Friday, July 01, 2005
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.
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