Today the Sonics continued the remodeling of their franchise in the ilk of the San Antonio Spurs.
You should have a link to the interview. If not check you blockers on the web page.
Quick Thought on the Hire: I like PJ. He is a very personable individual who will bring some energy to the franchise. In his last previous coaching stints at Seton Hall and in the NBA he was known as a yeller. That will not work with this team as it is currently built. However, I think it is short sighted to assume PJ has not grown or evolved from his past experiences and knowledge he gained at San Antonio. The key moments of his tenure will be when the pressure mounts does he revert back or in fact has he evolved. PJ is bright and bright people usually evolve.
On a personal note if I was an NBA team anywhere Dwane Casey would be on the top of my list. He is going to be a terrific head coach when he gets his next shot.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Why is NJ cool and Boston bad?
Over the past week the Boston Celtics have gotten ripped for trading for a 32 year old (opening day 2007 age) shooting guard Ray Allen. New Jersey has been praised for re-signing Vince Carter.
Let me ask you this. Who would you rather have - Jason Kidd, Vince Carter and Richard Jefferson or Ray Allen, Paul Pierce and Al Jefferson?
I would rather have Boston's threesome. So why is New Jersey cool and Boston getting ripped for a bad deal.
Sidenote -- Ray Allen as the third option offensively on a team with a post presence in Jefferson and a good driver in Pierce, who can penetrate and kick. If their is a scenario where an aging shooting guard can survive and thrive this is the one.
Let me ask you this. Who would you rather have - Jason Kidd, Vince Carter and Richard Jefferson or Ray Allen, Paul Pierce and Al Jefferson?
I would rather have Boston's threesome. So why is New Jersey cool and Boston getting ripped for a bad deal.
Sidenote -- Ray Allen as the third option offensively on a team with a post presence in Jefferson and a good driver in Pierce, who can penetrate and kick. If their is a scenario where an aging shooting guard can survive and thrive this is the one.
Rashard to the Magic -- For the Max
Rashard Lewis gets the max. Is that right? Would you pay him the max? Is he worth it?
The issue is not always how good the player is but rather how the team's salary structure is and where the player fits. I believe if you have two max contract players you better be ready to be in the conference semi-finals each and every year. The Magic will have Howard and Lewis as their max contract players. I am not convinced that makes them a Conference semi-finalist. from that standpoint I wonder if this was the right move by the Magic.
On the other hand, Lewis will be a great help to Howard. The Magic offense last season was putrid, ranking 23rd in the NBA. This was largely because everything revolved around Howard and he isn't ready for that burden yet. Lewis will assist him greatly. His ability to handle to ball allows him to do everything offensively from running the pick and roll, to isolation or creating his own shot.
Howard struggled badly last year when he was double teamed. Lewis will help with that a good deal.
From a Sonics standpoint maybe Rashard was worth the max. With Allen out of the picture, Rashard would have been your one max player and with the collective bargaining agreement you wouldn't have to max out Durant for another four seasons. Therefore, inside the salary structure it might have been feasible.
How Lewis, Durant and Green would have all coexisted will never be answered. It is imperative for the future of the Sonics that nothing impedes the progress of Durant.
The other issue is whether or not Rashard is a max player talentwise. Rashard can get you 20 every night and most importantly gets you 20 every night rather than 14 one night and 28 the next. His consistency is what has elevated his game to the elite of the NBA. According to my offensive numbers he is the best offensive small forward in the NBA. That seems like a stretch, but let's see what happens when he is a number 1 option.
On a personal note, I have covered Rashard longer than any athlete I have ever covered in my career. It has been fantastic to watch him grow from the Houston teenager into a man. He will have his first child this off-season and embark upon a new challenge in Orlando. Rashard is a good guy who deserves good things. From day 1 with Dwane Casey and Nate he worked very hard at the craft and it allowed him to reach this day as a max player.
Regardless of whether or not everyone thinks he is a max player.
The issue is not always how good the player is but rather how the team's salary structure is and where the player fits. I believe if you have two max contract players you better be ready to be in the conference semi-finals each and every year. The Magic will have Howard and Lewis as their max contract players. I am not convinced that makes them a Conference semi-finalist. from that standpoint I wonder if this was the right move by the Magic.
On the other hand, Lewis will be a great help to Howard. The Magic offense last season was putrid, ranking 23rd in the NBA. This was largely because everything revolved around Howard and he isn't ready for that burden yet. Lewis will assist him greatly. His ability to handle to ball allows him to do everything offensively from running the pick and roll, to isolation or creating his own shot.
Howard struggled badly last year when he was double teamed. Lewis will help with that a good deal.
From a Sonics standpoint maybe Rashard was worth the max. With Allen out of the picture, Rashard would have been your one max player and with the collective bargaining agreement you wouldn't have to max out Durant for another four seasons. Therefore, inside the salary structure it might have been feasible.
How Lewis, Durant and Green would have all coexisted will never be answered. It is imperative for the future of the Sonics that nothing impedes the progress of Durant.
The other issue is whether or not Rashard is a max player talentwise. Rashard can get you 20 every night and most importantly gets you 20 every night rather than 14 one night and 28 the next. His consistency is what has elevated his game to the elite of the NBA. According to my offensive numbers he is the best offensive small forward in the NBA. That seems like a stretch, but let's see what happens when he is a number 1 option.
On a personal note, I have covered Rashard longer than any athlete I have ever covered in my career. It has been fantastic to watch him grow from the Houston teenager into a man. He will have his first child this off-season and embark upon a new challenge in Orlando. Rashard is a good guy who deserves good things. From day 1 with Dwane Casey and Nate he worked very hard at the craft and it allowed him to reach this day as a max player.
Regardless of whether or not everyone thinks he is a max player.
Monday, July 02, 2007
Hello Friends
For those of you who have ventured back here to see if I am blogging I am warming to the idea. I am not entirely sure what I have planned for this site but check back and see how it evolves.
I know this. The decision by the Sonics is obviously disappointing. What disappoints me the most is not being able to communicate with the sports fans of the region. Therefore, this will have to be the place.
I also know this.
1) It will not be NBA only
2) It will facilitate conversation
3) It should be fun and informative.
4) Without an editor it will be an embarrassment to the English language.
Glad to be talking with you,
David Locke
I know this. The decision by the Sonics is obviously disappointing. What disappoints me the most is not being able to communicate with the sports fans of the region. Therefore, this will have to be the place.
I also know this.
1) It will not be NBA only
2) It will facilitate conversation
3) It should be fun and informative.
4) Without an editor it will be an embarrassment to the English language.
Glad to be talking with you,
David Locke
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Locked On Sports: Satisfying those basketball Joneses
Locked On Sports: Satisfying those basketball Joneses: "The Association has been desperate for someone to step onto Michael's stage since he ended his career with the Bulls. Litanies of failures have washed by our eyes. Most of them cursed with the disease of 'me.'
Now the progression to that stage is filled with successors and instead of one man like Jordan, it will be a constant battle among numerous for the title of king of the moment."
Now the progression to that stage is filled with successors and instead of one man like Jordan, it will be a constant battle among numerous for the title of king of the moment."
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
The Seattle Times: Sonics: Sonics' move to the 'burbs: Would it be a bust or a boon?
This is one of the best articles written about the arena situations. It talks about the possibility of a move to the burbs and the options. More importantly, it talks about what would happen to Key Arena without the Sonics.
The Seattle Times: Sonics: Sonics' move to the 'burbs: Would it be a bust or a boon?: "Eastside business leaders say a privately funded arena in Bellevue could work, at least in theory.
The facility would have to keep busy with trade shows, concerts and other sports teams besides the Sonics and the WNBA's Seattle Storm, said Kemper Freeman, the owner of Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square. And it would need to offer lots of parking and good vehicle access, both of which are hard to find at KeyArena and other local sports facilities, he said."
The Seattle Times: Sonics: Sonics' move to the 'burbs: Would it be a bust or a boon?: "Eastside business leaders say a privately funded arena in Bellevue could work, at least in theory.
The facility would have to keep busy with trade shows, concerts and other sports teams besides the Sonics and the WNBA's Seattle Storm, said Kemper Freeman, the owner of Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square. And it would need to offer lots of parking and good vehicle access, both of which are hard to find at KeyArena and other local sports facilities, he said."
Thursday, April 27, 2006
DRAFT MULLIGANS
1982: Picked Jeff Bryant DE Clemson 6th overall: solid player for 10 years in Seattle. Passed on: Marcus Allen (10) Raiders
1983: Picked Curt Warner (3) RB Penn State: Solid career, cut short by injuries. Passed on Dan Marino (27) Dolphins. Holds many NFL records, Hall of Famer.
1983: Picked Matt Hernandez OT Purdue in 8th round, pick 210. 13 picks later, # 223, Miami picked WR Mark Clayton WR Louisville, Marino's #1 WR in Miami. Clayton and Marino are one of the top QB-WR combos in NFL history based on yds and TD's. (I think only behind Manning-Harrison in QB-WR TD catch combos)---So in 1983, instead of Warner and Hernandez the Hawks could have had Marino to Clayton.
1990: Cortez Kennedy DT (3) Miami---Emmitt Smith RB (17) Dallas----Kennedy NFL defensive player of the year in 1992, Smith, NFL's all-time leading rusher. Seahawks got Chris Warren in the 4th round of the 1990 draft, pick 89.
1990: Hawks pick Bob Kula OT Michigan State with pick #175 in 7th round. 17 picks later in 7th rd. (# 192) Denver selects Shannon Sharpe TE Savanah State.
1991: Dan McGwire QB San Diego St. (16): Mark's brother sucked. Ted Washington (25) 49ers DT Louisville. Washington is still in the NFL today stuffing the run.
1993: Rick Mirer QB Notre Dame (2): Solid first year, bust. Although Seattle did get # 1 for Mirer when they finally traded him to Bears. Passed on: Wille Roaf OT Saints (8), Jerome Bettis Steelers (10),
1993: 2nd round almost as bad. Sea. took CB Carlton Gray from UCLA with the first pick of the 2nd round, #30 overall. Gray was a solid but inconsistent player in Seattle for a few seasons. Michael Strahan DE Texas Southern 10 picks later at # 40, still sacking QB's for Giants, is NFL single season sack record holder. Former Hawks LB Chad Brown (Colorado) went @ # 44 to Pittsburgh,
1993: 4th RD: Seattle took Terrence Warren WR Hampton w/ the 2nd pick of the 4th rd, #114 overall. UW QB Mark Brunell was taken 4 picks later by GB at #118.
1994: Seattle took C Kevin Mawae LSU (36) in 2nd round. . Mawae was a Pro Bowl center for the Jets for years and now plays in Tenn. However Larry Allen, possibly the best guard in NFL history was taken by Dallas out of Sanoma State 10 picks later at # 46.
1995: Joey Galloway, solid speedy WR who forced his way out of Seattle to Dallas (8) Ohio State. Passed on: Warren Sapp (12) (Miami-Fla) Tampa, Ty Law CB Michigan (Pursuing right now), (23) Patriots, Derrick Brooks (FSU) OLB Tampa (28).
1995: Round 6: Seattle took DT Florida Henry McMillan pick # 180. 16 picks later @ # 196 Denver took RB Georgia, Terrell Davis. If for nothing else, to keep him away from Broncos and inflicting so much pain on Hawks.
1996: Seahawks originally held 14th overall pick. Traded down and allowed Houston to select Ediie George RB Ohio State. Traded again down from 19, where Colts slected Marvin Harrison WR Syracuse. Finally selected Pete Kendall G, Boston College at #21. Kendall was solid. Ray Lewis MLB (Miami-Fla.) was taken by Ravens at #26. Recap: Hawks ended up w/ Kendall and passed on Eddie George, Marvin Harrison and Ray Lewis, trading down 2x in the round.
1996: 2nd round: Picked Fred Thomas CB Tenn-Martin w/ # 47 overall pick. Thomas was a solid player before signing w/ Saints. Passed up WR Bobby Engram Penn State WR 5 picks later at # 52. (Also former Hawks Derrick Mayes WR Notre Dame (56), and Reggie Tongue (58) S Oregon State) were passed over for Thomas.
1996: Round 3: Hawks selected Robert Barr OT Rutgers w/ pick # 77. 9 picks later at # 86 Patriots took Teddy Bruschi LB Arizona. Super bowl hero and lynchpin of Pats defenses in Super Bowl winning years.
1998: Hawks played it safe by grabbing Anthony Simmons LB Clemson @ # 15 in first round. Simmons was solid, but never made a pro bowl and fught injuries. 6 Picks later at # 21 Vikings took Randy Moss.
1998 3rd round: Hawks took Ahman Green with 76th overall pick Green was later traded to GB for CB Fred Vinson in one of Hawks worst moves ever. Vinson blew his knee after the trade and never played a down in Seattle. To compound the issue, Pittsburgh took Hines Ward, WR Georgia 16 picks after Green with pick # 92 in 3rd round. If Seattle takes Ward, the Super Bowl 40 MVP, do they the Super Bowl? (Out of 1998 draft could have had Randy Moss and Hines Ward)
1998: 6th round. Pick # 162 Hawks take Carl Hansen, DE Stanford and with pick 169 in 6th round, take Bobby Shaw WR Cal. Packers select Matt Hasselbeck, QB Boston College with pick # 187 in 6th round. Seattle passed on him twice in 6th round in 1998.
1999: Lamar King DE Saginaw Valley State. Buffalo at pick # 23 takes CB Oho State Antione Winfield, Pro Bowl CB w/ Vikings, drafted by BUffalo.
2000: 6th round. Seattle selects James Williams WR Marshall w/ pick # 175. Williams hung around for a few uneventful seasons in Seattle. 24 picks later in 6th round w/ pick # 199 New England selects some QB named Tom Brady, Michigan.
2001: Koren Robinson # 9 overall. Santana Moss # 16 to Jets, Casey Hampton DT Texas to Steelers at # 19, Reggie Wayne to Indy @ # 30, Todd Heap to Ravens at # 31.
2001: Ken Lucas 2nd round # 40. Lucas was great, but he's gone. Kris Jenkins DT Carolina #44, Chris Chambers WR Miami (Wisconsin) # 52, Shaun Rogers DT Lions (Texas) # 61. Pro Bowler Rogers is what Marcus Tubbs was supposed to be.
2002 2nd round. With the 2nd of their two #2 picks, Seattle selected DE Anton Palepoi from UNLV at pick # 60. Antwaan Randle-El was taken by Steelers 2 picks later at # 62. That makes Steelers WR's Randle-El and Ward who could have been Hawks. Randle-El thru a TD in the Super Bowl after the Hasselbeck phantom blocking call on a tackle. Palepoi was a bust. New England took WR and Super Bowl MVP Deion Branch (Hawaii) 5 picks after Palepoi at #65.
2002: Round 3: Seattle selected CB Kris Richard from USC w/ 85th pick. Philly took RB Brian Westbrook @ # 91, Steelers took S Chris Hope, who started in Super Bowl, 9 picks later at # 94. Richard is gone and never was more than a nickel back in Seattle.
2003: Seattle selected Marcus Trufant # 11. As solid as Trufant has been, Steelers selected Troy Polamalu S USC w/ 16th pick of first round. I'd take Troy.
2003: Seahawks took Ken Hamlin in the 2nd round, # 42 overall. Hamlin has been solid, but is a question mark now. Arizona slected Pro Bowl WR Anquan Boldin (FSU) 12 picks later at # 54. Polamalu and Boldin or Trufant and Hamlin???
2004: Marcus Tubbs #23. Steven Jackson #24, (Could have let Alexander go and use money elsewhere) RB , Oregon State.
1983: Picked Curt Warner (3) RB Penn State: Solid career, cut short by injuries. Passed on Dan Marino (27) Dolphins. Holds many NFL records, Hall of Famer.
1983: Picked Matt Hernandez OT Purdue in 8th round, pick 210. 13 picks later, # 223, Miami picked WR Mark Clayton WR Louisville, Marino's #1 WR in Miami. Clayton and Marino are one of the top QB-WR combos in NFL history based on yds and TD's. (I think only behind Manning-Harrison in QB-WR TD catch combos)---So in 1983, instead of Warner and Hernandez the Hawks could have had Marino to Clayton.
1990: Cortez Kennedy DT (3) Miami---Emmitt Smith RB (17) Dallas----Kennedy NFL defensive player of the year in 1992, Smith, NFL's all-time leading rusher. Seahawks got Chris Warren in the 4th round of the 1990 draft, pick 89.
1990: Hawks pick Bob Kula OT Michigan State with pick #175 in 7th round. 17 picks later in 7th rd. (# 192) Denver selects Shannon Sharpe TE Savanah State.
1991: Dan McGwire QB San Diego St. (16): Mark's brother sucked. Ted Washington (25) 49ers DT Louisville. Washington is still in the NFL today stuffing the run.
1993: Rick Mirer QB Notre Dame (2): Solid first year, bust. Although Seattle did get # 1 for Mirer when they finally traded him to Bears. Passed on: Wille Roaf OT Saints (8), Jerome Bettis Steelers (10),
1993: 2nd round almost as bad. Sea. took CB Carlton Gray from UCLA with the first pick of the 2nd round, #30 overall. Gray was a solid but inconsistent player in Seattle for a few seasons. Michael Strahan DE Texas Southern 10 picks later at # 40, still sacking QB's for Giants, is NFL single season sack record holder. Former Hawks LB Chad Brown (Colorado) went @ # 44 to Pittsburgh,
1993: 4th RD: Seattle took Terrence Warren WR Hampton w/ the 2nd pick of the 4th rd, #114 overall. UW QB Mark Brunell was taken 4 picks later by GB at #118.
1994: Seattle took C Kevin Mawae LSU (36) in 2nd round. . Mawae was a Pro Bowl center for the Jets for years and now plays in Tenn. However Larry Allen, possibly the best guard in NFL history was taken by Dallas out of Sanoma State 10 picks later at # 46.
1995: Joey Galloway, solid speedy WR who forced his way out of Seattle to Dallas (8) Ohio State. Passed on: Warren Sapp (12) (Miami-Fla) Tampa, Ty Law CB Michigan (Pursuing right now), (23) Patriots, Derrick Brooks (FSU) OLB Tampa (28).
1995: Round 6: Seattle took DT Florida Henry McMillan pick # 180. 16 picks later @ # 196 Denver took RB Georgia, Terrell Davis. If for nothing else, to keep him away from Broncos and inflicting so much pain on Hawks.
1996: Seahawks originally held 14th overall pick. Traded down and allowed Houston to select Ediie George RB Ohio State. Traded again down from 19, where Colts slected Marvin Harrison WR Syracuse. Finally selected Pete Kendall G, Boston College at #21. Kendall was solid. Ray Lewis MLB (Miami-Fla.) was taken by Ravens at #26. Recap: Hawks ended up w/ Kendall and passed on Eddie George, Marvin Harrison and Ray Lewis, trading down 2x in the round.
1996: 2nd round: Picked Fred Thomas CB Tenn-Martin w/ # 47 overall pick. Thomas was a solid player before signing w/ Saints. Passed up WR Bobby Engram Penn State WR 5 picks later at # 52. (Also former Hawks Derrick Mayes WR Notre Dame (56), and Reggie Tongue (58) S Oregon State) were passed over for Thomas.
1996: Round 3: Hawks selected Robert Barr OT Rutgers w/ pick # 77. 9 picks later at # 86 Patriots took Teddy Bruschi LB Arizona. Super bowl hero and lynchpin of Pats defenses in Super Bowl winning years.
1998: Hawks played it safe by grabbing Anthony Simmons LB Clemson @ # 15 in first round. Simmons was solid, but never made a pro bowl and fught injuries. 6 Picks later at # 21 Vikings took Randy Moss.
1998 3rd round: Hawks took Ahman Green with 76th overall pick Green was later traded to GB for CB Fred Vinson in one of Hawks worst moves ever. Vinson blew his knee after the trade and never played a down in Seattle. To compound the issue, Pittsburgh took Hines Ward, WR Georgia 16 picks after Green with pick # 92 in 3rd round. If Seattle takes Ward, the Super Bowl 40 MVP, do they the Super Bowl? (Out of 1998 draft could have had Randy Moss and Hines Ward)
1998: 6th round. Pick # 162 Hawks take Carl Hansen, DE Stanford and with pick 169 in 6th round, take Bobby Shaw WR Cal. Packers select Matt Hasselbeck, QB Boston College with pick # 187 in 6th round. Seattle passed on him twice in 6th round in 1998.
1999: Lamar King DE Saginaw Valley State. Buffalo at pick # 23 takes CB Oho State Antione Winfield, Pro Bowl CB w/ Vikings, drafted by BUffalo.
2000: 6th round. Seattle selects James Williams WR Marshall w/ pick # 175. Williams hung around for a few uneventful seasons in Seattle. 24 picks later in 6th round w/ pick # 199 New England selects some QB named Tom Brady, Michigan.
2001: Koren Robinson # 9 overall. Santana Moss # 16 to Jets, Casey Hampton DT Texas to Steelers at # 19, Reggie Wayne to Indy @ # 30, Todd Heap to Ravens at # 31.
2001: Ken Lucas 2nd round # 40. Lucas was great, but he's gone. Kris Jenkins DT Carolina #44, Chris Chambers WR Miami (Wisconsin) # 52, Shaun Rogers DT Lions (Texas) # 61. Pro Bowler Rogers is what Marcus Tubbs was supposed to be.
2002 2nd round. With the 2nd of their two #2 picks, Seattle selected DE Anton Palepoi from UNLV at pick # 60. Antwaan Randle-El was taken by Steelers 2 picks later at # 62. That makes Steelers WR's Randle-El and Ward who could have been Hawks. Randle-El thru a TD in the Super Bowl after the Hasselbeck phantom blocking call on a tackle. Palepoi was a bust. New England took WR and Super Bowl MVP Deion Branch (Hawaii) 5 picks after Palepoi at #65.
2002: Round 3: Seattle selected CB Kris Richard from USC w/ 85th pick. Philly took RB Brian Westbrook @ # 91, Steelers took S Chris Hope, who started in Super Bowl, 9 picks later at # 94. Richard is gone and never was more than a nickel back in Seattle.
2003: Seattle selected Marcus Trufant # 11. As solid as Trufant has been, Steelers selected Troy Polamalu S USC w/ 16th pick of first round. I'd take Troy.
2003: Seahawks took Ken Hamlin in the 2nd round, # 42 overall. Hamlin has been solid, but is a question mark now. Arizona slected Pro Bowl WR Anquan Boldin (FSU) 12 picks later at # 54. Polamalu and Boldin or Trufant and Hamlin???
2004: Marcus Tubbs #23. Steven Jackson #24, (Could have let Alexander go and use money elsewhere) RB , Oregon State.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
NEWS, NEWS AND MORE NEWS OUT OF THE HAWKS
Tim Ruskell held his pre-draft press conference today at Seahawks head quarters. At 8:30 tonight we will bring you a copulation of his audio from the presser. In addition, we will talk with Hawks linebacker Julian Peterson.
There are no positions that are off the board for the Hawks on Saturday and Sunday.
Ruskell has created a hot list and all of the players they will draft are expected to be on the hot list. The list is made based on round and has 4 to 5 players at each round that he anticipates will be available. He will trade down if none of those players are available at that point.
The Hawks will not talk to Ty Law before the draft as has been the plan since he left Seattle.
The Hawks have re-signed Seneca Wallace.
Ken Hamlin has been cleared by the Hawks doctors to participate in non contact drills.
Pass dropping tied end Jerramy Stevens will not participate in mini camps as he had knee surgery is in recovery from that injury.
Here are some of the newsworthy items out of the presser and on the Hawks front.
More from Ruskell tonight at 8:30 on 950, KJR’s Locked on Sports.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Locked On Sports: Sonics lead NBA in offseason flexibility
Locked On Sports: Sonics lead NBA in offseason flexibility: "If the 2005-06 Sonics were a stock, we never would have owned it long enough to reach the final night of the season. We all would have dumped the stock and taken our losses when a season of high expectations spiraled into an abyss of a dysfunctional roster circus.
However, analysts today would place a 'buy' on the team despite its dismal campaign"
However, analysts today would place a 'buy' on the team despite its dismal campaign"
Monday, April 17, 2006
BOB HILL YOUR SONICS COACH FOR 2006-07
The Seattle Supersonics just announced that they will pick up the option for Bob Hill for next season. Hill has given the Sonics a personality and a style. In addition, while being a precarious situation Hill committed to developing the young talent and advancing the franchise regardless of the pain the team endured at time.
Hill brings a confidence to the Sonics that was desperately needed. He believes in his systems. He believes in his ability to convey his message and he believes that he can turn this team into a winning franchise.
What Hill was able to accomplish without a training camp and limited practice days was very impressive. The offense changed dramatically the way it approached the game and has continued to execute at an insanely high level. Defensively, the team showed noticeable improvement both in effort and approach from earlier in the season.
With a complete training camp next season and the failure of this season to use as a constant reminder Hill could really turn this franchise quickly. Most importantly, for the young players, there is no mystery in what will be expected from them in there development.
This is another good day in a season of recovery from a dreadful beginning.
Bob Hill is scheduled to join Locked on Sports tonight at 8:10 pm.
Sunday, April 16, 2006
PREVIEW OF THE DB's IN THE NFL DRAFT
With the Hawks #1 focus in the upcoming draft being the defensive backfield I thought everyone should be aware of this article previewing DB's in the NFL Draft.
I will continue to post the best articles about the draft I can find at www.lockedonsports.com and the blog.
SIMULBLOG FOR SONICS V. CLIPPERS
Sonics 67 Clippers 57 with 10:11 left in the 3rd Quarter
Clippers come out of the halftime with a 8-0 run
The Sonics are going to make it tough for the Clippers to lose if they keep playing like this.
The Sonics aren’t running the floor defensively at all
What is worth watching is who gives effort and who doesn’t. It tells you who is mentally tough .
Also, the Brand v. Wilcox match-up is worth watching.
Sonics 55 Clippers 38 with 5:12 left in the 2nd Quarter
Let’s be honest this is ridiculous.
The Clippers are playing guys that are barely NBA players.
The NBA has a problem with the way things are seeded if it benefits a team to lose and tonight we are the victum of watching this
To the Sonics credit they are playing hard enough to take advantage of this.
There is no much worth blogging or commenting on so be aware.
Sonics 38 Clippers 27 – at the end of 1 Quarter
Vin Baker yes Vin Baker is in the game
Vlady hits a three
Sonics is shooting 70%
Ray does not have a three
Sonics 31 Clippers 20 with 2:50 left in the 1st Quarter
The Clippers need to lose this game for playoff reasons. If they loss two more times they get the 6th seed and home court advantage v. Denver rather then going to Dallas.
The Sonics rested Cutino Mobley and Chris Kaman.
Luke is 5 for 5 with 11 points
There is not much intensity on the floor right now.
Wilcox is trying to make his statement
The best part of the game is that KC called the Suns v. Lakers earlier today for ESPN and you can tell he is gitty and going to be fun to listen to all night if not a bit wacky,
Clippers come out of the halftime with a 8-0 run
The Sonics are going to make it tough for the Clippers to lose if they keep playing like this.
The Sonics aren’t running the floor defensively at all
What is worth watching is who gives effort and who doesn’t. It tells you who is mentally tough .
Also, the Brand v. Wilcox match-up is worth watching.
Sonics 55 Clippers 38 with 5:12 left in the 2nd Quarter
Let’s be honest this is ridiculous.
The Clippers are playing guys that are barely NBA players.
The NBA has a problem with the way things are seeded if it benefits a team to lose and tonight we are the victum of watching this
To the Sonics credit they are playing hard enough to take advantage of this.
There is no much worth blogging or commenting on so be aware.
Sonics 38 Clippers 27 – at the end of 1 Quarter
Vin Baker yes Vin Baker is in the game
Vlady hits a three
Sonics is shooting 70%
Ray does not have a three
Sonics 31 Clippers 20 with 2:50 left in the 1st Quarter
The Clippers need to lose this game for playoff reasons. If they loss two more times they get the 6th seed and home court advantage v. Denver rather then going to Dallas.
The Sonics rested Cutino Mobley and Chris Kaman.
Luke is 5 for 5 with 11 points
There is not much intensity on the floor right now.
Wilcox is trying to make his statement
The best part of the game is that KC called the Suns v. Lakers earlier today for ESPN and you can tell he is gitty and going to be fun to listen to all night if not a bit wacky,
Friday, April 14, 2006
SIMULBLOG FOR SONICS V. CLIPPERS
Clippers 101 Sonics 97 – FINAL SCORE
Ray Allen misses a three to win it
Rashard Lewis didn’t score in the 4th and was never able to take advantage of the mismatch. Ironically what the Sonics really missed today was a Vlady Radmanovic type player
Elton Brand has really changed his game and is much better player late in games then he ever was in the past.
Sam Cassell is a winning point guard
Tough night for Luke Ridnour and Vlady Radmanovic
Make sure you check out supersonics.com for the Ray Allen offer
The Clippers are really a terrific half court defensive team
Kaman and Brand are a dynamic tandem. Can Swift become Kaman?
Sonics 88 Clippers 88 with 5:28 left in the 4th Quarter
This game is going to come down to if Lewis can beat Mobley.
The Clippers have their small forward on Allen leaving the smaller Mobley on Lewis
Between Kaman and Brand the Clippers can really pound it inside
Livingston is playing down the stretch rather then Cassell.
Sonics aren’t getting any points out of their half court offense. They have to get out and run and again.
Sonics 85 Clippers 84 with 9:12 left in the 4th Quarter
Hill rests Allen by playing Wilkins at the 2 with Lewis
Swift turns his ankle and is out, plus no Wilcox tonight
When does it become Ray time?
Can Watson contain Cassell
Clippers 82 Sonics 81 at the end of 3 Quarter
Sonics go cold – 24% in the Quarter. --- you had to assume you couldn’t shoot 60%
A brutal start and then the Sonics never got going in rhythm
Chris Kaman is a really nice player
Ray Allen was quiet for most of the Quarter
The game slowed down considerably in the third quarter
Sonics 66 Clippers 63 with 9:37 left in the 3rd quarter
Brutal start for the Sonics
Cassell has hit a few.
Luke Ridnour tonight on the floor is -10 and Watson is +18
Sonics 66 Clippers 55 at the half
Sonics are crazy hot. Ray Allen has 5 threes. Ray has 24
Sups are shooting 60% for the half.
The only concern is you really can’t stay this hot.
Sonics 58 Clippers 48 with 2:38 left in the 2nd Quarter
Sonics run was 48-24.
Earl Watson was +18 on the floor tonight
Swift and Petro are playing together
Sonics 54 Clippers 36 with 6:43 left in the 2nd Quarter
17-0 run
Oh my goodness !!!! Ray is on fire. A different planet
He hit a three had a smirk on his face and turned and said something to the people behind hill, but the look was dam am i good.
He has 4 threes in the last 3 minutes
It is an awesome display.
Sonics 46 Clippers 36 with 8:52 left in the 2nd Quarter
Wow !! What a barrage. Allen hits back to back threes and then feeds to a wide open Watson for the next one. Five trips up and down the floor, 3 for Seattle and 2 for LA and the Sonics go on a 9-0 run. That is hard to make up .
The Sonics are pushing the ball and getting good looks before the Clippers defense gets set.
When the defense gets set it is impressive but they haven’t been set all game. Sonics are shooting 61.5% and 6 of 10 from 3.
Radmanovic was not very good and he was booed (surprises me) He went 1 for 7 in 8 minutes and got 1 rebound and the Sonics killed him defensively.
Sonics 33 Clippers 30 – at the end of 1 Quarter
The Sonics are going right at Vlady and exposes his defense.
Lewis killed him on the last possession of the quarter driving by him from the top of the key and leaving him standing still like a statue.
Bob Hill called a “:20 timeout and went off on his club when they were down 16 to 8 and they responded well.
The Sonics are playing very well offensively against a good defensive team
Earl Watson was the spark. Unreal performance.
Clippers 11 Sonics 3 with 8:13 left in the 1st Quarter
Terrible start
The Clippers are wearing the old Buffalo Braves uniforms and I find it hard to believe anyone ever wore these god awful things. They are a truly ugly orange with a diagonal stripe of brown and white. Bad, very bad.
Robert Swift picks up two fouls in the first 1:50. He is really going to need to improve the quickness of his reactions.
The Sonics are having a hard time getting Lewis post opportunities with two bigs on the floor with Lewis.
On the other, Lewis is being guarded by Mobley and an opponent should never be able to get away with putting a 6’4 guard on Lewis.
The prop bet tonight is Ray Allen's threes or Mariners hits off Curt Shilling.
Ray Allen misses a three to win it
Rashard Lewis didn’t score in the 4th and was never able to take advantage of the mismatch. Ironically what the Sonics really missed today was a Vlady Radmanovic type player
Elton Brand has really changed his game and is much better player late in games then he ever was in the past.
Sam Cassell is a winning point guard
Tough night for Luke Ridnour and Vlady Radmanovic
Make sure you check out supersonics.com for the Ray Allen offer
The Clippers are really a terrific half court defensive team
Kaman and Brand are a dynamic tandem. Can Swift become Kaman?
Sonics 88 Clippers 88 with 5:28 left in the 4th Quarter
This game is going to come down to if Lewis can beat Mobley.
The Clippers have their small forward on Allen leaving the smaller Mobley on Lewis
Between Kaman and Brand the Clippers can really pound it inside
Livingston is playing down the stretch rather then Cassell.
Sonics aren’t getting any points out of their half court offense. They have to get out and run and again.
Sonics 85 Clippers 84 with 9:12 left in the 4th Quarter
Hill rests Allen by playing Wilkins at the 2 with Lewis
Swift turns his ankle and is out, plus no Wilcox tonight
When does it become Ray time?
Can Watson contain Cassell
Clippers 82 Sonics 81 at the end of 3 Quarter
Sonics go cold – 24% in the Quarter. --- you had to assume you couldn’t shoot 60%
A brutal start and then the Sonics never got going in rhythm
Chris Kaman is a really nice player
Ray Allen was quiet for most of the Quarter
The game slowed down considerably in the third quarter
Sonics 66 Clippers 63 with 9:37 left in the 3rd quarter
Brutal start for the Sonics
Cassell has hit a few.
Luke Ridnour tonight on the floor is -10 and Watson is +18
Sonics 66 Clippers 55 at the half
Sonics are crazy hot. Ray Allen has 5 threes. Ray has 24
Sups are shooting 60% for the half.
The only concern is you really can’t stay this hot.
Sonics 58 Clippers 48 with 2:38 left in the 2nd Quarter
Sonics run was 48-24.
Earl Watson was +18 on the floor tonight
Swift and Petro are playing together
Sonics 54 Clippers 36 with 6:43 left in the 2nd Quarter
17-0 run
Oh my goodness !!!! Ray is on fire. A different planet
He hit a three had a smirk on his face and turned and said something to the people behind hill, but the look was dam am i good.
He has 4 threes in the last 3 minutes
It is an awesome display.
Sonics 46 Clippers 36 with 8:52 left in the 2nd Quarter
Wow !! What a barrage. Allen hits back to back threes and then feeds to a wide open Watson for the next one. Five trips up and down the floor, 3 for Seattle and 2 for LA and the Sonics go on a 9-0 run. That is hard to make up .
The Sonics are pushing the ball and getting good looks before the Clippers defense gets set.
When the defense gets set it is impressive but they haven’t been set all game. Sonics are shooting 61.5% and 6 of 10 from 3.
Radmanovic was not very good and he was booed (surprises me) He went 1 for 7 in 8 minutes and got 1 rebound and the Sonics killed him defensively.
Sonics 33 Clippers 30 – at the end of 1 Quarter
The Sonics are going right at Vlady and exposes his defense.
Lewis killed him on the last possession of the quarter driving by him from the top of the key and leaving him standing still like a statue.
Bob Hill called a “:20 timeout and went off on his club when they were down 16 to 8 and they responded well.
The Sonics are playing very well offensively against a good defensive team
Earl Watson was the spark. Unreal performance.
Clippers 11 Sonics 3 with 8:13 left in the 1st Quarter
Terrible start
The Clippers are wearing the old Buffalo Braves uniforms and I find it hard to believe anyone ever wore these god awful things. They are a truly ugly orange with a diagonal stripe of brown and white. Bad, very bad.
Robert Swift picks up two fouls in the first 1:50. He is really going to need to improve the quickness of his reactions.
The Sonics are having a hard time getting Lewis post opportunities with two bigs on the floor with Lewis.
On the other, Lewis is being guarded by Mobley and an opponent should never be able to get away with putting a 6’4 guard on Lewis.
The prop bet tonight is Ray Allen's threes or Mariners hits off Curt Shilling.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
SIMULBLOG FOR SONICS V. HORNETS
Hornets 104 Sonics 99 -- Final Score
The Sonics made a nice flurry late in the game but they lost the necessary focus to win this game in the third and fourth quarters
It seemed to me this game changed to open the 2nd half when it was clear the Hornets were playing for their playoff lives and the Sonics were just playing, playing hard but not with the same tenacity.
The rebounding told the story the Sonics got crushed on the defensive glass. At the half the Sonics had allowed 50% of the defensive rebounds to go the Hornets and that didn’t really change throughout the game they finished with 51% defensive rebounding rate. That is terrible --- truly terrible.
Only appropriately the Sonics got a miss that would have given them a chance to tie down three but the Sonics couldn’t garner the defensive rebound and the Hornets preserved their win.
By the end of the night the Sonics defensive rating was not awful but they allowed too many free throws along with the rebounding woes. The Hornets are one of the worst shooting teams in the NBA and the Sonics took advantage of that but couldn’t finsh the deal.
Chris Wilcox left with a sprained ankle but before that was quiet for the second straight night. If Wilcox is going to be great he needs to expand his game so that it can translate to all match-ups.
Mark Jackson can’t beat you.
Hornets 73 Sonics 69 with 5:13 left in the 3rd
Seattle is getting crushed on the boards
Robert Swift must get stronger and he must gain stamina tonight was a night that really showed all of his weaknesses. For a young player he is not good on the back end of back to backs; strength and fatigue are an issue for his future.
Petro doesn’t have a great feel for space on the floor and is letting his man get too much room around the hoop.
The Sonics are just hitting threes to stay in the game. If you believe in the game will reward you theory the Sonics are in trouble.
Sonics 45 Hornets 45 with 4:50 left in the 2nd Quarter
Bad sign for Seattle they are shooting 60% from the field and are tied
The Hornets are on a 15-4 run
Lewis missed back to back threes in a mysterious fashion as both skimmed the bottom of the front of rim and went straight down.
No Petro in the second quarter as Hill went to Mikki Moore. Moore is playing well.
Wilcox is a 7 pts and 5 rebs
Sonics 29 Hornets 24 – end of 1 Quarter
Game gained some pace finally at the end of the Q
KC talked about Chris Paul as Tim Hardaway what about Kevin Johnson
Sonics shoot 55% from the field in the 1st Quarter
Rashard has been very good with 9 points
Speedy Claxton is one of the leagues most underrated players
Sonics 18 Hornets 12 with 5:22 in the 1st Quarter
Hornets leading scorer and reboudner David West is not playing tonight
I love Desmond Mason but he really is one of the worst offensive players in the NBA
The Sonics have started well.
It is impressive on the back end of a back to back that they aren’t jogging through this with nothing on the line.
Swift needs to get stronger and when he does he will start finishing down low and be quicker with his jumps.
The Sonics made a nice flurry late in the game but they lost the necessary focus to win this game in the third and fourth quarters
It seemed to me this game changed to open the 2nd half when it was clear the Hornets were playing for their playoff lives and the Sonics were just playing, playing hard but not with the same tenacity.
The rebounding told the story the Sonics got crushed on the defensive glass. At the half the Sonics had allowed 50% of the defensive rebounds to go the Hornets and that didn’t really change throughout the game they finished with 51% defensive rebounding rate. That is terrible --- truly terrible.
Only appropriately the Sonics got a miss that would have given them a chance to tie down three but the Sonics couldn’t garner the defensive rebound and the Hornets preserved their win.
By the end of the night the Sonics defensive rating was not awful but they allowed too many free throws along with the rebounding woes. The Hornets are one of the worst shooting teams in the NBA and the Sonics took advantage of that but couldn’t finsh the deal.
Chris Wilcox left with a sprained ankle but before that was quiet for the second straight night. If Wilcox is going to be great he needs to expand his game so that it can translate to all match-ups.
Mark Jackson can’t beat you.
Hornets 73 Sonics 69 with 5:13 left in the 3rd
Seattle is getting crushed on the boards
Robert Swift must get stronger and he must gain stamina tonight was a night that really showed all of his weaknesses. For a young player he is not good on the back end of back to backs; strength and fatigue are an issue for his future.
Petro doesn’t have a great feel for space on the floor and is letting his man get too much room around the hoop.
The Sonics are just hitting threes to stay in the game. If you believe in the game will reward you theory the Sonics are in trouble.
Sonics 45 Hornets 45 with 4:50 left in the 2nd Quarter
Bad sign for Seattle they are shooting 60% from the field and are tied
The Hornets are on a 15-4 run
Lewis missed back to back threes in a mysterious fashion as both skimmed the bottom of the front of rim and went straight down.
No Petro in the second quarter as Hill went to Mikki Moore. Moore is playing well.
Wilcox is a 7 pts and 5 rebs
Sonics 29 Hornets 24 – end of 1 Quarter
Game gained some pace finally at the end of the Q
KC talked about Chris Paul as Tim Hardaway what about Kevin Johnson
Sonics shoot 55% from the field in the 1st Quarter
Rashard has been very good with 9 points
Speedy Claxton is one of the leagues most underrated players
Sonics 18 Hornets 12 with 5:22 in the 1st Quarter
Hornets leading scorer and reboudner David West is not playing tonight
I love Desmond Mason but he really is one of the worst offensive players in the NBA
The Sonics have started well.
It is impressive on the back end of a back to back that they aren’t jogging through this with nothing on the line.
Swift needs to get stronger and when he does he will start finishing down low and be quicker with his jumps.
USATODAY.com - Kacyvenski tackles forgiveness
USA Today did a feature story on the life of Isaiah Kaxyvenski. Many of you have heard it before but it is still worth the read. USATODAY.com - Kacyvenski tackles forgiveness: "The father was a dishwasher and a nursery home fix-it man. The mother was a missionary. They had six children. The first, Suzie, died at 5½ months because of previously undetected pneumonia.
The last went to Harvard and played in Super Bowl XL.
This is the story about that youngest child, Isaiah Kacyvenski, a 6-1, 252-pound reserve linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks."
The last went to Harvard and played in Super Bowl XL.
This is the story about that youngest child, Isaiah Kacyvenski, a 6-1, 252-pound reserve linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks."
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
SIMULBLOG FOR SONICS V. SPURS
SPURS 106 SONICS 95 -- FINAL SCORE
Sonice were unable to match the level of the game the Spurs played
It was a good reminder of high on the sclae the great teams are.
Chirs Wilcox and Earl Watson both had their weaknesses exposed.
That is what a great team does it exploits all of the weaknesses of their opponent and that is the difference between Phoenix and San Antonio
Tony Parker killed Seattle.
Spurs 81 Sonics 68 – at the end of 3 Quarters
The Spurs have buried the Sonics a few times tonight but the Sonics keep removing the dirt and fighting for air.
Watson hit back to back threes to close the Quarter
The Spurs are hitting the Sonics with too many weapons and are able to expose all defensive weaknesses.
The Spurs look playoff sharp.
Ray is 3 of 9 and Rashard is 3 of 10 they have to get hot for the Sonics to get in this game.
Spurs 70 Sonics 54 with 6:48 left in the 3rd
Whap !!!!
The Spurs just put it down on the Sonics
Seattle didn’t match the intensity of the Spurs
Seattle got sloppy with the ball on a few plays but everything Seattle was doing was a little soft and the Spurs were playing at a different level.
Wilcox got caught three or four times where his lane got cut off or he went for his jump hook and a guy was there before he realized it or on a fast break he got sloppy with the ball.
Parker continues to dominate.
Spurs 55 Sonics 48 at the half
Watson and Wilcox have been absent
This is a big test for Wilcox since he lite up some lesser teams recently and in the case of Phoenix a non-defensive team.
The Sonics are shooting just 36%
Tony Parker is great. Really great. He is close to unguardable.
Seattle has played hard and fairly well. This game is closer then the score.
The 13-0 run has been the only time SA outplayed Seattle.
Spurs 39 Sonics 31 with 5:43 left in the 2nd Quarter
Spurs extended there run to 13-0 and that has been the difference
Watson is having a hard time in transition because the Spurs get back so well that he isn’t finding the lanes to basket and get caught in traffic. Watson is 0 for 6.
Another big man having too good a day. Nestorivic is 5 for 5.
Spurs 25 Sonics 22 –at the end of 1 Quarter
Spurs close on a 7-0 run.
Numerous highlights in the quarter
Swift hit a sick post move fadeaway to the baseline
Petro had a gorgeous floater
Collison had a fantastic post jumper
Ridnour finished a fantastic fast break.
Sonics were tied at 12-12 when Allen went out and Watson went in.
Sonice were unable to match the level of the game the Spurs played
It was a good reminder of high on the sclae the great teams are.
Chirs Wilcox and Earl Watson both had their weaknesses exposed.
That is what a great team does it exploits all of the weaknesses of their opponent and that is the difference between Phoenix and San Antonio
Tony Parker killed Seattle.
Spurs 81 Sonics 68 – at the end of 3 Quarters
The Spurs have buried the Sonics a few times tonight but the Sonics keep removing the dirt and fighting for air.
Watson hit back to back threes to close the Quarter
The Spurs are hitting the Sonics with too many weapons and are able to expose all defensive weaknesses.
The Spurs look playoff sharp.
Ray is 3 of 9 and Rashard is 3 of 10 they have to get hot for the Sonics to get in this game.
Spurs 70 Sonics 54 with 6:48 left in the 3rd
Whap !!!!
The Spurs just put it down on the Sonics
Seattle didn’t match the intensity of the Spurs
Seattle got sloppy with the ball on a few plays but everything Seattle was doing was a little soft and the Spurs were playing at a different level.
Wilcox got caught three or four times where his lane got cut off or he went for his jump hook and a guy was there before he realized it or on a fast break he got sloppy with the ball.
Parker continues to dominate.
Spurs 55 Sonics 48 at the half
Watson and Wilcox have been absent
This is a big test for Wilcox since he lite up some lesser teams recently and in the case of Phoenix a non-defensive team.
The Sonics are shooting just 36%
Tony Parker is great. Really great. He is close to unguardable.
Seattle has played hard and fairly well. This game is closer then the score.
The 13-0 run has been the only time SA outplayed Seattle.
Spurs 39 Sonics 31 with 5:43 left in the 2nd Quarter
Spurs extended there run to 13-0 and that has been the difference
Watson is having a hard time in transition because the Spurs get back so well that he isn’t finding the lanes to basket and get caught in traffic. Watson is 0 for 6.
Another big man having too good a day. Nestorivic is 5 for 5.
Spurs 25 Sonics 22 –at the end of 1 Quarter
Spurs close on a 7-0 run.
Numerous highlights in the quarter
Swift hit a sick post move fadeaway to the baseline
Petro had a gorgeous floater
Collison had a fantastic post jumper
Ridnour finished a fantastic fast break.
Sonics were tied at 12-12 when Allen went out and Watson went in.
SEAHAWKS ADD SAFETY DEPTH
Seahawks.NET has learned that former Jets safety Oliver Celestin has signed with the Seattle Seahawks. Celestin was used primarily in nickel and dime packages with New York. Playing in 12 games last season, the second-year pro from Texas Southern amassed 21 tackles and one pass defensed. The 6'0", 207-pound safety is regarded as a tough player with marginal ball skills - he could be a special teams option for Seattle in 2006.
Locke's Breakdown -This is a typical Ruskell signing. A guy that helos solidify the special teams, but has also shown enough ability to play down after down if necessary. I am making the assumption that Ruskell and his staff have watched this guy since he was drafted out of Texas Southern and they see something they liked. This fits to mold of the guys that were very valuable last year.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
SIMULBLOG FOR SONICS V. SUNS
TONIGHT I WILL GIVE YOU A "GLIMPSE OF THE FUTURE" TO REMEMBER AND THEN TOMMOROW ON 950, KJR'S LOCKED ON SPORTS I WILL ASK FOR THE "GLIMPSE INTO THE FUTURE" AT 7:30, 8:30 AND 9:30.
SONICS 116 SUNS 114 -- FINAL SCORE
Great defense -- Nash misses and the Suns get the rebound --- Diaw drives great help defense and the Sonics are were going to win
Ray Allen 11 fourth quarter points
Chris Wilcox has another double double and for the first time we have seen him pick his game up late in the game when it was most important. He really rebounded very strongly.
But the Sonics had 6 men on the floor and barely got one of them off the floor in time
The Sonics actually played good defense for the night despite the score
Sonics 116 Suns 114 with :16.5 left
RAY ALLEN DOES IT AGAIN !!!!!
Watson drives and Allen drops to the level of the ball and hits a three.
Suns 114 Seattle 113 with 2:33 left in the 4th Quarter
An insane game -- this is great fun
Ray Allen is carrying Seattle – he is more amazing then words can say
Allen has hit 4 of his last 5 shots on the last 6 possessions for 9 points all in the last 2:30.
He bumped backed in the post and faded to the baseline for two
He pulled up on a three
He went one on one at Raja Bell and drove by him for a powerful lay-up.
Suns 99 Sonics 93 with 8:48 left in the 4th Quarter
Chris Wilcox is having another big day 19 pts and 8 rebounds
He is active slicing without the ball and he has shown some post moves tonight
Bad line-up out of the shoot by Seattle – Ridnour, Watson, Wilkins, Wilcox and Petro.
Wilkins and Ridnour have missed the last two shots
SONICS 116 SUNS 114 -- FINAL SCORE
Great defense -- Nash misses and the Suns get the rebound --- Diaw drives great help defense and the Sonics are were going to win
Ray Allen 11 fourth quarter points
Chris Wilcox has another double double and for the first time we have seen him pick his game up late in the game when it was most important. He really rebounded very strongly.
But the Sonics had 6 men on the floor and barely got one of them off the floor in time
The Sonics actually played good defense for the night despite the score
Sonics 116 Suns 114 with :16.5 left
RAY ALLEN DOES IT AGAIN !!!!!
Watson drives and Allen drops to the level of the ball and hits a three.
Suns 114 Seattle 113 with 2:33 left in the 4th Quarter
An insane game -- this is great fun
Ray Allen is carrying Seattle – he is more amazing then words can say
Allen has hit 4 of his last 5 shots on the last 6 possessions for 9 points all in the last 2:30.
He bumped backed in the post and faded to the baseline for two
He pulled up on a three
He went one on one at Raja Bell and drove by him for a powerful lay-up.
Suns 99 Sonics 93 with 8:48 left in the 4th Quarter
Chris Wilcox is having another big day 19 pts and 8 rebounds
He is active slicing without the ball and he has shown some post moves tonight
Bad line-up out of the shoot by Seattle – Ridnour, Watson, Wilkins, Wilcox and Petro.
Wilkins and Ridnour have missed the last two shots
Glimpse of the Future Moment #3 – The Sonics opened the Q on a Watson to Wilcox alley-opp and then two possessions later the Watson hit a slicing Wilcox for a silky two, coming down the baseline. The Watson to Wilcox combo is a glimpse of the future. Tune in Monday night at 9:30 for a chance to win tickets to the final home game of the year..
Suns 91 Sonics 87 at the start of the 4th Quarter
This game is maintaining a very high tempo.
Seattle must take advantage of Nash being out of the game. Di’Antoni is very conscience about his Nash and Marion minutes at this point of the season so their will be the opportunity to go on a run.
Ray Allen has not been special tonight – it is 4th quarter time now
Allen is 6 of 14 heading into the 4th.
Suns 85 Sonics 81 with 2:57 left in the 3rd Quarter
Watson enters for Ridnour – The Sonics are -9 when Luke is on the floor tonight and +5 when he is off the floor.
This is usually when Allen gets a rest but he just got hot on what has been a cold night.
Petro’s activity is terrific. He can play in this tempo a game. Swift is a much better rebounder, but Petro will learn that.
Sonics 70 Suns 70 with 7:01 in the 3rd Quarter
Seattle is matching the Suns in a bombing contest right now
The Suns keep making their move and the Sonics Rashard Lewis buries a 3 to bring Seattle back. He has three in the Quarter
Glimpse to the future #2 – Wilcox and Swift combined to grab the Sonics first 6 rebounds of the third quarter. Tune into 950, KJR’s Locked on Sports at 8:30 to win tickets the final Sonics home game
Sonics 57 Suns 56 at the half
Sonics are actually playing good defense. The pace is really fast and the Sonics are keeping the Suns below their offensive average.
The Suns don’t have their penetration and kick game going as well as they did last time they were in Seattle.
They have attempted 16 threes.
Suns 50 Sonics 48 with 2:58 left in the 2nd Quarter
Johan Petro makes his return with a mask
Nash returns and Phoenix gets its juice back
Watson and Collison are both out with 2 fouls. Hill believes in sitting guys with 2 fouls rather then let them get there third
Sonics 39 Suns 36 with 8:30 left in the 2nd Quarter
Seattle is out and running. Swift is clearing the glass and getting the Sonics out
9-0 run
The Sonics are taking advantage of the Suns poor +/- players.
Earl Watson the Sonics best +/- player is on the floor for the run.
Watson has 6 points, 3 reb and 3 asssists
Glimpse into the future #1- Swift pulled down a nice board then outleted the pass to Watson and Watson gave it back to Swift for a dunk and the foul – he hit the free throw.
Tune into 950, KJR’s Locked on Sports tomorrow at 7:30for Sonics tickets when I call for the glimpse of the future. More to come ……
Suns 31 Sonics 28 at the end of 1 Quarter
The game is exactly what you would anticipate
Wilcox finishes the quarter with 9 points and 2 rebounds
It may be as simple as how gets hot along the way
Seattle is pounding the post tonight trying to take advantage of the Suns lack of size.
Ray Allen is scoreless
Suns shooting 58% and the Sonics at 50%
Suns 23 Sonics 17 with 4:23 left in the 1st Quarter
The Suns have scored on 9 straight possessions.
The Suns are getting easy fast break looks and too many second chance opportunities
The Suns are the worst offensive rebounding team in the NBA so the Sonics can’t give up those chances.
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