GRIZZLIES 100 SONICS 96 -- FINAL SCORE
Their were portions tonight where the Sonics played like they had it, the magical it.
The defense was terrible for the majority of the night.
Pau Gasol was the best player on the floor
Wilkins did well at the point tonight.
Grizz 98 Sonics 96 with 3.3 seconds left in the 4th Quarter
Sonics got killed down 2 on a unlucky bounce. They forced Bobby Jackson into a tough shot and he got it blocked but he got it back and flipped it to Dahanty Jones and he scored as the shot clock expired.
Ray took one of those pull up 3’s early in the clock that when they go down is awesome but this one rimmed out and it left Seattle down 6 with 2:00 left and Memphis had the ball.
Grizz 92 Sonics 88 with 3:25 left in the 4th Quarter
This was about as low as the team had been, Sonics have two stops in the 4th Quarter, it had become disgusting and Bobby Jackson just went waltzing through the lane with no resistance.
Then a spark. Wilkins jumped into a passing lane and had an impressive dunk going the other way. It got the crowd sparked. Then the ball bounced their direction because of hustle by Wilkins and then Flip played defense and hit a three off a lewis doubleteam in the post.
Grizz 88 Sonics 77 with 7:05 left in the 4th Quarter
Sonics have no offensive rebounds in the second half. The Grizz are 29th in the NBA in defensive rebounding.
The Sonics aren’t playing like a team any longer. It is so obvious when you see it that when it doesn’t happen it looks even worse.
Pau Gasol is conducting every thing and the other guys are knocking down the shots. He is either finding the open guy or every guy is open.
Grizzlies 82 Sonics 77 with 8:42 left in the 4th Quarter
Shane Battier has 5 three’s he is having a big time night.
The defense is not nearly as good as it was earlier in the half.
Luke Ridnour has played just 5 minutes tonight all in the 1st half.
Grizzlies 75 Sonics 68 at the end of 3rd Quarter
In the first half Gasol had 9 to 10 scoring attempts. The key to the second half is keeping those down in the second half. In the third quarter he had 2.
Nick Collison is short arming his jumper and has missed two open shots that he has to make
Same story as the first Q when Flip enters the world falls apart. In his two minutes the Sonics were outscored by 5 points. It can’t be all him or could it be?
Sonics 68 Grizzlies 68 with 2:27 left in the 3rd Quarter
The shots the Grizzlies are making are shots you can live with. They are tough looks by their least good offensive players and they won’t go in all night long.
The Sonics are not getting beat at the basket. They are cutting off the lanes. They are playing a lot of zone and keeping the Grizz on the outside.
The Sonics are blasting Gasol. The book on Gasol is he gets tired and soft if you work on him. I wonder if that isn’t true about any player and once a player gets labeled that way he gets blasted every night
Sonics 64 Grizzlies 63 with 5:50 left in the 3rd Quarter
There is the lead. Ray Allen 3.
Great basketball by Seattle to open the half.
They look better as team. Their interaction has been strong. Their communication looks better. It is really encouraging.
Grizzlies 61 Sonics 59 with 7:28 left in the 3rd Quarter
Battier just fouled Reggie coming down to dig and after the play Eddie Jones looked at Battier and was like “dude that is Reggie Evans and Battier said I know.
The Sonics are playing great basketball to open the half. They are playing smart, like teammates and it will pay off. Great picks, great plays, good defensive intensity.
Gasol is killing them in the post – he is getting doubled every time and he is doing a great job of finding the open man.
Grizzlies 55 Sonics 50 at the half
The last two possessions have shown how good Battier and Jones are defensively. Allen and Lewis will have to stay calm and together all night because nothing will be easy.
Lewis just made another stupid play, fouling out of frustration while in the penalty. He has made more of those recently then I am used to.
Bob Weiss has done a great job calling timeouts in between a players free throws to ice him for the second one and forcing him to miss
Off Efficiency numbers – Grizzlies 126 Sonics 123 – league average is 102.
Grizzlies 49 Sonics 45 with 2:20 left in the 2nd Quarter
Sonics have gotten sloppy with the basketball
Vlady is a shadow of the player he was last year. He was the key for the team last year and without him they have to find an entire new identify.
Wilkins adds a great energy to the team
Grizzlies 30 Sonics 26 at the end of the 1st Quarter
Reggie’s offense is much better but when he faces a team with shot-blockers he has to realize he can’t get the shot off.
Flip enters the game and the other teams point guard scores back to back baskets and the Sonics go from being up 1 to down 4. That is in one and half minutes of action. Nice work.
I
am not sure if Flip's shoulders hurt from shooting so much but he seems incapable of raising his arms to effect a shooter.
Sonics defense was not in the arena in the first quarter. They got just 5 stops in the entire quarter.
Sonics 24 Grizzlies 23 with 1:52 left in the 1st Quarter
The last two possessions show you how great Rashard has become offensively.
Rashard went to the post on Shane Battier who is one of the best defenders in the NBA and their was nothing Battier could do to defend his hook to the middle.
The next possession Lewis was on the perimeter one on one on Gasol and drove baseline to beat Gasol when the help came he dished out to the wing and then the Sonics great ball movement lead the ball back to Rashard who was in the corner for a 3. That is awesome
Grizzlies 19 Sonics 14 with 5:25 left in the 1st Quarter
Gasol is awesome so far.
You wonder why Atlanta is Atlanta they traded Pau Gasol for Abdur-Rahim. Ouch
Sonics are going to bring the double to Gasol everytime. It is going to come from the top.
Memphis is blitzing Ray Allen which means doubling him off the pick n roll. This is popular manner of defending the Sonics.
The amount of Grizzlies arms around the basket is just amazing. Whenever Seattle goes to the basket they are in the midst of a jungle of elbows and arms. It is a remarkable contrast to what happens around the Sonics basket
Storylines
1) Grizz's will be without Damon Stoudamire, done for the season and Mike Miller. Where will they get their three point shooting?
2) Great defenders on the Sonics stars -- Eddie Jones on Ray and Shane Battier on Rashard.
3) Damien Wilkins at the point guard. Will this be the answer?
Saturday, December 31, 2005
Friday, December 30, 2005
ESPN.com - NFL - Smith: Hawks not settling for seconds
ESPN.com - NFL - Smith: Hawks not settling for seconds: "As good as Chicago's defense is, it would be an upset if the Seahawks don't emerge from the NFC.
Should Seattle meet the Colts again, it'll be interesting, for sure. If I had to make a prediction today, I'd pick the better team to win it all.
Right now, that team is the Seahawks."
Should Seattle meet the Colts again, it'll be interesting, for sure. If I had to make a prediction today, I'd pick the better team to win it all.
Right now, that team is the Seahawks."
Thursday, December 29, 2005
SIMULBLOG SONICS V. NUGGETS
SONICS 112 NUGS 105 -- FINAL SCORE
That is a gutty win on a back to back in the altitude without your point guard.
Ray Allen did what all-star do and carried the team to a win.
Great defense on Anthony forcing the Nugs only scorer to miss the final 8 shots.
Reggie Miller after the game on TNT ripped the Sonics saying if they have to have Allen shoot 8 of 14 from 3 to win it will be a long season.
The Sonics did a nice job of eliminating the transition game.
Give Wilkins a big thumbs up for handling the role as a point guard
Sonics 109 Nugs 105 with 1:04 left in the 4th Quarter
Sonics have played very well but all of a sudden the Sonics have started making terrible plays.
It started with Wilkins taking a 3 that he shouldn’t have taken.
On the rebound Evans was over exuberant and fouled Anthony on the rebound.
Then totally inexplicably Lewis got a T --- how do you do that.
The Sonics have been defending Anthony great with double teams and good help defense.
Ray Allen has 10 pts in the Q
Bob Weiss just iced the free throw shooter.
Sonics 98 Nuggets 96 with 6:38 left in the 4th Quarter
D Wilkins with a steal and fast break dunk to take the lead
Ray and Rashard both bury big three’s to answer Nuggets
The Sonics offensive performance is really impressive considering who they are playing.
Sonics have scored on five straight possessions
12 three’s for the game
Nugs 87 Sonics 86 with 8:55 left in the 4th Quarter
87 to 86 and the Sonics have a chance for the lead and they have a no pass possession and the Murray, of course, misses.
Ray and Rashard scoreless in the 4th Quarter
Nuggets 85 Sonics 82 at the end of the 3rd Quarter
Look for back to back and altitude to start to have an impact on the Sonics
Sonics defense improved late in the 3rd to keep them in the game.
This would be really gutty if Seattle pulls it out.
They must get someone other then Ray and Rashard to carry some of the mail.
Great hustle play by Vlady (that has been an oxymoron for most of the season) to close the quaerter
Nuggets 76 Sonics 69 with 6:00 left in the 3rd Quarter
Carmelo is killing the Sonics. He goes to the middle and knows their will be no impact. He drove baseline the help came from Vitaly but it was so passive that the Anthony got around the him and to the basket.
The Sonics have no attitude or aggressiveness to their defense
Nuggets 61 Sonics 58 at the half.
The Sonics transition defense is awful.
The Nuggets are getting way too many people free in the open court
Boykins is getting the Sonics again he had 12 points in the Q
Flip Murray’s defense is so bad it is hard to imagine how he sits through a film session.
Anthony had 23 points in the first half
The Sonics defense disappeared late in the 2nd quarter when the Nuggets got transition.
Ray Allen has been outstanding.
No one is picking up the punch for Luke or Danny
The lack of Camby changes the game entirely.
Sonics 42 Nuggets 41 with 5:21 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Nuggets are switching all picks and the Nugs are not getting any closer on Ray Allen.
Sonics have 10 second chance points
We told you in the pre-game show that the Sonics should be able to dominate the glass and that has been true.
Sonics transition defense needs to tighten.
Nuggets 34 Sonics 33 with 9:30 left in the 2nd Quarter
Flip and Mateen both turned it over
Sonics are getting beat on hustle plays by Denver
If they keep the Nuggets on the outside they will struggle to score
Sonics 27 Nugs 25 at the end of 1st
Sonics are doing a good job defensively keeping the Nugs on the perimeter other then the lob passes.
Rashard has been strong.
Once again the Sonics are -4 with Ray on the bench in just 3 minutes
Anthony is being kept outside but they are giving him too much room..
Sonics 25 Nuggets 19 with 255 left in the 1st Q
Slow start by the Sonics has been followed by 14-2 run
Turnovers were an issue early as three Sonics turns lead to Nuggets dunks.
Rashard has been involved much more then last night
Flip enters for Ray
Let's see how the Sonics do without Ray?
That is a gutty win on a back to back in the altitude without your point guard.
Ray Allen did what all-star do and carried the team to a win.
Great defense on Anthony forcing the Nugs only scorer to miss the final 8 shots.
Reggie Miller after the game on TNT ripped the Sonics saying if they have to have Allen shoot 8 of 14 from 3 to win it will be a long season.
The Sonics did a nice job of eliminating the transition game.
Give Wilkins a big thumbs up for handling the role as a point guard
Sonics 109 Nugs 105 with 1:04 left in the 4th Quarter
Sonics have played very well but all of a sudden the Sonics have started making terrible plays.
It started with Wilkins taking a 3 that he shouldn’t have taken.
On the rebound Evans was over exuberant and fouled Anthony on the rebound.
Then totally inexplicably Lewis got a T --- how do you do that.
The Sonics have been defending Anthony great with double teams and good help defense.
Ray Allen has 10 pts in the Q
Bob Weiss just iced the free throw shooter.
Sonics 98 Nuggets 96 with 6:38 left in the 4th Quarter
D Wilkins with a steal and fast break dunk to take the lead
Ray and Rashard both bury big three’s to answer Nuggets
The Sonics offensive performance is really impressive considering who they are playing.
Sonics have scored on five straight possessions
12 three’s for the game
Nugs 87 Sonics 86 with 8:55 left in the 4th Quarter
87 to 86 and the Sonics have a chance for the lead and they have a no pass possession and the Murray, of course, misses.
Ray and Rashard scoreless in the 4th Quarter
Nuggets 85 Sonics 82 at the end of the 3rd Quarter
Look for back to back and altitude to start to have an impact on the Sonics
Sonics defense improved late in the 3rd to keep them in the game.
This would be really gutty if Seattle pulls it out.
They must get someone other then Ray and Rashard to carry some of the mail.
Great hustle play by Vlady (that has been an oxymoron for most of the season) to close the quaerter
Nuggets 76 Sonics 69 with 6:00 left in the 3rd Quarter
Carmelo is killing the Sonics. He goes to the middle and knows their will be no impact. He drove baseline the help came from Vitaly but it was so passive that the Anthony got around the him and to the basket.
The Sonics have no attitude or aggressiveness to their defense
Nuggets 61 Sonics 58 at the half.
The Sonics transition defense is awful.
The Nuggets are getting way too many people free in the open court
Boykins is getting the Sonics again he had 12 points in the Q
Flip Murray’s defense is so bad it is hard to imagine how he sits through a film session.
Anthony had 23 points in the first half
The Sonics defense disappeared late in the 2nd quarter when the Nuggets got transition.
Ray Allen has been outstanding.
No one is picking up the punch for Luke or Danny
The lack of Camby changes the game entirely.
Sonics 42 Nuggets 41 with 5:21 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Nuggets are switching all picks and the Nugs are not getting any closer on Ray Allen.
Sonics have 10 second chance points
We told you in the pre-game show that the Sonics should be able to dominate the glass and that has been true.
Sonics transition defense needs to tighten.
Nuggets 34 Sonics 33 with 9:30 left in the 2nd Quarter
Flip and Mateen both turned it over
Sonics are getting beat on hustle plays by Denver
If they keep the Nuggets on the outside they will struggle to score
Sonics 27 Nugs 25 at the end of 1st
Sonics are doing a good job defensively keeping the Nugs on the perimeter other then the lob passes.
Rashard has been strong.
Once again the Sonics are -4 with Ray on the bench in just 3 minutes
Anthony is being kept outside but they are giving him too much room..
Sonics 25 Nuggets 19 with 255 left in the 1st Q
Slow start by the Sonics has been followed by 14-2 run
Turnovers were an issue early as three Sonics turns lead to Nuggets dunks.
Rashard has been involved much more then last night
Flip enters for Ray
Let's see how the Sonics do without Ray?
RIDNOUR NOT WITH SONICS IN DENVER
The Sonics will be without Luke Ridnour again this evening. Ridnour is still unable to keep food down and is experiencing nausea. Therefore, he was unable to join the team in Denver.
The Sonics will go with Flip Murray, Damien Wilkins and Mateen Cleeves at the point.
The Nuggets have been playing very small without the services of Kenyon Martin and Marcus Camby. At times they have fielded a line-up with Andre Miller, Earl Boykins and Earl Watson. This will stress the Sonics depth.
There still is no medical explination to Ridnour condition.
FLIP MURRAY FOR EARL WATSON ?
In today’s Tacoma News Tribune, Frank Hughes, wrote about talks between the Nuggets and the Sonics about a Flip Murray for Earl Watson trade.
I have spoken with some of my sources in the league and they confirm that these talks are considerable and legitimate.
The Nuggets are also in the midst of the Ron Artest talks with the Pacers and Watson would be a key piece to the Artest deal so the Sonics are forced to be in a bit of a holding pattern.
To make the deal work inside the salary cap the Sonics would have to include some other pieces.
The Nuggets would be interested in this deal because they don’t have a shooting guard and are desperate for players that can create offense.
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
SIMULBLOG FOR SONICS V. T-WOLVES
WOLVES 108 SONICS 95 - FINAL SCORE
Too much against a good defensive team to play with out their point guards
22 turnovers
shot distrubution a problem
poor defensive intensity.
Minnesota 90 Sonics 74 with 6:44 left in the 4th Quarter
Minnesota 7-0 run – ball game
KG dunk, Wally jumper, and a Wally 3.
Fortson had the ball down 8 and committed a silly turnover/foul.
Before we all go nuts about another loss. The amount of times Seattle needed a point guard tonight was amazing. Murray was playing with two dislocated fingers and he was awful and they really missed Luke keeping things together.
Not a lot of teams win in this scenario.
Another episode in the expolosions of Danny Fortson as he was ejected in a timeout
Danny can’t handle any prosperity.
Wolves 80 Sonics 72 with 8:45 left in the 4th Quarter
Sorry for the score typo on the last post
Sonics get it within 10.
The Wolves have lost 5 straight close games. They will be just as tight as Seattle.
In addition, Minnesota will struggle to score if the Sonics defend.
Shot distribution will be vital down the stretch.
Wilkins is still at the point.
Wolves 79 Sonics 69 at the end of 3 quarters
Sonics end the Quarter on an impressive 15-3 run.
Again with Jaric on the bench and KG on the bench for the end of the run.
Wilkins is now playing the poin
Wolves 65 Sonics 47 with 8:00 left in the 3rd Quarter
The rout is on
Flip Murray is awful tonight. As good as he was the other night he is that bad tonight. Oh my. He just drove in the lane with no idea where he was going. His turnover to assist ratio tonight is 3 to1. Which is ok if it is an assist to turnover rate but he is a turnover to assist rate. Also he is 1 of 10.
Ray Allen no shots in the second half.
Wolves 60 Sonics 45 with 9:37 left in the 3rd Quarter
Griffin just ran from outside the three point lane into the paint by three Sonics players, none of them, none of them, none of them touched him. He went through the lane totally untouched. How does this happen ?????? He caught the ball and threw up a shot that was goaltended. It is a miracle that nobody is willing to touch anyone.
Wolves 51 Sonics 41 at the half
Wolves 41 Sonics 33 with 2:47 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Fortson factor once again 15-4 run
Sonics continue the run
At the end of the night we may see the value of Ridnour. The shot distribution seems totally out of whack tonight. Allen has not had a shot in the last 11 possessions and Lewis has only had 1.
If the Sonics are going to complete this comeback that has to rectified.
Wolves 38 Sonics 24 with 6:00 in the 2nd Quarter
As we mentioned in the pre-game show look inside the numbers the Wolves two best Roland Ratings players, judging how a team performs when you are on the floor compared to when you are on the bench, KG and Marko Jaric were on the bench and the Sonics went on a little 7-0 run to quell the embarrassment.
The wolves are bad enough offensively that the Sonics could get back in this game.
Wolves 30 Sonics 15 at the end of the 1st Quarter
A miserable quarter
The way the Wolves go to the basket you would think Seattle has 5 midgets on the floor.
The Wolves are a great defensive team and they are stifling the Sonics in every aspect.
The Sonics turnovers were brutal. They finished with 7 for the Q and at one point turned it over 4 of 7 possessions.
Once again when Ray left the floor the Sonics feel apart. Unofficially without Ray on the floor the Wolves outscored the Sonics 7-0. The Sonics average being outscored a point every two minutes he is on the bench.
Wolves 16 Sonics 10 with 6:30 left in the 1st Quarter
Flip Murray starts at the point
Sonics transition defense is very poor early.
Reggie Evans is matched on KG and it is a terrible mismatch down low. This is a good example of how the Sonics miss Jerome James. Last year the Sonics would start JJ on KG and he would beat him at times but he was never comfortable being guarded by a large 7’1 guy.
Flip Murray jsut finished shot around before the game and it sounds as though he may well be on the active roster and be able to play tonight. I will update you when we know more.
INSIDE THE NUMBERS FOR SONICS V. WOLVES
Pre-game inteview tonight with Minnesota Head Coach Dwane Casey at 4:20.
Numbers
There are 6 teams in the NBA with an EFG% defense better then 46% and there are only 6 teams in the NBA on the other spectrum with an EFG% over 50%. The Wolves are in the defensive elite and the Sonics are in the defensive basement.
Sonics should get a possession advantage on the boards where the Sonics are #3 in the game in offensive rebounding and the Wolves are 29th
Sonics have to keep Minnesota off the line they are 29th in the league in FTA and that is the reason they are struggling offensively, the shoot well, the don’t turn it over but they never get to the line.
Over the last 10 Games .....
Minnesota is the 27th ranked offensive team in the game and the Sonics are #2 behind Detroit
The Sonics are worse defensively (115.8) then they have been for the entire season (114.5). Minnesota is #3 defensively in this span
Sonics are the #2 offensive rebounding team at 36.5%
Minnesota is averaging just 19.2 free throw attempts per game
Numbers
Over the last 10 Games .....
SONICS WITHOUT BOTH POINT GUARDS V. MINNESOTA
Sonics will be without both Flip Murray and Luke Ridnour this evening against Minnesota. Ridnour is not with the team and as he had further test. The test didn’t reveal anything, which is good news.
Murray may be sooner then two or three weeks some have speculated with the dislocated fingers.
Mateen Cleaves will get the start and Damien Wilkins will have to play some of the back-up point guard position.
Locked on Sports: Hasselbeck the latest to blossom under Holmgren
"I've been fortunate to be around three Hall of Fame quarterbacks, and maybe four." -- Mike Holmgren, Dec. 26, 2005
Locked on Sports: Hasselbeck the latest to blossom under Holmgren: "It was Favre's fifth year with Holmgren in which he led the Packers to a 13-3 record and Super Bowl title.
In Hasselbeck's fifth year, he has led the Seahawks to a 13-2 record and the No. 1 seed in the NFC.
If Hasselbeck can end his fifth season under Holmgren the same way Favre did, maybe Holmgren's hope for a fourth Hall of Famer might not seem so outlandish."
Locked on Sports: Hasselbeck the latest to blossom under Holmgren: "It was Favre's fifth year with Holmgren in which he led the Packers to a 13-3 record and Super Bowl title.
In Hasselbeck's fifth year, he has led the Seahawks to a 13-2 record and the No. 1 seed in the NFC.
If Hasselbeck can end his fifth season under Holmgren the same way Favre did, maybe Holmgren's hope for a fourth Hall of Famer might not seem so outlandish."
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
THREE HOT HAWKS TOPICS FOR THE OPENING SMASH
This will hit the airwaves at 8:00. I look forward to your calls and reaction.
Defense is better than people say
The Hawks defense is 4th in the NFL in pts allowed per game. Nothing else matters. The game is about not letting people score and they are 4th in the NFL at not allowing people to score.
Yes they are giving up yardage. No they are not dominant like the other teams in that category, but whatever the knack is they have it.
I think there are two things you have to realize about this defense.
One you call plays differently as a defense when the offense is as good as the Hawks is. You literally bend but don’t break. If you have a bad offensive then you have a responsibility as a defense to make a play, create points, force turnover, whatever it is and you player a higher risk style. The Hawks on the other hand don’t have to do that. They can play a more conservative approach and wait for you to make a mistake, because offensively it seems like they can score at will.
In addition, I don’t think this team is blessed with amazing athletes and speed defensively so when the field gets smaller they do a better job and are harder to penetrate. In addition, they are much stouter on the run when they don’t have to protect their corners as much in the red zone.
Really only one thing matters – points allowed and no matter how they are doing it they are darn good at it.
Ruskell - Executive of the Year
It is time to sign the praises of Tim Ruskell again. What he has done in one year is remarkable. He sent the defense packing and a few other bad apples and most of them aren’t even playing in the NFL anymore.
Then he filled the gaps and their were a ton of gaps to be filled. The most impressive thing he didn’t fill the gaps only on the top line he found a way to fill the gaps two and three layers deep. It is really awesome. This team has had a good deal of injuries and they have bounced back remarkably well.
Holmgren was asked about this on Monday and he sited the leadership. Far enough, but the player personnel department that has used every roster spot to its maximum deserves credit.
Heck if it is leadership, maybe they deserve credit there. Go back to Ruskell’s opening press conference and he said the following .. I believe one of the keys that doesn't get talked about enough is unifying. People working together where there are no walls, where there are no agendas, where everybody has a common focus on the goal, and that's winning." How right he is.
Look at the track record -- the signings are amazing. … Joe Jurevicius, Chuck Darby, Bryce Fisher, Kevin Bentley, Josh Scobbey, Joe Tofoya, and Jimmy Williams all of them have been very valuable. And then I am not sure he will ever have another draft like this one. Lofa Tatupu and Leroy Hill plus Chris Spencer is showing all the signs of being a 5 to 10 year lineman.
The man should win Executive of the year
Walter Jones the best Seahawk ever
Is there a chance that Walter Jones is the greatest Seahawk of all time. I believe the consensus at the time is Steve Largent since he is a Hall of Famer. Jones will join him. Jones is going to his 6th pro bowl and in all likelihood will hit double digits before he is done. For three years now Jones is unquestionably the best at his position in the game. It was a story when he allowed a sack this year.
In contrast Largent was great. But he never lead the league in receptions, he lead the league in yardage twice. It might be a tough argument that he was the best wide receiver in the game during his career. Art Monk, John Stallworth, Wes Chandler for the early part of his career and by 1986 Jerry Rice. Don’t miss understand Largent was great. Hall of Famer. Probably the best.
I would still say there is a chance Walter Jones is the best Seahawk the franchise has ever seen.
Defense is better than people say
The Hawks defense is 4th in the NFL in pts allowed per game. Nothing else matters. The game is about not letting people score and they are 4th in the NFL at not allowing people to score.
Yes they are giving up yardage. No they are not dominant like the other teams in that category, but whatever the knack is they have it.
I think there are two things you have to realize about this defense.
One you call plays differently as a defense when the offense is as good as the Hawks is. You literally bend but don’t break. If you have a bad offensive then you have a responsibility as a defense to make a play, create points, force turnover, whatever it is and you player a higher risk style. The Hawks on the other hand don’t have to do that. They can play a more conservative approach and wait for you to make a mistake, because offensively it seems like they can score at will.
In addition, I don’t think this team is blessed with amazing athletes and speed defensively so when the field gets smaller they do a better job and are harder to penetrate. In addition, they are much stouter on the run when they don’t have to protect their corners as much in the red zone.
Really only one thing matters – points allowed and no matter how they are doing it they are darn good at it.
Ruskell - Executive of the Year
It is time to sign the praises of Tim Ruskell again. What he has done in one year is remarkable. He sent the defense packing and a few other bad apples and most of them aren’t even playing in the NFL anymore.
Then he filled the gaps and their were a ton of gaps to be filled. The most impressive thing he didn’t fill the gaps only on the top line he found a way to fill the gaps two and three layers deep. It is really awesome. This team has had a good deal of injuries and they have bounced back remarkably well.
Holmgren was asked about this on Monday and he sited the leadership. Far enough, but the player personnel department that has used every roster spot to its maximum deserves credit.
Heck if it is leadership, maybe they deserve credit there. Go back to Ruskell’s opening press conference and he said the following .. I believe one of the keys that doesn't get talked about enough is unifying. People working together where there are no walls, where there are no agendas, where everybody has a common focus on the goal, and that's winning." How right he is.
Look at the track record -- the signings are amazing. … Joe Jurevicius, Chuck Darby, Bryce Fisher, Kevin Bentley, Josh Scobbey, Joe Tofoya, and Jimmy Williams all of them have been very valuable. And then I am not sure he will ever have another draft like this one. Lofa Tatupu and Leroy Hill plus Chris Spencer is showing all the signs of being a 5 to 10 year lineman.
The man should win Executive of the year
Walter Jones the best Seahawk ever
Is there a chance that Walter Jones is the greatest Seahawk of all time. I believe the consensus at the time is Steve Largent since he is a Hall of Famer. Jones will join him. Jones is going to his 6th pro bowl and in all likelihood will hit double digits before he is done. For three years now Jones is unquestionably the best at his position in the game. It was a story when he allowed a sack this year.
In contrast Largent was great. But he never lead the league in receptions, he lead the league in yardage twice. It might be a tough argument that he was the best wide receiver in the game during his career. Art Monk, John Stallworth, Wes Chandler for the early part of his career and by 1986 Jerry Rice. Don’t miss understand Largent was great. Hall of Famer. Probably the best.
I would still say there is a chance Walter Jones is the best Seahawk the franchise has ever seen.
Monday, December 26, 2005
SIMULBLOG OF SONICS V. CELTICS
Sonics 118 Celtics 111 FINAL SCORE
Great nights for Flip, Danny and Reggie.
Lewis really has become a go to guy all-star.
The Sonics go to play is Lewis in the post.
Weiss deserves great credit for his plays out of time-outs tonight and the defensive adjustment to go to Wilkins in the 4th Quarter to guard Pierce.
Big shot by Nick Collison will be the dagger.
Sonics are without their top 3 point guards to finish the game, Ridnour, Murray and Brunson all out
Ray Allen is 3 of 13 and the Sonics have scored 118 points.
Flip Murray leaves West, who ends up hitting an open 3, to dig at Paul Pierce on a drive and dislocates his finger. To make it all the more bizaree is that Murray didn't stay on the floor he ran to the locker-room with playing still going on. The Sonics get the ball stolen and that gives the C's a 5 on 4 break and they can't score.
Sonics 109 Celtics 105 with 3:09 left in the 4th Quarter
Wilkins is really working on hard on Pierce
The Celtics have abadndonded the high pick and roll that was effective in the 1st half.
Sonics are working Damien Wilkins in the post being guarded by a much smaller Delonte West. They have scored on 2 of three possessions with that play.
Sonics 101 Celtics 101 with 5:30 left in the 4th Quarter
Celtics go into the bonus at 5:30 mark. Now Pierce, Davis and Banks become very tough to guard.
Rashard Lewis just did a great job on the defensive end. Lewis blocked Davis drive and forced the pass out to Bank and Lewis was the one closing out on the shot. Great effort.
Sonics are working hard to keep the ball to the baseline
The Sonics offense has gone south. Flip missed Lewis having a mismatch with Banks on him and never let him get to the post for the easy look.
Celtics 97 Sonics 96 with 7:52 left in the 4th Quarter
Paul Pierce returns and the Celtics have gone small and Pierce is playing the 4.
Wilkins enters the game for the first time to guard Pierce.
Fortson has to leave the game due to match-ups.
Sonics 92 Celtics 90 with 10:19 left in the 4th quarter
Sonics have committed two fouls on the first two possessions, that is not looking good for staying out of the bonus.
Do the Sonics have the confidence to make the plays down the stretch?
Sonics 90 Celtics 83 at the end of 3rd Quarter
Sonics put 40 points on the board in the 3rd Quarter
Flip was great offensively and he worked on the defensive end. He had 18 points, 7 for 7 from the field.
Reggie had a brilliant quarter
This is a great match-up for Flip because the Celtics points are terrible defensively and they aren’t a part of the offense as it runs through Pierce and Davis.
The key to the 4th Quarter will be staying out of the bonus for as long as possible
Sonics 82 Celtics 73 with 2:05 left in the 3rd Quarter
Sonics on a 20 to 2
Cetlics have scored on just 2 of last 12 possessions. The Sonics are getting the Celtics to take the shots the Sonics want and the Celtics are forcing.
The Sonics eliminated the Celtics early offense by scoring on each possession.
Flip is attacking the Celtics at their weakest defensive position point guard where Ridnour was not able to. Flip has 21 points.
Offensively Flip is something the Celtics can’t handle.
Sonics 70 Celtics 69 with 6:17 left in the 3rd Quarter
Great energy from the Sonics early in this quarter and most of it from Reggie
Pierce was just in the post on Allen and the Sonics didn’t come to double. Are you kidding?
Why does Reggie Evans make every move with his left hand but shoot his free throws with his right hand?
Celtics have scored on their first 6 possessions
Sonics have answered and scored on 10 of 11 possessions in the Quarter
Reggie Evans just hit another 16 footer. I must admit Reggie has done more offensively tonight then I ever thought I would see in his entire career.
Celtics 61 Sonics 54 with 10:41 left in the 3rd Quarter
Luke Ridnour does not come out for the second half. Flip starts and Luke is not on the bench. He got sick after the loss to Dallas and this may still be affecting him.
Flip Murray’s defense is a miracle. West just got an easy lay-up on the most basic give and go but Murray was no where close.
Luke will not return he has nausea
Celtics 47 Sonics 44 with 3:16 left in the 2nd Quarter
Sonics starting guards are a combined 0 for 9 from the field.
Lewis leaves with three fouls at the 4:16 mark
The Sonics game plan on Pierce is having no impact. He is not getting the ball where they anticipated. He is working from straight away rather then the wing and he is cutting and getting the ball in the paint on the move rather then posting on a side. Sikma told us before the game that he is one of the versatile players in the NBA.
Celtics 40 Sonics 38 with 5:47 left in the 2nd Quarter
Bob Weiss has gone back to the line-up with Lewis at the 2. Radman is at the 3, with Nick and Danny and Flip at the point.
Forston has 10 points and 5 rebounds in 7 minutes
Sonics 31 Celtics 29 with 8:15 left in the 2nd Quarter
Danny Fortson is dominating the game.
Sonics on a 10-2 run with Fortson scoring 8 of those points.
Celtics 29 Sonics 28 with 8:41 left in the 2nd Quarter
In the 1st Quarter the Sonics were 8 of 22 from the field – 1 of 7 from the free throw line and 0 for 8 from behind the arc.
Fortson factor – Sonics are making a run here in the early part of the quarter.
The things Flip misses when he is on the floor with his lack of court vision are remarkable.
Celtics 23 Sonics 17 at the end of the 1st Quarter
The Lewis at the 2 was short lived as Lew got his second foul. It was +1 when it was on the floor.
If the game gets boring I have two seriously gabby women behind me so it could be fun to blog their comments
One of them just said her husband is such a bad shopper that she just bought what she wanted and wrapped and put it under the tree for herself.
Sonics just missed 4 free throws on one possession. Two by Flip and two by Reggie.
Danny enters with the Sonics down by -7
Another no pass possession by Flip and he missed the shot.
Celtics 20 Sonics 14 with 2:20 left in the 1st Quarter
Ray Allen opens the game 0 for 5
Bob Weiss has shown a new line-up. It has Rashard at the 2 with Vlady at the 3 and Reggie and Nick up front. Flip is the point. This is the first time we have seen Lewis at the 2. I would think this works better with a true point guard in Luke. Celtics lead 18-12 when Weiss went to this line-up.
Celtics 16 Sonics 8 with 5:52 left in the 1st Quarter
Defense on Allen off the pick and roll looks like a blast, which is a full double of Allen.
This is a very quick game.
How a guy can come out of high school and go pro with as little offensive game as Kendrick Perkins is amazing.
Reggie Evans just hit a 16 footer from the free throw line and then hit a fade away back to the basket turnaround post shot. If you didn’t know better you would think he is a offensive powerhouse
Both Ray Allen and Ricky Davis should have big offensive games because they are being guarded by each other and neither of them can defend. Ray has had three good looks and missed all of them, Davis on the other hand has beaten Ray badly for two buckets.
Sonics look very poor early in this game.
Pretty clear why the Sonics are struggling. They have a serious point guard problem. Check out the comparision from last season with the on floor performance of the Sonics guards other then Ray Allen.
Sonics Point Guard Issue
+/- per 48 minutes (overall +/-)
Ridnour – 4.4 (-78)
Murray –10.4 (-81)
Cleaves –10.7 (-36)
Total = -195
Last Season
Daniels +4.8 (204)
Ridnour even for the season (+2)
Murray –7 (-128)
Total = 78
Great nights for Flip, Danny and Reggie.
Lewis really has become a go to guy all-star.
The Sonics go to play is Lewis in the post.
Weiss deserves great credit for his plays out of time-outs tonight and the defensive adjustment to go to Wilkins in the 4th Quarter to guard Pierce.
Big shot by Nick Collison will be the dagger.
Sonics are without their top 3 point guards to finish the game, Ridnour, Murray and Brunson all out
Ray Allen is 3 of 13 and the Sonics have scored 118 points.
Flip Murray leaves West, who ends up hitting an open 3, to dig at Paul Pierce on a drive and dislocates his finger. To make it all the more bizaree is that Murray didn't stay on the floor he ran to the locker-room with playing still going on. The Sonics get the ball stolen and that gives the C's a 5 on 4 break and they can't score.
Sonics 109 Celtics 105 with 3:09 left in the 4th Quarter
Wilkins is really working on hard on Pierce
The Celtics have abadndonded the high pick and roll that was effective in the 1st half.
Sonics are working Damien Wilkins in the post being guarded by a much smaller Delonte West. They have scored on 2 of three possessions with that play.
Sonics 101 Celtics 101 with 5:30 left in the 4th Quarter
Celtics go into the bonus at 5:30 mark. Now Pierce, Davis and Banks become very tough to guard.
Rashard Lewis just did a great job on the defensive end. Lewis blocked Davis drive and forced the pass out to Bank and Lewis was the one closing out on the shot. Great effort.
Sonics are working hard to keep the ball to the baseline
The Sonics offense has gone south. Flip missed Lewis having a mismatch with Banks on him and never let him get to the post for the easy look.
Celtics 97 Sonics 96 with 7:52 left in the 4th Quarter
Paul Pierce returns and the Celtics have gone small and Pierce is playing the 4.
Wilkins enters the game for the first time to guard Pierce.
Fortson has to leave the game due to match-ups.
Sonics 92 Celtics 90 with 10:19 left in the 4th quarter
Sonics have committed two fouls on the first two possessions, that is not looking good for staying out of the bonus.
Do the Sonics have the confidence to make the plays down the stretch?
Sonics 90 Celtics 83 at the end of 3rd Quarter
Sonics put 40 points on the board in the 3rd Quarter
Flip was great offensively and he worked on the defensive end. He had 18 points, 7 for 7 from the field.
Reggie had a brilliant quarter
This is a great match-up for Flip because the Celtics points are terrible defensively and they aren’t a part of the offense as it runs through Pierce and Davis.
The key to the 4th Quarter will be staying out of the bonus for as long as possible
Sonics 82 Celtics 73 with 2:05 left in the 3rd Quarter
Sonics on a 20 to 2
Cetlics have scored on just 2 of last 12 possessions. The Sonics are getting the Celtics to take the shots the Sonics want and the Celtics are forcing.
The Sonics eliminated the Celtics early offense by scoring on each possession.
Flip is attacking the Celtics at their weakest defensive position point guard where Ridnour was not able to. Flip has 21 points.
Offensively Flip is something the Celtics can’t handle.
Sonics 70 Celtics 69 with 6:17 left in the 3rd Quarter
Great energy from the Sonics early in this quarter and most of it from Reggie
Pierce was just in the post on Allen and the Sonics didn’t come to double. Are you kidding?
Why does Reggie Evans make every move with his left hand but shoot his free throws with his right hand?
Celtics have scored on their first 6 possessions
Sonics have answered and scored on 10 of 11 possessions in the Quarter
Reggie Evans just hit another 16 footer. I must admit Reggie has done more offensively tonight then I ever thought I would see in his entire career.
Celtics 61 Sonics 54 with 10:41 left in the 3rd Quarter
Luke Ridnour does not come out for the second half. Flip starts and Luke is not on the bench. He got sick after the loss to Dallas and this may still be affecting him.
Flip Murray’s defense is a miracle. West just got an easy lay-up on the most basic give and go but Murray was no where close.
Luke will not return he has nausea
Celtics 47 Sonics 44 with 3:16 left in the 2nd Quarter
Sonics starting guards are a combined 0 for 9 from the field.
Lewis leaves with three fouls at the 4:16 mark
The Sonics game plan on Pierce is having no impact. He is not getting the ball where they anticipated. He is working from straight away rather then the wing and he is cutting and getting the ball in the paint on the move rather then posting on a side. Sikma told us before the game that he is one of the versatile players in the NBA.
Celtics 40 Sonics 38 with 5:47 left in the 2nd Quarter
Bob Weiss has gone back to the line-up with Lewis at the 2. Radman is at the 3, with Nick and Danny and Flip at the point.
Forston has 10 points and 5 rebounds in 7 minutes
Sonics 31 Celtics 29 with 8:15 left in the 2nd Quarter
Danny Fortson is dominating the game.
Sonics on a 10-2 run with Fortson scoring 8 of those points.
Celtics 29 Sonics 28 with 8:41 left in the 2nd Quarter
In the 1st Quarter the Sonics were 8 of 22 from the field – 1 of 7 from the free throw line and 0 for 8 from behind the arc.
Fortson factor – Sonics are making a run here in the early part of the quarter.
The things Flip misses when he is on the floor with his lack of court vision are remarkable.
Celtics 23 Sonics 17 at the end of the 1st Quarter
The Lewis at the 2 was short lived as Lew got his second foul. It was +1 when it was on the floor.
If the game gets boring I have two seriously gabby women behind me so it could be fun to blog their comments
One of them just said her husband is such a bad shopper that she just bought what she wanted and wrapped and put it under the tree for herself.
Sonics just missed 4 free throws on one possession. Two by Flip and two by Reggie.
Danny enters with the Sonics down by -7
Another no pass possession by Flip and he missed the shot.
Celtics 20 Sonics 14 with 2:20 left in the 1st Quarter
Ray Allen opens the game 0 for 5
Bob Weiss has shown a new line-up. It has Rashard at the 2 with Vlady at the 3 and Reggie and Nick up front. Flip is the point. This is the first time we have seen Lewis at the 2. I would think this works better with a true point guard in Luke. Celtics lead 18-12 when Weiss went to this line-up.
Celtics 16 Sonics 8 with 5:52 left in the 1st Quarter
Defense on Allen off the pick and roll looks like a blast, which is a full double of Allen.
This is a very quick game.
How a guy can come out of high school and go pro with as little offensive game as Kendrick Perkins is amazing.
Reggie Evans just hit a 16 footer from the free throw line and then hit a fade away back to the basket turnaround post shot. If you didn’t know better you would think he is a offensive powerhouse
Both Ray Allen and Ricky Davis should have big offensive games because they are being guarded by each other and neither of them can defend. Ray has had three good looks and missed all of them, Davis on the other hand has beaten Ray badly for two buckets.
Sonics look very poor early in this game.
Pretty clear why the Sonics are struggling. They have a serious point guard problem. Check out the comparision from last season with the on floor performance of the Sonics guards other then Ray Allen.
Sonics Point Guard Issue
+/- per 48 minutes (overall +/-)
Ridnour – 4.4 (-78)
Murray –10.4 (-81)
Cleaves –10.7 (-36)
Total = -195
Last Season
Daniels +4.8 (204)
Ridnour even for the season (+2)
Murray –7 (-128)
Total = 78
MONDAY'S WITH MIKE HOLMGREN
Mike Holmgren’s press conference today was fantastic. Holmgren’s pressers are one of the best part of my year. He is insightful, straightforward and interesting.
Today was particularly outstanding. Here are the highlights.
· The quote of the press conference was, “I have been fortunate enough to coach 3 hall of fame quarterbacks, and maybe 4, let’s hope so.” Wow that is quite a comment. My article in the PI this week will be about Holmgren the QB maker.
· Holmgren talked a lot about the great leadership he has inside the locker-room this year as what has separated the team. His first inkling of it was after the Jacksonville game and how the team reacted and came out and played against Atlanta. He was very concerned after the Jacksonville lose but the club responded and after the Atlanta win he could tell their was a different maturity in their reaction.
· Also, he comments that you never expect rookies to take the leadership role and it has been phenomenal. No question he is referring to Lofa.
· His biggest concern for the team is health.
· Matt Hasselbeck will play on Sunday. Nothing sounded definite, but it sounds as though the healthy regulars will go for a few series and then take a seat.
· Injuried players who will not play are Andre Dyson, Kelly Herndon and Marcus Trufant. D-Jack, Darby, DD Lewis, John Howell and Joe Tofoya are unlikely to play.
· Shaun Alexander has had a death in the family, his mom’s sister, so he will have a “different” week. It sounds like he will head back to Cincy at some point.
· Holmgren said he would like to get Alexander the record.
· Marcus Trufant will be ok for the playoffs, he has a back contusion.
· We talked a lot about retirement with the foucs on Farve. I asked how do these guys ever retire considering what an insane rush the NFL is. Holmgren said it is three part, the body just can’t handle the Monday morning pain, as you get older and the changes start to happen the locker-room environment is not the same and lastly your kids start to get older and you weigh everything differently.
· He shared that he counseled Jerry Rice at the end of the year and told him to retire, but Rice still wanted to play.
Hope you get a feel for how great that was.
HOW DOES MILLWOOD'S DEAL COMPARE TO WASHBURN'S
Kevin Millwood has signed with the Texas Rangers for a reported 5 year 60 million dollar deal.
The Rangers can void the 5th year if Millwood doesn’t reach certain number of innings in the early years of the contract. Those details have not been released. Those are the security clauses that you want your team to get when they sign a pitcher for 4 years or more.
Millwood’s deal averages 12 million a year. If the last year is around the 12 million mark, it is likely that it may be a bit more, then the contract is essentially a 4 year 48 million dollar contract.
I don’t like the Washburn signing. It reeks of a desperate team going and grabbing whatever is available regardless of price, impact and smarts. That said I would rather sign Washburn to the contract the Mariners did then the Rangers to the contract Millwood did.
On a side note, the Rangers also added Adam Eaton in the off-season.
Friday, December 23, 2005
SIMULBLOG SONICS V. MAVS
Mavs 101 Sonics 98 FINAL SCORE
The Sonics choked. They simply played awful basketball late in the game.
The amount of mistakes were staggering.
So many things were done well tonight. The overall defense on Dirk. The play with Ray Allen on the bench. The use of Vlady as the 3. The ability to spread the floor again. Danny Fortson in control for the most part. The overall defense.
Instead it is another loss and another shot to a team that has no confidence.
Mavs 99 Sonics 95 with :08.2 seconds left.
Flip Murray just committed a complete bonehead play. He left Jason Terry to guard a covered cutter leaving Terry wide open for a three and the Sonics lose.
One team knew how to make plays late and the other didn’t.
This is another terrible loss. The Sonics have no confidence down the stretch.
The Mavericks knew how to play the game late and the Sonics didn’t.
Mavs 96 Sonics 95 with 34.3 seconds left in the 4th quarter
Lewis made a great block on Dirk but then Ridnour threw the ball away in the open court and the Mavs dunk for the lead.
Ridnour followed one mistake with another compounding the problem.
He airballed the next possession. He should never be shooting.
Sonics 89 Mavs 88 with 3:43 left in the 4th Quarter.
Sonics are closing with Ridnour, Allen, Lewis, Radman and Collison
Mavs are living at the free throw line.
Dirk has 10 in the Quarter
Sonics 89 Mavs 83 with 4:52 left in the 4th Quarter
When Vlady is at the 3, Flip has more room and can be more effective offensively.
Mavs score their first points of the Quarter at 7:28 mark
Mavs get their first field goal at the 6:28 mark. They had not scored a field goal since the 2:00 mark of the 3rd
Sonics go on a 13-0 run
Dirk is so good. He is simply unguardable. He has buried back to back 17 footers and the defense was as good as it can be.
Sonics 83 Mavs 75 with 10:01 left in the 4th Quarter
Great surge to open the 4th Quarter
Vlady is playing the 3 and getting great looks and is on fire.
7-0 run to open the Q
Nowitzki is on the bench to open the Quarter thus far in the game the Mavs are -17 when he is on the bench. In comparison, the Sonics are +2 with Ray on the bench.
Sonics 76 Mavs 75 at the end of the 3rd Quarter.
Another big play where Collison didn’t have the hand strength to hold the ball.
The more Stackhouse plays the better for the Sonics
Devin Harris is out with an upset stomach. This is bad for the Sonics because it leaves Howard at the 2.
Ray Allen went to the bench at 71-71 with 3:20 and the Sonics were +1 again.
Sonics 71 Mavs 71 with 3:20 left in the 3rd Quarter
The defense with Vitaly on the floor tonight has been very good
Dirk had no help in the first half, but Josh Howard has 13 points in the 3rd to help the Mavs
Keeping this game close is unnerving when Dirk plays for the other team.
Howard is taking Ridnour to the post and killing the Sonics.
Ray Allen just went on another one of his adventures and threw it away
Sonics 66 Mavs 56 with 6:37 left in the 3rd Quarter
Luke returns for the second half
Dallas has 3 team fouls at the 11:03 mark
Lewis is stepping in the passing lanes and getting a steal or two a night
Ray Allen gets the Sonics first three at 7:50 in the 3rd
The defensive effort is good tonight.
The Sonics are working hard.
Sonics 52 Mavs 46 at the half
Luke Ridnour went down after getting hit in the shoulder and was in considerable pain.
Flip Murray and Cleaves will be the point guards until he comes back.
Ray Allen is just 2 of 9.
Vlady has been terrific on both ends of the floor.
Valdy and Danny were the key to the second quarter.
Sonics 48 Mavs 39 with 2:44 in the 2nd Quarter
Danny Fortson has been able to stay on the floor which is enormous.
The ref made a poor call on Danny and I am convinced when they went the other way the official told Weiss “my bad.”
Sonics have been unreal on the offensive end. They have scored on all but 4 trips this quarter.
Sonics 41 Mavs 33 with 5:29 left in the 2nd Quarter
In the pre-game we mentioned the only time the Mavs struggle is with Dirk on the floor and the Sonics just went on a 14-4 run with Dirk on the bench.
Sonics scored on 10 straight possessions
The game changed the minute Dirk came back in the game.
Sonics were +10 with Dirk on the bench and the Sonics were +1 with Allen on the bench that is the difference in the game
Sonics 35 Mavs 24 with 7:30 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Sonics biggest defensive problem is they allow guys to just run their cuts. They never impede the cutters across the lane or around the baseline.
Vlady is in as the back-up three. I like this move.
Lewis enters at the 2 with Vlady at the 3 and Fortson and Collison up front
14-4 to open quarter
Sonics 21 Mavs 20 at the end of the 1st Quarter
Holding the Mavs to 20 points classifies as defense.
The Sonics stayed even with Allen on the bench.
Sonics 18 Mavs 16 with 1:18 left in the 1st Quarter
The weakness in Dirk’s game is defense. It was obvious when Vitaly drove at Dirk and he was too slow to react and reached. He was too slow on Vitaly.
Is there a better pick and roll then Terry and Nowitzki?
I have been watching Nick Collison’s hands and I am amazed at how often the ball is ripped out of his hands and how often he can’t keep the handle.
Ray Allen out with two fouls (3:22 and up 1). The Sonics have been a disaster when Allen is on the bench, in fact they with Allen on the bench no team has been worse then the Sonics.
Sonics 12 Mavs 6 with 7:17 left in the 1st Quarter
First 12 points all Sonics come in the paint. The sonics game plan was to get to the second line of defense. Ralph Lewis told us on the pre-game that the second line of defense is weak and it has shown to be.
Mavs are blasting the pick and roll with Allen, which means they are doubling Allen everytime he comes off the pick.
Reggie Evans has the match up on Dirk but he is not playing the systems the Sonics wanted in their game plan. Dirk has 4 points and has been left open twice.
Some interesting numbers.
SONICS
Reggie Evans continues to amaze -- career-high 21 points and season-high-tying 18 rebounds. Last 5 games he is averaging 12 points and 9 rebounds
Ray Allen last 5 games 28 points a game –22 of 42 from 3
Luke 3 of his last 15 from 3 and 19 of his last 60 from the field
Damien Wilkins is 1 of his last 10 over the past 4 games
5-1 on Fridays compared to 0-6 on Tuesdays
MAVERICKS
Dallas brings the toughest match-up in the NBA-Dirk (37-10 last night)
In wins Dirk averages 29 pts and in losses 19 pts in game and in wins he shots 49% and in losses he shots 37%
Jason Terry continues to prosper. 28 of his last 59 from 3.
The Mavericks are off to the second-best start in franchise history.
The Mavericks have won nine of their last 11 games
Last 6 games opponents are scoring 102 pts per game
The Sonics choked. They simply played awful basketball late in the game.
The amount of mistakes were staggering.
So many things were done well tonight. The overall defense on Dirk. The play with Ray Allen on the bench. The use of Vlady as the 3. The ability to spread the floor again. Danny Fortson in control for the most part. The overall defense.
Instead it is another loss and another shot to a team that has no confidence.
Mavs 99 Sonics 95 with :08.2 seconds left.
Flip Murray just committed a complete bonehead play. He left Jason Terry to guard a covered cutter leaving Terry wide open for a three and the Sonics lose.
One team knew how to make plays late and the other didn’t.
This is another terrible loss. The Sonics have no confidence down the stretch.
The Mavericks knew how to play the game late and the Sonics didn’t.
Mavs 96 Sonics 95 with 34.3 seconds left in the 4th quarter
Lewis made a great block on Dirk but then Ridnour threw the ball away in the open court and the Mavs dunk for the lead.
Ridnour followed one mistake with another compounding the problem.
He airballed the next possession. He should never be shooting.
Sonics 89 Mavs 88 with 3:43 left in the 4th Quarter.
Sonics are closing with Ridnour, Allen, Lewis, Radman and Collison
Mavs are living at the free throw line.
Dirk has 10 in the Quarter
Sonics 89 Mavs 83 with 4:52 left in the 4th Quarter
When Vlady is at the 3, Flip has more room and can be more effective offensively.
Mavs score their first points of the Quarter at 7:28 mark
Mavs get their first field goal at the 6:28 mark. They had not scored a field goal since the 2:00 mark of the 3rd
Sonics go on a 13-0 run
Dirk is so good. He is simply unguardable. He has buried back to back 17 footers and the defense was as good as it can be.
Sonics 83 Mavs 75 with 10:01 left in the 4th Quarter
Great surge to open the 4th Quarter
Vlady is playing the 3 and getting great looks and is on fire.
7-0 run to open the Q
Nowitzki is on the bench to open the Quarter thus far in the game the Mavs are -17 when he is on the bench. In comparison, the Sonics are +2 with Ray on the bench.
Sonics 76 Mavs 75 at the end of the 3rd Quarter.
Another big play where Collison didn’t have the hand strength to hold the ball.
The more Stackhouse plays the better for the Sonics
Devin Harris is out with an upset stomach. This is bad for the Sonics because it leaves Howard at the 2.
Ray Allen went to the bench at 71-71 with 3:20 and the Sonics were +1 again.
Sonics 71 Mavs 71 with 3:20 left in the 3rd Quarter
The defense with Vitaly on the floor tonight has been very good
Dirk had no help in the first half, but Josh Howard has 13 points in the 3rd to help the Mavs
Keeping this game close is unnerving when Dirk plays for the other team.
Howard is taking Ridnour to the post and killing the Sonics.
Ray Allen just went on another one of his adventures and threw it away
Sonics 66 Mavs 56 with 6:37 left in the 3rd Quarter
Luke returns for the second half
Dallas has 3 team fouls at the 11:03 mark
Lewis is stepping in the passing lanes and getting a steal or two a night
Ray Allen gets the Sonics first three at 7:50 in the 3rd
The defensive effort is good tonight.
The Sonics are working hard.
Sonics 52 Mavs 46 at the half
Luke Ridnour went down after getting hit in the shoulder and was in considerable pain.
Flip Murray and Cleaves will be the point guards until he comes back.
Ray Allen is just 2 of 9.
Vlady has been terrific on both ends of the floor.
Valdy and Danny were the key to the second quarter.
Sonics 48 Mavs 39 with 2:44 in the 2nd Quarter
Danny Fortson has been able to stay on the floor which is enormous.
The ref made a poor call on Danny and I am convinced when they went the other way the official told Weiss “my bad.”
Sonics have been unreal on the offensive end. They have scored on all but 4 trips this quarter.
Sonics 41 Mavs 33 with 5:29 left in the 2nd Quarter
In the pre-game we mentioned the only time the Mavs struggle is with Dirk on the floor and the Sonics just went on a 14-4 run with Dirk on the bench.
Sonics scored on 10 straight possessions
The game changed the minute Dirk came back in the game.
Sonics were +10 with Dirk on the bench and the Sonics were +1 with Allen on the bench that is the difference in the game
Sonics 35 Mavs 24 with 7:30 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Sonics biggest defensive problem is they allow guys to just run their cuts. They never impede the cutters across the lane or around the baseline.
Vlady is in as the back-up three. I like this move.
Lewis enters at the 2 with Vlady at the 3 and Fortson and Collison up front
14-4 to open quarter
Sonics 21 Mavs 20 at the end of the 1st Quarter
Holding the Mavs to 20 points classifies as defense.
The Sonics stayed even with Allen on the bench.
Sonics 18 Mavs 16 with 1:18 left in the 1st Quarter
The weakness in Dirk’s game is defense. It was obvious when Vitaly drove at Dirk and he was too slow to react and reached. He was too slow on Vitaly.
Is there a better pick and roll then Terry and Nowitzki?
I have been watching Nick Collison’s hands and I am amazed at how often the ball is ripped out of his hands and how often he can’t keep the handle.
Ray Allen out with two fouls (3:22 and up 1). The Sonics have been a disaster when Allen is on the bench, in fact they with Allen on the bench no team has been worse then the Sonics.
Sonics 12 Mavs 6 with 7:17 left in the 1st Quarter
First 12 points all Sonics come in the paint. The sonics game plan was to get to the second line of defense. Ralph Lewis told us on the pre-game that the second line of defense is weak and it has shown to be.
Mavs are blasting the pick and roll with Allen, which means they are doubling Allen everytime he comes off the pick.
Reggie Evans has the match up on Dirk but he is not playing the systems the Sonics wanted in their game plan. Dirk has 4 points and has been left open twice.
Some interesting numbers.
SONICS
Reggie Evans continues to amaze -- career-high 21 points and season-high-tying 18 rebounds. Last 5 games he is averaging 12 points and 9 rebounds
Ray Allen last 5 games 28 points a game –22 of 42 from 3
Luke 3 of his last 15 from 3 and 19 of his last 60 from the field
Damien Wilkins is 1 of his last 10 over the past 4 games
5-1 on Fridays compared to 0-6 on Tuesdays
MAVERICKS
Dallas brings the toughest match-up in the NBA-Dirk (37-10 last night)
In wins Dirk averages 29 pts and in losses 19 pts in game and in wins he shots 49% and in losses he shots 37%
Jason Terry continues to prosper. 28 of his last 59 from 3.
The Mavericks are off to the second-best start in franchise history.
The Mavericks have won nine of their last 11 games
Last 6 games opponents are scoring 102 pts per game
SONICS +/- PER 48 MINUTES
Sonics +/- per 48 minutes
Forston +6.8
Allen .6
Collison –1.4
Lewis –2.4
Radman –3.3
Ridnour –3.9
Evans –4.5
Potapenko –5.1
Petro –10.3
Wilkins –12.0
Murray –12.4
Moore -31.4
Swift -51.0
Thursday, December 22, 2005
MARINERS NEWEST STERIOD ABUSER MATT LAWTON
Today the leading steriod abuser franchise in Major League Baseball, the Seattle Mariners, added another one in Matt Lawton. The spin machine is working in full force today around his steriod use last season.
If you listen to everyone around Matt Lawton today including himself they are trying to tell you that he is very sorry for taking the steroids and that it is really ok because it was only for one game and it was just because of the pain. His agent quote is great … 'Hey, if I did it all season and hit 30 home runs, it would be something different. … No really it wouldn’t be any different. MATT LAWTON KNOWINGLY CHEATED. He was willing to cheat the game, the rules, and his fellow teammates to get on the playoff roster.
It is not an issue of the impact. It is an issue of the character of the individual who decides that it is ok to forsake all the rules and cheat for your own personal well being. The spin master are trying to dilute the story with all sorts of different thoughts, the length of time, his honesty, etc. All of that is irrelevant. Matt Lawton made a conscience knowing decision to cheat, to cheat in the most obvious way. That is all that needs to be known.
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
A DARK DEPRESSING SONICS OUTLOOK
On the darkest day of the year I have a very dark forecast for the Seattle Supersonics. Today I did a tremendous amount of statistical and historical statistical research on trends in the NBA. The numbers paint an ominous picture of what is about to take place for the Sonics. If you believe in numbers and you believe in statistical trends then the Sonics are on the threshold of a tremendous fall.
Here is what I found.
First, since 1988, year the Minnesota Timberwolves entered the NBA no team has had a defensive rating as bad as the Sonics current rating of 114.6. Defensive rating is figured as points allowed per 100 possessions.
The only teams that were anywhere close are as follows …..
30 teams since 1988 have had a defensive rating worse then 110. Three of those teams managed to get to 41 wins but none were above .500
Year Team Def Rating Wins
05-06 Sonics 114.6 ??
92-93 Mavericks 114.3 11
90-91 Nuggets 113.2 20
95-96 76ers 111.6 18
94-95 Pistons 111.6 28
89-90 Magic 111.6 18
97-98 Grizzlies 111.3 19
97-98 Nuggets 111.1 11
94-95 Wolves 111.1 21
The only real way to judge a defensive team from one year to the next is to judge them in relation to the league average. This accounts for increases and decreases in scoring trends. The Sonics defensive rating is 114.6 and the league average is 102.6. Therefore the Sonics are a –12.
Again this is the worst of any team in the NBA since the 1988 season and maybe longer.
Here are the other terrible teams and their success rate …..
Year Team Def to Avg Wins
05-06 Sonics -12 ???
99-00 Clippers -10.46 15
99-00 Warriors -9.22 19
92-93 Mavericks -9.21 11
97-98 Grizzlies -8.63 19
99-00 Grizzlies -8.63 22
03-04 Magic -8.59 21
99-00 Bucks -8.49 42
90-91 Nuggets -8.49 20
97-98 Nuggets -8.39 11
The only team that won more then 22 games was Ray Allen’s Milwaukee Bucks.
None of this accounts for how good the Sonics are offensively. Therefore, I looked at efficiency differential, offensive efficiency minus defensive efficiency and charted 16 years of efficiency differential and its correlation to wins. The Sonics currently have an efficiency differential of –7.2, 4th worst in the league. History says that over the past 16 years teams with a –7.2 win between 21 and 28 games.
The most alarming findings were the following over the last 16 years …
No team with an efficiency differential of –7 or worse has ever won 30 games.
No team with an efficiency differential of –6 or worse has ever won 35 games.
No team with an efficiency differential of –5 or worse has ever won 37 games.
No team with an efficiency differential of –4 or worse has ever won 39 games.
What does all this gobbley gook mean? If this team does not alter the way they are playing in a gargantuan fashion they are on going to go on a slide we have rarely seen. A slide that could mean losing as many as 70% of the rest of their games.
FOXSports.com - NBA- Sonics struggling to regain magic of last year
Charley Rosen writes a breakdown of last night's game. Much of what he says is dead on. The most interesting is how surprised he was by Allen's weaknesses. Those are Allen's weaknesses and for what ever reason they are more prevelant this season. He is not a good ball-handler, he gets in trouble off the dribble and he doesn't defend. Those have always existed.
Otherwise, he still believes last year's team played up-tempo when they played slow which I believe is the largest change from last year and maybe the biggest reason for the struggles.
FOXSports.com - NBA- Sonics struggling to regain magic of last year: "Let's see now ... Jerome James is buried deep in Larry Brown's dog house. Antonio Daniels has thus far been a bust with the Wizards. And Nate McMillian's Blazers are even worse than the Sonics.
Blame the Sonics' woes, then, on evaporated chemistry, over-blown long-range contracts, and a failure to adequately refurbish the roster."
Otherwise, he still believes last year's team played up-tempo when they played slow which I believe is the largest change from last year and maybe the biggest reason for the struggles.
FOXSports.com - NBA- Sonics struggling to regain magic of last year: "Let's see now ... Jerome James is buried deep in Larry Brown's dog house. Antonio Daniels has thus far been a bust with the Wizards. And Nate McMillian's Blazers are even worse than the Sonics.
Blame the Sonics' woes, then, on evaporated chemistry, over-blown long-range contracts, and a failure to adequately refurbish the roster."
HAWKS HAVE FIVE PRO-BOWLERS
Fantastic news today out of the NFL, five Seahawks players will be representing the NFC in the Pro-Bowl. The selections of Matt Hasselback, Shaun Alexander, Steve Hutchinson and Walter Jones were obvious and deserving.
The most exciting news is that Mack Strong has finally been recognized for being a pro-bowl player.
Strong has played his entire career hidden in Seattle. This is a wonderful accomplishment for a wonderful man. Strong sacrifices at a level that may not be equaled by any player in the NFL. He is Alexander’s personnel protector and deserves as much credit for the yardage records, the red zone success and amazing running games.
This is another reminder of how deadly the Hawks are when they run over the left side. They have a pro-bowler hand off to a pro-bowler who gets a lead block from a pro-bowler running behind two pro-bowlers. Awesome.
Congrats to these five.
Locked on Sports: Hawks make defenses take lumps
Locked on Sports: Hawks make defenses take lumps: "Each week they prepare for the Seahawks' tendencies. They study film and form a game plan based on that knowledge.
That is tough enough. But when the Hawks' offensive staff draws up a play solely designed to blow up those patterns, the task becomes impossible.
That is exactly what the Hawks' offensive staff did on Shaun Alexander's 53-yard run Sunday on the second drive of the game."
That is tough enough. But when the Hawks' offensive staff draws up a play solely designed to blow up those patterns, the task becomes impossible.
That is exactly what the Hawks' offensive staff did on Shaun Alexander's 53-yard run Sunday on the second drive of the game."
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
SIMULBLOG SONICS V. SUNS
Suns 111 Sonics 83 -- Final Score
Suns 98 Suns 76 with 5:33 left in the 4th Quarter
This game is over.
Another blow out
Flip finishes the night -15 in16 minutes that is quite an accomplishment.
The Sonics have a serious point guard problem.
Suns 81 Sonics 66 at the end of 3 Quarters
Luke has a really poor 3rd quarter going 0 for 5 from the floor.
What a great defensive game plan when the Sonics main guys taking shots are Reggie Evans and Luke Ridnour
Sonics have become turnover prone in the Quarter.
The Suns are very good on ball defenders. Diaw and Bell are both terrific.
Just a side note – Flip was -2 in the Quarter. They were down 13 when he came in.
Suns 61 Sonics 49 with 9:04 left in the 3rd Quarter
Suns force three turnovers early in the third quarter
Luke Ridnour must become a better finisher in the open floor.
Suns 54 Sonics 44 at the half
Sonics are struggling to score against a good defensive team.
They are even when Flip is not on the floor.
Offense will be the key to the second half. The Sonics need to shoot free throws and make shots to slow down the Suns running.
Suns 46 Sonics 40 with 3:54 left in the 2nd Quarter
Reggie Evans has been unreal. He has 17 points and 12 rebounds. That is unreal. This is the first half. Amazing. He has been dominate.
Evans has dominated the glass and been a good offensive player in the post.
Yes that is not a Locke typo. Evans has been good offensively.
Thomas now has 4 fouls in the first half
Sonics 0 of 5 from 3
Danny Fortson is not with the team.
Flip is out and the Sonics are on a 7-0
Phoenix 46 Seattle 34 with 6:33 left in the 2nd Quarter
Same thing different night – Flip is basketball death
The Sonics were -10 when Flip was in the game.
This franchise ahs to make a trade tomorrow to get a back up point guard
Flip destroys everything. I mean everything.
Defensively he is the worst player in the NBA and that is hard to do considering who we compare him to on a nightly basis.
Offensively, he is so selfish that he sets off the selfish streak on all of teammates. For example, when he comes in and shoots on three of the first 4 possessions he is in the game, like he always does. Then Allen, who likes to get his shots, starts jacking up quick looks because he knows if he gives it up he will never see it. Then when Lewis comes back in he wants his looks. Flip sets off the selfish streak on all of his teammates. It works like this. If he is going to be selfish then so am I.
Suns 29 Sonics 24 at the end of the 1st Quarter
Offense left Seattle to close the Quarter
Flip Murray played the pound, pound, pound game and everyone else sat still
Nick Collison is in foul trouble again.
Sonics 20 Suns 19 with 2:50 left in the 1st Quarter
Luke is out with 2 fouls. Flip enters
If the Sonics stay with this style of defense and effort on defense they will be ok tonight.
Suns 14 Sonics 13 with 5:!4 left 1st Quarter
Reggie Evans just eliminated Kurt Thomas from the game. Evans drew three fouls from Thomas by the 9:00 mark of the game.
Sonics went to a zone and it has caused the Suns some issues.
Luke has two very good steals already. Also two great assists those were solely responsible for points
STORYLINES
1) The Suns are the #2 defensive team in the NBA. Believe it or not they have struggled to score. They rank #21 in the NBA offensively in the last 10 games.
2) Can the Sonics guard the pick n roll?
3) Sonics ability to handle the Suns switching defense.
4) Luke Ridnour v. Steve Nash
Suns 98 Suns 76 with 5:33 left in the 4th Quarter
This game is over.
Another blow out
Flip finishes the night -15 in16 minutes that is quite an accomplishment.
The Sonics have a serious point guard problem.
Suns 81 Sonics 66 at the end of 3 Quarters
Luke has a really poor 3rd quarter going 0 for 5 from the floor.
What a great defensive game plan when the Sonics main guys taking shots are Reggie Evans and Luke Ridnour
Sonics have become turnover prone in the Quarter.
The Suns are very good on ball defenders. Diaw and Bell are both terrific.
Just a side note – Flip was -2 in the Quarter. They were down 13 when he came in.
Suns 61 Sonics 49 with 9:04 left in the 3rd Quarter
Suns force three turnovers early in the third quarter
Luke Ridnour must become a better finisher in the open floor.
Suns 54 Sonics 44 at the half
Sonics are struggling to score against a good defensive team.
They are even when Flip is not on the floor.
Offense will be the key to the second half. The Sonics need to shoot free throws and make shots to slow down the Suns running.
Suns 46 Sonics 40 with 3:54 left in the 2nd Quarter
Reggie Evans has been unreal. He has 17 points and 12 rebounds. That is unreal. This is the first half. Amazing. He has been dominate.
Evans has dominated the glass and been a good offensive player in the post.
Yes that is not a Locke typo. Evans has been good offensively.
Thomas now has 4 fouls in the first half
Sonics 0 of 5 from 3
Danny Fortson is not with the team.
Flip is out and the Sonics are on a 7-0
Phoenix 46 Seattle 34 with 6:33 left in the 2nd Quarter
Same thing different night – Flip is basketball death
The Sonics were -10 when Flip was in the game.
This franchise ahs to make a trade tomorrow to get a back up point guard
Flip destroys everything. I mean everything.
Defensively he is the worst player in the NBA and that is hard to do considering who we compare him to on a nightly basis.
Offensively, he is so selfish that he sets off the selfish streak on all of teammates. For example, when he comes in and shoots on three of the first 4 possessions he is in the game, like he always does. Then Allen, who likes to get his shots, starts jacking up quick looks because he knows if he gives it up he will never see it. Then when Lewis comes back in he wants his looks. Flip sets off the selfish streak on all of his teammates. It works like this. If he is going to be selfish then so am I.
Suns 29 Sonics 24 at the end of the 1st Quarter
Offense left Seattle to close the Quarter
Flip Murray played the pound, pound, pound game and everyone else sat still
Nick Collison is in foul trouble again.
Sonics 20 Suns 19 with 2:50 left in the 1st Quarter
Luke is out with 2 fouls. Flip enters
If the Sonics stay with this style of defense and effort on defense they will be ok tonight.
Suns 14 Sonics 13 with 5:!4 left 1st Quarter
Reggie Evans just eliminated Kurt Thomas from the game. Evans drew three fouls from Thomas by the 9:00 mark of the game.
Sonics went to a zone and it has caused the Suns some issues.
Luke has two very good steals already. Also two great assists those were solely responsible for points
STORYLINES
1) The Suns are the #2 defensive team in the NBA. Believe it or not they have struggled to score. They rank #21 in the NBA offensively in the last 10 games.
2) Can the Sonics guard the pick n roll?
3) Sonics ability to handle the Suns switching defense.
4) Luke Ridnour v. Steve Nash
MARINERS WILL NOT TENDER RYAN FRANKLIN
In a teleconference today at 5:30, Bill Bavasi announced that the Mariners do not “intend to offer contracts” to Ryan Franklin, Jamal Strong, and Cha Sung Baek. He left the possibility of a trade or a new contract available but stressed that it is “only possible, not probable” that those three would be offered a new contract.
Bill said that the Mariners may still pursue Ryan Franklin after not tendering him a contract, when there is a new financial situation. The Mariners would then be dealing with Franklin as a free agent. Meche was tendered and when asked if that is because Meche has more upside than Franklin, Bavasi responded by saying, “that is one way of looking at it.”
Bavasi also spoke on the left-hander Jake Woods, picked up today, and his future. Woods will either make the Mariners club or be sent to triple-A. Woods “does not have the stuff we may have on the club, but he has more command and a better breaking ball.” This move was a “shot at building up some arms that are more useful than what we have right now.”
Bill said that the Mariners may still pursue Ryan Franklin after not tendering him a contract, when there is a new financial situation. The Mariners would then be dealing with Franklin as a free agent. Meche was tendered and when asked if that is because Meche has more upside than Franklin, Bavasi responded by saying, “that is one way of looking at it.”
Bavasi also spoke on the left-hander Jake Woods, picked up today, and his future. Woods will either make the Mariners club or be sent to triple-A. Woods “does not have the stuff we may have on the club, but he has more command and a better breaking ball.” This move was a “shot at building up some arms that are more useful than what we have right now.”
NBA JACK PERCENTAGE
I created a new stat today. Let’s call it the Jack rate or Pull rate. Which players in the NBA are most likely to Jack it up. This is very simple and is devised by how many minutes to the next field goal attempt. It attempts to account for time when fouled in the act of shooting.
There aren’t a lot of surprises. Here is the Top 10 and Bottom 10 in the NBA. .
Top 10
1) Kobe Bryant (1 per 1.34 minutes)
2) Allen Iverson (1.40)
3) Dwayne Wade (1.59)
4) Carmelo Anthony (1.62)
5) Lebron James (1.62)
6) Tracy McGrady (1.63)
7) Dirk Nowitksi (1.66)
8) Eddie House (1.75)
9) Michael Redd (1.78)
10) Paul Pierce (1.78)
11) Vince Carter (1.78)
Bottom 10
1) Michael Ruffin (1 per 10.07 minutes)
2) Aaron McKie (8.10)
3) Mark Madsen (8.14)
4) Diekembe Mutombo (7.45)
5) Theo Ratliff (7.30)
6) Desanga Diop (7.21)
7) Eric Snow (7.21)
8) Howard Eisley (6.75)
9) James Thomas (6.58)
10) Michael Bradley (6.37)
Monday, December 19, 2005
SIMULBLOG FOR SONICS V. WIZARDS
Sonics 111 Wizards 101 – Final Score
Great night by Rashard Lewis
The Sonics defended well enough
The Sups have hit 41 of their last 78 three over 4 games
Sonics 100 Wizards 92 with 3:12 left in the 4th Quarter
Sonics are stressing down the stress and this is getting tight.
Ray Allen just got stripped and committed a clear path foul.
Nick Collison does not seem to have very strong hands. He is losing a lot of loose balls.
Calvin Booth just missed back to back dunks for the Wizards --- ohhh did that look familiar. --- the debate starts again if he is the worst player in the NBA.
Ridnour huge three.
Sonics 96 Wizards 84 with 6:36 left in the 4th Quarter
Wizards are in the bonus at the 8:30 mark of the 4th Quarter with the Sonics up 11.
Luke is just 3 of 9 tonight. Another night where you need him to shoot better.
Amazing play by Rashard Lewis. The Sonics ran their show on the pick and roll and Collison stayed with Arenas as did Wilkins. This left Haywood open down low, but Lewis saw what was taking place and played coy and stole the pass when it came. Then he sprinted down to his spot and hit a huge three.
Sonics 89 Wizards 78 with 8:47 left in the 4th Quarter
Flip Murray is death for your team. He was yanked after 4 possessions and he screwed up 3 of them.
Murray’s terrible play cost the Sonics three fouls and the Sonics now have 4 team fouls at the 9 minute mark
The key has been keeping the Wizards off the foul line.
Vlady hits a huge 3 and Allen a great steal.
The Sonics are doing a nice job of answering every call tonight
Sonics 81 Wizards 74 at the end of 3 quarters
Sonics have scored on just 1 of their last 6 possessions
Collison just had Daniels in the post and didn’t score. He has to score on that play.
Zach Zarba one of the officials is having a tough night. The players are on him after ever call.
Weiss didn’t pull Ray at his usual time.
The key to the 4th Quarter will be the Sonics stress level. They have been pressing very badly in this building. The body language has made it obvious.
Sonics 77 Wizards 69 with 3:00 left
I have a bad feeling that this game is going to be tight here in a moment
Sonics have stopped defending. It will only take three possessions of missed shots for this to be tight.
Sonics 71 Wizards 61 with 6:29 left in the 3rd Quarter
It is funny to watch AD’s body language. He looks lost and frustrated.
Sonics allow Arenas a wide open three – let’s hope that doesn’t get him going.
Arenas opened the half free wheeling defensively and not guarding Luke. Luke responded by hitting three open jumpers.
Arenas now has 8 points in the quarter. Two threes and a fast break lay-up. All easy
Sonics 59 Wizards 47 at the half
Wil
kins buzzer beater
Very strong first half for the Sups
Sonics 55 Wizards 43 with 1:40 left in the 2nd Quarter
Why does Ray Allen insist on double teaming on Etan Thomas and Brendon Haywood.
Believe it or not the Sonics are missing Luke Ridnour defensively.
If Vlady wants time he is going to have to show that he can defend the three. Tonight is a good challenge with Caron Butler.
Sonics defense has created back to back opportunities for the offense
Huge sequence 9-0 run forcing three turnovers on the defensive end and three buckets on the offensive end.
Vlady has 9 points all from three point range
Sonics lead this game because of the three
Sonics 33 Wizards 25 with 8:55 left in the 2nd Quarter
Damien Wilkins is not having the improvement you would hope out a second year player. He is shooting only 35% and hitting only 5 of 20 threes. His defense and activity were supposed to be his strong points, but he isn’t impacting games like he did last year. Also he was supposed to be able to get to the free throw line with his drive and we haven’t seen that.
Vlady enters the game
Sonics 31 Wizards 21 with at the end of 1st Quarter.
Ray hits another sick buzzer beater to end the quarter.
The Wiz have only two field goals out of the half court. They have three field goals in transition, two off loose balls, two on offensive put backs.
Rashard is on fire tonight again in the 1st quarter with 13 points
The fast break has been better because Luke has had the ball in his hand. Too often the ball is in Ray’s hands and that is not his forte
Sonics 17 Wizards 13 with 4:39 left in the 1st Quarter
Vitaly’s talking on defense makes a world of difference.
One of the biggest issues the Sonics are having defensively is confusion on what game plans night to night. This cost them against Houston and Golden State. The coaching staff is going to simplify the plans and make them universal against all teams and the
n add when specific plans when they finally improve.
The Wizards are not guarding Vitaly and leaving Haywood in the post to defend.
The Sonics half court defense has been good, but their transition defense has not been very good.
STORYLINES
1) Can the Soncis win at home
2) Two of the least good defensive rebounding teams, who will win the offensive rebounding battle
3) AD guarding Allen
4) Can the Sonics stop Gilbert Arenas penetration
5) Wiz lead the league in free throw attmepts per game (29.8) and the Sonics are the second worst in allowing free throws (29.8)
PRE-GAME NOTES
Antonio Daniels is in starting line-up for the Wizards and will guard Ray Allen. I hope you heard our pre-game interview with AD.
Vitaly will stay in the Sonics starting line-up.
Great night by Rashard Lewis
The Sonics defended well enough
The Sups have hit 41 of their last 78 three over 4 games
Sonics 100 Wizards 92 with 3:12 left in the 4th Quarter
Sonics are stressing down the stress and this is getting tight.
Ray Allen just got stripped and committed a clear path foul.
Nick Collison does not seem to have very strong hands. He is losing a lot of loose balls.
Calvin Booth just missed back to back dunks for the Wizards --- ohhh did that look familiar. --- the debate starts again if he is the worst player in the NBA.
Ridnour huge three.
Sonics 96 Wizards 84 with 6:36 left in the 4th Quarter
Wizards are in the bonus at the 8:30 mark of the 4th Quarter with the Sonics up 11.
Luke is just 3 of 9 tonight. Another night where you need him to shoot better.
Amazing play by Rashard Lewis. The Sonics ran their show on the pick and roll and Collison stayed with Arenas as did Wilkins. This left Haywood open down low, but Lewis saw what was taking place and played coy and stole the pass when it came. Then he sprinted down to his spot and hit a huge three.
Sonics 89 Wizards 78 with 8:47 left in the 4th Quarter
Flip Murray is death for your team. He was yanked after 4 possessions and he screwed up 3 of them.
Murray’s terrible play cost the Sonics three fouls and the Sonics now have 4 team fouls at the 9 minute mark
The key has been keeping the Wizards off the foul line.
Vlady hits a huge 3 and Allen a great steal.
The Sonics are doing a nice job of answering every call tonight
Sonics 81 Wizards 74 at the end of 3 quarters
Sonics have scored on just 1 of their last 6 possessions
Collison just had Daniels in the post and didn’t score. He has to score on that play.
Zach Zarba one of the officials is having a tough night. The players are on him after ever call.
Weiss didn’t pull Ray at his usual time.
The key to the 4th Quarter will be the Sonics stress level. They have been pressing very badly in this building. The body language has made it obvious.
Sonics 77 Wizards 69 with 3:00 left
I have a bad feeling that this game is going to be tight here in a moment
Sonics have stopped defending. It will only take three possessions of missed shots for this to be tight.
Sonics 71 Wizards 61 with 6:29 left in the 3rd Quarter
It is funny to watch AD’s body language. He looks lost and frustrated.
Sonics allow Arenas a wide open three – let’s hope that doesn’t get him going.
Arenas opened the half free wheeling defensively and not guarding Luke. Luke responded by hitting three open jumpers.
Arenas now has 8 points in the quarter. Two threes and a fast break lay-up. All easy
Sonics 59 Wizards 47 at the half
Wil
kins buzzer beater
Very strong first half for the Sups
Sonics 55 Wizards 43 with 1:40 left in the 2nd Quarter
Why does Ray Allen insist on double teaming on Etan Thomas and Brendon Haywood.
Believe it or not the Sonics are missing Luke Ridnour defensively.
If Vlady wants time he is going to have to show that he can defend the three. Tonight is a good challenge with Caron Butler.
Sonics defense has created back to back opportunities for the offense
Huge sequence 9-0 run forcing three turnovers on the defensive end and three buckets on the offensive end.
Vlady has 9 points all from three point range
Sonics lead this game because of the three
Sonics 33 Wizards 25 with 8:55 left in the 2nd Quarter
Damien Wilkins is not having the improvement you would hope out a second year player. He is shooting only 35% and hitting only 5 of 20 threes. His defense and activity were supposed to be his strong points, but he isn’t impacting games like he did last year. Also he was supposed to be able to get to the free throw line with his drive and we haven’t seen that.
Vlady enters the game
Sonics 31 Wizards 21 with at the end of 1st Quarter.
Ray hits another sick buzzer beater to end the quarter.
The Wiz have only two field goals out of the half court. They have three field goals in transition, two off loose balls, two on offensive put backs.
Rashard is on fire tonight again in the 1st quarter with 13 points
The fast break has been better because Luke has had the ball in his hand. Too often the ball is in Ray’s hands and that is not his forte
Sonics 17 Wizards 13 with 4:39 left in the 1st Quarter
Vitaly’s talking on defense makes a world of difference.
One of the biggest issues the Sonics are having defensively is confusion on what game plans night to night. This cost them against Houston and Golden State. The coaching staff is going to simplify the plans and make them universal against all teams and the
n add when specific plans when they finally improve.
The Wizards are not guarding Vitaly and leaving Haywood in the post to defend.
The Sonics half court defense has been good, but their transition defense has not been very good.
STORYLINES
1) Can the Soncis win at home
2) Two of the least good defensive rebounding teams, who will win the offensive rebounding battle
3) AD guarding Allen
4) Can the Sonics stop Gilbert Arenas penetration
5) Wiz lead the league in free throw attmepts per game (29.8) and the Sonics are the second worst in allowing free throws (29.8)
PRE-GAME NOTES
Antonio Daniels is in starting line-up for the Wizards and will guard Ray Allen. I hope you heard our pre-game interview with AD.
Vitaly will stay in the Sonics starting line-up.
SONICS ALARMINGLY DEPENDENT ON ALLEN
According to 82 games.com the following players team's fall apart when they are not on the floor.
These are the players whose off floor +/- rating per 48 minutes is more then -10.
The Sonics are depenedent upon Ray Allen. In fact, no team in the NBA is playing as poorly as the Sonics when Allen is on the bench. Interesting, that Channing Frye is #2 on the list and that all three of the Nets stars make the list. Realize this list almost automatically discounts any team that is playing very well as it would be impossible to be more then -10 on the bench on a good team.
Ray Allen -24
Channing Frye -14.9
Ricahard Jefferson -13.8
Vince Carter -13.7
Jason Kidd -13.3
Dwayne Wade -12.7
Paul Pierce -12.5
Alan Iverson-12. 0
Kevin Garnett -10.2
Brad Miller -10
Note -- this excludes the entire Portland team and Toronto who is -10 when they are on the bench since the team is -10
These are the players whose off floor +/- rating per 48 minutes is more then -10.
The Sonics are depenedent upon Ray Allen. In fact, no team in the NBA is playing as poorly as the Sonics when Allen is on the bench. Interesting, that Channing Frye is #2 on the list and that all three of the Nets stars make the list. Realize this list almost automatically discounts any team that is playing very well as it would be impossible to be more then -10 on the bench on a good team.
Ray Allen -24
Channing Frye -14.9
Ricahard Jefferson -13.8
Vince Carter -13.7
Jason Kidd -13.3
Dwayne Wade -12.7
Paul Pierce -12.5
Alan Iverson-12. 0
Kevin Garnett -10.2
Brad Miller -10
Note -- this excludes the entire Portland team and Toronto who is -10 when they are on the bench since the team is -10
Saturday, December 17, 2005
VERY CANDID NATE MCMILLAN
Friday night on 950,KJR we aired my sit down with Nate McMillan. Nate said more about his decision to leave Seattle then he had previously. He opened up about some of the battles he had in Seattle. In addition, he shared how he is now and what this experience has been like in Portland. Plus, a strange coincidence about his return to Seattle on Jan 30th.
You can download or podcast the interview.
Thanks I hope you enjoy.
You can download or podcast the interview.
Thanks I hope you enjoy.
WILL REED STAY A MARINER?
Jeremy Reed may be staying in Seattle after all. Whether or not this is by Seattle Mariner’s choice is not clear. What has become clear is that Reed is not the only centerfielder the Boston Red Sox are investigating.
The Red Sox are in discussions with the Cleveland Indians for Coco Crisp. The same principals are involved in this deal as well, as the Red Sox are willing to part with Matt Clement or Bronson Arroyo.
With the signing of Washburn it is fair to guess that the Mariners are no longer interested in Clement due to his contract, but could still be willing to make the move for Arroyo.
Here are a few other notes of interest around the world of baseball. Jacque Jones is close to signing a deal, maybe with Kansas City. It will be interesting to see what he got $$ compared to what the Mariners gave Carl Everett. Same applies for Jeremy Burnitz.
Preston Wilson is another name that may sign soon. He has been a produced of Coors Field during his success, but it is another good barometer deal. His year last year for the Nationals was pretty strong considering that ballpark and the league wide drop in numbers due to steroid testing, .260 25HR 90 RBI. Wilson could become a centerfield option if Reed is moved.
Friday, December 16, 2005
MARINERS CLOSING IN ON WASHBURN
CBS Sportsline is reporting that the Mariners are close to a deal with Jarrod Washburn. The deal is initially thought to be for 4 years around $38 million dollars.
The Mariners were committed to adding pitching to this year’s team. Evidently, they were committed enough to pay large money for an average pitcher.
Washburn was 8-8 last season with an impressive ERA of 3.20. Positively, his ERA was far better away from Anaheim Stadium then it was at home. In addition, he has made 25 starts for 5 straight seasons and been over 175 innings in 4 of the last 5 seasons. This team needs innings eaters and he will do that.
The area of concern is that in the statistical world Washburn had what is referred to as a very lucky season. Considering the things a pitcher controlled his ERA should have been a good deal higher and these numbers are usually a very good indicator of future ERA.
In addition, Washburn is fly ball pitcher. The Mariners must believe that Safeco Field will help his numbers.
Also at 31 years old, the Mariners are basing the deal on his 32,33,34 and 35 year old seasons. It is fair to assume that at some point he breaks down.
At this moment the starting rotation is Washburn, Felix Hernandez, Jamie Moyer, Joel Piniero and a question mark.
Look for the Mariners to trade Gil Meche. They have not been able to get anything other then minor leaguers for Meche. Franklin is also on the market.
Overall, I can’t say I am greatly disturbed, but I don’t like giving an average pitcher who is 31 years old nearly 10 million a year for 4 seasons.
The statement is the Mariners are committed to getting better. This was the vechile that was available to make this pitching staff better and they acted. Those that have complained that they are not committed to winning no longer have an argument. Those that want to question the baseball acumen this is open territory.
The Mariners were committed to adding pitching to this year’s team. Evidently, they were committed enough to pay large money for an average pitcher.
Washburn was 8-8 last season with an impressive ERA of 3.20. Positively, his ERA was far better away from Anaheim Stadium then it was at home. In addition, he has made 25 starts for 5 straight seasons and been over 175 innings in 4 of the last 5 seasons. This team needs innings eaters and he will do that.
The area of concern is that in the statistical world Washburn had what is referred to as a very lucky season. Considering the things a pitcher controlled his ERA should have been a good deal higher and these numbers are usually a very good indicator of future ERA.
In addition, Washburn is fly ball pitcher. The Mariners must believe that Safeco Field will help his numbers.
Also at 31 years old, the Mariners are basing the deal on his 32,33,34 and 35 year old seasons. It is fair to assume that at some point he breaks down.
At this moment the starting rotation is Washburn, Felix Hernandez, Jamie Moyer, Joel Piniero and a question mark.
Look for the Mariners to trade Gil Meche. They have not been able to get anything other then minor leaguers for Meche. Franklin is also on the market.
Overall, I can’t say I am greatly disturbed, but I don’t like giving an average pitcher who is 31 years old nearly 10 million a year for 4 seasons.
The statement is the Mariners are committed to getting better. This was the vechile that was available to make this pitching staff better and they acted. Those that have complained that they are not committed to winning no longer have an argument. Those that want to question the baseball acumen this is open territory.
SIMULBLOG FOR SONICS V. BLAZERS
Sonics 111 Blazers 99 Final Score
Sonics win this in the first 17 minutes and then cruised.27-2 run when the Sonics hit 11 straight field goals.
They win with Offense not defense
Portland is awful.
Don;t fret over the late rally that is the reality of the NBA
Vlady Radmanovic does not play in the game and was out of rotation.
Sonics 103 Blazers 93 with 1:03 left in the 4th Quarter
Blazers on a 16-3 run
Weiss pulled Allen and had to bring him back in the game.
Sonics 100 Blazers 84 with 4:19 left in the 4th
Just because nothing this season is going to be easy.
The Blazers on a 8-0 run just enough to make you say no way is there….
Sonics are sleep walking.
Starters are still on the floor.
Sonics 91 Blazers 70 at the end of 3
Blazers had a little flurry but then the Sonics answered with ease.
Without Darius Miles I seriously wonder how many games this Blazers team is capable of winning. 5,6 or maybe 7 the rest of the year. Luckily, Miles comes back in a fewe weeks then they might win another 10 games this year
Not sure this tells anything about the Sonics
Sonics 87 Blazers 65 with 2:57 left in the 3rd Quarter
Not a lot happening worth mentioning. Sonics are scoring at a good enough rate they are in fine shape. The Blazers seem to play hard defensively about 1 every 10 possessions.
Sonics 67 Blazers 46 at the half
Falling apart – let’s hope not but the Sonics forgot to play the last two minutes
The Sonics have allowed the Blazers to scored on 14 of 18 possessions to close the quarter
Ray Allen hits a buzzer beating 3.
Sonics 60 Blazers 29 with 5:01 left in the 2nd Quarter
Sonics scored their 50th point at the 8:00 mark of the 2nd quarter
Sonics have hit all 8 threes
The Blazers are doing everything soft so the Sonics can stay in rhythm.
This is absurd.
The Blazers are fielding is one of the worst teams I have seen.
Truly, they don’t look coached which is strange. They have no defensive rotations, no double teams, seemingly no plan. I know that isn’t the case but that is how it looks.
Sonics 44 Blazers 16 with 9:46 left in the 2nd Quarter
The onslaught continues.
The Sonics have now hit 10 straight field goals and 13 of 14.
Collison opened the quarter with a bucket and Flip hit the next two.
Nate McMillan must be losing his mind
Sonics 37 Blazers 16 at the end of 1 quarter
Rashard Lewis went nuts in the first quarter. He hit threes, he got fast break looks, he pump faked Patterson out of the gym and finished the quarter with 20 points.
The Blazers are awful and the Sonics are slicing them up.
So much of the story coming in was bad defense against bad offense but the real story is the Sonics good offense against the Blazers bad defense
The Sonics hit their final 7 field goals of the Quarter
Sonics 17 Blazers 12 with 5:06 left in the 1st Quarter
The Blazers are as bad defensively as the Sonics
Rashard Lewis is not playing with a lot of energy on the defensive end.
Luke Ridnour is wearing headband from a pre-game incident where he got hit in the head during the team pre-game huddle and needed stitches.
The Sonics better not lose the rebounding and turnover battle or they will lose this game
STORYLINES
1) If you can't stop the Blazers you are the worst defensive team ever!!!
2) Sonics must win rebounds and turnovers
3) Sonics energy
4) Ray Allen being guarded by Martell Webster
Thursday, December 15, 2005
SIMULBLOG FOR SONICS V. ROCKETS
Rockets 93 Sonics 90 with 2:20 left in the Quarter
Welcome to the Ray/ Tracy show – Ray has 14 in the Q – Tracy has 11 in the Q
Sonics 84 Rockets 83 with 6:52 left in the 4th Quarter
Ray Allen has put Seattle on a 7-0 run all by himself.
Sonics are -11 when Flip is on the floor and +12 when he is on the bench.
Rockets 83 Sonics 76 with 8:04 left in the 4th Quarter
If you play Flip Murray you lose. That simple.
Moochie Norris just burned Flip for back to back to baskets that had to be the worst defense. Once Flip came off his feet at 35 feet and Norris blew by him and then on the next possession Flip allowed Norris to go backdoor on a basic give and cut.
Luke who is not playing well either replaces Flip.
Rockets 77 Sonics 76 with 9:26 left in the 4th Quarter
Close game – Neither team has lead by more then 4 in the second half.
This game is very slow. Each possession is dragged out
Rockets 73 Sonics 71 at the end of the 3rd quarter
McGrady had 11 in the quarter
Reggie Evans played very well in the quarter, however some of Reggie Evans weaknesses are exposed in that Howard is 8 of 10 for 16 points.
Luke Ridnour is 3 of 11 . He has to shoot better for this team to win.
Sonics 64 Rockets 60 with 5:18 left in the 3rd quarter
Ohhhh No !!!!! Tracy McGrady has heated up.
Interesting move by Van Gundy to put McGrady on Ridnour defensively in the second half.
The Sonics offense is Reggie Evans in the paint.
This makes you wonder what kind of a defender Yao Ming is
Yao Ming is mammoth.
Sonics 51 Rockets 48 at the half
The Rockets look like a team that played last night
Danny Fortson played great against Yao Ming
Seattle got 48% of potential offensive rebounds in the first half
McGrady is just 3 of 11 and looks noticeably uncomfortable.
Sonics had a poor defensive second quarter.
Sonics 41 Rockets 37 with 4:26 left in the 2nd Quarter
Danny Fortson has played 8 minutes without a foul.
Rockets were +3 with Ming on the bench
The ball movement with Flip Murray on the floor disappeared.
Ridnour returned and sparked a 8-3 run with great ball movement.
Sonics 31 Rockets 28 with 8:35 left in the 2nd Quarter
Not much feel to this game.
Sonics need to take advantage of Yao Ming on the bench and they have not done that yet in this game
Sonics 22 Rockets 20 at the end of 1st Quarter
Snail paced game
Seattle took care of the ball well.
Flip Murray dominated the ball when he was in and scored just 1 point in the 3 possessions that he used.
Sonics 19 Rockets 13 with 3:39 left in the 1st Quarter
Luke Ridnour is conducting the offense as well as you could ask from a point guard
The Sonics twice allowed Juwan Howard to drive the basket without restistance.
Reggie Evans is wrecking havoc and flopping everywhere. Jeff Van Gundy came off the bench yelling, “he weighs 260 pounds and he is falling all over the place. That is a flop.”
Storylines
1) Can the Sonics defend at all
2) Rockets do not force turnovers and commits a good deal
3) Take advantage of Yao Ming's lack of mobility.
Welcome to the Ray/ Tracy show – Ray has 14 in the Q – Tracy has 11 in the Q
Sonics 84 Rockets 83 with 6:52 left in the 4th Quarter
Ray Allen has put Seattle on a 7-0 run all by himself.
Sonics are -11 when Flip is on the floor and +12 when he is on the bench.
Rockets 83 Sonics 76 with 8:04 left in the 4th Quarter
If you play Flip Murray you lose. That simple.
Moochie Norris just burned Flip for back to back to baskets that had to be the worst defense. Once Flip came off his feet at 35 feet and Norris blew by him and then on the next possession Flip allowed Norris to go backdoor on a basic give and cut.
Luke who is not playing well either replaces Flip.
Rockets 77 Sonics 76 with 9:26 left in the 4th Quarter
Close game – Neither team has lead by more then 4 in the second half.
This game is very slow. Each possession is dragged out
Rockets 73 Sonics 71 at the end of the 3rd quarter
McGrady had 11 in the quarter
Reggie Evans played very well in the quarter, however some of Reggie Evans weaknesses are exposed in that Howard is 8 of 10 for 16 points.
Luke Ridnour is 3 of 11 . He has to shoot better for this team to win.
Sonics 64 Rockets 60 with 5:18 left in the 3rd quarter
Ohhhh No !!!!! Tracy McGrady has heated up.
Interesting move by Van Gundy to put McGrady on Ridnour defensively in the second half.
The Sonics offense is Reggie Evans in the paint.
This makes you wonder what kind of a defender Yao Ming is
Yao Ming is mammoth.
Sonics 51 Rockets 48 at the half
The Rockets look like a team that played last night
Danny Fortson played great against Yao Ming
Seattle got 48% of potential offensive rebounds in the first half
McGrady is just 3 of 11 and looks noticeably uncomfortable.
Sonics had a poor defensive second quarter.
Sonics 41 Rockets 37 with 4:26 left in the 2nd Quarter
Danny Fortson has played 8 minutes without a foul.
Rockets were +3 with Ming on the bench
The ball movement with Flip Murray on the floor disappeared.
Ridnour returned and sparked a 8-3 run with great ball movement.
Sonics 31 Rockets 28 with 8:35 left in the 2nd Quarter
Not much feel to this game.
Sonics need to take advantage of Yao Ming on the bench and they have not done that yet in this game
Sonics 22 Rockets 20 at the end of 1st Quarter
Snail paced game
Seattle took care of the ball well.
Flip Murray dominated the ball when he was in and scored just 1 point in the 3 possessions that he used.
Sonics 19 Rockets 13 with 3:39 left in the 1st Quarter
Luke Ridnour is conducting the offense as well as you could ask from a point guard
The Sonics twice allowed Juwan Howard to drive the basket without restistance.
Reggie Evans is wrecking havoc and flopping everywhere. Jeff Van Gundy came off the bench yelling, “he weighs 260 pounds and he is falling all over the place. That is a flop.”
Storylines
1) Can the Sonics defend at all
2) Rockets do not force turnovers and commits a good deal
3) Take advantage of Yao Ming's lack of mobility.
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS -- GARBAGE
If you have listened to 950, KJR's Locked on Sports this is one of my hot topics. Other then the NBA where the phrase, "Defense wins Championships" is ture, this is the greatest misnomer in sports.
In the NBA it is true, becasue everyone can score. In the NFL it is almost the opposite, everyone can defend.
Here are some numbers to prove my points. Thanks to the Sports economist for some of these.
Over 1970-2000, only 10 of 31 Super Bowl winners had higher ranked defenses than offenses. Only 22 of 62 AFC and NFC champions had higher ranked defenses than offenses.
Since 1970, Of the 10 best defensive teams Four of the top ten did not even make the conference championship game. On the other side of the coin, 6 of the top 10 offenses won the Super Bowl, 7 made the Super Bowl, and all but one made the conference championship.
Since 1980, only the Ravens could really be described as winning the championship with great defense and mediocre offense. Even they were pretty good. From Week 10 to the Super Bowl, a span of 11 games, the Ravens averaged 26.2 points per game, an output that would have ranked them # 5 in the NFL had they maintained it during the season.
I will add this. Rush defense is a strong barometer of championship potential. More than three-quarters of Super Bowl teams had a top-10 rush defense, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. Nine of the past 14 participants were in the top five ...
So next time some commentator professes "Defensive wins Championships." Scream at the TV.
MARINERS SIGN EVERETT
The Carl Everett signing is finally official. Don’t bring any dinosaurs to the park. He thinks they are fake. Here is the breakdown on the field. He fits what the Mariners are looking for: he hits left-handed, he comes on a one year deal
That is it for the positive news. He is aging and declining. He is 35 in June and his last two years he hit .260 and .251, his slugging has been .402 and .435 in hitter friendly parks. Another point don’t classify him as a switch hitter his career numbers are dramatically less good against left handed hitters. Truly if he is your DH his numbers the last two seasons are below average for a DH in the American League. Therefore you have to assume in a pitchers park and 35 years old that he is going to have a career jump to make this a good signing.
While you are signing a DH this has a defensive impact. Let’s remember the Mariners pitching staff over performed what many anticipated last season and the reason was the defense was great. The best part of the defense was Wynn,, Reed and Ichiro ability to get to balls. Wynn was a terrific left fielder. With Evertt you are now asking Ibanez to play 140 games in left field. That will hurt the staff.
Finally considering Bavasi's track record of signing decent mid-level players I would be concerned that this is another Aurilla, Speizio or Reese.
Did I forget to mention that he has been arrestted for child neglect, had one of his kids taken away from him, he got to a highly publized fight with an umpire, he hates gays, he hates fans and he is coming to a town near you this summer.
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
SIMULBLOG FOR SONICS V. WARRIORS
Warriors 110 Sonics 107 – Final Score
Baron Davis hits a three to win it.
Ouch --- great game – great entertainment – but wrong outcome.
Tough loss.
The pick and roll from the top in the middle of the third quarter and the fourth is where the game was lost.
Flip Murray did a nice job getting the Sonics back in the game.
Maybe this game can ignite then Sonics to play with the fire they need to play with for the season.
Sonics 107 Warriors 107 with 4.3 seconds left in the overtime
Ray Allen time. He is money. Unreal how clutch he is.
Allen scores on back to back buckets and then hits Collison on back to back high pick and rolls.
Murray is still on the floor and he may not have anything left in the tank
Fischer is such a killer
Baron Davis for no reason rises up to take a three to win it win :27 left and misses.
Sonics get the ball tied and Allen drives to the hoop and misses a tough look drive.
Still tied
Sonics 98 Warriors 98 – Going to Overtime
Flip Murray buries two clutch free throws after Richardson missed two that would have given the Warriors the game.
Murray had 12 in the quarter
Warriors became on outside team.
Warriors 92 Sonics 90 with 3:31 left in the 4th Quarter
Flip has scored the last 3 buckets for the Sonics
Lewis gets an offensive foul with Fischer guarding him in the post – Lewis has to win that battle.
Vlady commits an open floor turnover by holding onto the ball too long.
Derek Fischer is kicking Seattle’s ass.
Sonics 88 Warriors 88 with 5:32 left in the 4th Quarter
Sonics on a 10-0 after the ejection
Sonics have changed their pick and roll defense and are now switching the defense.
Flip Murray is a match-up the Warriors can’t handle.
Bob Hill has not gone back to Rashard Lewis yet.
Great work by Jack Sikma – he just went to Hill and told him he had Rashard on the bench and now Rashard will check in.
Warriors 80 Sonics 76 with 9:30 left in the 4th Quarter
Bob Weiss just blew his lid. The first time he got his Tech on purpose after Davis missed both free throws off a flagrant foul on Danny. I think Bob waited to make sure both free throws were missed before he missed the free throws. Then he went out to half court to meet Benny Adams. On the next play Adams called a really really really late whistle on Danny and Bob went crazy. He met Adams before he got the call out on the foul and got ejected,
The crowd loved it. Bob Hill is now coaching
80-72 Warriors lead at the end of this mess.
Warriors 69 Sonics 66 with 2:46 left in the 3rd Quarter
The Warriors have made a great pick n roll adjustment. They have moved the pick n roll to the top with the ball going to the middle it has eliminated the use of the stopper and is allowing the Warriors to get in the paint.
The Warriors are also running a ton on the curls.
Reggie is just wrecking havoc in the paint
He has no intention on the offensive end to do anything but get the offensive reb
Sonics 50 Warriors 48 at the half
Sonics aren’t shooting well but they are playing offense well. They have a 50% offensive rebounding rate and they have been to the line 20 times while only committing 6 turnovers. Shooting is vital to success no question, but this is an example of how to survive when the shot is not falling.
The Sonics had a little lapse in the second quarter, but for the most part are still playing well on the defensive end.
The amount of deflections will tell if the Sonics are defending.
You would have thought Lewis would go off tonight, instead he is 2 of 9
Warriors 42 Sonics 41 with 2:42 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Sonics offense has gone cold. They have not scored on 5 straight possessions.
The bench veterans of the Warriors, Derek Fischer and Calbert Chaeney are getting the best of the Sonics.
Do we ever get a defensive stop when Mikki Moore is in the game?
Same story as early in the season. The Sonics go to the bench and then never regain rhythm.
Sonics 32 Warriors 23 with 8:48 left in the 2nd Quarter
Sonics defensively are getting a lot of deflections which is a sign of active defense.
The T on Danny Fortson was a good call.
The good Flip is the one the lets the game come to him and takes what the game gives, the bad Flip is the one who forces his game onto the game. We are getting the bad Flip today.
Sonics 26 Warriors 20 at the end of the 1st Quarter
Seattle got out in transition early in the quarter and took advantage of the Warriors poor transition effort.
The Sonics have been very aggressive going to the basket
Jason Richardson was matched on Rashard Lewis and Lewis took him to the post.
The defensive game plan on the pick and roll has been good. They are going under the pick to force the outside shot. In addition, they have helped and rotated well.
Sonics 8 Warriors 2 with 7:20 left in the 1st Quarter
Sonics have 6 offensive rebounds already
The Sonics want to go to the rim, becasue the Warriors have the same amount of shot blockers as the Sonics. -- ZERO
The arena is dead.
There are two match-ups the Sonics want to exploit -- Dunleavy guarding Lewis and the slow rotations of Troy Murphy.
STORYLINES
1) Sonics must play some defense
2) The Sonics stopper -- which is their big man helping the penetration from the guards
3) Winning the Turnover battle
4) Ray Allen outplaying Jason Richardson
5) Defensive rating better then 110.
Baron Davis hits a three to win it.
Ouch --- great game – great entertainment – but wrong outcome.
Tough loss.
The pick and roll from the top in the middle of the third quarter and the fourth is where the game was lost.
Flip Murray did a nice job getting the Sonics back in the game.
Maybe this game can ignite then Sonics to play with the fire they need to play with for the season.
Sonics 107 Warriors 107 with 4.3 seconds left in the overtime
Ray Allen time. He is money. Unreal how clutch he is.
Allen scores on back to back buckets and then hits Collison on back to back high pick and rolls.
Murray is still on the floor and he may not have anything left in the tank
Fischer is such a killer
Baron Davis for no reason rises up to take a three to win it win :27 left and misses.
Sonics get the ball tied and Allen drives to the hoop and misses a tough look drive.
Still tied
Sonics 98 Warriors 98 – Going to Overtime
Flip Murray buries two clutch free throws after Richardson missed two that would have given the Warriors the game.
Murray had 12 in the quarter
Warriors became on outside team.
Warriors 92 Sonics 90 with 3:31 left in the 4th Quarter
Flip has scored the last 3 buckets for the Sonics
Lewis gets an offensive foul with Fischer guarding him in the post – Lewis has to win that battle.
Vlady commits an open floor turnover by holding onto the ball too long.
Derek Fischer is kicking Seattle’s ass.
Sonics 88 Warriors 88 with 5:32 left in the 4th Quarter
Sonics on a 10-0 after the ejection
Sonics have changed their pick and roll defense and are now switching the defense.
Flip Murray is a match-up the Warriors can’t handle.
Bob Hill has not gone back to Rashard Lewis yet.
Great work by Jack Sikma – he just went to Hill and told him he had Rashard on the bench and now Rashard will check in.
Warriors 80 Sonics 76 with 9:30 left in the 4th Quarter
Bob Weiss just blew his lid. The first time he got his Tech on purpose after Davis missed both free throws off a flagrant foul on Danny. I think Bob waited to make sure both free throws were missed before he missed the free throws. Then he went out to half court to meet Benny Adams. On the next play Adams called a really really really late whistle on Danny and Bob went crazy. He met Adams before he got the call out on the foul and got ejected,
The crowd loved it. Bob Hill is now coaching
80-72 Warriors lead at the end of this mess.
Warriors 69 Sonics 66 with 2:46 left in the 3rd Quarter
The Warriors have made a great pick n roll adjustment. They have moved the pick n roll to the top with the ball going to the middle it has eliminated the use of the stopper and is allowing the Warriors to get in the paint.
The Warriors are also running a ton on the curls.
Reggie is just wrecking havoc in the paint
He has no intention on the offensive end to do anything but get the offensive reb
Sonics 50 Warriors 48 at the half
Sonics aren’t shooting well but they are playing offense well. They have a 50% offensive rebounding rate and they have been to the line 20 times while only committing 6 turnovers. Shooting is vital to success no question, but this is an example of how to survive when the shot is not falling.
The Sonics had a little lapse in the second quarter, but for the most part are still playing well on the defensive end.
The amount of deflections will tell if the Sonics are defending.
You would have thought Lewis would go off tonight, instead he is 2 of 9
Warriors 42 Sonics 41 with 2:42 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Sonics offense has gone cold. They have not scored on 5 straight possessions.
The bench veterans of the Warriors, Derek Fischer and Calbert Chaeney are getting the best of the Sonics.
Do we ever get a defensive stop when Mikki Moore is in the game?
Same story as early in the season. The Sonics go to the bench and then never regain rhythm.
Sonics 32 Warriors 23 with 8:48 left in the 2nd Quarter
Sonics defensively are getting a lot of deflections which is a sign of active defense.
The T on Danny Fortson was a good call.
The good Flip is the one the lets the game come to him and takes what the game gives, the bad Flip is the one who forces his game onto the game. We are getting the bad Flip today.
Sonics 26 Warriors 20 at the end of the 1st Quarter
Seattle got out in transition early in the quarter and took advantage of the Warriors poor transition effort.
The Sonics have been very aggressive going to the basket
Jason Richardson was matched on Rashard Lewis and Lewis took him to the post.
The defensive game plan on the pick and roll has been good. They are going under the pick to force the outside shot. In addition, they have helped and rotated well.
Sonics 8 Warriors 2 with 7:20 left in the 1st Quarter
Sonics have 6 offensive rebounds already
The Sonics want to go to the rim, becasue the Warriors have the same amount of shot blockers as the Sonics. -- ZERO
The arena is dead.
There are two match-ups the Sonics want to exploit -- Dunleavy guarding Lewis and the slow rotations of Troy Murphy.
STORYLINES
1) Sonics must play some defense
2) The Sonics stopper -- which is their big man helping the penetration from the guards
3) Winning the Turnover battle
4) Ray Allen outplaying Jason Richardson
5) Defensive rating better then 110.
Saturday, December 10, 2005
SIMULBLOG SONICS V. KINGS
Kings 116 Sonics 99 with 3:30 left in the 4th Quarter
I can’t hear anything the women are saying other then they are excited that Mateen is in the game because one of them went to Michigan State. She said, “I think he is going to make it.” I am not sure what it is but ,…….. Have a good night I am done.
Kings 111 Sonics 89 with 6:17 left in the 4th Quarter
The Kings are 18 of their 24 in the second half.
I will try to give you an update on what the women are saying.
They are currently talking about Sheri’s awful child.
Kings 109 Sonics 89 with 6:38 left in the 4th Quarter
The two women to my left have been talking and gossiping all night about everyone they know and their relationships. They haven’t watched a minute of the game. I am jealous
Kings 105 Sonics 89 with 7:44 left in the 4th Quarter
There really is very little to say. The Sonics performance tonight is very disappointing and nothing they do in the final 7 minutes will change that.
Ray Allen has returned to action.
Up by 18 Rick Adelman can still find a way to whine about everything.
The Sonics have turned Bonzi Wells into Michael Jordan tonight.
Kings 103 Sonics 83 with 9:02 left in the 4th Quarter
Ray Allen just took a scary fall when he was hit going to the basket.
His left leg got bent completely back and underneath his body.
He has left the game after hitting two free throws.
Kings 84 Sonics 64 with 4:07 left in the 3rd Quarter
Once you let a team get in a rhythm it is almost impossible to break the rhythm. The Kings are rolling.
The 5 man sub move is cute, but these 5 are not starters for a reason. They aren’t that good.
This is so bad you just wish it would end. Where is the re-set button?
Kings 75 Sonics 61 with 7:23 left in the 3rd Quarter
The Kings have scored on 17 of their last 21 trips.
Bob Weiss just emptied the entire bench. 5 man substitution.
They should have been benched.
Kings 71 Sonics 61 with 9:18 in the 3rd Quarter
The defensive disaster continues. The lane is the free pass zone.
Kings 62 Sonics 57 at the half
In the last 6:53 of the half both teams only had three defensive stops.
Who ever decided to put out a little effort defensively will win this game.
This is the ultimate two teams playing in a tuxedo game.
There is more defense in an all-star game.
Sonics 56 Kings 53 with 1:33 left in the 2nd Quarter
Sonics defense is a beeping embarrassment !!!!!! They getting beat on basic cuts away from the ball. This is sad !!!!! The only explanation is that they are trying to match the defensive inadequacies of the Kings. The Kings are just as brutal.
Defense is not in the building .
The Sonics have scored on 10 of 11 possessions.
The Kings have scored 9 of the last 11 possessions.
Kings 43 Sonics 40 with 5:51 left in the 2nd Quarter
This is when Flip starts to bug me. He has dominated the 4 of the last 6 possessions. He has only scored on one of those and the other 3 were either turnovers or misses.
Sonics aren’t taking advantage of the Kings bench
Rashard Lewis just got his third foul at the 6:07 mark and heads the bench. Kings up three at this point
Sonics 35 Kings 35 with 8:59 left in the 2nd Quarter
Flip’s drive a moment ago was awesome power. Not many guys in the league have that move.
The next time Flip went for a drive he shot it over the glass. Not many guys in the league have that move.
Both teams are shooting over 60%.
Kings 31 Sonics 29 at the end of the 1st Quarter
The Kings uniforms look like something the University of Washington should be wearing.
Mike Bibby going right is a miss and going to his left is a make.
Now is the time the Sonics must take advantage of the Kings bench
Sonics 23 Kings 23 with 2:59 left in the 1st Quarter
Luke has scored or assisted on the Sonics last 13 points.
Sonics aren’t impeding any progress of the Kings cuts which allows the uninterrupted ball movement.
Lewis had another great steal. He had his career high last night.
Lewis has talked a lot about his team needing to play better defense and he is leading the way. That is impressive leadership.
Reggie Evans is playing hard on the boards.
Luke’s shot looks better then it has all year and most of last year.
Kings 13 Sonics 4 with 8:07 left in the 1st Quarter
Sonics opening offense is as bad as it was last night. Last night they allowed the first 14 buckets to be lay-ups. Tonight it is 4 of the first 5. Brad Miller has been left wide open.
Rotation is not a strength for Reggie Evans and Collison is going to help on the pick and roll and Reggie is not rotating.
It is interesting to see Lewis v. Peja. In my opinion Lewis has become a superior player to Peja. He has more versatility. He can go to the block. His defense is better . His shot is close to the same. That is a pretty tremendous change from where this match-up was a few years ago
STORYLINES
1) Sonics effort
2) Sonics defensive rebounding v. Kings awful offensive rebounding
3) Take away the left hand of Peja and Bibby
4) Handle the spilts off the Brad Miller
5) Take advantage of the Kings Bench
I can’t hear anything the women are saying other then they are excited that Mateen is in the game because one of them went to Michigan State. She said, “I think he is going to make it.” I am not sure what it is but ,…….. Have a good night I am done.
Kings 111 Sonics 89 with 6:17 left in the 4th Quarter
The Kings are 18 of their 24 in the second half.
I will try to give you an update on what the women are saying.
They are currently talking about Sheri’s awful child.
Kings 109 Sonics 89 with 6:38 left in the 4th Quarter
The two women to my left have been talking and gossiping all night about everyone they know and their relationships. They haven’t watched a minute of the game. I am jealous
Kings 105 Sonics 89 with 7:44 left in the 4th Quarter
There really is very little to say. The Sonics performance tonight is very disappointing and nothing they do in the final 7 minutes will change that.
Ray Allen has returned to action.
Up by 18 Rick Adelman can still find a way to whine about everything.
The Sonics have turned Bonzi Wells into Michael Jordan tonight.
Kings 103 Sonics 83 with 9:02 left in the 4th Quarter
Ray Allen just took a scary fall when he was hit going to the basket.
His left leg got bent completely back and underneath his body.
He has left the game after hitting two free throws.
Kings 84 Sonics 64 with 4:07 left in the 3rd Quarter
Once you let a team get in a rhythm it is almost impossible to break the rhythm. The Kings are rolling.
The 5 man sub move is cute, but these 5 are not starters for a reason. They aren’t that good.
This is so bad you just wish it would end. Where is the re-set button?
Kings 75 Sonics 61 with 7:23 left in the 3rd Quarter
The Kings have scored on 17 of their last 21 trips.
Bob Weiss just emptied the entire bench. 5 man substitution.
They should have been benched.
Kings 71 Sonics 61 with 9:18 in the 3rd Quarter
The defensive disaster continues. The lane is the free pass zone.
Kings 62 Sonics 57 at the half
In the last 6:53 of the half both teams only had three defensive stops.
Who ever decided to put out a little effort defensively will win this game.
This is the ultimate two teams playing in a tuxedo game.
There is more defense in an all-star game.
Sonics 56 Kings 53 with 1:33 left in the 2nd Quarter
Sonics defense is a beeping embarrassment !!!!!! They getting beat on basic cuts away from the ball. This is sad !!!!! The only explanation is that they are trying to match the defensive inadequacies of the Kings. The Kings are just as brutal.
Defense is not in the building .
The Sonics have scored on 10 of 11 possessions.
The Kings have scored 9 of the last 11 possessions.
Kings 43 Sonics 40 with 5:51 left in the 2nd Quarter
This is when Flip starts to bug me. He has dominated the 4 of the last 6 possessions. He has only scored on one of those and the other 3 were either turnovers or misses.
Sonics aren’t taking advantage of the Kings bench
Rashard Lewis just got his third foul at the 6:07 mark and heads the bench. Kings up three at this point
Sonics 35 Kings 35 with 8:59 left in the 2nd Quarter
Flip’s drive a moment ago was awesome power. Not many guys in the league have that move.
The next time Flip went for a drive he shot it over the glass. Not many guys in the league have that move.
Both teams are shooting over 60%.
Kings 31 Sonics 29 at the end of the 1st Quarter
The Kings uniforms look like something the University of Washington should be wearing.
Mike Bibby going right is a miss and going to his left is a make.
Now is the time the Sonics must take advantage of the Kings bench
Sonics 23 Kings 23 with 2:59 left in the 1st Quarter
Luke has scored or assisted on the Sonics last 13 points.
Sonics aren’t impeding any progress of the Kings cuts which allows the uninterrupted ball movement.
Lewis had another great steal. He had his career high last night.
Lewis has talked a lot about his team needing to play better defense and he is leading the way. That is impressive leadership.
Reggie Evans is playing hard on the boards.
Luke’s shot looks better then it has all year and most of last year.
Kings 13 Sonics 4 with 8:07 left in the 1st Quarter
Sonics opening offense is as bad as it was last night. Last night they allowed the first 14 buckets to be lay-ups. Tonight it is 4 of the first 5. Brad Miller has been left wide open.
Rotation is not a strength for Reggie Evans and Collison is going to help on the pick and roll and Reggie is not rotating.
It is interesting to see Lewis v. Peja. In my opinion Lewis has become a superior player to Peja. He has more versatility. He can go to the block. His defense is better . His shot is close to the same. That is a pretty tremendous change from where this match-up was a few years ago
STORYLINES
1) Sonics effort
2) Sonics defensive rebounding v. Kings awful offensive rebounding
3) Take away the left hand of Peja and Bibby
4) Handle the spilts off the Brad Miller
5) Take advantage of the Kings Bench
Friday, December 09, 2005
SIMULBLOG FOR SONICS V. JAZZ
Coming to you live from the Delta Center
SONICS GET AN EASY WIN AT THE DELTA CENTER
Luke Ridnour has a terrific offensive game
Sonics dominate the effort and energy all game
Rashard Lewis dominated all moments not guarded by Kirlenko. The question is why Sloan allowed that to happen. Give Weiss credit for creating match-ups that got Kirlienko off Lewis
Vlady and Flip give solid performance off the bench
Fortson likely to get suspended.
Sonics 88 Jazz 72 at the end of 3 Quarters
The sups are playing very well They are taking the game to the Jazz every moment
Luke is having a great game. 16 pts, 6 rebs and 5 assists
Evans and Collison have comboed for 20 rebound.
Sonics 80 Utah 61 with 3:30 left in the 3rd Quarter
What is Jerry Sloan going to say about this?
Rashard Lewis has 5 steals and has been dominate on both ends of the floor.
If you cut off the Utah lay-up they really can’t score.
They have no one who can shoot.
Deron Williams is having his second bad day against the Sonics
Seattle has been able to get and run because they are rebounding.
Sonics 60 Jazz 49 at the half
Sonics score a season high pts against the Jazz
Sonics score a season high pts in the 2nd quarter
Sonics have 17 second chance points
Radmanovic has been very active on both the defensive end and hitting the outside shot.
When Vlady can shoot the Sonics are deadly. The floor looks like it is about 4 feet wider when Vlady is rolling
Flip gets a + for his performance of the bench even if it was loaded with Flipisms.
The defense was not great, but the offense was so good it is absurd.
Sonics 47 Jazz 39 with 5:23 left in the 2nd Quarter
It is amazing when the Jazz aren’t shooting lay-ups how bad a bunch of shooters they are.
They are totally dependent on the offense giving them a good look.
Flip Murray is one of the worst on ball defenders it is shocking..
Murray is having a good offense game, but I wonder if Ray Allen shoots faster when Murray is on the floor because he doesn’t think he will see the ball
Sonics 31 Jazz 29 at the end of 1 Quarter
Every basket by the Jazz in the 1st Quarter was in the paint
The Jazz first 11 field goals were lay-ups.
Lewis is 1 for 4 since Kirlenko came into the game
The Sonics hit 4 of 6 from three.
Sonics 18 Jazz 12 with 5:52 left in the 1st Quarter
Lewis goes 4 of 4 against Harpring what will he do against Kirlenko
The Sonics are giving the Jazz way too many lay-ups. 4 straight at one point.
SONICS GET AN EASY WIN AT THE DELTA CENTER
Luke Ridnour has a terrific offensive game
Sonics dominate the effort and energy all game
Rashard Lewis dominated all moments not guarded by Kirlenko. The question is why Sloan allowed that to happen. Give Weiss credit for creating match-ups that got Kirlienko off Lewis
Vlady and Flip give solid performance off the bench
Fortson likely to get suspended.
Sonics 88 Jazz 72 at the end of 3 Quarters
The sups are playing very well They are taking the game to the Jazz every moment
Luke is having a great game. 16 pts, 6 rebs and 5 assists
Evans and Collison have comboed for 20 rebound.
Sonics 80 Utah 61 with 3:30 left in the 3rd Quarter
What is Jerry Sloan going to say about this?
Rashard Lewis has 5 steals and has been dominate on both ends of the floor.
If you cut off the Utah lay-up they really can’t score.
They have no one who can shoot.
Deron Williams is having his second bad day against the Sonics
Seattle has been able to get and run because they are rebounding.
Sonics 60 Jazz 49 at the half
Sonics score a season high pts against the Jazz
Sonics score a season high pts in the 2nd quarter
Sonics have 17 second chance points
Radmanovic has been very active on both the defensive end and hitting the outside shot.
When Vlady can shoot the Sonics are deadly. The floor looks like it is about 4 feet wider when Vlady is rolling
Flip gets a + for his performance of the bench even if it was loaded with Flipisms.
The defense was not great, but the offense was so good it is absurd.
Sonics 47 Jazz 39 with 5:23 left in the 2nd Quarter
It is amazing when the Jazz aren’t shooting lay-ups how bad a bunch of shooters they are.
They are totally dependent on the offense giving them a good look.
Flip Murray is one of the worst on ball defenders it is shocking..
Murray is having a good offense game, but I wonder if Ray Allen shoots faster when Murray is on the floor because he doesn’t think he will see the ball
Sonics 31 Jazz 29 at the end of 1 Quarter
Every basket by the Jazz in the 1st Quarter was in the paint
The Jazz first 11 field goals were lay-ups.
Lewis is 1 for 4 since Kirlenko came into the game
The Sonics hit 4 of 6 from three.
Sonics 18 Jazz 12 with 5:52 left in the 1st Quarter
Lewis goes 4 of 4 against Harpring what will he do against Kirlenko
The Sonics are giving the Jazz way too many lay-ups. 4 straight at one point.
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