn’t want to over commit to one player and be unable to fill the rest of their roster. The Sonics held to that number and now should be able to re-sign the other players that they need to without putting themselves in luxury tax jeopardy.
Look for McMillan to re-sign in the near future. If McMillan does not want to return the signing of Allen will allow the Sonics to have their pick of whatever coach they would want.
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
Friday, July 01, 2005
A'S HUMILATE THE MARINERS
Compare the A’s and the Mariners and it will floor you. How is it possible that the A’s are so dramatically better then the Mariners and I mean in every way. The Mariners have every advantage in the world and instead they are getting smoked by the A’s.
For a while you could say they got lucky with the Big Three of Mulder, Hudson and Zito, but those days are over. The A’s are kicking the Mariners around in every aspect of the game. They develop talent, they improve as the year goes on, they acquire players to fill gaps, they find unsung players, they have an organization deep enough to fill gaps. They have built an organization that doesn’t have gaps. That is bad enough but when you consider hoe short-handed they are compared to the Mariners it is flabbergasting. The Mariners should send out an apology letter for incompetence.
The A’s have lost Mulder and Hudson, they have lost about every bullpen guy you can imagine, they have lost Giambi, Dye, Tejada and they are still better then the Mariners. Their organization has 1/3 the resources the Mariners have in player salary and organizational structure and they are thumping the Mariners. The A’s have young players that are developing up and down their roster. They have a star in Bobby Crosby, they have an offense that has come to life and the Mariners spend huge money and have the worst offense in the game. The A’s pitching staff looks imposing. Harden, Blanton and Saarloos are all improving while Meche, Pinero and whoever else you want to choose are stagnating or fading from out site. It is completely embarrassing!!!!!
The A’s have a legitimate future, the Mariners have a future based on unrealistic optimism that is based in a myth.
For a while you could say they got lucky with the Big Three of Mulder, Hudson and Zito, but those days are over. The A’s are kicking the Mariners around in every aspect of the game. They develop talent, they improve as the year goes on, they acquire players to fill gaps, they find unsung players, they have an organization deep enough to fill gaps. They have built an organization that doesn’t have gaps. That is bad enough but when you consider hoe short-handed they are compared to the Mariners it is flabbergasting. The Mariners should send out an apology letter for incompetence.
The A’s have lost Mulder and Hudson, they have lost about every bullpen guy you can imagine, they have lost Giambi, Dye, Tejada and they are still better then the Mariners. Their organization has 1/3 the resources the Mariners have in player salary and organizational structure and they are thumping the Mariners. The A’s have young players that are developing up and down their roster. They have a star in Bobby Crosby, they have an offense that has come to life and the Mariners spend huge money and have the worst offense in the game. The A’s pitching staff looks imposing. Harden, Blanton and Saarloos are all improving while Meche, Pinero and whoever else you want to choose are stagnating or fading from out site. It is completely embarrassing!!!!!
The A’s have a legitimate future, the Mariners have a future based on unrealistic optimism that is based in a myth.
IS BRYAN PRICE THAT GOOD?
Another thought came to me as the Mariners were getting humiliated by the A’s. Sure we can throw everyone under the bus after this type of week, but one in specific I was wondering about. What happened to the brilliance of Bryan Price? His staff walks 9 guys yesterday. Pineiro and Meche have not developed or improved at all. Freddy Garcia leaves and is a stud again. None of the young guys that came to the team last year improved or settled down under the tutelage of Bryan Price. This guy was supposed to be the genius. I think he is probably a good pitching coach and the pitching staff has done a decent job this season considering what we anticipated, but all of the things that Price was being giving these oddles and oddles of credit for haven’t happened in 2 and half years. Moreover, the organization that he is charge of is destroying pitchers at an alarming rate compared to the amount they develop.
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
THE MOST RECENT NEWS
According to sources, the Jazz and Blazers deal has been finalized. The Jazz will recieve the #3 pick. The Blazers will get the #6 and #27 from the Jazz and a first round pick in the future. No players are involved.
The Jazz are likely to select Chris Paul, despite the major speculation on Deron Williams.
The Blazers will likely take either Martell Webster or high schooler Andrew Bynum.
The Jazz are likely to select Chris Paul, despite the major speculation on Deron Williams.
The Blazers will likely take either Martell Webster or high schooler Andrew Bynum.
TWO MOCK DRAFT SCENARIOS
Here are the two scenarios that are being banded about the league as of 2:30
SCENARIO #1
1. Milwaukee – Andrew Bogut
2. Atlanta – Marvin Williams
3. Utah – Chris Paul
4. New Orleans – Deron Williams
5. Charlotte – Charlie Villanueva
6. Portland– Martell Webster
7. Toronto – Danny Granger
8. New York – Channing Frye
9. Golden State – Hakim Warrick --
10. LA Lakers – Gerald Green ---
11. Orlando – Antonio Wright --
12. LA Clippers – Rashad McCants
13. Charlotte – Raymond Felton
14. Minnesota – Francisco Garcia
15. New Jersey – Sean May
16. Toronto – Andrew Bynum
17. Indiana – Jarrett Jack
18. Boston – Yaroslav Korolev
19. Memphis -- Andray Blatche
20. Denver – Joey Graham
21. Phoenix – Johan Petro
22. Denver – Roko Ukic
23. Sacramento – Martynas Andriuskevicius (andrus-kavious)
24. Houston– Ike Diogu
25. Seattle – Luther Head
26. Detroit – Fran Vazquez
27. Portland– Wayne Simien
28. San Antonio – some French power forward
29. Miami – Nate Robinson
30. New York – Monta Ellis
SCENARIO #2
1. Milwaukee – Andrew Bogut
2. Atlanta – Marvin Williams
3. Utah – Chris Paul
4. New Orleans – Deron Williams
5. Charlotte – Raymond Felton
6. Portland– Martell Webster
7. Toronto – Gerald Green
8. New York – Channing Frye
9. Golden State – Ike Diogu
10. LA Lakers – Fran Vasquez
11. Orlando – Danny Granger
12. LA Clippers – Hakim Warrick
13. Charlotte – Charlie Villanueva
14. Minnesota – Francisco Garcia
15. New Jersey – Rashad McCants
16. Toronto – Andrew Bynum
17. Indiana – Sean May
18. Boston – Jarrett Jack
19. Memphis -- Andray Blatche
20. Denver – Yaroslav Korolev
21. Phoenix – Johan Petro
22. Denver – Roko Ukic
23. Sacramento – Joey Graham
24. Houston– Luther Head
25. Seattle – Martynas Andriuskevicius (andrus-kavious)
26. Detroit – Julis Hodge
27. Portland– Wayne Simien
28. San Antonio – some French power forward
29. Miami – Nate Robinson
30. New York – Monta Ellis
SCENARIO #1
1. Milwaukee – Andrew Bogut
2. Atlanta – Marvin Williams
3. Utah – Chris Paul
4. New Orleans – Deron Williams
5. Charlotte – Charlie Villanueva
6. Portland– Martell Webster
7. Toronto – Danny Granger
8. New York – Channing Frye
9. Golden State – Hakim Warrick --
10. LA Lakers – Gerald Green ---
11. Orlando – Antonio Wright --
12. LA Clippers – Rashad McCants
13. Charlotte – Raymond Felton
14. Minnesota – Francisco Garcia
15. New Jersey – Sean May
16. Toronto – Andrew Bynum
17. Indiana – Jarrett Jack
18. Boston – Yaroslav Korolev
19. Memphis -- Andray Blatche
20. Denver – Joey Graham
21. Phoenix – Johan Petro
22. Denver – Roko Ukic
23. Sacramento – Martynas Andriuskevicius (andrus-kavious)
24. Houston– Ike Diogu
25. Seattle – Luther Head
26. Detroit – Fran Vazquez
27. Portland– Wayne Simien
28. San Antonio – some French power forward
29. Miami – Nate Robinson
30. New York – Monta Ellis
SCENARIO #2
1. Milwaukee – Andrew Bogut
2. Atlanta – Marvin Williams
3. Utah – Chris Paul
4. New Orleans – Deron Williams
5. Charlotte – Raymond Felton
6. Portland– Martell Webster
7. Toronto – Gerald Green
8. New York – Channing Frye
9. Golden State – Ike Diogu
10. LA Lakers – Fran Vasquez
11. Orlando – Danny Granger
12. LA Clippers – Hakim Warrick
13. Charlotte – Charlie Villanueva
14. Minnesota – Francisco Garcia
15. New Jersey – Rashad McCants
16. Toronto – Andrew Bynum
17. Indiana – Sean May
18. Boston – Jarrett Jack
19. Memphis -- Andray Blatche
20. Denver – Yaroslav Korolev
21. Phoenix – Johan Petro
22. Denver – Roko Ukic
23. Sacramento – Joey Graham
24. Houston– Luther Head
25. Seattle – Martynas Andriuskevicius (andrus-kavious)
26. Detroit – Julis Hodge
27. Portland– Wayne Simien
28. San Antonio – some French power forward
29. Miami – Nate Robinson
30. New York – Monta Ellis
LATEST NEWS + RUMORS ON THE NBA DRAFT
SONICS FANS PLAYERS NAMES YOU WANT TO HEAR BEFORE THE #25
• CJ Miles
• Monta Ellis
• Roko Ukic
• Marko Illic
• Chris Taft
• Wayne Simien
• Audray Blatche
LIKELY PICKS
• Luther Head is being talked about at 19 to Memphis or 24 to Houston and is unlikely to get to Seattle.
• Roko Ukic is still strong talk going 16 to Toronto
• The Clippers at 12 will likely take either Rashad McCants or Raymond Felton. This means that they will pass on Yaroslav Korolev who many had thought they promised.
• Charlotte wants to leave the draft with Charlie Villanueva and Raymond Felton. Therefore, they may take Villanueva at #5 to secure him.
• Talk is the Spurs have made a promise to a French Power Forward that will surprise people with their first round pick. Will this be another Spurs special.
• Boston will not be taking Monta Ellis as many people have speculated.
• Nate Robinson’s name is strong in Phoenix at #21.
• Ike Diogu is slipping but most people think he can’t get by the #21 pick at Phoenix.
• Hakim Warrick likely will go #9 to Golden State but if he slips he won’t get by the #15 pick of New Jersey.
RUMORED DEALS
• Denver has both #20 and #22 and is talking with the Clippers about acquiring the #12 pick of the draft. IMPACT: The Clippers have reportedly promised Yaroslav Korolev with the #12 pick. It would be unlikely that Korolev would get past Indiana #17.
• Portland will move the #3 pick of the draft. There are two options that seem most likely. According to a good source in the NBA the most likely is the Jazz acquiring the #3 pick and Ruben Patterson. Patterson has said he won’t report. The Blazers would get the #6 pick and Gordan Giricek and Kirk Snyder. Under this scenario the Jazz would take a point guard. Most people believe it to be Deron Williams, but I have heard from inside the league that it would be Chris Paul. The Blazers at #6 would take either Martell Webster or Andrew Bynum
• The other Blazers scenario is that Charlotte moves the #5 and the #13 pick for the #3 pick. I will be surprised if Charlotte makes this deal as an expansion team two first round picks would seem more important than one player. The Bobcats would take either Paul or Williams at the #3 pick and the Blazers would take Martell Webster at the #5 and see if Bynum would slip to #13 which seems unlikely with the Lakers at #10.
• Every indication I have is that the Utah/Portland deal is the one that will happen.
DRAFT POSITION ISSUES
• Ike Diogu cancelled workouts with Boston who sits at #18 and Memphis would sits at #19. He cited fatigue, however it leads you to believe he has been promised above #18 in the draft. However, Locked on Sports latest projection has him at #21 to Phoenix.
• Chris Taft’s, power forward from Pittsburg, final two workouts were with Seattle and Houston. Taft has not been impressive and is likely to slip out of the first round.
• CJ Miles
• Monta Ellis
• Roko Ukic
• Marko Illic
• Chris Taft
• Wayne Simien
• Audray Blatche
LIKELY PICKS
• Luther Head is being talked about at 19 to Memphis or 24 to Houston and is unlikely to get to Seattle.
• Roko Ukic is still strong talk going 16 to Toronto
• The Clippers at 12 will likely take either Rashad McCants or Raymond Felton. This means that they will pass on Yaroslav Korolev who many had thought they promised.
• Charlotte wants to leave the draft with Charlie Villanueva and Raymond Felton. Therefore, they may take Villanueva at #5 to secure him.
• Talk is the Spurs have made a promise to a French Power Forward that will surprise people with their first round pick. Will this be another Spurs special.
• Boston will not be taking Monta Ellis as many people have speculated.
• Nate Robinson’s name is strong in Phoenix at #21.
• Ike Diogu is slipping but most people think he can’t get by the #21 pick at Phoenix.
• Hakim Warrick likely will go #9 to Golden State but if he slips he won’t get by the #15 pick of New Jersey.
RUMORED DEALS
• Denver has both #20 and #22 and is talking with the Clippers about acquiring the #12 pick of the draft. IMPACT: The Clippers have reportedly promised Yaroslav Korolev with the #12 pick. It would be unlikely that Korolev would get past Indiana #17.
• Portland will move the #3 pick of the draft. There are two options that seem most likely. According to a good source in the NBA the most likely is the Jazz acquiring the #3 pick and Ruben Patterson. Patterson has said he won’t report. The Blazers would get the #6 pick and Gordan Giricek and Kirk Snyder. Under this scenario the Jazz would take a point guard. Most people believe it to be Deron Williams, but I have heard from inside the league that it would be Chris Paul. The Blazers at #6 would take either Martell Webster or Andrew Bynum
• The other Blazers scenario is that Charlotte moves the #5 and the #13 pick for the #3 pick. I will be surprised if Charlotte makes this deal as an expansion team two first round picks would seem more important than one player. The Bobcats would take either Paul or Williams at the #3 pick and the Blazers would take Martell Webster at the #5 and see if Bynum would slip to #13 which seems unlikely with the Lakers at #10.
• Every indication I have is that the Utah/Portland deal is the one that will happen.
DRAFT POSITION ISSUES
• Ike Diogu cancelled workouts with Boston who sits at #18 and Memphis would sits at #19. He cited fatigue, however it leads you to believe he has been promised above #18 in the draft. However, Locked on Sports latest projection has him at #21 to Phoenix.
• Chris Taft’s, power forward from Pittsburg, final two workouts were with Seattle and Houston. Taft has not been impressive and is likely to slip out of the first round.
Monday, June 27, 2005
THE 7 ON THE SONICS BOARD
Guards
Luther Head – Illinois. They really like this kid. Winner. Super decisions with the ball, quick first step, a little bit small to be a combo guard – If I had to guess this is my guess.
Jarrett Jack – Georgia Tech -- Sonics would be very pleased. Good scorer. Great size can play the 1 or the 2. Loose with the basketball and assists to turnover ratio is an issue. Minneosta could take as early as 14.
Nate Robinson – Washington --- They are legit in their like for him, they are concerned about how he fits on the roster. Could go anywhere from 22 to 50. There is a chance he could be their for the second round pick and that seems to be the mentality of most teams.
Julius Hodge – NC State – Legit three position player. Sonics believe in taking players late in the draft they can play multiple roles. If the player isn’t a starter then make sure he can play multiple roles. Pendergraf compares him to Nate. Can defend the 1,2 or 3. Has no shot. It is a really significant issue. Could slip to the 2nd round.
Forwards
Linas Kleiza – Missouri -- left after his sophomore year. Had the best workout of any of the players that worked out for the Sonics. Wowed them. He can play both the 3 or the 4, and is truly a 4, but a bit undersized at a questionable 6’8. Sonics believe that he can become a 3-4 type. Will be on the board. I believe he is higher on the Sonics board then most teams
Wayne Simein – Kansas – Much better shooter then people realizes. He can stretch the defense to about 15 or 17 feet. He had good rebounding numbers in college. A bit undersized. His durability was a problem at Kansas. Will it be an issue when he is in the NBA and is playing less minutes.
Martynas Andriuskevicius – Lithuania – If he is on the board the Sonics will take him. He is a 7 foot 2 Ralph Sampson type who is more of a 4 then a center. He runs well, has great hands. He is still a ways off, but it seems inconceivable that his talent can slip to Seattle. Denver with 20 and 22 will probably take him or Phoenix at 21.
Luther Head – Illinois. They really like this kid. Winner. Super decisions with the ball, quick first step, a little bit small to be a combo guard – If I had to guess this is my guess.
Jarrett Jack – Georgia Tech -- Sonics would be very pleased. Good scorer. Great size can play the 1 or the 2. Loose with the basketball and assists to turnover ratio is an issue. Minneosta could take as early as 14.
Nate Robinson – Washington --- They are legit in their like for him, they are concerned about how he fits on the roster. Could go anywhere from 22 to 50. There is a chance he could be their for the second round pick and that seems to be the mentality of most teams.
Julius Hodge – NC State – Legit three position player. Sonics believe in taking players late in the draft they can play multiple roles. If the player isn’t a starter then make sure he can play multiple roles. Pendergraf compares him to Nate. Can defend the 1,2 or 3. Has no shot. It is a really significant issue. Could slip to the 2nd round.
Forwards
Linas Kleiza – Missouri -- left after his sophomore year. Had the best workout of any of the players that worked out for the Sonics. Wowed them. He can play both the 3 or the 4, and is truly a 4, but a bit undersized at a questionable 6’8. Sonics believe that he can become a 3-4 type. Will be on the board. I believe he is higher on the Sonics board then most teams
Wayne Simein – Kansas – Much better shooter then people realizes. He can stretch the defense to about 15 or 17 feet. He had good rebounding numbers in college. A bit undersized. His durability was a problem at Kansas. Will it be an issue when he is in the NBA and is playing less minutes.
Martynas Andriuskevicius – Lithuania – If he is on the board the Sonics will take him. He is a 7 foot 2 Ralph Sampson type who is more of a 4 then a center. He runs well, has great hands. He is still a ways off, but it seems inconceivable that his talent can slip to Seattle. Denver with 20 and 22 will probably take him or Phoenix at 21.
LOCKED ON SPORTS: MOCK DRAFT
As of 10:00 pm June 27th, 2005
1. Milwaukee – Andrew Bogut
2. Atlanta – Marvin Williams
3. Utah – Chris Paul
4. New Orleans – Deron Williams
5. Charlotte – Martell Webster
6. Portland– Andrew Bynum
7. Toronto – Danny Granger
8. New York – Channing Frye
9. Golden State – Hakim Warrick
10. LA Lakers – Gerald Green
11. Orlando – Sean May
12. LA Clippers – Yaroslav Korolev
13. Charlotte – Raymond Felton
14. Minnesota – Francisco Garcia
15. New Jersey – Ike Diogu
16. Toronto – Roko Ukic
17. Indiana – Charlie Villaneuva
18. Boston – Johan Petro
19. Memphis -- Antonio Wright
20. Denver – Fran Vazquez
21. Phoenix – Martynas Adndriuskesius
22. Denver – Joey Graham
23. Sacramento – Jarett Jack
24. Houston– Wayne Simien
25. Seattle – Luther Head
26. Detroit – Ersan Ilyasova
27. Utah – CJ Miles
28. San Antonio – Julius Hodge
29. Miami – Andray Blatche
30. New York – Randolph Morris
1. Milwaukee – Andrew Bogut
2. Atlanta – Marvin Williams
3. Utah – Chris Paul
4. New Orleans – Deron Williams
5. Charlotte – Martell Webster
6. Portland– Andrew Bynum
7. Toronto – Danny Granger
8. New York – Channing Frye
9. Golden State – Hakim Warrick
10. LA Lakers – Gerald Green
11. Orlando – Sean May
12. LA Clippers – Yaroslav Korolev
13. Charlotte – Raymond Felton
14. Minnesota – Francisco Garcia
15. New Jersey – Ike Diogu
16. Toronto – Roko Ukic
17. Indiana – Charlie Villaneuva
18. Boston – Johan Petro
19. Memphis -- Antonio Wright
20. Denver – Fran Vazquez
21. Phoenix – Martynas Adndriuskesius
22. Denver – Joey Graham
23. Sacramento – Jarett Jack
24. Houston– Wayne Simien
25. Seattle – Luther Head
26. Detroit – Ersan Ilyasova
27. Utah – CJ Miles
28. San Antonio – Julius Hodge
29. Miami – Andray Blatche
30. New York – Randolph Morris
Friday, June 24, 2005
SONICS FANS 9 NAMES
Keep an eye on these 9 names for the Sonics selection at 25
Jarrett Jack
Luther Head
Nate Robinson
Julius Hodge
Alan Anderson
Joey Graham
Martynas Andriuskevicius
Wayne Simien
Linas Kleiza
Check back for some analysis on each player.
Jarrett Jack
Luther Head
Nate Robinson
Julius Hodge
Alan Anderson
Joey Graham
Martynas Andriuskevicius
Wayne Simien
Linas Kleiza
Check back for some analysis on each player.
JUNE 24'S LATEST NEWS + RUMORS ON THE NBA DRAFT
TRADE RUMORS
1) I am still hearing that the Lakers are going to acquire the 3rd pick of the draft from Portland. The Blazers would get Caron Butler and the #10 pick and the Lakers would get #3 pick and Rueben Patterson.
2) The Blazers are involved in another rumor as well. The Celtics moving Pierce for the #3 pick and Damon Stoudamire. The Blazers/Lakers deal seems stonger.
3) The Knicks/ Phoenix trade is still active.
LOCAL INTERESTS
• Marvin Williams is the #1 or #2 pick of the draft
• Martel Webster continues to float from #8 to #13
• Nate Robinson looks more and more like a second round pick. However, there is talk about him in the late first round. He is being banded about from 25 to 50. Nate tested as the #1 physical athlete at the Chicago camp. He measured at 5’7. Universally, everyone in the NBA thinks he can play and will play. Maybe not a rotation player, but an impact player at times. Moreover, they think he will have a long career. Yet, teams are reluctant to pull the trigger. The Sonics are considering him at 25.
• Ronny Turiaf played very well in Chicago and measured well. He will be drafted and could be a high second rounder if someone takes a liking.
• Tre Simmons had a terrific camp in Chicago and has moved into the second round of the draft
• Will Conroy after a strong work out at the first camp was disappointing in Chicago and will be a free agent.
NBA DRAFT RISERS
A common theme here is high schoolers. The new collective bargaining agreement has a clause that lets you move players to the NBDL while retaining their rights. This increases the value of 2nd round picks and is making teams more willing to gamble on high school prospects.
1) High School product CJ Miles is on fire. He is being talked about in the top 20 of the draft. More likely the 6’6 shooting guard will be 20 to 30. He will be working out for the Sonics on Saturday.
2) High School product Andray Blatche, a 6’11 prospect, may have moved into the top 20. The word is he denied Boston a workout and the Celtics are sitting at #18
3) Luther Head may have worked himself into the first round of the draft with solid workouts.
4) The big mystery is still where has 7 foot high schooler Andrew Bynum been promised.
NBA DRAFT FADERS
1) Julius Hodge. Despite a great body and a versatile game his inability to shoot is really hurting his stock.
2) Joey Graham. He has a great body. One of the best ever. However, his disappearance in the NCAA tournament and lack luster workouts is a question.
3) Chris Taft. The Pittsburg power forward has slide more and more ever day. The Sonics will work him out on Saturday.
4) Kennedy Winston. Once a first rounder now is a 2nd round pick.
1) I am still hearing that the Lakers are going to acquire the 3rd pick of the draft from Portland. The Blazers would get Caron Butler and the #10 pick and the Lakers would get #3 pick and Rueben Patterson.
2) The Blazers are involved in another rumor as well. The Celtics moving Pierce for the #3 pick and Damon Stoudamire. The Blazers/Lakers deal seems stonger.
3) The Knicks/ Phoenix trade is still active.
LOCAL INTERESTS
• Marvin Williams is the #1 or #2 pick of the draft
• Martel Webster continues to float from #8 to #13
• Nate Robinson looks more and more like a second round pick. However, there is talk about him in the late first round. He is being banded about from 25 to 50. Nate tested as the #1 physical athlete at the Chicago camp. He measured at 5’7. Universally, everyone in the NBA thinks he can play and will play. Maybe not a rotation player, but an impact player at times. Moreover, they think he will have a long career. Yet, teams are reluctant to pull the trigger. The Sonics are considering him at 25.
• Ronny Turiaf played very well in Chicago and measured well. He will be drafted and could be a high second rounder if someone takes a liking.
• Tre Simmons had a terrific camp in Chicago and has moved into the second round of the draft
• Will Conroy after a strong work out at the first camp was disappointing in Chicago and will be a free agent.
NBA DRAFT RISERS
A common theme here is high schoolers. The new collective bargaining agreement has a clause that lets you move players to the NBDL while retaining their rights. This increases the value of 2nd round picks and is making teams more willing to gamble on high school prospects.
1) High School product CJ Miles is on fire. He is being talked about in the top 20 of the draft. More likely the 6’6 shooting guard will be 20 to 30. He will be working out for the Sonics on Saturday.
2) High School product Andray Blatche, a 6’11 prospect, may have moved into the top 20. The word is he denied Boston a workout and the Celtics are sitting at #18
3) Luther Head may have worked himself into the first round of the draft with solid workouts.
4) The big mystery is still where has 7 foot high schooler Andrew Bynum been promised.
NBA DRAFT FADERS
1) Julius Hodge. Despite a great body and a versatile game his inability to shoot is really hurting his stock.
2) Joey Graham. He has a great body. One of the best ever. However, his disappearance in the NCAA tournament and lack luster workouts is a question.
3) Chris Taft. The Pittsburg power forward has slide more and more ever day. The Sonics will work him out on Saturday.
4) Kennedy Winston. Once a first rounder now is a 2nd round pick.
Thursday, June 23, 2005
JUNE 22nd LATEST NEWS + RUMORS ON THE NBA DRAFT
HOT RUMORS
1) According to an NBA source, the Los Angeles Lakers have acquired the #3 pick of the draft from the Portland Trailblazers. The Lakers have also acquired Reuben Patterson in the deal. What is not clear is what Portland has received in exchange. It is expected that they would get the #10 pick plus a player from the Lakers. Portland is said to be very high on Martell Webster.
2) The word in NBA circles is that the Sonics will take Jarrett Jack at #25 if he is still on the board. It is not a promise but what one person in the league said the Sonics are Jack's backstop.
3) The Charlotte Bobcats have a promise for Charlie Villanueva at the #13 spot of the draft
4) The story talked about most of the day is that Knicks moving Kurt Thomas to the Suns for Q Richardson. This deal makes sense for the Suns since they need to move salary to re-sign Joe Johnson
5) Denver is looking to move one of their two first round picks if not both out of the first round.
PROMISES OR GUARANTEES
This is when an NBA team promises a player if they are avaliable that they will take him at the spot. These like all other promises are often broken but they make projecting the draft more interesting. These are all based upon scuttlebutt none are known.
1) Charlotte to Villanueva at 13
2) Clippers to Korolov at 12.
3) Sonics to Jack at 25. A very loose promise.
PLAYERS SLIPPING
1) The top of the list right now is Joey Graham out of Oklahoma State
PLAYERS RISING
1. Monta Ellis a high school point guard
2. Danny Granger may go as high 4
3. Channing Frye has solidified himself as a top 10 pick
1) According to an NBA source, the Los Angeles Lakers have acquired the #3 pick of the draft from the Portland Trailblazers. The Lakers have also acquired Reuben Patterson in the deal. What is not clear is what Portland has received in exchange. It is expected that they would get the #10 pick plus a player from the Lakers. Portland is said to be very high on Martell Webster.
2) The word in NBA circles is that the Sonics will take Jarrett Jack at #25 if he is still on the board. It is not a promise but what one person in the league said the Sonics are Jack's backstop.
3) The Charlotte Bobcats have a promise for Charlie Villanueva at the #13 spot of the draft
4) The story talked about most of the day is that Knicks moving Kurt Thomas to the Suns for Q Richardson. This deal makes sense for the Suns since they need to move salary to re-sign Joe Johnson
5) Denver is looking to move one of their two first round picks if not both out of the first round.
PROMISES OR GUARANTEES
This is when an NBA team promises a player if they are avaliable that they will take him at the spot. These like all other promises are often broken but they make projecting the draft more interesting. These are all based upon scuttlebutt none are known.
1) Charlotte to Villanueva at 13
2) Clippers to Korolov at 12.
3) Sonics to Jack at 25. A very loose promise.
PLAYERS SLIPPING
1) The top of the list right now is Joey Graham out of Oklahoma State
PLAYERS RISING
1. Monta Ellis a high school point guard
2. Danny Granger may go as high 4
3. Channing Frye has solidified himself as a top 10 pick
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
NBA MOCK DRAFT
As of June 23rd at 5:00 pm -- Place your comments below
1. Milwaukee – Andrew Bogut
2. Atlanta – Marvin Williams
3. Lakers– Deron Williams
4. New Orleans – Chris Paul
5. Charlotte – Gerald Green
6. Utah – Fran Vasquez
7. Toronto – Danny Granger
8. New York – Channing Frye (is it a promise)
9. Golden State – Hakim Warrick
10. Portland – Martell Webster
11. Orlando – Raymond Felton
12. LA Clippers – Korolev
13. Charlotte – Charlie Villaneuva
14. Minnesota – Sean May
15. New Jersey – Ike Diogu
16. Toronto – Antonio Wright
17. Indiana – Rashad McCants
18. Boston – Monta Ellis
19. Memphis – Joey Graham
20. Denver – Julius Hodge
21. Phoenix – Johan Petro
22. Denver – Illysova
23. Sacramento – Jarrett Jack
24. Houston– Wayne Simien
25. Seattle – Roko Ukic
26. Detroit – Fransisco Garcia
27. Utah – Ryan Gomes
28. San Antonio – David Lee
29. Miami – Andruw Bynum
30. New York – Randolph Morris
1. Milwaukee – Andrew Bogut
2. Atlanta – Marvin Williams
3. Lakers– Deron Williams
4. New Orleans – Chris Paul
5. Charlotte – Gerald Green
6. Utah – Fran Vasquez
7. Toronto – Danny Granger
8. New York – Channing Frye (is it a promise)
9. Golden State – Hakim Warrick
10. Portland – Martell Webster
11. Orlando – Raymond Felton
12. LA Clippers – Korolev
13. Charlotte – Charlie Villaneuva
14. Minnesota – Sean May
15. New Jersey – Ike Diogu
16. Toronto – Antonio Wright
17. Indiana – Rashad McCants
18. Boston – Monta Ellis
19. Memphis – Joey Graham
20. Denver – Julius Hodge
21. Phoenix – Johan Petro
22. Denver – Illysova
23. Sacramento – Jarrett Jack
24. Houston– Wayne Simien
25. Seattle – Roko Ukic
26. Detroit – Fransisco Garcia
27. Utah – Ryan Gomes
28. San Antonio – David Lee
29. Miami – Andruw Bynum
30. New York – Randolph Morris
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
Locked on Sports: Playing .500 ball is Mariners' quest
Today's Locked on Sports PI article focussing on the Mariners and the need to get to .500 not the need to develop new minor league failures at the big league level.
Locked on Sports: Playing .500 ball is Mariners' quest
Locked on Sports: Playing .500 ball is Mariners' quest
Monday, June 13, 2005
ARE THE FINALS OVER?
The Spurs touched as close to perfection as any team can in the NBA Finals last night. This team is showing signs of being one of the most all around and greatest teams the NBA has seen. They can play any style, there is no weakness to be exposed and they play picture perfect defense that the NBA has rarely seen. Maybe the most remarkable number is the Spurs have gone 13 games in the NBA Finals in their history without yielding 90 points in a game
However, before we throw this series away let throw out a thought or two. The Spurs looked this good against the Sonics in Games 1 and 2 and Seattle was able to even the series and the Pistons are a better team then the Sonics. The Pistons win by going to the free throw line, I told you this before the series started. They have not been going to the line at all in San Antonio and they are going to be more aggressive and get more calls when they are in Detroit.
So, yes the Spurs have been unreal, but let’s not jump to insane leaps of finality yet.
However, before we throw this series away let throw out a thought or two. The Spurs looked this good against the Sonics in Games 1 and 2 and Seattle was able to even the series and the Pistons are a better team then the Sonics. The Pistons win by going to the free throw line, I told you this before the series started. They have not been going to the line at all in San Antonio and they are going to be more aggressive and get more calls when they are in Detroit.
So, yes the Spurs have been unreal, but let’s not jump to insane leaps of finality yet.
MIKE TYSON REMEMBERED?
There is nothing about Mike Tyson that should be remembered as great. He was a waste. He damaged numerous people along the way, even worse people propped him up and his legacy is a joke. He was a flash in a weak heavyweight division; he never beat a quality opponent at the top of their game. He was a street hoodlum who got lucky not to be in jail because he could box and truly he never changed. He ended up in jail for the most heinous of crimes. Despite making 300 million dollars he left six children around the country untaken care of. He is a sad pitiful story, he is yet another example of when someone says see what sports does for him he needs sports it is not true. Sports is a crutch that can cover up the despicable elements of a human for only so long, by the end it comes clear and the true colors showed, a quitting, cheating, criminal is how Mike Tyson should be remembered.
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
Locked on Sports: Bad chemistry to blame for Mariners' malaise
Locked on Sports: Bad chemistry to blame for Mariners' malaise: "Striking is the contrast between the Sonics and the Mariners. This season every member of the Sonics performed at levels exceeding his career average. The Mariners are the opposite, with every member of the team achieving below his norm.
It speaks to the power of collective energy inside a professional sports team."
It speaks to the power of collective energy inside a professional sports team."
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
CAR RACING JUST PURE SEXISM
I am not sure I am following the whole Danica Patrick thing. The issue here is that there is absolutely no reason why women shouldn’t be able to drive like a man. Women can drive a car as well as a man, there is no debate. What is amazing is that there have only been 4 women to ever drive the Indy and their aren’t any on the Nascar circuit. This has to be the most obvious example of denying women opportunities that I have ever seen. It might be the most gregarious example of sexism anywhere in or out of the sports world. Think about this. On just about all other issues of women v. men in sports there is some sort of justification of how the games are different or physical capability is different, but in car racing there is none of that. The only thing that is going on in car racing is that the old boys network is corralling all the money for their own good. The fact is some male drivers have complained that by being lighter they may have an advantage. If that is true their should be more women and they should dominate. The issue is that the Letterman Rahl race team was finally willing to give over some of its precious green. This is about money and Danica Patrick has money backing her. This is about money and how without any explanation women are being denied the chance.
HEY DADDY LOOK WHO MY SPONSOR IS
It may be a sign of how desperate our youth leagues are for money, but a little league team, made up of 8 year olds, in Louisville is sponsored by Hooters. Hooters gave $1,000 the name of the restaurant on the teams’ shirts. The problem I have here is someone should have the class to say no from both sides. Hooters knows what they are doing, they are creating a national story on $1,000 of expenditure, here I am writing about it. I would like to believe that Hooters wouldn’t take advantage of kids to market their product. In addition, you would think some parents might decide this is the perfect message for our 8 year olds team. Hey it is another sign of the times.
CAVS MAKING A HUGE MISTAKE
The world is currently revolving around Larry Brown and I think it is a joke. Let’s get one thing straight Larry Brown is the best coach in the NBA. If I was a new owner in the NBA the first thing I would do to rebuild my franchise is hire Larry Brown to coach my team. Herein lies the issue. The Cavaliers are hiring him to un a basketball operation. Honestly, I can’t think of anyone whose personality could be an worse for that job. Larry Brown is one of those coaches that at some point along the way hates all of his players and thinks none of them will ever get any better, it is how George Karl is it is how a lot of coaches are. It makes them terrible general managers.
It is completely out of my comprehension why people think a coach is also a good general manager or a good evaluator and projector of talent. They are two totally different jobs, they take two totally different make-ups and I am here to tell you that Cleveland is making a terrible mistake hiring Larry Brown to do anything other than coach.
It is completely out of my comprehension why people think a coach is also a good general manager or a good evaluator and projector of talent. They are two totally different jobs, they take two totally different make-ups and I am here to tell you that Cleveland is making a terrible mistake hiring Larry Brown to do anything other than coach.
Sunday, May 22, 2005
Friday, May 20, 2005
SONICS +/- FOR THE SERIES
The Sonics as a team were a –40 in the series. In parenthesis is what the team did when that player was on the bench.
Player Total
Nick Collison +17 (-57)
Danny Fortson +3 (-43)
Damien Wilkins –12 (-28)
Rashard Lewis –27 (-13)
Ray Allen –27 (-13)
Antonio Daniels –30 (-10)
Luke Ridnour –33 (-7)
Reggie Evans -33 (-7)
Jerome James -44 (+4)
Player Total
Nick Collison +17 (-57)
Danny Fortson +3 (-43)
Damien Wilkins –12 (-28)
Rashard Lewis –27 (-13)
Ray Allen –27 (-13)
Antonio Daniels –30 (-10)
Luke Ridnour –33 (-7)
Reggie Evans -33 (-7)
Jerome James -44 (+4)
Thursday, May 19, 2005
LIVE BLOG FOR GAME 6 -- SONICS V. SPURS
Put your question or comments in the Comment Zone. I will try to respond throughout the game. REMEMBER TO HIT REFRESH TO GET THE LASTEST INFORMATION.
SPURS 98 SONICS 96
Duncan knocks down a little hook off a Ginobili drive to give the Spurs the game winner.
Horry hits the 3. He is unreal.
Think about all the missed opportunities earlier in the game.
SPURS 90 SONICS 89 with 2:00 left in the game.
This is all about making plays at this point.
Luke and Nick just made a great play. Allen lead to Wilkins.
4 guys are guarding Ray right now, but he has to be the player who makes the decisions.
Nick is doing a solid job on Duncan
Line-up to close the Season in the Western Conference Semi-Finals: Ridnour, Daniels, Allen, Wilkins and Collison. What would have you guessed at the beginning
SPURS 86 SONICS 84 with 4:57 left in the 4th Quarter.
The coaching staff is concerned to play Colison on Duncan, but I think Colison has to be on the floor. The coaching staff is correct that he might not be able to stop Duncan and that could cost you the game. Duncan is just to long.
Collison enters the game -- let's see how it works.
Collison a rookie guarding Duncan for the season. WOW
SPURS 83 SONICS 82 with 5:49 left in the 4th Quarter
Tim Duncan has stayed in the game -- what a battler
Ray Allen is working so hard right now to get the ball. He has scored the last 5.
I have never seen Ray work this hard. This is the work of a champion caliabler player.
It is a pleasure and a honor to watch these two stars play. This is what the game is all about. These guys play with so much pride.
Brent Barry has just fouled out. Ginobili enters.
SPURS 78 SONICS 77 with 8:08 left in the 4th Quarter
TIM DUNCAN HAS JUST HURT HIS LEFT ANKLE ON A DRIVE TO THE BASKET.
This is not the same ankle he hurt during the season.
SPURS 76 SONICS 75 with 8:59 left in the 4th Quarter.
No Ray Allen to start the quarter. He checks in at 10:00
The officials are scared of Greg Popovich. He is yelling at Danny Crawford at mid court and he swallowed the whistle.
Nick Collison just missed a lefty lay-up. Ouch.
The Spurs got the ball to Tim Duncan all of the first three possessions. No touches on the next three.
IS YOUR HEART PUMPING ?? THIS IS SO CRAZY !!!!!!
SONICS 73 SPURS 72 end of 3rd Quarter
The officials just blew the call on a fast break by Wilkins he didn't touch Ginobili.
Then Collison misses a fast break lay-up when he got his feet caught
Then the next play Fortson commits a flagrant foul on Duncan. He hits both free throws.
Allen then hits a nasty 3 -- Udrich follows.
WHAT INSANE ACTION !!!!! EVERYONE IS ON THEIR FEET. EVERYONE !!!!
The Sonics forced 8 turnovers but got just 4 points off those turnovers.
The amount of missed opportunites is the second most amazing thing in this game.
THE MOST AMAZING IS THESE GUYS HAVE DONE IT AGAIN. HOW I WILL NEVER KNOW?
SONICS 67 SPURS 67 with 2:33 left in the 3rd Quarter.
HOW DO THEY DO THIS -- HOW DO THEY DO THIS -- THEY ARE UNREAL !!!!!!!
Duncan out of the game. Spurs lead the game by 3.
Sonics still don't have a three. Allen hits the first three with 3:05
Fortson in for JJ with 3:44 left -- Spurs by 3. JJ has 4 fouls.
8 second chance opportunites in the quarter for the Spurs. However, the Spurs have turned it over.
SPURS 67 SONICS 64 with 4:11 left in the 3rd Quarter
JJ just sent two great picks that ingnited the offense. What a difference?
Have they gotten over the tough part to get back in the game.
The issue is how many possessions they have wasted in this game with turnovers and a lack of defensive rebounding. You can't do that and overcome it.
SPURS 67 SONICS 59 with 4:48 left in the 3rd Quarter
Collison in the game 6:10 left and down 6. Let's see what Mr. +/- does.
The Spurs worst +/- player Brent Barry is on the floor and Ginobili is out, their best.
Tim Duncan is so relentless. JJ blocked his shot and then TD got it back and dunked.
Way too many second shots. You can't do this in a close playoff game.
Defensive rebounding has been one of the keys in wins v. losses.
SPURS 61 SONICS 53 with 6:47 left in the 3rd Quarter.
Nate just got a technical. It happened after the Sonics battled for three extra looks but Reggie and JJ couldn't finsh. Nate felt their was a foul and it looked like contact, but it may have been as much of frustration on the lack of a finish.
Seattle can complain all they want but he fact is they aren't rebounding. The last 5 points have been on second chance opportunites. Evans and James are getting crushed again.
SPURS 55 SONICS 53 with 7:59 left in the 3rd Quarter
James has missed on the first 4 picks he has set of the quarter
AD just got a technical. That is not smart. That is the veteran. He is supposed to be the model.
Seattle is coming unglued they need something to happen to save them.
The Spurs smell blood. I think this one is going to be over in 5 minutes if they aren't careful.
GUARDING TIM DUNCAN
James/Evans combo 5:30 5 touches 0 points and 0 fouls drawn
Forston 5:40 3 touches 2 points and 1 foul drawn.
James 5:30 2 touches 4 points and 2 fouls drawn
Vitaly 3:32 1 touch 2 points 1 foul drawn
HALFTIME NOTES
The foul trouble killed the Sonics.
Ginobili enters with the Sonics up 5 and with him on the floor their was a 10 point swing.
Fortson went out with his second foul at the 9:34 mark and the Sonics lead by 6. An 11 point swing when the Sonics had to rely on James and Evans on the floor.
The Spurs offense has dicated this series and they are rolling.
You can't play Reggie Evans for extended minutes.
Damien Wilkins was -11 in the second quarter - think the Sonics miss Lewis and Radmanovic.
SPURS 52 SONICS 47 at the Half.
I am not sure Ray Allen has hit an outside shot tonight. He has been aggressive to the basket and that is how he is getting his points.
Sometimes this sounds so simple, but the ball is just not falling for Seattle right now.
I love Vitaly Potapenko he does great things when he is on the floor.
Seattle looked dead in the water and now have battled back. That is a good sign it felt like this thing could have been over by halftime.
Ray Allen's turnovers have been awful in the first half. Turnovers have been the difference in wins and losses. A bad sign for this game.
SPURS 47 SONICS 41 with 2:57 left in the 2nd Quarter.
The season is slipping away
The Spurs are on a 16-2 run.
The Spurs have scored on 11 straight possessions.
The Sonics are wearing down under the pressure. It is too hard to play without Vlady and Rashard and have offensive success and the burden is showing.
SPURS 45 SONICS 41 with 3:25 left in the 2nd Quarter
Tim Duncan re-enters. The Sonics lead 36-31 when Duncan went out.
Spurs take their first lead. At 4:30 mark of the 2nd Quarter
The foul trouble is a huge issue.
Antonio Daniels doesn't seem to be on his game tonight.
Spurs have scored on 9 straight possessions
SONICS 40 SPURS 39 with 4:40 left in the 2nd Q
This thing is headed in the wrong direction right now. The Sonics are not playing smart.
COMMENT FROM THE COMMENT ZONE
Matt, that is not true. They offered a 5 year 70 million dollar deal and it was close to getting done but fell apart at the last moment. The Sonics thought the new collective bargaining agreement was going to come to fruition which would limited other teams to just 4 year contract. That may not happen.
SONICS 38 SPURS 35 with 6:07 left in the 2nd Quarter
Tim Duncan gets his 2nd foul at the 8:30 mark. Duncan only fouled out of 1 game in the regular season and 1 playoff game.
Brent Barry another brief stint. He is a shadow of the player that was in Seattle. It is looking smart to not re-sign him.
Sonics scored on 7 of thier first 8 possessions of the second quarter.
Ginobili checks back in at the 7:18 mark with the Sonics up 5. He has been a positive +/- player in every game.
Sonics defense is struggling. The Spurs have scored on 5 straight.
The Sonics have the Evans/James combo in that killed them in game #5.
SONICS 33 SPURS 25 with 8:45 left in the 2nd Quarter.
Small line-up to start the Quarter
The Sonics are pounding the ball right now instead of moving it. AD and Ray have been the culprits.
Foul trouble is a major issue. Collison has three and Fortson has two. The Sonics need those two on the floor.
LAY-UPS
The Spurs did not have a lay-up in the half court or on a fast break in the Quarter.
GUARDING TIM DUNCAN
Evans/James combo for 5:30. Duncan had 5 touches 0 points and 0 fouls drawn
Fortson for 2:40. Duncan had 3 touches and 2 points and 1 foul drawn
SONICS 25 SPURS 20 end of the 1st Quarter
Nick Collison picked up three fouls in a span of 3 possessions. That hurts. He is the only player who has been + in the +/- category for the series.
Tim Duncan finshes the quarter with no field goals and only 2 points.
Interesting Nate has played two bigs for the entire Quarter. The little line-up has been very effective in the series
Damien Wilkins denies Manu Ginobili 1 on 1 on the final possession of the Quarter.
SONICS 20 SPURS 15 with 2:56 left in the 1st Quarter
James and Ridnour check out at +5 on the +/-
Starting Line-up gets a huge thumbs up for their 1st half work.
Ray Allen has been very sloppy with the ball -- three open court turnovers.
Free throws have been a key all series and the Sonics have been to the line already 8 times.
Check out the numbers on wins v. losses at the bottom of the blog post.
Brent Barry got pulled after just three minutes on the floor.
SONICS 14 SONICS with 5:36 left in the 1st Quarter
Duncan 5 touches -- 0 points -- 0 fouls committed on him
SONICS 14 SPURS 6 with 6:00 left in the 1st Quarter
The first 6 minutes have dicatated every game of this series. Let's hope that stands.
Ray Allen has 6 points.
Brent Barry checks in. His +/- the last three games has been awful. Scan down for all the +/- of the series.
SONICS 6 SPURS 0 with 8:58 left in the 1st Quarter
Right before tip-off the arena was the loudest it has been all season.
The picks early in the game have been much better
Not sure where JJ is on the energy level
THOUGHT BEFORE TIP-OFF
Enjoy this game it has been an incredible season.
Who are we seeing for the last time at Key Arena?
Rashard Update
MRI on Rashard showed a bone bruise and tissue damage. The injury is more than just his toe.
Nonetheless, Rashard taped up and tried to go at shoot around and it hurt significantly just standing on the sidelines.
Things to keep an eye on tonight
• Start to the game
• Ginobili penetration
• Sonics starting line-up has to perform
• Banging on Duncan
• Ray Allen swinging the ball out of the double team
STARTING LINE-UPS
same as the last two nights.
EARLY STARTS MUCHO IMPORTANTE
STARTS TO GAMES
Game 1: Spurs 15-8 at 6 minute mark
Game 2: Spurs 13-8 at 6 minute mark
Game 3: Sonics 15-13 at 6 minute mark
Game 4: Sonics 16-9 at 6 minute mark
Game 5: Spurs 9-4 at 6 minute mark.
+/- RATINGS FOR THE SERIES
This is no different then hockey. When the player is on the floor the team outscores or is either outscored.
SONICS +/-
Player Total
Ridnour -31
Allen -27
Lewis -27
Evans -32 (in limited minutes)
James -43 (-46 in the losses)
AD -27 (-40 in the losses)
Nick 12 (only positive player who plays regularly)
Danny -2
Flip 6
Damien -5
SPURS +/-
Player Total
Parker 35 (+58 in wins)
Ginobili 43 (only player positive in every game)
Bowen 14
Duncan 39
Nazr 13 (big in games 2 and 5)
Barry -6 (-34 in the last 3 games)
Horry -5
Robinson 32 (33 in games 1 and 2)
Udrich 9
Nestorvic 17
WINS V. LOSSES
Here is a breakdown of what has been separating wins and losses for the Sonics in this series. Some of it is a bit surprising.
On the offensive side of things ….
THE MOST MARVELOUS OF SEASONS COMES TO AN END!
SPURS WIN THE SERIES 4-2
SPURS WIN THE SERIES 4-2
SPURS 98 SONICS 96
Duncan knocks down a little hook off a Ginobili drive to give the Spurs the game winner.
Horry hits the 3. He is unreal.
Think about all the missed opportunities earlier in the game.
SPURS 90 SONICS 89 with 2:00 left in the game.
This is all about making plays at this point.
Luke and Nick just made a great play. Allen lead to Wilkins.
4 guys are guarding Ray right now, but he has to be the player who makes the decisions.
Nick is doing a solid job on Duncan
Line-up to close the Season in the Western Conference Semi-Finals: Ridnour, Daniels, Allen, Wilkins and Collison. What would have you guessed at the beginning
SPURS 86 SONICS 84 with 4:57 left in the 4th Quarter.
The coaching staff is concerned to play Colison on Duncan, but I think Colison has to be on the floor. The coaching staff is correct that he might not be able to stop Duncan and that could cost you the game. Duncan is just to long.
Collison enters the game -- let's see how it works.
Collison a rookie guarding Duncan for the season. WOW
SPURS 83 SONICS 82 with 5:49 left in the 4th Quarter
Tim Duncan has stayed in the game -- what a battler
Ray Allen is working so hard right now to get the ball. He has scored the last 5.
I have never seen Ray work this hard. This is the work of a champion caliabler player.
It is a pleasure and a honor to watch these two stars play. This is what the game is all about. These guys play with so much pride.
Brent Barry has just fouled out. Ginobili enters.
SPURS 78 SONICS 77 with 8:08 left in the 4th Quarter
TIM DUNCAN HAS JUST HURT HIS LEFT ANKLE ON A DRIVE TO THE BASKET.
This is not the same ankle he hurt during the season.
SPURS 76 SONICS 75 with 8:59 left in the 4th Quarter.
No Ray Allen to start the quarter. He checks in at 10:00
The officials are scared of Greg Popovich. He is yelling at Danny Crawford at mid court and he swallowed the whistle.
Nick Collison just missed a lefty lay-up. Ouch.
The Spurs got the ball to Tim Duncan all of the first three possessions. No touches on the next three.
IS YOUR HEART PUMPING ?? THIS IS SO CRAZY !!!!!!
SONICS 73 SPURS 72 end of 3rd Quarter
The officials just blew the call on a fast break by Wilkins he didn't touch Ginobili.
Then Collison misses a fast break lay-up when he got his feet caught
Then the next play Fortson commits a flagrant foul on Duncan. He hits both free throws.
Allen then hits a nasty 3 -- Udrich follows.
WHAT INSANE ACTION !!!!! EVERYONE IS ON THEIR FEET. EVERYONE !!!!
The Sonics forced 8 turnovers but got just 4 points off those turnovers.
The amount of missed opportunites is the second most amazing thing in this game.
THE MOST AMAZING IS THESE GUYS HAVE DONE IT AGAIN. HOW I WILL NEVER KNOW?
SONICS 67 SPURS 67 with 2:33 left in the 3rd Quarter.
HOW DO THEY DO THIS -- HOW DO THEY DO THIS -- THEY ARE UNREAL !!!!!!!
Duncan out of the game. Spurs lead the game by 3.
Sonics still don't have a three. Allen hits the first three with 3:05
Fortson in for JJ with 3:44 left -- Spurs by 3. JJ has 4 fouls.
8 second chance opportunites in the quarter for the Spurs. However, the Spurs have turned it over.
SPURS 67 SONICS 64 with 4:11 left in the 3rd Quarter
JJ just sent two great picks that ingnited the offense. What a difference?
Have they gotten over the tough part to get back in the game.
The issue is how many possessions they have wasted in this game with turnovers and a lack of defensive rebounding. You can't do that and overcome it.
SPURS 67 SONICS 59 with 4:48 left in the 3rd Quarter
Collison in the game 6:10 left and down 6. Let's see what Mr. +/- does.
The Spurs worst +/- player Brent Barry is on the floor and Ginobili is out, their best.
Tim Duncan is so relentless. JJ blocked his shot and then TD got it back and dunked.
Way too many second shots. You can't do this in a close playoff game.
Defensive rebounding has been one of the keys in wins v. losses.
SPURS 61 SONICS 53 with 6:47 left in the 3rd Quarter.
Nate just got a technical. It happened after the Sonics battled for three extra looks but Reggie and JJ couldn't finsh. Nate felt their was a foul and it looked like contact, but it may have been as much of frustration on the lack of a finish.
Seattle can complain all they want but he fact is they aren't rebounding. The last 5 points have been on second chance opportunites. Evans and James are getting crushed again.
SPURS 55 SONICS 53 with 7:59 left in the 3rd Quarter
James has missed on the first 4 picks he has set of the quarter
AD just got a technical. That is not smart. That is the veteran. He is supposed to be the model.
Seattle is coming unglued they need something to happen to save them.
The Spurs smell blood. I think this one is going to be over in 5 minutes if they aren't careful.
GUARDING TIM DUNCAN
James/Evans combo 5:30 5 touches 0 points and 0 fouls drawn
Forston 5:40 3 touches 2 points and 1 foul drawn.
James 5:30 2 touches 4 points and 2 fouls drawn
Vitaly 3:32 1 touch 2 points 1 foul drawn
HALFTIME NOTES
The foul trouble killed the Sonics.
Ginobili enters with the Sonics up 5 and with him on the floor their was a 10 point swing.
Fortson went out with his second foul at the 9:34 mark and the Sonics lead by 6. An 11 point swing when the Sonics had to rely on James and Evans on the floor.
The Spurs offense has dicated this series and they are rolling.
You can't play Reggie Evans for extended minutes.
Damien Wilkins was -11 in the second quarter - think the Sonics miss Lewis and Radmanovic.
SPURS 52 SONICS 47 at the Half.
I am not sure Ray Allen has hit an outside shot tonight. He has been aggressive to the basket and that is how he is getting his points.
Sometimes this sounds so simple, but the ball is just not falling for Seattle right now.
I love Vitaly Potapenko he does great things when he is on the floor.
Seattle looked dead in the water and now have battled back. That is a good sign it felt like this thing could have been over by halftime.
Ray Allen's turnovers have been awful in the first half. Turnovers have been the difference in wins and losses. A bad sign for this game.
SPURS 47 SONICS 41 with 2:57 left in the 2nd Quarter.
The season is slipping away
The Spurs are on a 16-2 run.
The Spurs have scored on 11 straight possessions.
The Sonics are wearing down under the pressure. It is too hard to play without Vlady and Rashard and have offensive success and the burden is showing.
SPURS 45 SONICS 41 with 3:25 left in the 2nd Quarter
Tim Duncan re-enters. The Sonics lead 36-31 when Duncan went out.
Spurs take their first lead. At 4:30 mark of the 2nd Quarter
The foul trouble is a huge issue.
Antonio Daniels doesn't seem to be on his game tonight.
Spurs have scored on 9 straight possessions
SONICS 40 SPURS 39 with 4:40 left in the 2nd Q
This thing is headed in the wrong direction right now. The Sonics are not playing smart.
COMMENT FROM THE COMMENT ZONE
MattB said...
Hey, does anyone know the status of Ray Allen and his contract negociations? I have heard they offered him $100 mil and he turned it down.
Matt, that is not true. They offered a 5 year 70 million dollar deal and it was close to getting done but fell apart at the last moment. The Sonics thought the new collective bargaining agreement was going to come to fruition which would limited other teams to just 4 year contract. That may not happen.
SONICS 38 SPURS 35 with 6:07 left in the 2nd Quarter
Tim Duncan gets his 2nd foul at the 8:30 mark. Duncan only fouled out of 1 game in the regular season and 1 playoff game.
Brent Barry another brief stint. He is a shadow of the player that was in Seattle. It is looking smart to not re-sign him.
Sonics scored on 7 of thier first 8 possessions of the second quarter.
Ginobili checks back in at the 7:18 mark with the Sonics up 5. He has been a positive +/- player in every game.
Sonics defense is struggling. The Spurs have scored on 5 straight.
The Sonics have the Evans/James combo in that killed them in game #5.
SONICS 33 SPURS 25 with 8:45 left in the 2nd Quarter.
Small line-up to start the Quarter
The Sonics are pounding the ball right now instead of moving it. AD and Ray have been the culprits.
Foul trouble is a major issue. Collison has three and Fortson has two. The Sonics need those two on the floor.
LAY-UPS
The Spurs did not have a lay-up in the half court or on a fast break in the Quarter.
GUARDING TIM DUNCAN
Evans/James combo for 5:30. Duncan had 5 touches 0 points and 0 fouls drawn
Fortson for 2:40. Duncan had 3 touches and 2 points and 1 foul drawn
SONICS 25 SPURS 20 end of the 1st Quarter
Nick Collison picked up three fouls in a span of 3 possessions. That hurts. He is the only player who has been + in the +/- category for the series.
Tim Duncan finshes the quarter with no field goals and only 2 points.
Interesting Nate has played two bigs for the entire Quarter. The little line-up has been very effective in the series
Damien Wilkins denies Manu Ginobili 1 on 1 on the final possession of the Quarter.
SONICS 20 SPURS 15 with 2:56 left in the 1st Quarter
James and Ridnour check out at +5 on the +/-
Starting Line-up gets a huge thumbs up for their 1st half work.
Ray Allen has been very sloppy with the ball -- three open court turnovers.
Free throws have been a key all series and the Sonics have been to the line already 8 times.
Check out the numbers on wins v. losses at the bottom of the blog post.
Brent Barry got pulled after just three minutes on the floor.
SONICS 14 SONICS with 5:36 left in the 1st Quarter
Duncan 5 touches -- 0 points -- 0 fouls committed on him
SONICS 14 SPURS 6 with 6:00 left in the 1st Quarter
The first 6 minutes have dicatated every game of this series. Let's hope that stands.
Ray Allen has 6 points.
Brent Barry checks in. His +/- the last three games has been awful. Scan down for all the +/- of the series.
SONICS 6 SPURS 0 with 8:58 left in the 1st Quarter
Right before tip-off the arena was the loudest it has been all season.
The picks early in the game have been much better
Not sure where JJ is on the energy level
THOUGHT BEFORE TIP-OFF
Enjoy this game it has been an incredible season.
Who are we seeing for the last time at Key Arena?
Rashard Update
MRI on Rashard showed a bone bruise and tissue damage. The injury is more than just his toe.
Nonetheless, Rashard taped up and tried to go at shoot around and it hurt significantly just standing on the sidelines.
Things to keep an eye on tonight
• Start to the game
• Ginobili penetration
• Sonics starting line-up has to perform
• Banging on Duncan
• Ray Allen swinging the ball out of the double team
STARTING LINE-UPS
same as the last two nights.
EARLY STARTS MUCHO IMPORTANTE
STARTS TO GAMES
Game 1: Spurs 15-8 at 6 minute mark
Game 2: Spurs 13-8 at 6 minute mark
Game 3: Sonics 15-13 at 6 minute mark
Game 4: Sonics 16-9 at 6 minute mark
Game 5: Spurs 9-4 at 6 minute mark.
+/- RATINGS FOR THE SERIES
This is no different then hockey. When the player is on the floor the team outscores or is either outscored.
SONICS +/-
Player Total
Ridnour -31
Allen -27
Lewis -27
Evans -32 (in limited minutes)
James -43 (-46 in the losses)
AD -27 (-40 in the losses)
Nick 12 (only positive player who plays regularly)
Danny -2
Flip 6
Damien -5
SPURS +/-
Player Total
Parker 35 (+58 in wins)
Ginobili 43 (only player positive in every game)
Bowen 14
Duncan 39
Nazr 13 (big in games 2 and 5)
Barry -6 (-34 in the last 3 games)
Horry -5
Robinson 32 (33 in games 1 and 2)
Udrich 9
Nestorvic 17
WINS V. LOSSES
Here is a breakdown of what has been separating wins and losses for the Sonics in this series. Some of it is a bit surprising.
On the offensive side of things ….
- Good offensive rebounding has not lead to wins. In wins they are grabbing just 24% of the offensive rebounds, but in losses they are at 41%.
- Shooting hasn’t been a big issue either. In wins they are shooting 45% and in losses 44%. A better indicator is effective field goal % which accounts for 3pt shooting and in wins they are 48% and in losses 46%. This is not the discrepancy you would imagine.
- The big indicator has been turnovers. In wins the Sonics are turning it over just 12% of their possessions and in losses 17% of their possessions.
- The other indicator has been free throws in the 2 wins the Sonics have gone to the line an average of 30 times a game and in the two losses they have averaged 22.3 free throws a game.
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
LIVE BLOG FOR GAME 5 FROM SAN ANTONIO
PLACE ANY COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS IN THE COMMENT ZONE AT THE BOTTOM. I WILL GET TO THEM THROUGHOUT THE BROADCAST.
SPURS 103 SONICS 90 FINAL SCORE
Tony Parker may have just found his rhythm by hitting three uncontested jumpers late. That would be bad.
Ray Allen 1 for 4 in the 4th quarter and 2 points in the 3rd Quarter.
SPURS 95 SONICS 81 with 4:00 left in the 4th Q
This isn't Ray's night he has missed 4 straight jumpers
The flagrant foul on Wilkins was not flagrant.
The wind is out of the Sonics sails. When AD and Ray just missed back to back drives the team looked dejected.
Nick Collison getting his 5th foul was a huge moment in this game. He has not returned.
SPURS 91 SONICS 81 with 5:26 left in the game
This is Manu's night. In SA with Manu having this kind of night it is amazing Seattle is in the game at all.
It feels like Duncan is struggling and he has 18 points and 13 rebounds.
The Spurs have made the plays tonight. They have avoided the nervous possessions all night. The Sonics have never had the ball close enough to cause a frieght.
The best thing in the NBA may be the Spurs dancers in Chaps dancing to ACDC Shook me all night long.
SPURS 82 SONICS 75 with 8:35 left in the 4th
The Sonics may still get this game.
Give Flip Murray credit he came in the game and didn't force. He played in the system. In 10 minutes he didn't take a shot.
Brent Barry is really struggling. 0 for3 and Pop has lost confidence in him.
SPURS 81 SONICS 75 with 9:32 left in the 4th
Jerome returns with 10:37 left because Nick has 5 fouls.
JJ has been terrible, Seattle can't afford it again.
Parker is still non-existent. 1 of 9 from the field. He re-enters.
Ginobili is carring this team tonight -- 35 points.
SPURS 78 SONCIS 68 at the end of the 4th Quarter
Allen scores just 1 point in the Quarter.
The Sonics opening group just crushed the Sonics.
Mohammed had 10 points in the quarter and Ginobili had 14.
Third Quarter Guarding Duncan
Evans guarded him for 4:00 Duncan had 1 touch 0 points
Fortson guarded him for 5:30 Duncan had 5 touches and 2 points
Collison guarded him for :30 Duncan had 2 touches and 0 points.
Total he has 28 touches and 12 points.
SPURS 74 SONICS 63 with 4:13 left in the 3rd Quarter.
The Sonics have gone small and they are scoring again.
They have to find a way to get stops
The Spurs are 48-4 when they lead going into the 4th and 34-1 at home and 4-1 in the playoffs.
SPURS 73 SONICS 58 with 5:29 left in the 3rd Quarter
How much did Evans and James kill this team today. With Evans and James on the floor together the Sonics scored on just 3 of 15 possessions.
With any other combo on the floor the Sonics have scored on 26 of 36 possessions.
Ginobili is unstopable. He has 32 points on 10 of 11 shooting.
COMMENT FROM COMMENT ZONE
Honestly I put it all on the Evans and James combo. The Sonics have only scored on 3 of 15 possessions while those two were on the floor.
SPURS 67 SONICS 53 with 7:03 in the third quarter
The Sonics have gone back to the high pick and roll as their primary offense.
Reggie Evans is having a terrible time staying with the defensive assignments.
Jerome James is struggling on the road.
The Evans and James combo has been outscored 23-5 with both on the floor. They are both playing very poorly, they are killing the offense and the defense. At the beginning of both halves the Sonics have been pounding the ball because James and Evans stymie the offense.
Narz Mohammad has 9 points in the quarter.
SPURS 56 SONICS 50 with 10:30 left in the third Quarter
6-0 run to open the Quarter. Seattle has given up two dunks and a fast break.
BENCH PLAY
The Spurs have just 4 points in 31 minutes off the bench
The Sonics have 12 points and 7 rebounds in 45 minutes.
IS TONY PARKER CLAMPING UP?
Last year he went 7 of 23 in Game 5 and 4 of 18 in Game 6 v. the Lakers
Tonight he is 1 of 8 at halftime.
In the first two games Parker averaged 25.5 pts a game since then he is just 14 of 39 from the field. In the first two games he was 18 of 33. This is the exact same as last year.
SONICS 50 SPURS 50 AT THE HALF.
Ray Allen was amazing in the 2nd quarter with 15 points
The Sonics took it right at Duncan who had 2 fouls.
Duncan missed 4 of his 6 free throws. Time to start thinking Timmy.
The Sonics scored on 16 of 21 possessions in the Quarter.
The Sonics have scored on 24 of their last 33 possessions.
Who has guarded Tim Duncan
Evans guarded him for 6:51 -- Duncan had 6 touches and scored 3 points
Forston guarded him for 9:00 -- Duncan had 10 touches and scored 4 points
James guarded him for 2:00 -- Duncan had 2 touches and scored 2 points
Collison guarded him for 2:00 -- Duncan had 2 touches and 0 points
Vitaly guarded him for 1:00 -- Duncan had 0 touches.
Seattle committed 4 fouls on Duncan.
SPURS 46 SONICS 41 with 2:34 left in the 2nd Quarter
Luke Ridnour having another good offensive day 3 of 5 shooting.
This is very surprising -- both teams are shooting over 50%.
Traditionally in the playoffs the offense becomes less good as the series goes.
Second chance points are the difference 9 to 2.
Seattle can't contain Ginobili. He is 6 of 7 from the floor and is getting into the paint.
Rudy's BBQ has struck and we are looking for Rolaids.
SPURS 41 SONICS 35 with 5:48 left in the 2nd Quarter
Sonics have scored on 8 of 10 trips in the 2nd Quarter.
Tim Duncan is pacing himself to make sure his teammates get involved.
Ray Allen has 6 in the Q
Ginobili is killing Seattle he has two threes and now a lay-up - 19 points.
SPURS 31 SONICS 25 with 8:50 left in the 2nd Quarter
Seattle scored on just 1 of their first 9 possessions since they have scored on 12 of their last 18 trips down the floor.
Seattle has never been closer. They trailed 7-0.
SPURS 25 SONICS 18 at the end of 1 Quarter.
Every time that Seattle made some progress the Spurs got an offensive rebound and extended their lead.
Narz Mohammed finished the 1st quarter with 7 points and 5 rebounds.
Ginobili had 9 points and 5 of those at the free throw line.
Sonics lineup is Daniels, Flip, Wilkins, Fortson and Collison
Duncan foul #2 with 1:18 left in the 1st Quarter.
Sonics have not found the same mid range game they had in game #3 and #4
Collison was open for a baseline jumper and that will be open all game.
Spurs have a 7-0 second chance point advantage.
SPURS 16 SONICS 10 with 3:00 left in the 1st Quarter
Ray Allen gets foul #2 with 3:17 left in the 1st Quarter without Rashard it means Flip time.
Ray just jumped into the coaches seat and addressed the team. Leadership.
The Spurs have taken the Sonics movement away. When they are pressured they are trying to dribble out of it instead of trying to pass out of it.
SPURS 7 SONICS 0 with 8:04 left in the 1st Quarter.
Spurs play the first pick and roll much more aggressively. Duncan doubled Allen. They are also bringing the big man over into the strongside block. That is three guys guarding Allen on a pick and roll.
Foul trouble will be vital -- Allen gets #1 at 10:30 mark. JJ #2 at the 8:04 mark
Spurs are going under the pick when AD has the ball he has to make the outside shot.
Sonics start 0 for 7
STARTING LINE-UPS
Spurs start Manu Ginobili instead of Brent Barry
Things to keep an eye on …..
• Are the Sonics a different team then the team that was here last week?
• Spurs Penetration
• Sonics Pick and Roll
• Fatigue of Duncan – hits on Duncan
• Sonics small ball
• Sonics just playing what adjustments can be made
A FEW NUMBERS FOR YOU
STARTS TO GAMES
Game 1: Spurs 15-8 at 6 minute mark
Game 2: Spurs 13-8 at 6 minute mark
Game 3: Sonics 15-13 at 6 minute mark
Game 4: Sonics 16-9 at 6 minute mark
STARTING LINE-UPS
Rashard will not play
SPURS TAKE A 3-2 SERIES LEAD
GINOBILI GOLDEN IN SPURS WIN
GINOBILI GOLDEN IN SPURS WIN
SPURS 103 SONICS 90 FINAL SCORE
Tony Parker may have just found his rhythm by hitting three uncontested jumpers late. That would be bad.
Ray Allen 1 for 4 in the 4th quarter and 2 points in the 3rd Quarter.
SPURS 95 SONICS 81 with 4:00 left in the 4th Q
This isn't Ray's night he has missed 4 straight jumpers
The flagrant foul on Wilkins was not flagrant.
The wind is out of the Sonics sails. When AD and Ray just missed back to back drives the team looked dejected.
Nick Collison getting his 5th foul was a huge moment in this game. He has not returned.
SPURS 91 SONICS 81 with 5:26 left in the game
This is Manu's night. In SA with Manu having this kind of night it is amazing Seattle is in the game at all.
It feels like Duncan is struggling and he has 18 points and 13 rebounds.
The Spurs have made the plays tonight. They have avoided the nervous possessions all night. The Sonics have never had the ball close enough to cause a frieght.
The best thing in the NBA may be the Spurs dancers in Chaps dancing to ACDC Shook me all night long.
SPURS 82 SONICS 75 with 8:35 left in the 4th
The Sonics may still get this game.
Give Flip Murray credit he came in the game and didn't force. He played in the system. In 10 minutes he didn't take a shot.
Brent Barry is really struggling. 0 for3 and Pop has lost confidence in him.
SPURS 81 SONICS 75 with 9:32 left in the 4th
Jerome returns with 10:37 left because Nick has 5 fouls.
JJ has been terrible, Seattle can't afford it again.
Parker is still non-existent. 1 of 9 from the field. He re-enters.
Ginobili is carring this team tonight -- 35 points.
SPURS 78 SONCIS 68 at the end of the 4th Quarter
Allen scores just 1 point in the Quarter.
The Sonics opening group just crushed the Sonics.
Mohammed had 10 points in the quarter and Ginobili had 14.
Third Quarter Guarding Duncan
Evans guarded him for 4:00 Duncan had 1 touch 0 points
Fortson guarded him for 5:30 Duncan had 5 touches and 2 points
Collison guarded him for :30 Duncan had 2 touches and 0 points.
Total he has 28 touches and 12 points.
SPURS 74 SONICS 63 with 4:13 left in the 3rd Quarter.
The Sonics have gone small and they are scoring again.
They have to find a way to get stops
The Spurs are 48-4 when they lead going into the 4th and 34-1 at home and 4-1 in the playoffs.
SPURS 73 SONICS 58 with 5:29 left in the 3rd Quarter
How much did Evans and James kill this team today. With Evans and James on the floor together the Sonics scored on just 3 of 15 possessions.
With any other combo on the floor the Sonics have scored on 26 of 36 possessions.
Ginobili is unstopable. He has 32 points on 10 of 11 shooting.
COMMENT FROM COMMENT ZONE
Locke, do you think the pressure that the Spurs put on the Sonics early in the game is starting to show fatigue wise?
Honestly I put it all on the Evans and James combo. The Sonics have only scored on 3 of 15 possessions while those two were on the floor.
SPURS 67 SONICS 53 with 7:03 in the third quarter
The Sonics have gone back to the high pick and roll as their primary offense.
Reggie Evans is having a terrible time staying with the defensive assignments.
Jerome James is struggling on the road.
The Evans and James combo has been outscored 23-5 with both on the floor. They are both playing very poorly, they are killing the offense and the defense. At the beginning of both halves the Sonics have been pounding the ball because James and Evans stymie the offense.
Narz Mohammad has 9 points in the quarter.
SPURS 56 SONICS 50 with 10:30 left in the third Quarter
6-0 run to open the Quarter. Seattle has given up two dunks and a fast break.
BENCH PLAY
The Spurs have just 4 points in 31 minutes off the bench
The Sonics have 12 points and 7 rebounds in 45 minutes.
IS TONY PARKER CLAMPING UP?
Last year he went 7 of 23 in Game 5 and 4 of 18 in Game 6 v. the Lakers
Tonight he is 1 of 8 at halftime.
In the first two games Parker averaged 25.5 pts a game since then he is just 14 of 39 from the field. In the first two games he was 18 of 33. This is the exact same as last year.
SONICS 50 SPURS 50 AT THE HALF.
Ray Allen was amazing in the 2nd quarter with 15 points
The Sonics took it right at Duncan who had 2 fouls.
Duncan missed 4 of his 6 free throws. Time to start thinking Timmy.
The Sonics scored on 16 of 21 possessions in the Quarter.
The Sonics have scored on 24 of their last 33 possessions.
Who has guarded Tim Duncan
Evans guarded him for 6:51 -- Duncan had 6 touches and scored 3 points
Forston guarded him for 9:00 -- Duncan had 10 touches and scored 4 points
James guarded him for 2:00 -- Duncan had 2 touches and scored 2 points
Collison guarded him for 2:00 -- Duncan had 2 touches and 0 points
Vitaly guarded him for 1:00 -- Duncan had 0 touches.
Seattle committed 4 fouls on Duncan.
SPURS 46 SONICS 41 with 2:34 left in the 2nd Quarter
Luke Ridnour having another good offensive day 3 of 5 shooting.
This is very surprising -- both teams are shooting over 50%.
Traditionally in the playoffs the offense becomes less good as the series goes.
Second chance points are the difference 9 to 2.
Seattle can't contain Ginobili. He is 6 of 7 from the floor and is getting into the paint.
Rudy's BBQ has struck and we are looking for Rolaids.
SPURS 41 SONICS 35 with 5:48 left in the 2nd Quarter
Sonics have scored on 8 of 10 trips in the 2nd Quarter.
Tim Duncan is pacing himself to make sure his teammates get involved.
Ray Allen has 6 in the Q
Ginobili is killing Seattle he has two threes and now a lay-up - 19 points.
SPURS 31 SONICS 25 with 8:50 left in the 2nd Quarter
Seattle scored on just 1 of their first 9 possessions since they have scored on 12 of their last 18 trips down the floor.
Seattle has never been closer. They trailed 7-0.
SPURS 25 SONICS 18 at the end of 1 Quarter.
Every time that Seattle made some progress the Spurs got an offensive rebound and extended their lead.
Narz Mohammed finished the 1st quarter with 7 points and 5 rebounds.
Ginobili had 9 points and 5 of those at the free throw line.
Sonics lineup is Daniels, Flip, Wilkins, Fortson and Collison
Duncan foul #2 with 1:18 left in the 1st Quarter.
Sonics have not found the same mid range game they had in game #3 and #4
Collison was open for a baseline jumper and that will be open all game.
Spurs have a 7-0 second chance point advantage.
SPURS 16 SONICS 10 with 3:00 left in the 1st Quarter
Ray Allen gets foul #2 with 3:17 left in the 1st Quarter without Rashard it means Flip time.
Ray just jumped into the coaches seat and addressed the team. Leadership.
The Spurs have taken the Sonics movement away. When they are pressured they are trying to dribble out of it instead of trying to pass out of it.
SPURS 7 SONICS 0 with 8:04 left in the 1st Quarter.
Spurs play the first pick and roll much more aggressively. Duncan doubled Allen. They are also bringing the big man over into the strongside block. That is three guys guarding Allen on a pick and roll.
Foul trouble will be vital -- Allen gets #1 at 10:30 mark. JJ #2 at the 8:04 mark
Spurs are going under the pick when AD has the ball he has to make the outside shot.
Sonics start 0 for 7
STARTING LINE-UPS
Spurs start Manu Ginobili instead of Brent Barry
Things to keep an eye on …..
• Are the Sonics a different team then the team that was here last week?
• Spurs Penetration
• Sonics Pick and Roll
• Fatigue of Duncan – hits on Duncan
• Sonics small ball
• Sonics just playing what adjustments can be made
A FEW NUMBERS FOR YOU
STARTS TO GAMES
Game 1: Spurs 15-8 at 6 minute mark
Game 2: Spurs 13-8 at 6 minute mark
Game 3: Sonics 15-13 at 6 minute mark
Game 4: Sonics 16-9 at 6 minute mark
STARTING LINE-UPS
Rashard will not play
Sunday, May 15, 2005
SONICS V. SPURS GAME 4 -- LIVE BLOG
Place any questions or comments about the game in the comment zone and I will get to them during the live blog.
SONICS 101 SPURS 89 FINAL SCORE
THIS IS AMAZING !!!! WHAT A WIN !!! WE HAVE A SERIES !!!!!
Damien Wilkins defense and energy.
Ray Allen's super human play
Luke Ridnour's third quarter explosion.
Nick Collison, Jerome James, Danny Fortson and Vitaly all commanding the middle.
Antionio once again playing in total control.
What do you think their post-game huddle was like.
SONICS 99 SPURS 81 with 2:52 left in the Game
Ray Allen checks out with 32 points in 41 minutes.
How do the Spurs react considering last year they won the first two games against the Lakers and then they took away Tony Paker and the Spurs lost the next 4.
SONICS 95 SPURS 77 with 5:06 left in the 4th Quarter.
Is this the most improbable win since they won in Dallas in Game 2 of 1986-87. Which was Nate McMillan's rookie year. The Sonics went on to win the series.
Spurs did not win a regular season game when they allowed 100 points.
SONICS 95 SPURS 77 with 5:27 left in the 4th Quarter.
Sonics have just gone small. Wilkins is at the 4.
Where is Tim Duncan ?
SONICS 95 SPURS 75 with 6:36 left in the 4th Quarter
If they hold on you have to go back awhile to find a more impressive win then this win by the Sonics.
Crowd going nuts --- SUPER --- SONICS --- SUPER --- SONICS
The Sonics are in a terrific rhythm. They are recognizing the mismatches. Hitting guys on picks. It is neat to watch.
SONICS 87 SPURS 70 with 9:22 left in the 4th Quarter
The only issue left is energy. If the Spurs get rolling do the Sonics have the energy to hold them off. The real question is whether or not the Spurs have it to get rolling?
Danny Fortson is in the head of the Spurs.
SONICS 82 SPURS 66 end of the 3rd Quarter
THIS IS TOTALLY UNREAL !!!!
The Sonics scored on 8 straight possessions to close the quarter and 15 of their final 16 and 18 of their final 20 possessions of the quarter. Against the best defense in the NBA.
Ridnour is 7 of 7 in the quarter and has 19 points.
The score was 70-62 when Allen checked out !! That is huge.
You have to give Duncan credit. He came to the arena early to do work on his free throws and he has hit 14 of 17 free throws
SONICS 75 SPURS 64 with 1:21 left in the 3rd Quarter
Spurs have just 4 stops in the quarter and 2 of them came on the first two possessions of the quarter.
Fortson is making Duncan work so hard. You wonder if impacts his free throw shooting in the final moments of the game.
SONICS 70 SPURS 59 with 2:54 left in the 3rd Quarter
Ray Allen has 28 points -- he just buried the nastiest left hand jam in traffic.
If you can keep Parker and Ginobili under 20 the Sonics will win? Parker has 10 and Ginobili has 11.
This building may not have a roof in a few moments. Either because Ray busts through it or becasue the noise blows it off.
SONICS 64 SPURS 55 with 4:34 left in the 3rd Quarter
Could they really do this?
SONICS 61 SPURS 55 with 5:23 left in the 3rd Quarter
Ridnour and Collison have dealt with the playoffs terrificly.
The Sonics are fronting Duncan and it is not working. They are trying to push him off the block becasue he usually will curl over the front to get post position and will be farther off the block, but tonight they are lobbing over the smaller Sonics defenders.
RAY ALLEN HAS TAKEN OFF AGAIN
If you are near a radio turn it on -- KEVIN IS ON FIRE !!!! YOU HAVE TO HEAR KC RIGHT NOW !!!!!
Remember Kevin Pelton has another blog going on at Supersonics.com that is worth checking out.
SONICS 52 SPURS 52 with 8:20 left in the 3rd Quarter
JJ out with 4 fouls at the 10:20 mark -- Collison in
Tim Duncan is 11 of 12 from the field with 28 points. Sonics don't want to double him, but they might have to.
Sonics don't have a stop in the 2nd half.
Double Techs called on Bowen and Allen. Ray is frustrated with Bowen right now.
LOOKING TO THE SECOND HALF
Three things
1) Can they maintain the energy. Guys are being asked to play huge minutes without Rashard.
2) Where are they going to get their offense? The Sonics aren't going to get all the turnovers so they need to find a way to score
3) Can they rebound? This will be tough since they need to go small
HALFTIME STATS
Pace of Play: 43 possession (2nd quarter was very slow)
Offensive Efficiency: 101 (this is lower than game 3)
Defensive Efficiency: 96 (right where the Sonics were in game #3)
Effective Field Goal%: 51 (series high)
Defensive E Field Goal%: 40 (series low)
Offensive Rebounding %: 26%
Defensive Rebounding%: 47% (that means the Spurs are at 53% of eligible offensive rebounds)
Offensive Turnover%: 15%
Defensive Turnover%: 36%
SONICS 46 SPURS 40 at halftime
Damien Wilkins is the story of the 1st half.
I think Ray Allen has been pacing himself in the later part of the 2nd Quarter. He realizes he will have to carry this thing in the 2nd half and probably play around 46 minutes. That is why he is such a smart player.
COMMENT FROM THE COMMENT ZONE
SONICS 39 SPURS 38 with 1:53 left in the 2nd Quarter.
The scary thing is the Sonics are playing as well as you could imagine. The Spurs were just 2 of 12 for the quarter with 4 turnovers and the Sonics are only up by 1.
The Sonics have gone to Wilkins as the 4. Wilkins is playing amazingly well. However, with him at the 4 the Sonics can't rebound.
SONICS 39 SPURS 32 with 4:04 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Spurs have committed an amazing 14 turnovers. The Sonics defense is every where.
Seattle is playing better then anyone could have anticipated.
Reminder Kevin Pelton at supersonics.com has another blog going that is worth checking out.
SONICS 37 SPURS 32 with 5:25 left in the 2nd Quarter
One of the issues tonight is going to be if Seattle can maintain this type of energy. They are off the charts with their energy but they are so short on the bench that Ridnour, Allen and AD will all have to play about 40 minutes. Can they keep it up?
SONICS 37 SPURS 31 with 5:54 left in the 2nd Quarter
Spurs had just 4 points in the first 5:30 of the 2nd Quarter
Ridnour hit Wilkins on an unreal bounce pass of the dribble through the teeth for a Wilkins lay-up.
Ray Allen is in the zone with 17 points.
COMMENT FROM THE COMMENT ZONE
SONICS 28 SPURS 26 END OF 1 QUARTER
Seattle badly misplayed the final 30 seconds of the quarter and had a non-possession and then gave up a wide open three to Duncan.
The ball bounced the Spurs way. On a great defensive stand the offensive rebounded rolled to Ginobili for a lay-up.
The Sonics are being very physical. Collison blasted Duncan at the hoop and then Fortson lowered the boom on Ginobili with a huge pick.
Nick Collison is a terrific defensive player. He is always in the correct spot.
The Sonics have knocked the Spurs out of any offensive rhythm.
SONICS 23 SPURS 20 with 2:33 left in the 1st Quarter
Spurs are in the bonus at the 3:43 mark of the 1st Quarter
AD and Ginobili could both spend time in Hollywood considering the acting they do on the floor.
Spurs have scored on 8 of the last 9 possessions.
SONICS 18 SPURS 14 with 4:54 left in the 1st Quarter
Sonics scored on 8 of 9 possessions.
Ray Allen looks very comfortable and has 8 early points
Defensive rebounding is not as good as Game 3
SONICS 10 SPURS 4 with 8:24 left in the 1st Quarter
A focus on the Spurs pick n roll defense -- they went under the pick on AD and he buried a 3. (Defender try to either go above the pick on a good shooter or under the pick if they don't mind if he shoots. The Spurs went under)
Great defense early by the Sonics. Forcing four turnovers. The only Spurs buckets are on Parker outside jumpers, which the Sonics will live by.
LAST NOTE BEFORE TIP-OFF
+/- from Game 3
Lewis +6
James +5
Allen +3
Daniels +3
Ridnour 0
Collison 0
Fortson -8
Wilkins -10
HOW MANY POINTS WILL THE SONICS SCORE?
Without Rashard the Sonics could have a really hard time coming by points tonight. The Sonics offense has been predicated on spreading the floor to create opening for the pick and roll. Without, Lewis the only way to do that is to play Damien Wilkins at the power forward with Allen, Daniels and Ridnour. The problems with that line-up are numerous. First it is so small, next Ridnour, AD and Wilkins don't put a lot of fear in the opponent from 3. Therefore, points are going to be hard to come by. I would set the over/under 80.
SONICS WITHOUT VLADY AND RASHARD
2-7 in the regular season without Vlady and Rashard.
RASHARD LEWIS INJURY UPDATE
Rashard Lewis is a scratch from the game tonight. He is not ruled out of Game 5.
The Sonics will start Daniels and Ridnour with Allen, Evans and James.
TIM DUNCAN FREE THROWS
Tim Duncan arrived at the arena before the team bus and came into the arena to just shoot free throws.
SONICS WIN IN COMMANDING FASHION
WHAT A PERFORMANCE !!!!!!
SERIES IS TIED 2-2
WHAT A PERFORMANCE !!!!!!
SERIES IS TIED 2-2
SONICS 101 SPURS 89 FINAL SCORE
THIS IS AMAZING !!!! WHAT A WIN !!! WE HAVE A SERIES !!!!!
Damien Wilkins defense and energy.
Ray Allen's super human play
Luke Ridnour's third quarter explosion.
Nick Collison, Jerome James, Danny Fortson and Vitaly all commanding the middle.
Antionio once again playing in total control.
What do you think their post-game huddle was like.
SONICS 99 SPURS 81 with 2:52 left in the Game
Ray Allen checks out with 32 points in 41 minutes.
How do the Spurs react considering last year they won the first two games against the Lakers and then they took away Tony Paker and the Spurs lost the next 4.
SONICS 95 SPURS 77 with 5:06 left in the 4th Quarter.
Is this the most improbable win since they won in Dallas in Game 2 of 1986-87. Which was Nate McMillan's rookie year. The Sonics went on to win the series.
Spurs did not win a regular season game when they allowed 100 points.
SONICS 95 SPURS 77 with 5:27 left in the 4th Quarter.
Sonics have just gone small. Wilkins is at the 4.
Where is Tim Duncan ?
SONICS 95 SPURS 75 with 6:36 left in the 4th Quarter
If they hold on you have to go back awhile to find a more impressive win then this win by the Sonics.
Crowd going nuts --- SUPER --- SONICS --- SUPER --- SONICS
The Sonics are in a terrific rhythm. They are recognizing the mismatches. Hitting guys on picks. It is neat to watch.
SONICS 87 SPURS 70 with 9:22 left in the 4th Quarter
The only issue left is energy. If the Spurs get rolling do the Sonics have the energy to hold them off. The real question is whether or not the Spurs have it to get rolling?
Danny Fortson is in the head of the Spurs.
SONICS 82 SPURS 66 end of the 3rd Quarter
THIS IS TOTALLY UNREAL !!!!
The Sonics scored on 8 straight possessions to close the quarter and 15 of their final 16 and 18 of their final 20 possessions of the quarter. Against the best defense in the NBA.
Ridnour is 7 of 7 in the quarter and has 19 points.
The score was 70-62 when Allen checked out !! That is huge.
You have to give Duncan credit. He came to the arena early to do work on his free throws and he has hit 14 of 17 free throws
SONICS 75 SPURS 64 with 1:21 left in the 3rd Quarter
Spurs have just 4 stops in the quarter and 2 of them came on the first two possessions of the quarter.
Fortson is making Duncan work so hard. You wonder if impacts his free throw shooting in the final moments of the game.
SONICS 70 SPURS 59 with 2:54 left in the 3rd Quarter
Ray Allen has 28 points -- he just buried the nastiest left hand jam in traffic.
If you can keep Parker and Ginobili under 20 the Sonics will win? Parker has 10 and Ginobili has 11.
This building may not have a roof in a few moments. Either because Ray busts through it or becasue the noise blows it off.
SONICS 64 SPURS 55 with 4:34 left in the 3rd Quarter
Could they really do this?
SONICS 61 SPURS 55 with 5:23 left in the 3rd Quarter
Ridnour and Collison have dealt with the playoffs terrificly.
The Sonics are fronting Duncan and it is not working. They are trying to push him off the block becasue he usually will curl over the front to get post position and will be farther off the block, but tonight they are lobbing over the smaller Sonics defenders.
RAY ALLEN HAS TAKEN OFF AGAIN
If you are near a radio turn it on -- KEVIN IS ON FIRE !!!! YOU HAVE TO HEAR KC RIGHT NOW !!!!!
Remember Kevin Pelton has another blog going on at Supersonics.com that is worth checking out.
SONICS 52 SPURS 52 with 8:20 left in the 3rd Quarter
JJ out with 4 fouls at the 10:20 mark -- Collison in
Tim Duncan is 11 of 12 from the field with 28 points. Sonics don't want to double him, but they might have to.
Sonics don't have a stop in the 2nd half.
Double Techs called on Bowen and Allen. Ray is frustrated with Bowen right now.
LOOKING TO THE SECOND HALF
Three things
1) Can they maintain the energy. Guys are being asked to play huge minutes without Rashard.
2) Where are they going to get their offense? The Sonics aren't going to get all the turnovers so they need to find a way to score
3) Can they rebound? This will be tough since they need to go small
HALFTIME STATS
Pace of Play: 43 possession (2nd quarter was very slow)
Offensive Efficiency: 101 (this is lower than game 3)
Defensive Efficiency: 96 (right where the Sonics were in game #3)
Effective Field Goal%: 51 (series high)
Defensive E Field Goal%: 40 (series low)
Offensive Rebounding %: 26%
Defensive Rebounding%: 47% (that means the Spurs are at 53% of eligible offensive rebounds)
Offensive Turnover%: 15%
Defensive Turnover%: 36%
SONICS 46 SPURS 40 at halftime
Damien Wilkins is the story of the 1st half.
I think Ray Allen has been pacing himself in the later part of the 2nd Quarter. He realizes he will have to carry this thing in the 2nd half and probably play around 46 minutes. That is why he is such a smart player.
COMMENT FROM THE COMMENT ZONE
filthy mcgreedy said...With 1:30 left in the quarter the Sonics have 10 points off 14 turnovers.
how many points off t/o's for the sonics?
SONICS 39 SPURS 38 with 1:53 left in the 2nd Quarter.
The scary thing is the Sonics are playing as well as you could imagine. The Spurs were just 2 of 12 for the quarter with 4 turnovers and the Sonics are only up by 1.
The Sonics have gone to Wilkins as the 4. Wilkins is playing amazingly well. However, with him at the 4 the Sonics can't rebound.
SONICS 39 SPURS 32 with 4:04 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Spurs have committed an amazing 14 turnovers. The Sonics defense is every where.
Seattle is playing better then anyone could have anticipated.
Reminder Kevin Pelton at supersonics.com has another blog going that is worth checking out.
SONICS 37 SPURS 32 with 5:25 left in the 2nd Quarter
One of the issues tonight is going to be if Seattle can maintain this type of energy. They are off the charts with their energy but they are so short on the bench that Ridnour, Allen and AD will all have to play about 40 minutes. Can they keep it up?
SONICS 37 SPURS 31 with 5:54 left in the 2nd Quarter
Spurs had just 4 points in the first 5:30 of the 2nd Quarter
Ridnour hit Wilkins on an unreal bounce pass of the dribble through the teeth for a Wilkins lay-up.
Ray Allen is in the zone with 17 points.
COMMENT FROM THE COMMENT ZONE
zsonic said...Great point on both accounts. Nate has an amazing feel for this team. Great pick up on the mid range jumper. The Spurs are denying the three therefore the Sonics have to take the mid-range shots.
Nate has done an amazing job adjusting to opposing defences this year, but we have to give a lot of credit to all the regulars for executing the offense. This game is a prime example of taking the midrange jumper as opposed to dropping the ball off on the pick and roll
SONICS 28 SPURS 26 END OF 1 QUARTER
Seattle badly misplayed the final 30 seconds of the quarter and had a non-possession and then gave up a wide open three to Duncan.
The ball bounced the Spurs way. On a great defensive stand the offensive rebounded rolled to Ginobili for a lay-up.
The Sonics are being very physical. Collison blasted Duncan at the hoop and then Fortson lowered the boom on Ginobili with a huge pick.
Nick Collison is a terrific defensive player. He is always in the correct spot.
The Sonics have knocked the Spurs out of any offensive rhythm.
SONICS 23 SPURS 20 with 2:33 left in the 1st Quarter
Spurs are in the bonus at the 3:43 mark of the 1st Quarter
AD and Ginobili could both spend time in Hollywood considering the acting they do on the floor.
Spurs have scored on 8 of the last 9 possessions.
SONICS 18 SPURS 14 with 4:54 left in the 1st Quarter
Sonics scored on 8 of 9 possessions.
Ray Allen looks very comfortable and has 8 early points
Defensive rebounding is not as good as Game 3
SONICS 10 SPURS 4 with 8:24 left in the 1st Quarter
A focus on the Spurs pick n roll defense -- they went under the pick on AD and he buried a 3. (Defender try to either go above the pick on a good shooter or under the pick if they don't mind if he shoots. The Spurs went under)
Great defense early by the Sonics. Forcing four turnovers. The only Spurs buckets are on Parker outside jumpers, which the Sonics will live by.
LAST NOTE BEFORE TIP-OFF
+/- from Game 3
Lewis +6
James +5
Allen +3
Daniels +3
Ridnour 0
Collison 0
Fortson -8
Wilkins -10
HOW MANY POINTS WILL THE SONICS SCORE?
Without Rashard the Sonics could have a really hard time coming by points tonight. The Sonics offense has been predicated on spreading the floor to create opening for the pick and roll. Without, Lewis the only way to do that is to play Damien Wilkins at the power forward with Allen, Daniels and Ridnour. The problems with that line-up are numerous. First it is so small, next Ridnour, AD and Wilkins don't put a lot of fear in the opponent from 3. Therefore, points are going to be hard to come by. I would set the over/under 80.
SONICS WITHOUT VLADY AND RASHARD
2-7 in the regular season without Vlady and Rashard.
RASHARD LEWIS INJURY UPDATE
Rashard Lewis is a scratch from the game tonight. He is not ruled out of Game 5.
The Sonics will start Daniels and Ridnour with Allen, Evans and James.
TIM DUNCAN FREE THROWS
Tim Duncan arrived at the arena before the team bus and came into the arena to just shoot free throws.
Friday, May 13, 2005
LOCKED ON SPORTS FOR MAY 13
Tune into Locked on Sports at www.KJRam.com every night from 7 to 10. If you can't call place your thoughts and comments in the comment zone at the bottom and we will get them on the air.
THE OPENING SMASH FOR MAY 13TH
SONICS V. SPURS
Huge win last night for the Sonics. We talked about validation when they won the first series, put this one the list also. They showed every one again last night what a good team they are and how they managed to win the division and 50+ games this year.
I re-watched he game today I have to tell you I saw a lot of things I really like for the Sonics. Their offense is finding a way to score against the Spurs and moreover they missed a ton of really good looks. Allen and Lewis had shots they will make. The Sonics have found a way to deal with the Spurs double teaming defense and they are now exploiting it.
Nate has created a game where Rashard is the power forward for the majority of the game that eliminates the dual posts for the Spurs this is big.
Defensively the Sonics have built a very nice game plan to limit both Parker and Ginobili and it is going to be tough for Parker to get the same penetration he got in the first game. In Game 1, he got 6 lay-ups out of the half court set, he got just 1 in the second game and while he got 4 last night, 2 of them were miracle shots. The Sonics may have found a bit of an answer for Parker.
LEWIS AND ALLEN
What is amazing is the Sonics won this game with Allen and Lewis not scoring for nearly the final 19 minutes of the game. That is remarkable. The Spurs are taking those guys away but they also are rushing shots that are good looks. Those are going to fall and the Sonics are going to be in good shape. Before you bag on these two guys realize Rashard grabbed 10 boards and Ray had 7 boards and 7 assists.
HUGE KUDOS
I got to give Huge Kudos to two Sonics players. Antonio Daniels was terrific running the offense, hitting his free throws, reading what was taking place. He was great last night. The other guy that was remarkable last night was JJ – he was flat out super. He got back defensively, he forced Duncan to the outside, he set great picks, he read the plays correctly, his hands were as good as I have ever seen and his aggressiveness was amazing. I have given JJ the business a ton, but last night he was the game changer.
TIGER WOODS
Today Tiger Woods misses the cut for the first time 142 tournaments. The only other time he truly missed a cut was in 1997, 8 years ago at the Canadian Open. That record will never be broken said Robert Appleby. This is huge. I have always felt that this streak is what truly separated Tiger from every other golfer, even if he wasn’t #1 this streak told me he was different then the rest of the golfers on the Tour. But to lose this streak is enormous. As much as he seems to have his game back on this year this is another sign that he is a top golfer in the world but is no longer in a class by himself. It is an enormous day in golf and a significant drop for Tiger Woods.
FELIX HERNANDEZ
Last night the Mariners star farm hand had his best start of the year 7 innings 2 hits 0 runs and only 1 walk the key number here is the 1 walk. Coming into the game he had walked 19 in 36 innings. Before everyone goes nuts over one start can we back up for one minute. This guy is going to be all that there is no question, but last year the Mariners brought up a bunch of guys and other than Bobby Madritch none of them could throw strikes. None of them had control not Blackley, not Thorton, not Nagoette. I don’t want to see another pitcher brought to the big leagues from Tacoma that can’t throw strikes. This is basic. So until I see this out of Felix for nearly two months of starts I don’t want to see him here no matter how bad the pitching is.
THE OPENING SMASH FOR MAY 13TH
SONICS V. SPURS
Huge win last night for the Sonics. We talked about validation when they won the first series, put this one the list also. They showed every one again last night what a good team they are and how they managed to win the division and 50+ games this year.
I re-watched he game today I have to tell you I saw a lot of things I really like for the Sonics. Their offense is finding a way to score against the Spurs and moreover they missed a ton of really good looks. Allen and Lewis had shots they will make. The Sonics have found a way to deal with the Spurs double teaming defense and they are now exploiting it.
Nate has created a game where Rashard is the power forward for the majority of the game that eliminates the dual posts for the Spurs this is big.
Defensively the Sonics have built a very nice game plan to limit both Parker and Ginobili and it is going to be tough for Parker to get the same penetration he got in the first game. In Game 1, he got 6 lay-ups out of the half court set, he got just 1 in the second game and while he got 4 last night, 2 of them were miracle shots. The Sonics may have found a bit of an answer for Parker.
LEWIS AND ALLEN
What is amazing is the Sonics won this game with Allen and Lewis not scoring for nearly the final 19 minutes of the game. That is remarkable. The Spurs are taking those guys away but they also are rushing shots that are good looks. Those are going to fall and the Sonics are going to be in good shape. Before you bag on these two guys realize Rashard grabbed 10 boards and Ray had 7 boards and 7 assists.
HUGE KUDOS
I got to give Huge Kudos to two Sonics players. Antonio Daniels was terrific running the offense, hitting his free throws, reading what was taking place. He was great last night. The other guy that was remarkable last night was JJ – he was flat out super. He got back defensively, he forced Duncan to the outside, he set great picks, he read the plays correctly, his hands were as good as I have ever seen and his aggressiveness was amazing. I have given JJ the business a ton, but last night he was the game changer.
TIGER WOODS
Today Tiger Woods misses the cut for the first time 142 tournaments. The only other time he truly missed a cut was in 1997, 8 years ago at the Canadian Open. That record will never be broken said Robert Appleby. This is huge. I have always felt that this streak is what truly separated Tiger from every other golfer, even if he wasn’t #1 this streak told me he was different then the rest of the golfers on the Tour. But to lose this streak is enormous. As much as he seems to have his game back on this year this is another sign that he is a top golfer in the world but is no longer in a class by himself. It is an enormous day in golf and a significant drop for Tiger Woods.
FELIX HERNANDEZ
Last night the Mariners star farm hand had his best start of the year 7 innings 2 hits 0 runs and only 1 walk the key number here is the 1 walk. Coming into the game he had walked 19 in 36 innings. Before everyone goes nuts over one start can we back up for one minute. This guy is going to be all that there is no question, but last year the Mariners brought up a bunch of guys and other than Bobby Madritch none of them could throw strikes. None of them had control not Blackley, not Thorton, not Nagoette. I don’t want to see another pitcher brought to the big leagues from Tacoma that can’t throw strikes. This is basic. So until I see this out of Felix for nearly two months of starts I don’t want to see him here no matter how bad the pitching is.
Thursday, May 12, 2005
LIVE BLOG FOR GAME 3 --- SONICS V. SPURS
If you have any questions or comments place them in the comment zone. I will check them and respond during the Live Blog.
SONICS 92 SPURS 91 with 2.9 seconds left in the game
Allen goes 1 on 1 with Bowen and misses the shot. Spurs rebound.
Spurs will in bound in front court.
SONICS 92 SPURS 91 with :29.3 seconds left
The Sonics have the ball
Barry and Horry missed wide open threes. The Spurs get a third opporunity with Ginobili getting the offensive rebound and he hit just one of the two free throws.
SONICS 92 SPURS 90 with 1:46 left in the 4th Q
Jerome James has fouled out. He was terrific on the pick and roll offensively.
James was 7 of 7 and at least 5 were dunks.
Allen still no field goals since the 5:08 mark of the 3rd Q
Free throw shooting is killing the Spurs
SONICS 92 SPURS 89 with 1:56 left in the 4th Q
AD nails 4 straight free throws
SPURS 88 SONICS 88
Allen and Lewis are a combined 9 of 31.
SPURS 88 SONICS 86 with 3:00 left in the 4th Quarter
Allen's last bucket was Seattle 65th point mid way through the 3rd Q
Allen just missed an open 3. It was the first possession with a shot from Allen or Lewis since the 5:20 mark.
Lewis still out of the game.
Daniels going to the line with a chance to tie
Reggie Evans has an injury to his back.
Spurs have scored on just 2 of last 10 possessions.
SPURS 87 SONICS 84 with 4:00 minutes left
Barry in for Horry and playing the power forward -- that is going small.
Rashard Lewis just left the game with an ankle injury.
SPURS 85 SONICS 82 with 5:49 left in 4th Quarter
Seattle has just had two straight poor offensive possessions. AD forced a shot on the baseline, Ray went into the death zone and left Luke to die as the shot clock expired and
Duncan nails a 20 footer --- he is so good.
No 3 point shooting at all in the game 2 of 15 for the game
Sonics have Daniels, Ridnour, Allen, Lewis and James
Spurs have Parker, Ginobili, Bowen, Horry and Duncan.
SPURS 81 SONCIS 81 with 8:34 in the 4th Quarter
This an amazing game.
SPURS 79 SONICS 79 with 9:25 left in the 4th Quarter
Jerome James in for Nick Collison with score 79-77 Spurs.
Sonics have Ridnour, Daniels, Allen, Lewis and James
Spurs have Udrich, Barry, Bowen, Horry and Duncan
Duncan will check out at the next whistle
SPURS 78 SONICS 77 with 10:21 left in the 4th Quarter
Both teams have gone small with Lewis and Horry playing the power forward.
Tim Duncan has the most amazing hands on rebounds
Seattle is not giving Tim Duncan anything easy -- he will have to make free throws.
Rashard Lewis has by-passed two open looks and tried to drive into the DEATH ZONE. Both times turnovers. Lewis must not feel right if he is by-passing that shot.
Ray Allen returns.
SPURS 75 SONICS 75 END OF 3rd QUARTER
Talk about a learning experience for a young team -- HERE WE GO.
Robert Horry hits two dagger threes in the 3rd quarter.
When tied going into the 4th Sonics are 1-2 and the Spurs are 1-3.
Key Arena has been wonderful and should be incredible in the 4th.
SONICS 73 SPURS 71 with 1:30 left in the 3rd Quarter
Seattle is scoring again. They have scored on 8 of their last 11 possessions.
SPURS 70 SONICS 67 with 3:59 left in the 3rd Quarter
This has become an offensive display. The teams combined to score on 8 straight possessions.
The Spurs got back to back three's from Horry and Ginobili which were back breakers.
Again the Spurs never blink or seem frazzled.
SONICS 65 SPURS 64 with 4:55 left in the 3rd Quarter
Ray Allen just got caught in the DEATH ZONE and shot an airball.
For those just joining us, the DEATH ZONE is below the free throw line and near the baseline on either side when the Sonics have the ball. The Spurs double every time and Seattle have been incapable of getting the ball out of the DEATH ZONE. Until now.
Next play the Sonics ran a pick n roll where Allen starts toward the DEATH ZONE and curls back to the middle for an open jumper. Next play after that Allen goes to the DEATH ZONE and bounces the pass to JJ for a dunk. Good coaching and great execution.
Then Seattle got out of it again when Allen threw a cross court pass to Ridnour. That is a break down by the Spurs that passing lane is not supposed to be open.
SPURS 57 SPURS 57 with 8:31 in the 3rd Quarter.
Less ball movement in the opening moemnts of the 3rd Quarter. They are scoring but it is not in the correct fashion.
The Spurs are not flapable. They seem unconcerned everytime the Sonics get hot.
The Spurs game plan tonight is to work Duncan in the post.
Continued good defense on Parker.
Ray Allen scored on the first two possessions of the 3rd quarter and both were off running opportunities.
BIG QUARTER AHEAD
Spurs when leading going into 4th= 48-4
Sonics when leading going into 4th= 42-3
HALFTIME STATS
Pace of Play: 44 trips (very slow)
Offensive Efficiency: 114 (above their season average despite shooting 38%)
Defensive Efficiecny: 106 (best of the series)
Effective Field Goal%: 39%
Defensive Field Goal%: 58% (this is where they have been all series)
Offensive Turnover %:9%
Defenisve Turnover %: 19%
SPURS 51 SONICS 49 at the HALF
Seattle has played much better tonight. The Spurs are playing brillant basketball and Seattle is still in the game. If the Spurs play well they dictate who wins games, but the Sonics are in position if the Spurs blink
Duncan has been dominant in the first half.
Vitaly played Duncan well but Duncan is impacting the game on every possession offensively and defensively.
Seattle's offensive in the 2nd quarter was very efficient despite not shooting well.
The Sonics are getting to the free throw line tonight. 18 to 5 over the Spurs
SPURS 47 SONICS 47 with :48 seconds left
Seattle had slowed down the Spurs offense. They had stops in 8 of 10 possessions. Then the Spurs scored on three straight possessions.
Allen big 3 in transition. It was a running opportunity and Seattle took advantage.
Seattle has had 5 running opportunites in the quarter.
SPURS 41 SONICS 39 with 3:04 left in the 2nd Quarter
Tim Duncan is so good. His defensive block on Vitaly was brillant. His effort on the offensive end is terrific. His use of angles is unequaled.
Seattle stll just shooting 35%
SPURS 41 SONICS 39 with 3:04 left in the 2nd quarter
10-2 run by the Sonics gets the Sonics to within 2 until Paker makes an unreal play driving to the basket.
As we guessed Vitaly Potapenko is playing a large role tonight.
Luke just committed a turnover by getting caught in the DEATH ZONE.
If you are watching on TV watch the Spurs defense when the Sonics try to go to the post with Lewis the defender just sits on his outside shoulder and forces him baseline into the double team. The double team is always there. The Sonics rarely get out of the DEATH ZONE
ANOTHER BLOG -- REMEMBER KEVIN PELTON HAS A BLOG AT SUPERSONICS.COM
SPURS 39 SONICS 33 with 5:29 left in the 2nd Quarter
Allen just got his first feld goal at the 6:11 mark of the 2nd quarter
The Sonics have only two running opportunites in this quarter and had only 4 in the 1st quarter.
They are taking them when they get them but it is not often.
SPURS 37 SONICS 29 with 6:42 left in the 2nd Quarter
Nazr Mohhamed just committed a foul that was identical to the flagrant foul by Danny Fortson but no call.
This game is getting chippy.
Ridnour is back on Parker -- he is playing him well.
SPURS 35 SONICS 25 with 8:44 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Spurs don't lose double digit leads.
Sonics ball movement is great. This is largely becasue they are staying out of the Death Zone of the Spurs defense.
Glenn Robinson is now in as the Spurs power forward.
The Spurs are playing Parker at the 2, this puts AD on him rather than Luke. Is this what the Spurs want?
SPURS 29 SONICS 21 END OF THE 1ST QUARTER
A terrible call on Fortson changes the complexion of the game to close the first quarter. It was gave the Spurs an extra 3 points when Horry hit a 3 on the extra possession.
Seattle looked much better and yet they still trail by 8.
They can't afford to fall any farther behind it is too hard to come back against the Spurs
Sonics shooting just 32%
SPURS 26 SONICS 21 with :20 seconds
Interesting match-ups. The Sonics are playing two bigs with Collison and Fortson. The Spurs have Duncan with Horry who is basically a three.
Damien Wilkins is getting Flip Murray's minutes
The flagrant foul on Danny Fortson was a terrible call.
SPURS 19 SONICS 19 with 2:24 left in the 1st Quarter
The Sonics have had 4 running opportunities in the game thus far -- they have 4 points off of those.
Parker has only 2 points when guarded by Ridnour on 1 of 3 shooting.
The Sonics are doing a much better job reacting to San Antonio's defense in the half court. The ball movement was terrifc lead by Ridnour.
SPURS 19 SONICS 18 with 3:06 left in the 1st Quarter
How good are the Spurs? One play tells the story. Tony Parker ran a pick and roll and the Sonics defended it perfectly and he was denied by great help by the Sonics big men. Then he dished back to Ginobili who then penetrated the defense and the Sonics rotated again but he found a gap to pass to Mohammed for a dunk. It is too hard to guard both of those guys penetrating and not leave a passing lane open.
Sonics are exploiting the Spurs over aggressive help defense with the pick n roll pass back to the big man.
Great hard foul by Nick Collison on Ginobili.
The crowd is riding Rashard Lewis hard tonight.
SONICS 11 SPURS 4 with 7:54 left in the 1st Quarter
In Games 1 and 2 the Sonics trailed 18-8 this time they are putting down the pain.
Luke Ridnour has been brillant in the opening moments, making hustle plays, defending and executing the offense.
The Spurs focus early is to get the ball to Tim Duncan
The Sonics are moving Lewis around and he is getting the ball at the top of the key and places other than the DEATH ZONE. The DEATH ZONE is the area next to the baseline at the post where the Spurs push the ball and let the teeth of their defense go to work.
THINGS WE ARE WATCHING AND CHARTING
Running opportunities for the Sonics
Match-ups
Defense on Parker by LR and AD
Lewis double team and how they react
SOME FUN STATS FOR YOU.
DEFENSE ON TONY PARKER
Game 1 v. Luke In 19 minutes Parker was 8 of 14 and scored 21 points. 5 of those field goals were lay-ups and 2 came on the fast break.
Game 1 v. AD In 9 minutes Parker went 3 of 4 and scored 8 points. 1 of those was a lay-up
Game 2 v. Luke In 17 minutes Parker was 6of 11 for 12 points. Two of those baskets came on the fast-break and just 1 on a lay-up in the half court.
Game 2 v. AD In 20 minutes Parker was 1 of 4 but scored 10 points. That was a fast break field goal.
You can see they did a much better job in Game 2.
+/- FOR THE SERIES
Player --- G 1G 2Total
Luke -- -13 -16 -29
Allen -- -16 -15 -31
Lewis -- -23 -10 -33
Evans -- -12 -7 -19
James -- -6 -15 -21
AD -- -17 -3 -20
Nick -- -4 -6 -10
Danny -- 4-4 0
Flip -- 7 -1 6
ADJUSTMENTS
My guess is that either Nick Collison or Vitaly Potapenko will get an increase in minutes. Seattle must get two things. One they need one of their bigs to make some shots. In addition, they need defenders who execute the plan and that is not a strength of Reggie Evans and Jerome James.
STARTING LINE-UPS
No surprises tonight.
DUNCAN MISSES AND THE SONICS WIN !!!!!!
SONICS 92 SPURS 91 with 2.9 seconds left in the game
Allen goes 1 on 1 with Bowen and misses the shot. Spurs rebound.
Spurs will in bound in front court.
SONICS 92 SPURS 91 with :29.3 seconds left
The Sonics have the ball
Barry and Horry missed wide open threes. The Spurs get a third opporunity with Ginobili getting the offensive rebound and he hit just one of the two free throws.
SONICS 92 SPURS 90 with 1:46 left in the 4th Q
Jerome James has fouled out. He was terrific on the pick and roll offensively.
James was 7 of 7 and at least 5 were dunks.
Allen still no field goals since the 5:08 mark of the 3rd Q
Free throw shooting is killing the Spurs
SONICS 92 SPURS 89 with 1:56 left in the 4th Q
AD nails 4 straight free throws
SPURS 88 SONICS 88
Allen and Lewis are a combined 9 of 31.
SPURS 88 SONICS 86 with 3:00 left in the 4th Quarter
Allen's last bucket was Seattle 65th point mid way through the 3rd Q
Allen just missed an open 3. It was the first possession with a shot from Allen or Lewis since the 5:20 mark.
Lewis still out of the game.
Daniels going to the line with a chance to tie
Reggie Evans has an injury to his back.
Spurs have scored on just 2 of last 10 possessions.
SPURS 87 SONICS 84 with 4:00 minutes left
Barry in for Horry and playing the power forward -- that is going small.
Rashard Lewis just left the game with an ankle injury.
SPURS 85 SONICS 82 with 5:49 left in 4th Quarter
Seattle has just had two straight poor offensive possessions. AD forced a shot on the baseline, Ray went into the death zone and left Luke to die as the shot clock expired and
Duncan nails a 20 footer --- he is so good.
No 3 point shooting at all in the game 2 of 15 for the game
Sonics have Daniels, Ridnour, Allen, Lewis and James
Spurs have Parker, Ginobili, Bowen, Horry and Duncan.
SPURS 81 SONCIS 81 with 8:34 in the 4th Quarter
This an amazing game.
SPURS 79 SONICS 79 with 9:25 left in the 4th Quarter
Jerome James in for Nick Collison with score 79-77 Spurs.
Sonics have Ridnour, Daniels, Allen, Lewis and James
Spurs have Udrich, Barry, Bowen, Horry and Duncan
Duncan will check out at the next whistle
SPURS 78 SONICS 77 with 10:21 left in the 4th Quarter
Both teams have gone small with Lewis and Horry playing the power forward.
Tim Duncan has the most amazing hands on rebounds
Seattle is not giving Tim Duncan anything easy -- he will have to make free throws.
Rashard Lewis has by-passed two open looks and tried to drive into the DEATH ZONE. Both times turnovers. Lewis must not feel right if he is by-passing that shot.
Ray Allen returns.
SPURS 75 SONICS 75 END OF 3rd QUARTER
Talk about a learning experience for a young team -- HERE WE GO.
Robert Horry hits two dagger threes in the 3rd quarter.
When tied going into the 4th Sonics are 1-2 and the Spurs are 1-3.
Key Arena has been wonderful and should be incredible in the 4th.
SONICS 73 SPURS 71 with 1:30 left in the 3rd Quarter
Seattle is scoring again. They have scored on 8 of their last 11 possessions.
SPURS 70 SONICS 67 with 3:59 left in the 3rd Quarter
This has become an offensive display. The teams combined to score on 8 straight possessions.
The Spurs got back to back three's from Horry and Ginobili which were back breakers.
Again the Spurs never blink or seem frazzled.
SONICS 65 SPURS 64 with 4:55 left in the 3rd Quarter
Ray Allen just got caught in the DEATH ZONE and shot an airball.
For those just joining us, the DEATH ZONE is below the free throw line and near the baseline on either side when the Sonics have the ball. The Spurs double every time and Seattle have been incapable of getting the ball out of the DEATH ZONE. Until now.
Next play the Sonics ran a pick n roll where Allen starts toward the DEATH ZONE and curls back to the middle for an open jumper. Next play after that Allen goes to the DEATH ZONE and bounces the pass to JJ for a dunk. Good coaching and great execution.
Then Seattle got out of it again when Allen threw a cross court pass to Ridnour. That is a break down by the Spurs that passing lane is not supposed to be open.
SPURS 57 SPURS 57 with 8:31 in the 3rd Quarter.
Less ball movement in the opening moemnts of the 3rd Quarter. They are scoring but it is not in the correct fashion.
The Spurs are not flapable. They seem unconcerned everytime the Sonics get hot.
The Spurs game plan tonight is to work Duncan in the post.
Continued good defense on Parker.
Ray Allen scored on the first two possessions of the 3rd quarter and both were off running opportunities.
BIG QUARTER AHEAD
Spurs when leading going into 4th= 48-4
Sonics when leading going into 4th= 42-3
HALFTIME STATS
Pace of Play: 44 trips (very slow)
Offensive Efficiency: 114 (above their season average despite shooting 38%)
Defensive Efficiecny: 106 (best of the series)
Effective Field Goal%: 39%
Defensive Field Goal%: 58% (this is where they have been all series)
Offensive Turnover %:9%
Defenisve Turnover %: 19%
SPURS 51 SONICS 49 at the HALF
Seattle has played much better tonight. The Spurs are playing brillant basketball and Seattle is still in the game. If the Spurs play well they dictate who wins games, but the Sonics are in position if the Spurs blink
Duncan has been dominant in the first half.
Vitaly played Duncan well but Duncan is impacting the game on every possession offensively and defensively.
Seattle's offensive in the 2nd quarter was very efficient despite not shooting well.
The Sonics are getting to the free throw line tonight. 18 to 5 over the Spurs
SPURS 47 SONICS 47 with :48 seconds left
Seattle had slowed down the Spurs offense. They had stops in 8 of 10 possessions. Then the Spurs scored on three straight possessions.
Allen big 3 in transition. It was a running opportunity and Seattle took advantage.
Seattle has had 5 running opportunites in the quarter.
SPURS 41 SONICS 39 with 3:04 left in the 2nd Quarter
Tim Duncan is so good. His defensive block on Vitaly was brillant. His effort on the offensive end is terrific. His use of angles is unequaled.
Seattle stll just shooting 35%
SPURS 41 SONICS 39 with 3:04 left in the 2nd quarter
10-2 run by the Sonics gets the Sonics to within 2 until Paker makes an unreal play driving to the basket.
As we guessed Vitaly Potapenko is playing a large role tonight.
Luke just committed a turnover by getting caught in the DEATH ZONE.
If you are watching on TV watch the Spurs defense when the Sonics try to go to the post with Lewis the defender just sits on his outside shoulder and forces him baseline into the double team. The double team is always there. The Sonics rarely get out of the DEATH ZONE
ANOTHER BLOG -- REMEMBER KEVIN PELTON HAS A BLOG AT SUPERSONICS.COM
SPURS 39 SONICS 33 with 5:29 left in the 2nd Quarter
Allen just got his first feld goal at the 6:11 mark of the 2nd quarter
The Sonics have only two running opportunites in this quarter and had only 4 in the 1st quarter.
They are taking them when they get them but it is not often.
SPURS 37 SONICS 29 with 6:42 left in the 2nd Quarter
Nazr Mohhamed just committed a foul that was identical to the flagrant foul by Danny Fortson but no call.
This game is getting chippy.
Ridnour is back on Parker -- he is playing him well.
SPURS 35 SONICS 25 with 8:44 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Spurs don't lose double digit leads.
Sonics ball movement is great. This is largely becasue they are staying out of the Death Zone of the Spurs defense.
Glenn Robinson is now in as the Spurs power forward.
The Spurs are playing Parker at the 2, this puts AD on him rather than Luke. Is this what the Spurs want?
SPURS 29 SONICS 21 END OF THE 1ST QUARTER
A terrible call on Fortson changes the complexion of the game to close the first quarter. It was gave the Spurs an extra 3 points when Horry hit a 3 on the extra possession.
Seattle looked much better and yet they still trail by 8.
They can't afford to fall any farther behind it is too hard to come back against the Spurs
Sonics shooting just 32%
SPURS 26 SONICS 21 with :20 seconds
Interesting match-ups. The Sonics are playing two bigs with Collison and Fortson. The Spurs have Duncan with Horry who is basically a three.
Damien Wilkins is getting Flip Murray's minutes
The flagrant foul on Danny Fortson was a terrible call.
SPURS 19 SONICS 19 with 2:24 left in the 1st Quarter
The Sonics have had 4 running opportunities in the game thus far -- they have 4 points off of those.
Parker has only 2 points when guarded by Ridnour on 1 of 3 shooting.
The Sonics are doing a much better job reacting to San Antonio's defense in the half court. The ball movement was terrifc lead by Ridnour.
SPURS 19 SONICS 18 with 3:06 left in the 1st Quarter
How good are the Spurs? One play tells the story. Tony Parker ran a pick and roll and the Sonics defended it perfectly and he was denied by great help by the Sonics big men. Then he dished back to Ginobili who then penetrated the defense and the Sonics rotated again but he found a gap to pass to Mohammed for a dunk. It is too hard to guard both of those guys penetrating and not leave a passing lane open.
Sonics are exploiting the Spurs over aggressive help defense with the pick n roll pass back to the big man.
Great hard foul by Nick Collison on Ginobili.
The crowd is riding Rashard Lewis hard tonight.
SONICS 11 SPURS 4 with 7:54 left in the 1st Quarter
In Games 1 and 2 the Sonics trailed 18-8 this time they are putting down the pain.
Luke Ridnour has been brillant in the opening moments, making hustle plays, defending and executing the offense.
The Spurs focus early is to get the ball to Tim Duncan
The Sonics are moving Lewis around and he is getting the ball at the top of the key and places other than the DEATH ZONE. The DEATH ZONE is the area next to the baseline at the post where the Spurs push the ball and let the teeth of their defense go to work.
THINGS WE ARE WATCHING AND CHARTING
Running opportunities for the Sonics
Match-ups
Defense on Parker by LR and AD
Lewis double team and how they react
SOME FUN STATS FOR YOU.
DEFENSE ON TONY PARKER
Game 1 v. Luke In 19 minutes Parker was 8 of 14 and scored 21 points. 5 of those field goals were lay-ups and 2 came on the fast break.
Game 1 v. AD In 9 minutes Parker went 3 of 4 and scored 8 points. 1 of those was a lay-up
Game 2 v. Luke In 17 minutes Parker was 6of 11 for 12 points. Two of those baskets came on the fast-break and just 1 on a lay-up in the half court.
Game 2 v. AD In 20 minutes Parker was 1 of 4 but scored 10 points. That was a fast break field goal.
You can see they did a much better job in Game 2.
+/- FOR THE SERIES
Player --- G 1G 2Total
Luke -- -13 -16 -29
Allen -- -16 -15 -31
Lewis -- -23 -10 -33
Evans -- -12 -7 -19
James -- -6 -15 -21
AD -- -17 -3 -20
Nick -- -4 -6 -10
Danny -- 4-4 0
Flip -- 7 -1 6
ADJUSTMENTS
My guess is that either Nick Collison or Vitaly Potapenko will get an increase in minutes. Seattle must get two things. One they need one of their bigs to make some shots. In addition, they need defenders who execute the plan and that is not a strength of Reggie Evans and Jerome James.
STARTING LINE-UPS
No surprises tonight.
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
LIVE BLOG FOR GAME 2 FROM SAN ANTONIO
LIVE FROM THE SBC CENTER !!! If you have any questions or comments place them in the comment zone. I am next to Kevin Calbaro tonight. If you have a question for KC or Craig Ehlo during the game put it in the comments zone.
SPURS 108 SONICS 91 -- FINAL SCORE
The Spurs are simply a better team then the Sonics.
The one thing I wish we knew was if Vlady was healthy what would happen. The Sonics found an offensive set that works it is when the Sonics spread the floor and run the pick and roll with Rashard at the 4. If they had Vlady the floor would still be spread and the Sonics would have a much better team on the floor. Murray is playing terribly. Ridnour had a poor night.
On the other hand, the Spurs are scoring at will in this series and if Vlady was here it wouldn't matter at all. The Sonics have to find a way to defend in this series or it will be over in a hurry.
SPURS 98 SONICS 85 with 1:09 left in the 1st Quarter
Flip Murray is amazing. He gets called for a foul that keeps JJ in the game, it would have been James 6th, and instead of raising his hand or taking the call he evil eyes Joey Crawford for the entire time Ginobili is at the free throw line.
The Spurs just keeping making every play they need to. Never were the Sonics in the game.
The Sonics have found a way to score. They play Lewis at the 4. The Sonics have been able to score with some proficiency with this line-up.
SPURS 91 SONICS 81 with 2:51 left
AD has been outstanding on the pick and roll.
Duncan re-entered the game and the Spurs promptly scored on 4 straight possessions
Rashard Lewis is getting really unnerved by the physical defense. The problematic thing is the defense is coming from Robert Horry
SPURS 87 SONICS 72 with 5:55 left in the 4th Quarter
Seattle has only got inside 10 points for three possessions since the 1st quarter.
Seattle's offense has no ball movement. It is all one pass and go to the basket. It also has eliminated the Sonics three point game. They are just 3 of 12 from the three.
SPURS 83 SONICS 70 with 8:35 left in the 4th quarter.
The high screen and roll is paying some dividends for the Sonics
Rashard Lewis is taking it too soft to the hoop and he missed some opportunites to make cuts to get open looks.
Seattle still has only linked back to back to back stops once in this game.
Flip is terrible again.
This is one of those series where you get exposure or you get exposed. A lot of the Sonics players are not playing well. Murray, James, Evans, Ridnour, and Lewis are all playing well below their usual level. On the other hand, Allen, AD and Collison are showing great resolve against the Spurs
SPURS 79 SONICS 65 with 3rd Quarter.
Seattle has had two awful stretches of basketball and in the quarter. They will cost them the game. First with the game 66-56 Luke Ridnour committed back to back turnovers. Then in the final moments of the 3rd Quarter the Sonics went 4 straight possessions without Ray Allen touching the ball. They committed two turnovers, AD got a bad look runner as the clock was winding down and Flip Murray forced a drive. You can't do it in the playoffs.
SPURS 72 SONICS 61 with 3:15 left in the 3rd Quarter
Luke Ridnour committed back to back terrible turnovers.
Regggie Evans has moved from his collector status to the aggrevator status.
Lewis at the 4 is the match-up Seattle is exploiting. The Spurs have to go to Horry or Robinson and they are poor defenders.
Lewis should be able to score at the 4
Duncan off the floor with the Sonics trailing by 11
SPURS 65 SONICS 54 with 6:35 in the third quarter
Ray Allen is incredible. He is keeping Seattle in the game. He has 14 points since the 2:20 mark of the 2nd Quarter. He has 14 of the Sonics last 19 points
The Spurs dancers are very similiar to the Spurs defense. Great, etc....
Stops, stops, stops. Seattle has to link some stops or they will never be in this series.
SPURS 54 SONICS 42 at the Half
Seattle finally got the offense going late in the 2nd half. Most of it with Lewis at the 4. That seems to be the one match-up the Spurs don't have any answer for. That is why Vlady's injury is such a bummer. If the Sonics have Vlady the Spurs would have had match-up problems.
The Sonics defense improved for a brief moment, but then the Spurs scored on 6 of their final 7 possessions.
The Story of the first half would be how the Spurs are able to adjust to anything Seattle throws at them.
SPURS 50 SONICS 42 with :40 seconds in the half.
Ginobili is tough. He pumped faked his three and then he jabbed left twice and went right. That is his off hand and he can go that direction.
Lewis has scored 8 straight Sonics points. Allen then followed
Bowen and Allen are slugging each other, grabbing each other and pinching each other.
Barry is not healthy. His right thumb is heavily bandaged.
Seattle has 8 of the last 9 possessions.
SPURS 42 SONICS 31 with 4:11 in the 2nd quarter
Sonics on a nice little 7-0 run. They have gotten out on the break.
Lewis just got his first two buckets in the game.
Ray Allen is just 1 of 5 from the floor
SPURS 40 SONICS 24 with 5:42 left in the 2nd Quarter
This is a total domination
The Sonics are not moving the ball at all. The Sonics offense is broken.
The Spurs have ever answer. The Sonics had a nice plan on Parker and the Spurs have made the adjustment and Seattle can't answer it.
Rashard Lewis is non-existent. He is 0 for 5 for the game.
The Sonics still don't have a three in the game.
The Sonics didn't have a three in the first half of game #1.
SORRY WE LOST THE BLOGGER FEED FOR A WHILE
SPURS 20 SPURS 8 with 3:39 left in the 1st Quarter
9-0 Spurs run. The fast break is killing Seattle
Seattle the offense is totally out of sorts. They have hit just 3 of 15 tonight.
The Spurs are much quicker then Seattle. They have Parker, Ginobili, Robinson, Horry with a big.
Spurs are getting 50% of the offensive rebounds.
SPURS 13 SONICS 8 with 5:18 left in the 1st Quarer
Luke Ridnour is wearing white shoelaces with black shoes -- bad look or fashion statement?
Seattle's defensive plan looks much better. Luke has dropped off Parker and the bigs for the most part are doing a nice job of getting out on the pick and roll. JJ has missed at least two assignments and Parker went away from the show last time and got a lay-up
The Spurs are a much better fast break team then people realize. They are quick, they run a great secondary break but where they are getting Seattle is on the offensive glass on the fast break.
Jerome James is having a very poor game. He is not following the plan on the defensive side of the ball.
Bowen picks up his second foul at the 7:08 mark of the 1st Quarter -- G. Robinson and Ginobili check in
ADJUSTMENTS
Reggie Evans will now be guarding Tim Duncan and Jerome James will be able to be a help defender on both Duncan and Parker
Defending Parker will be more straight up on Parker and less reliant on help.
On the pick and rolls look for the Sonics big man to double to top of the pick
RAY ALLEN WILL PLAY
Ray is currently going through warm-ups and looks fine. He has worked on his jumper and is landing solidily on both feet. He also did an extensive stretching with Dwight Daub. He has stopped warming up and is standing on the baseline with a very intense look on his face. He stands stoicly rocking from side to side.
RAY ALLEN UPDATE
Ray has headed over to the arena where he will continue the treatment he has been recieving around the clock. He is currently going through his regular shooting routine. According to the Gasman who is in the arena he is moving fairly well.
SPURS LEAD THE SERIES 2 TO 0.
SPURS 108 SONICS 91 -- FINAL SCORE
The Spurs are simply a better team then the Sonics.
The one thing I wish we knew was if Vlady was healthy what would happen. The Sonics found an offensive set that works it is when the Sonics spread the floor and run the pick and roll with Rashard at the 4. If they had Vlady the floor would still be spread and the Sonics would have a much better team on the floor. Murray is playing terribly. Ridnour had a poor night.
On the other hand, the Spurs are scoring at will in this series and if Vlady was here it wouldn't matter at all. The Sonics have to find a way to defend in this series or it will be over in a hurry.
SPURS 98 SONICS 85 with 1:09 left in the 1st Quarter
Flip Murray is amazing. He gets called for a foul that keeps JJ in the game, it would have been James 6th, and instead of raising his hand or taking the call he evil eyes Joey Crawford for the entire time Ginobili is at the free throw line.
The Spurs just keeping making every play they need to. Never were the Sonics in the game.
The Sonics have found a way to score. They play Lewis at the 4. The Sonics have been able to score with some proficiency with this line-up.
SPURS 91 SONICS 81 with 2:51 left
AD has been outstanding on the pick and roll.
Duncan re-entered the game and the Spurs promptly scored on 4 straight possessions
Rashard Lewis is getting really unnerved by the physical defense. The problematic thing is the defense is coming from Robert Horry
SPURS 87 SONICS 72 with 5:55 left in the 4th Quarter
Seattle has only got inside 10 points for three possessions since the 1st quarter.
Seattle's offense has no ball movement. It is all one pass and go to the basket. It also has eliminated the Sonics three point game. They are just 3 of 12 from the three.
SPURS 83 SONICS 70 with 8:35 left in the 4th quarter.
The high screen and roll is paying some dividends for the Sonics
Rashard Lewis is taking it too soft to the hoop and he missed some opportunites to make cuts to get open looks.
Seattle still has only linked back to back to back stops once in this game.
Flip is terrible again.
This is one of those series where you get exposure or you get exposed. A lot of the Sonics players are not playing well. Murray, James, Evans, Ridnour, and Lewis are all playing well below their usual level. On the other hand, Allen, AD and Collison are showing great resolve against the Spurs
SPURS 79 SONICS 65 with 3rd Quarter.
Seattle has had two awful stretches of basketball and in the quarter. They will cost them the game. First with the game 66-56 Luke Ridnour committed back to back turnovers. Then in the final moments of the 3rd Quarter the Sonics went 4 straight possessions without Ray Allen touching the ball. They committed two turnovers, AD got a bad look runner as the clock was winding down and Flip Murray forced a drive. You can't do it in the playoffs.
SPURS 72 SONICS 61 with 3:15 left in the 3rd Quarter
Luke Ridnour committed back to back terrible turnovers.
Regggie Evans has moved from his collector status to the aggrevator status.
Lewis at the 4 is the match-up Seattle is exploiting. The Spurs have to go to Horry or Robinson and they are poor defenders.
Lewis should be able to score at the 4
Duncan off the floor with the Sonics trailing by 11
SPURS 65 SONICS 54 with 6:35 in the third quarter
Ray Allen is incredible. He is keeping Seattle in the game. He has 14 points since the 2:20 mark of the 2nd Quarter. He has 14 of the Sonics last 19 points
The Spurs dancers are very similiar to the Spurs defense. Great, etc....
Stops, stops, stops. Seattle has to link some stops or they will never be in this series.
SPURS 54 SONICS 42 at the Half
Seattle finally got the offense going late in the 2nd half. Most of it with Lewis at the 4. That seems to be the one match-up the Spurs don't have any answer for. That is why Vlady's injury is such a bummer. If the Sonics have Vlady the Spurs would have had match-up problems.
The Sonics defense improved for a brief moment, but then the Spurs scored on 6 of their final 7 possessions.
The Story of the first half would be how the Spurs are able to adjust to anything Seattle throws at them.
SPURS 50 SONICS 42 with :40 seconds in the half.
Ginobili is tough. He pumped faked his three and then he jabbed left twice and went right. That is his off hand and he can go that direction.
Lewis has scored 8 straight Sonics points. Allen then followed
Bowen and Allen are slugging each other, grabbing each other and pinching each other.
Barry is not healthy. His right thumb is heavily bandaged.
Seattle has 8 of the last 9 possessions.
SPURS 42 SONICS 31 with 4:11 in the 2nd quarter
Sonics on a nice little 7-0 run. They have gotten out on the break.
Lewis just got his first two buckets in the game.
Ray Allen is just 1 of 5 from the floor
SPURS 40 SONICS 24 with 5:42 left in the 2nd Quarter
This is a total domination
The Sonics are not moving the ball at all. The Sonics offense is broken.
The Spurs have ever answer. The Sonics had a nice plan on Parker and the Spurs have made the adjustment and Seattle can't answer it.
Rashard Lewis is non-existent. He is 0 for 5 for the game.
The Sonics still don't have a three in the game.
The Sonics didn't have a three in the first half of game #1.
SORRY WE LOST THE BLOGGER FEED FOR A WHILE
SPURS 20 SPURS 8 with 3:39 left in the 1st Quarter
9-0 Spurs run. The fast break is killing Seattle
Seattle the offense is totally out of sorts. They have hit just 3 of 15 tonight.
The Spurs are much quicker then Seattle. They have Parker, Ginobili, Robinson, Horry with a big.
Spurs are getting 50% of the offensive rebounds.
SPURS 13 SONICS 8 with 5:18 left in the 1st Quarer
Luke Ridnour is wearing white shoelaces with black shoes -- bad look or fashion statement?
Seattle's defensive plan looks much better. Luke has dropped off Parker and the bigs for the most part are doing a nice job of getting out on the pick and roll. JJ has missed at least two assignments and Parker went away from the show last time and got a lay-up
The Spurs are a much better fast break team then people realize. They are quick, they run a great secondary break but where they are getting Seattle is on the offensive glass on the fast break.
Jerome James is having a very poor game. He is not following the plan on the defensive side of the ball.
Bowen picks up his second foul at the 7:08 mark of the 1st Quarter -- G. Robinson and Ginobili check in
ADJUSTMENTS
Reggie Evans will now be guarding Tim Duncan and Jerome James will be able to be a help defender on both Duncan and Parker
Defending Parker will be more straight up on Parker and less reliant on help.
On the pick and rolls look for the Sonics big man to double to top of the pick
RAY ALLEN WILL PLAY
Ray is currently going through warm-ups and looks fine. He has worked on his jumper and is landing solidily on both feet. He also did an extensive stretching with Dwight Daub. He has stopped warming up and is standing on the baseline with a very intense look on his face. He stands stoicly rocking from side to side.
RAY ALLEN UPDATE
Ray has headed over to the arena where he will continue the treatment he has been recieving around the clock. He is currently going through his regular shooting routine. According to the Gasman who is in the arena he is moving fairly well.
Sunday, May 08, 2005
LIVE BLOG GAME 1 FROM SAN ANTONIO
WE ARE LIVE FROM THE SBC CENTER !!! PLACE YOUR COMMENTS AND QUESTIONS IN THE COMMENT ZONE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE BLOG !!!
SPURS 103 SONICS 81 FINAL SCORE
Not sure if Seattle was able to learn anything in the 2nd half about will and eon't work for Game #2.
This game was lost in the 1st Quarter.
The series may have been lost with the sprained ankles in the 2nd Quarter.
88% of the time a home team wins game 1 of a 7 game series in the NBA they win the series.
SPURS 89 SONICS 69 with 5:56 left in the 4th Quarter
Adding salt to the wound when a fan was riding Vitaly on his way back to the bench. Vitaly let a bird fly in the house. The fan was clean with his langugue.
The Sonics have done a nice job of moving Rashard Lewis around to get him looks without Ray and Vlady on the floor
SPURS 88 SONICS 67 with 6:37 left in the 4th Quarter.
The minute the Spurs brought their gys back in the game they put the pedal back to the medal and stretched it out.
Is the world coming to an end Glenn Robinson took two charges in this game?
Nick Collison is battling against Tim Duncan. Not succesfully but battling.
SPURS 73 SONICS 57 at the end of the 3rd Quarter
Fortson is guarding Duncan. He is just pounding him.
Rashard Lewis just got a shot to the jewels and is in agony. What else can happen?
Flip really couldn't be playing any worse. His off-season make is disappearing.
Seattle played very well offensively in the 3rd Quarter. They only got stopped on 6 possession in the entire quarter.
The Spurs, on the other hand, scored on only 7 possessions.
SPURS 72 SONICS 46 with 2:43 left in the 3rd Quarter
Greg Popovich runs a tight ship. Mohammed made a bad pass and missed Duncan who was wide open. The Sonics got a turnover and a fast break lay-up.
A few plays later Ginobili took the ball in the court after a deflection. He got it with 10 on the shot clock and then he went into the teeth of the defense and went 1 on 1. Popovich unloaded on him
Pop called a time-out and rode Mohammed all the way to the bench.
Seattle's defense is much e
Flip Murray is not grasping this opportunity at all. He is 1 of 6
Tony Parker is totally dominating this game.
SPURS 64 SONICS 37 with 9:51 left in the 3rd Quarter
Jerome James came out on the floor to open the second half with his warm-up jersey on. Opps.
Sonics got their first field goal off a second chance on the 2nd possession of the 2nd half.
SPURS 62 SONICS 35 AT THE HALF
Nothing is going right for Seattle.
The Spurs are penetrating at will.
The Spurs transition game is going at full bore
The Sonics offense disappeared at the beginning of the 2nd Quarter.
SPURS 60 SONICS 35 with 4.9 seconds left in the Half
It is official that Vlady will not return. Honestly, he didn't look like he was going to be able to play again the playoffs.
Line-up: Ridnour, Murray, Wilkins, Lewis and Vitaly
SPURS 54 SONICS 28 with 3:05 left in the 2nd Quarter
19-2 run.
Ray Allen has gone to the locker room. He is being looked at by the doctor.
Vlady was gone to be X-Ray'd
Rashard Lewis is not playing well, he is just 2 of 8 from the field
Seattle is getting crushed on the offensive glass
Sonics has just one field goal since the 10:12 mark of the Quarter
SPURS 44 SONICS 26 with 7:19 left in the 2nd Quarter.
Spurs on a 9-0 Run.
On the next play. Ray Allen drove to the basket and turned his ankle on his way to the basketball
Seattle committed turnovers on 3 straight possessions and 4 of the first 7 possessions of the Quarter.
Vitaly Potapenko has made his playoff appearence
Line-up of Ridnour, Daniels, Wilkins, Lewis, Potapenko
SPURS 39 SONICS 26 with 8:26 left in the 2nd Quarter
Vlady Radmanovic was just carried off the floor with a sprained right ankle. It looks very serious.
1st QUARTER STATS
Offensive Efficiency: 101
Defenisve Efficiency: 138
Effective Field Goal%: 53%
Defensive E-Field Goal%: 66%
Offensive Rebouding %: 11%
Defenisve Rebounding %:50%
Offensive Turnover %:14%
Defensive Turnover%:16%
SPURS 35 SONICS 22 end of the 1st Quarter
Lewis shot at the buzzer will not count.
Parker hit his first five shots, Ginobili has hit his first two shots
Seattle has no ability to control the Spurs penetration.
Their is no help coming from the Sonics big men.
Tim Duncan got his 2nd foul at the 1:39 left in the 1st Quarter. He is staying in the game. Nate counters with JJ checking in, the Sonics are going at Duncan for #3
The Spurs shot 13 free throws in the 1st Quarter -- Sonics just 2.
SPURS 19 SONICS 14 with 3:59 in the 1st Quarter
Jerome James got a great pick on Tony Parker on a back cut. It was the type of harder physical play the Sonics must make.
The Spurs are beating Seattle on the offensive glass. They did this in the regualr season as well. Seattle must have an advantage on the offensive glass.
Ray Allen is going right at Bruce Bowen, he has beat him three straight times after getting called for a push off offensive foul.
Allen and Lewis are getting good looks at the basket. They have combined for the Sonics last 10 points.
Allen and Lewis have taken 11 of the Sonics 13 shots.
SPURS 9 SONICS 2 with 9:16 left in the 1st Quarter
Tony Parker is torching the Sonics defense with the first 7 points
There doesn't seem to be any help defense on Parker
A great earlier example of how great the Spurs defense is, Lewis got open on a good pick from James and when he went for the pull up jumper Narz Mohhamed was already out on him to block the shot.
The Sonics have to slow the Spurs transition
THINGS TO KEEP AN EYE ON ......
• Does Parker run through the paint freely or does someone give him a good shot early
• Are they meeting Parker at the free throw line in transition and denying penetration?
• Where is Duncan getting the ball.
• Is Seattle staying with the Spurs shooters?
• Are the Sonics big setting picks to free Allen?
• How is Lewis dealing with the double team’s from the baseline?
STARTING LINEUPS
Brent Barry will start tonight for the Spurs
HOW GREAT ARE THE SPURS
Offensive Side of the Ball
Offensive Efficiency Rating: #6 in the NBA
Effective Field Goal%: #6 in the NBA
Offensive Rebounding %: #12 in the NBA
Turnover Percentage%: #9 in the NBA
Defensive Side of the Ball
Defensive Efficiency Rating: #1 in the NBA
Defensive E-Field Goal%: #1 in the NBA
Defensive Rebounding%: #3 in the NBA
Defensive Turnover %: #7 in the NBA
SPURS 103 SONICS 81 FINAL SCORE
Not sure if Seattle was able to learn anything in the 2nd half about will and eon't work for Game #2.
This game was lost in the 1st Quarter.
The series may have been lost with the sprained ankles in the 2nd Quarter.
88% of the time a home team wins game 1 of a 7 game series in the NBA they win the series.
SPURS 89 SONICS 69 with 5:56 left in the 4th Quarter
Adding salt to the wound when a fan was riding Vitaly on his way back to the bench. Vitaly let a bird fly in the house. The fan was clean with his langugue.
The Sonics have done a nice job of moving Rashard Lewis around to get him looks without Ray and Vlady on the floor
SPURS 88 SONICS 67 with 6:37 left in the 4th Quarter.
The minute the Spurs brought their gys back in the game they put the pedal back to the medal and stretched it out.
Is the world coming to an end Glenn Robinson took two charges in this game?
Nick Collison is battling against Tim Duncan. Not succesfully but battling.
SPURS 73 SONICS 57 at the end of the 3rd Quarter
Fortson is guarding Duncan. He is just pounding him.
Rashard Lewis just got a shot to the jewels and is in agony. What else can happen?
Flip really couldn't be playing any worse. His off-season make is disappearing.
Seattle played very well offensively in the 3rd Quarter. They only got stopped on 6 possession in the entire quarter.
The Spurs, on the other hand, scored on only 7 possessions.
SPURS 72 SONICS 46 with 2:43 left in the 3rd Quarter
Greg Popovich runs a tight ship. Mohammed made a bad pass and missed Duncan who was wide open. The Sonics got a turnover and a fast break lay-up.
A few plays later Ginobili took the ball in the court after a deflection. He got it with 10 on the shot clock and then he went into the teeth of the defense and went 1 on 1. Popovich unloaded on him
Pop called a time-out and rode Mohammed all the way to the bench.
Seattle's defense is much e
Flip Murray is not grasping this opportunity at all. He is 1 of 6
Tony Parker is totally dominating this game.
SPURS 64 SONICS 37 with 9:51 left in the 3rd Quarter
Jerome James came out on the floor to open the second half with his warm-up jersey on. Opps.
Sonics got their first field goal off a second chance on the 2nd possession of the 2nd half.
SPURS 62 SONICS 35 AT THE HALF
Nothing is going right for Seattle.
The Spurs are penetrating at will.
The Spurs transition game is going at full bore
The Sonics offense disappeared at the beginning of the 2nd Quarter.
SPURS 60 SONICS 35 with 4.9 seconds left in the Half
It is official that Vlady will not return. Honestly, he didn't look like he was going to be able to play again the playoffs.
Line-up: Ridnour, Murray, Wilkins, Lewis and Vitaly
SPURS 54 SONICS 28 with 3:05 left in the 2nd Quarter
19-2 run.
Ray Allen has gone to the locker room. He is being looked at by the doctor.
Vlady was gone to be X-Ray'd
Rashard Lewis is not playing well, he is just 2 of 8 from the field
Seattle is getting crushed on the offensive glass
Sonics has just one field goal since the 10:12 mark of the Quarter
SPURS 44 SONICS 26 with 7:19 left in the 2nd Quarter.
Spurs on a 9-0 Run.
On the next play. Ray Allen drove to the basket and turned his ankle on his way to the basketball
Seattle committed turnovers on 3 straight possessions and 4 of the first 7 possessions of the Quarter.
Vitaly Potapenko has made his playoff appearence
Line-up of Ridnour, Daniels, Wilkins, Lewis, Potapenko
SPURS 39 SONICS 26 with 8:26 left in the 2nd Quarter
Vlady Radmanovic was just carried off the floor with a sprained right ankle. It looks very serious.
1st QUARTER STATS
Offensive Efficiency: 101
Defenisve Efficiency: 138
Effective Field Goal%: 53%
Defensive E-Field Goal%: 66%
Offensive Rebouding %: 11%
Defenisve Rebounding %:50%
Offensive Turnover %:14%
Defensive Turnover%:16%
SPURS 35 SONICS 22 end of the 1st Quarter
Lewis shot at the buzzer will not count.
Parker hit his first five shots, Ginobili has hit his first two shots
Seattle has no ability to control the Spurs penetration.
Their is no help coming from the Sonics big men.
Tim Duncan got his 2nd foul at the 1:39 left in the 1st Quarter. He is staying in the game. Nate counters with JJ checking in, the Sonics are going at Duncan for #3
The Spurs shot 13 free throws in the 1st Quarter -- Sonics just 2.
SPURS 19 SONICS 14 with 3:59 in the 1st Quarter
Jerome James got a great pick on Tony Parker on a back cut. It was the type of harder physical play the Sonics must make.
The Spurs are beating Seattle on the offensive glass. They did this in the regualr season as well. Seattle must have an advantage on the offensive glass.
Ray Allen is going right at Bruce Bowen, he has beat him three straight times after getting called for a push off offensive foul.
Allen and Lewis are getting good looks at the basket. They have combined for the Sonics last 10 points.
Allen and Lewis have taken 11 of the Sonics 13 shots.
SPURS 9 SONICS 2 with 9:16 left in the 1st Quarter
Tony Parker is torching the Sonics defense with the first 7 points
There doesn't seem to be any help defense on Parker
A great earlier example of how great the Spurs defense is, Lewis got open on a good pick from James and when he went for the pull up jumper Narz Mohhamed was already out on him to block the shot.
The Sonics have to slow the Spurs transition
THINGS TO KEEP AN EYE ON ......
• Does Parker run through the paint freely or does someone give him a good shot early
• Are they meeting Parker at the free throw line in transition and denying penetration?
• Where is Duncan getting the ball.
• Is Seattle staying with the Spurs shooters?
• Are the Sonics big setting picks to free Allen?
• How is Lewis dealing with the double team’s from the baseline?
STARTING LINEUPS
Brent Barry will start tonight for the Spurs
HOW GREAT ARE THE SPURS
Offensive Side of the Ball
Offensive Efficiency Rating: #6 in the NBA
Effective Field Goal%: #6 in the NBA
Offensive Rebounding %: #12 in the NBA
Turnover Percentage%: #9 in the NBA
Defensive Side of the Ball
Defensive Efficiency Rating: #1 in the NBA
Defensive E-Field Goal%: #1 in the NBA
Defensive Rebounding%: #3 in the NBA
Defensive Turnover %: #7 in the NBA
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