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True enough regarding players not wanting to be here. That is old world Antonio Davis/Steve Francis nonsense. It is no secret players love coming through Toronto and as the league has gotten younger it has also seen that sentiment disappear. Rudy/Amir and Demar love it. I saw Kyle at the island airport and unprompted he started to tell me how much he loved it here. Jennings loves it. AI loved it and god knows KG has long loved the ladies here. An the tattoo shops. It's the organization they don't care for. Or rather, the losing.
Judging by the broadcast last night (Matt and Leo particularly) this has to be the greatest 50 loss team in the history of sports!
seriously?
aaron gray just an a-?
the guy should get that for his having no fouls going into the second half having played the bigs from brooklin to a dead stop.
his minutes on the floor were immense...and his picks were awesome.
what does he need to do for a regular a?
score the most points?
play point guard?
Aside from the greats to ever play the game, most successful SGs do one of two things - shoot/score or defend.
Unfortunately Demar can do neither well. He's neither a Rip Hamilton or a Tony Allen. He's neither Ray Allen or a Bruce Bowen.
He's a Desmond Mason. Which is basically a high flyer that has no specific skill or ability.
But whats worse is even what he's best at, jumping high, isn't combined with explosiveness or agression. He needs to build momentum to get up and when anything slows that down it turns into a lay up attempt. Even when he's got a full head of steam going, a player challenging Demar almost always forces him to alter his shot. Its probably why Ross already has a longer highlight reel video archive than Demar.
Demar is fast and can jump high - but isn't quick, explosive, agile or aggresive. Combined with limited ball handling, passing, shooting and defensive instincts. Well you aren't left with much.
But he's a good guy and a hard worker.... so thats awesome.
Much like Bargnani, he's been improperly used, developed and payed, because good ole Bryan thought he saw something special in him. (Or just thought he'd see lots of dunks so he could sell more tickets). Had this organization accepted Demar's limitations from the get go... had pushed him much more into a role playing position, emphasized him learning and improving defense instead of trying to get him to improve the offensive skills he never had to begin with, he might actually be useful. Instead, again much like Bargnani, its a player with glaring weaknesses who needs to be compensated for instead of having a strength that could be used to fill a need or a role. Yet he's managed to become a 'core player', whose contract is eating 15% of the salary cap, and is taking minutes away from players who show more ability and usefulness (Ross).
Its just amazing how the more things changes the more they stay the same.
I like Demar, I wish more players in this league had his attitude. But he is, yet again, a great example of Bryan Colangelo's failures.
WOW. Fantastic read. I had also applied for the spot and wanted to wish you a warm congrats! I absolutely agree with everything you said. I've been reading articles here for a long time and this is my first post. I've been saying everything you said to my buddies all season. I didn't like the trade when it happened and I like it less now. I actually tweeted a couple of days ago that Gay reminded me of Vince in the tail end of his time here. It's eery. All the talent in the world, and completely nonchalant with it. It's so frustrating watching him take 25+ shots a night to come up with 21 points. YES he's hit a couple game winners, and has managed to string some nice scoring nights together recently, but look at his turnovers??! How many times does he attract double and triple teams driving into the paint, well almost in, and instead of passing it to an open man he fumbles the ball out of bounds. Over. And Over. I can't say I blame him for fading in the fourth quarters. The reason the Raps have been failing in the fourth ALL SEASON LONG rests solely on one mans' shoulders. Coach Dwayne Casey. He has the most deficient rotations I have ever seen and I've been following the Raps since day one against New Jersey back in 1995. He routinely runs Gay, DeRozan, and Johnson 40+ minutes a night! Gay doesn't usually get a break until 3 minutes into the second quarter. There is no way they can sustain a high level of play for 48 minutes when they are going up against RESTED starters in the fourth. And I won't get into his lack of offensive sets. What this team lacks is a veteran warrior like Charles Oakley to get these kids to start playing correctly. ENOUGH jump shots from 6 feet behind the 3 Pt line (Gay, I'm looking at you) when you can easily take a couple of dribbles in and shoot from the actual, yanno, line? OR, even better, take it to the hoop and prove you can play at an elite level. If the coach can't reign in his players from taking all of these ridiculous long contested shots whenever they aren't isoing DD or Gay. We will regret losing Eddie one day (I for one already do). JV is the future of this franchise (assuming we don't lose him as you mentioned due to our insanely mishandled salary cap) which is sad because we actually would have a chance to keep him here since he isn't from the States and isn't in a rush to flee south of the border like Gay will unless the Raptors throw another mountain of money at him. Ugh, makes your head hurt doesnt it? Jonas needs to continue to get 30+ mins a night until the end of the season, win, lose or draw. And so does Ross. We have no choice BUT to develop these two if we hope to get any better. I have a feeling DD is close to his ceiling, unless his suddenly realizes he should ALWAYS be geting inside....Oh Charles, where are you when we need you? Anyways, I figured I'd finally jump in and say something after reading your article. Looking forward to the next one ;)
in Gay's defense, the play wasnt run right. There was 6s left on the shot clock and no one was open. If you noticed when he got the ball, and drove to the basket, AMIR was in his way, which made him stop his dribble because the spacing wasnt there. all amir had to do was STAY where he was and set a pick, where there would be a mis match and give gay enough space for a higher percentage shot and put amir in position to get an offensive rebound or recieve a pass from gay. That comes with experience playing with the dude.
As for Derozen, i blame the PG. He gave it up to amir for a play. Then he clears the space. Jonas came WAY to quick to derozens spot which clogged up the area forcing derozen out. At this point, the PG should have REliezed what happened, and tell Gay to pick his man to go back for the ball to reset the play. second, when derozen got the ball he waited, but in the time of waiting he MADE up his mind he was going to take the shot and commited to it. Jonas roll beautifully to the net, he should have passed it.
Sigh. They need a better offense that allows them to be constantly moving. With an athletic team like this, no one should be standing still.
You don't have to be a basketball guru to know the Raptors best lineup is JV, AJ, RG, DD, and KL.
If the objective is to win you play your best as much as possible. 35 minutes each isn't unreasonable.
Casey likes to throw out weird combinations for extended periods and the reasoning behind it is a little confusing. I'm beginning to think it is because sees himself as a coach who thinks outside the box and he is trying to put his stamp on every game played. His experiments for the most part fail. He needs some coaching on how to substitute intelligently getting the most out of his best players. If there is less talk about the coach it is usually a sign he is doing a great job of helping his players win.
Guess we shift into development mode now. Seriously give TRoss some burn.
Its fucking with the kids psyche. He might get 0-25 mins, he never knows what, so whenever he comes in, he just fires shots.
?
In addition to the "sewing circle" comment, I loved this one as well "Rudy Gay, Lowry, Anderson, Lucas..all ball hogs. They are playing for stats and playing to get out of Toronto. " I am always amazed to read stuff like this. There's so many facts that I've learned since finding "fan" page.
"A player who is playing well, is playing to get out of Toronto."
"A player who posts good stats, only did it to get good stats."
"A Toronto win against a weak opponent doesn't count....Not like it does when a good team has a 20-7 record anyhow."
"Toronto players are all mediocre or worse, and maybe not even D league material, by virtue of being here."
"For a player other than Vince and maybe Bosh to be considered truly good or great, they must first be good or great someplace other than Toronto first."
"The Raps should trade everyone (except my 2-3 fave players) for prospects and pieces because you have to take huge risks to get the huge rewards." (This one get filed along with: "I took my last 20 paychecks to the casino and for some reason, I'm still living in my parents basement.")
"A prospect is always a better bet than a good player." (see above)
"A prospect who doesn't have an outstanding first year, or become a starter in week 2 is a bust, and should be shipped out for 2nd round prospects. Some outstanding players have come from the 2nd round. You have to take the big risks."
"We need to trade all of our under-performing/injured/low talent players for one really good player." (This one gets filed along with: I'm going to trade my 10 crt monitors for my friends 24" LCD screen. I don't know why he keeps saying no. If you add up the prices, it's about the same amount of money. Why does he keep saying. "I have a 24" led, why do I want or need a pile of junk??.")
"Look at me....I'm ranting."
He constantly dribbles into defenders and then rather then a quick pass out dribbles some more then settles for a contested jumper. He has improved a bit each year but there is no point having him and Gay. They are both volume shooters. Gay has a much better feel for the game and can create his own shot and has a more varied offense. Plus he rebounds , defends and passes better and has way more length. Raps need a shooter at the two guard spot. Someone who actually shoots threes close to 40%. Korver or Reddick. Right now they have Gay, Lowry and Demar all outside the three point line with only Lowry shooting a good%. Demar can't dribble so it's a waste having him out there.
James White doesn't have the same hops anymore. Those videos were from 5 years ago. He's 31 years old now.
As a TO fan is just embarrassing to boo a player coming in after an injury. Unfortunately the world is full of cowards that screams only when they have no arguments.This sort of fans deserves a mediocre team year after year. Their dream is a black team with Ed Davis reggie Evans Pop Mensa Alan Anderson and Rudy Gay as their favourites players.Wait, because 2weeks ago the same fans didn't like the trade and were desperate on ED (a top 10PF) going to Memphis to show his greatness....Last night chants were Rudy Rudy Rudy. Next Pizza Pizza for everyone !
The problem isn't with Gay himself. First, there is his salary, combined with DD's and LF's salaries, that will handcuff the Raps for years to come. So unless this team can become contenders were basically screwed. Second, KL, DD and RG all need the ball to be effective which doesn't bode well for team chemistry. Third, DD and RG basically have the same skill set and neither can stretch the floor. This redundancy does not bode well for team chemistry. Fourth, we have KL, who has poor court vision and is an average facilitator/distributor at best. Again, doesn't bode well for team chemistry as we have already seen. Lastly, none of these players are close to being above average defenders. In the final analysys, while RG is a borderline allstar, he isn't a good fit on this team. An interesting piece on how BC has no fucking clue.
Thank you very much for the link, though it is pretty obvious that any criticism will be ignored, it still felt good to send this out (consider yourself duly warned, the following passage is of substantial length):
Initially, I, as a Toronto Raptors fan, thought about
providing constructive criticism in regard to your horrid officiating crew.
Upon basic reflection, it has, however, become exceedingly clear that you were
complicit, are complicit, and will always be complicit in this entire
disgusting mess. In fact, I may even go so far as to suspect may even have been
your directives that have completely stripped even the faintest semblance of
impartiality from your so-called "referees". It is not even the outcome
of games that concern me, but rather the degradation of the principles of
sport, whereby impartiality and integrity have been shunted aside in the name
of profit. As such, I have dispensed with any thoughts of amelioration, any
pleasantries that are certainly not due to such a band of two-faced miscreants,
and now merely seek to satisfy my anger by rightfully excoriating your entire
corrupt organization.
After temporarily assuaging my concerns with your
acknowledgement of blatantly botched calls at the end of the several Raptors
games, it soon became apparent that said “apologies” were naught but a
duplicitous attempt to restore a thin veneer of legitimacy to your
organization. To ignore the most barefaced of erroneous calls would be to
invite ridicule, but you have quite clearly shown that your “apologies” (I
cannot rightfully exclude the quotation marks, as I have seen no evidence
whatsoever of remorse), are solely for avoiding public derision, because no
effort has been made to address the issue of prejudiced officiating! Your
avoidance of a long-standing systemic problem shows that your “apologies” are
less than worthless; indeed, they serve as a scornful indictment of an NBA that
is willing to pervert a tool for sincere reconciliation into a tool for burying
an issue that they refuse to even recognize, let alone resolve!
Moreover, your draconian measures to censor criticism from
your players, coaches, and team officials serve to disgust me further. It is
quite apparent that internal complaints can quite easily be ignored to your
enduring satisfaction, and therefore, to continue running your operations in
such a cozy manner, the inconvenience of public statements must be dealt with.
Regardless of the legitimacy of any complaints, your own response is to heavily
fine the offending individuals, and more repugnantly, completely ignore the
issues that they raise! It is a stretch to say that it is a justifiable
limitation upon the right to free speech when you fine individuals for unjustly
criticizing their organization, and it is even more of a stretch to act in the
manner that you do: tightly controlling behaviour and speech to serve your
corporate ends. How can you claim to be an upstanding organization when you
eschew the very principles of impartiality, sportsmanship, fair play, and
integrity? Until every team can win each and every game on their own legitimate
merits, until every issue is resolved rather than suppressed, until the good of
the sport can take precedence over corporate interests, I do not think you can.
As I have stated earlier, I am under no illusions that my
condemnation will achieve any tangible results. What is the voice of one fan
compared to the allure of billions in revenues? I am also aware that in the
grand scheme of our globalized world, yours is but a trivial issue when
juxtaposed with other corporations who actively do harm to enrich their own
pockets, to speak nothing of totalitarianism, murder, torture, and other such
indignities upon the human spirit. But nevertheless, sports have long been
extolled as a wholesome exhibition of humanity’s vitality and competitive
spirit, and you have certainly done your part to dirty, shame, and completely
shatter this ideal. In a world where the profit motive is king, you have
justified every cynic, saddened every idealist, and commercialized the
principles of sport.<end passage="">True, the NBA certainly is not alone amongst professional sports leagues in this regard, but their abuses are definitely the most egregious. I've wasted enough of my life on this league.</end>
I'm just sick of Casey trying to evenly split the PG minutes when instead the minutes should be dictated by who is playing the best during the game. During the game, I could tell Jack was like WTF is Casey doing with his rotations.
Matt Moore's disappointment in the reaction of Raptors fans might be nudged in that direction by him reading comments on RR (and every other place where fans can comment), as he obviously does (read sites like this one). While it's probably true that many, possibly even a majority, of fans feel at least some anger/frustration towards Bargnani, I also suspect that those who feel SO strongly about that subject repeat it so incessantly, it looks bigger than it actually is. (It's the old story with commenters in general: those who feel strongest about a subject make the most noise … so, sometimes, it's difficult to gauge what the actual numbers of a thing might really be. Hence the terms 'vocal minority' and the related 'silent majority'.)
That said, as one who has joined in at flailing away in momentary frustration at ole Bargs every now and then, I've also always been a fan of his talent (if not his 'motor' as Sam Mitchell refers to it in that interesting radio interview) … and seeing how Lowry has - so far - seemed to have been watching as intently on the sidelines as I was hoping he might be while he was out, and taken the lessons to heart (with the likely persuasion of the coaching staff), I'm curious all over again (foolish fan that I am? not impossible) about what lessons Bargnani himself might be learning by taking all this (that has gone on in his absence) in.
There's little question in my mind that Bargnani's ill-advised comments to the Italian reporter he spoke to when he said the team was the worst in the league was bad - very bad - for him … but the catalyst that it was definitely a part of (imo) that motivated the team to the stepped up focus and team play that we've been seeing has proven it to be a kind of brilliant happenstance in its way.
If the players don't hold it against him - and I sort of doubt they would (there WAS a naive innocence to his foolish comment that I suspect was quickly - or eventually - recognized by his teammates … again, I suspect [?]), if Casey wanted to give him another chance to find his game within the style of play we're seeing now (and Casey wanting it would be key for me, with no possibility of the old coddling BS that Smitch referred to), I'd be curious to see what he can bring off the bench … and if he can find a place within the new framework we've been seeing.
Of course, it's possible that Matt Moore and many others are right and a trade would be best for everyone. It would certainly put me out of my own misery once and for all, about Bargs. While he's still here, though, I just see that talent waiting to be tapped into, at least in part, by someone who might know how to get it out there on the floor to the benefit of himself and the team, which … is probably a part of the similar syndrome that Colangelo has always suffered with when it comes to Bargs. (Lol.)
Also, I liked Matt Moore's article on DeRozan. Nice to see someone from outside our territory having a closer look at how hard he's been working at getting better and how it's affecting his play and that of the team. I likely wouldn't have seen that article, so thanks.
Matt Moore's disappointment in the reaction of Raptors fans might be nudged in that direction by him reading comments on RR (and every other place where fans can comment), as he obviously does (read sites like this one). While it's probably true that many, possibly even a majority, of fans feel at least some anger/frustration towards Bargnani, I also suspect that those who feel SO strongly about that subject repeat it so incessantly, it looks bigger than it actually is. (It's the old story with commenters in general: those who feel strongest about a subject make the most noise … so, sometimes, it's difficult to gauge what the actual numbers of a thing might really be. Hence the terms 'vocal minority' and the related 'silent majority'.)
That said, as one who has joined in at flailing away in momentary frustration at ole Bargs every now and then, I've also always been a fan of his talent (if not his 'motor' as Sam Mitchell refers to it in that interesting radio interview) … and seeing how Lowry has - so far - seemed to have been watching as intently on the sidelines as I was hoping he might be while he was out, and taken the lessons to heart (with the likely persuasion of the coaching staff), I'm curious all over again (foolish fan that I am? not impossible) about what lessons Bargnani himself might be learning by taking all this (that has gone on in his absence) in.
There's little question in my mind that Bargnani's ill-advised comments to the Italian reporter he spoke to when he said the team was the worst in the league was bad - very bad - for him … but the catalyst that it was definitely a part of (imo) that motivated the team to the stepped up focus and team play that we've been seeing has proven it to be a kind of brilliant happenstance in its way.
If the players don't hold it against him - and I sort of doubt they would (there WAS a naive innocence to his foolish comment that I suspect was quickly - or eventually - recognized by his teammates … again, I suspect [?]), if Casey wanted to give him another chance to find his game within the style of play we're seeing now (and Casey wanting it would be key for me, with no possibility of the old coddling BS that Smitch referred to), I'd be curious to see what he can bring off the bench … and if he can find a place within the new framework we've been seeing.
Of course, it's possible that Matt Moore and many others are right and a trade would be best for everyone. It would certainly put me out of my own misery once and for all, about Bargs. While he's still here, though, I just see that talent waiting to be tapped into, at least in part, by someone who might know how to get it out there on the floor to the benefit of himself and the team, which … is probably a part of the similar syndrome that Colangelo has always suffered with when it comes to Bargs. (Lol.)
Also, I liked Matt Moore's article on DeRozan. Nice to see someone from outside our territory having a closer look at how hard he's been working at getting better and how it's affecting his play and that of the team. I likely wouldn't have seen that article, so thanks.
This was the old Hedo. Great performance. I never thought I'd see a -37 in 23 minutes of court time. That's really impressive.
Terrance Ross 2013 slam dunk competition winner he will put on a show like Vince's in 2000, he'll bring the eyes back Toronto although I don't think he will ever be as good as Vince carter was I think by next year Terrance Ross will be starting at SF position because of his great 3 point shooting, people say DD and TR r identical. I don't believe it at all they have different styles both on the offensive end and defensive end. I have no idea what is wrong with DD's defence though he has the quickness and athletisism but keeps getting beat by opposing SGs . And as much as u ask who the starting pg should be and who should get traded its a coin flip at this point in the season, in my opinion Lowry stays and Calderon gets dealt and I say that because he has finally gotten attention nationally so his value will be at an all time high and bash BC all you want I know he will get something good for Calderon. Why do u think he's been on the market so long? BC knows his value and has probably been approached on Calderon in the past but hasn't executed a deal because he hasn't gotten back what he believes he should for Calderon. Since Calderon is playing the way he is I think this might be the year he gets dealt. I just have a hard time believing Lowry would get traded. Regarding Landry fields I do think he was a pawn to the Nash trade, he's over paid and is a player that should be on the trading block basically a amare type of deal give him up to who ever wants to take him...maybe get back a draft pick or an expiring contract. The raptors need cap space in the upcoming years why not start now and 2014 draft looks like its got a lot of star power, maybe get some draft picks in next years draft and let the rebuild begin. Hate me or not I think this team is 1 or 2 pieces away from contending with the current roster they have minus bargs and fields. It's up to the GM if he wants to blow it up and start new . But I think they have either option. Trade for talent NOW or rebuild in 2014. Calderon is good too guys would take him as a starter in Toronto for the next couple of years but its not happening kiss Calderon good bye
Raptors 4-16, reppin Toronto's area code. Think they'll rep Toronto's second area code 647 (6-47)?
Love the player/beer comparisons. Here are my suggestions:
- Valanciunas is like Hooegarden because it's pale and imported.
- Derozan is like a coffee beer, because it should be awesome, but is usually disappointing.
- Aaron Gray is like Guinness because it's a bit thick.
- Calderon is like Dos Equis, because Jose is the most interesting man in the world. He doesn't always play defense, but when he does, he does it poorly.
- Jamaal Magloire is like home-brew, because you're proud of it, but nobody really wants to drink it.
- Landry Fields is one of those expensive fruit beers that you bought on impulse and immediately regret.
- Quincy Acy is like Budweiser, because you wish you could get a better "draught" pick, but it's all the bar had on tap, so you'll put up with it.
- The team as a whole is like Tankhouse, because...well, it's got the word "tank" in it.
- And finally, we Raptor fans are like Corona, because life keeps handing us lemons.
We eat the same things you eat where you live except better portion control and a few extra vegetables. With the exception of poutine and donair.
well, he's a significant upgrade over what they've been trotting out at the 3 since fields went down, which is a pretty sad statement in & of itself. it's a shame that they've now got a glut of 'meh' 3's to choose from, and it leads me to think that there has to be other pieces being discussed in trade. i don't (no one should) expect the MP of a few years back, but he does bring better offense (especially from the perimeter) than mcguire (not saying anything there), fields (kinda sad, considering his contract) & kleiza (dit-effn-o), and at worst, above-average D (fingers crossed).
small steps. either the start of some significant movement, or a stop-gap until fields is back (a sign BC feels the team - for the most part - is worth keeping intact).
I just came to a new realization. Rooting for any of the Toronto teams is like being a religious cult follower. No matter what evidence, and empirical proof is shown, we blindly follow along and root for our team.
I have already written of the Leafs, and the Blue Jays*, and am almost there with the Raptors.
The only thing MLSE cares for is profits, not bringing a championship or even putting a contender on the floor. Bryan Colangelo cant scout or draft worth shit, he prefers to just trade away picks instead of home growing talent. All his picks so far have been seriously flawed. And hardly any of his trades have worked out for him
I love the Raptors, but like all bad relationships, in order to be happy you got to break the cycle. This maybe harder than quitting smoking, but am ready to take my money and time elsewhere.
Ill come back when the Raptors play defense, execute for 4 quarters.
*Blue Jays sure look exciting with the trade. But guaranteed by the end of July there will be enough injuries, and games lost that they are out of the race.
Rebounds and defense win games. Period. If you have more posessions than the other team by grapping offensive boards, you both add to your oppurtunity to score and take away the other teams. If you make the other team score less points by playing good defense, it means you have to score less in order to win. Rebounding and defense don't get "cold" like shooting, anyone can do it if they just hustle so as long as you bring consistant effort you will play consistently on that end. Good teams score lots of points, great teams play defense and rebound.
In short, Ed Davis there is a very strong argument for Ed Davis being better for the team than Bargs. His rebounding alone gives this team another dimension and when you pair him with other active guys like Jonas and Amir it's hard for the other team to deal with it. Long term, I would say that a rebounder of Ed Davis' caliber will be one of the most important players on this team and once he gets his man muscles (he's only 23) he is going to be a force in the post.
our racist fanbase is silent tonight....if demar played like andrea tonight the nuthuggers would be jumpin up n down with their clown dekobe bullcrap...and if bargs played like demar tonight itd be an epic racist meltdown........our fanbase is a bunch of racist punks....i want bargs traded to get him away from these dumb monkeys.
demar,kleiza,ross and mcguire....2 of 24 and lowry ballin like mike james.............but demar,lol.young guns yo.
Yup, we got out coached and Dwane will admit it.Yup, the refs are skewing the results. Yup, Kyle came back too soon and got too much burn. Yup, this is a team that has yet to jell. BUT that was a fun game to watch and the Raps are gonna get better. And better.
Wish they coulda pulled this one out. Tough loss.
Only one team has ever had 6 wins in preseason and never made the playoffs.
Chicago could be worse than projected even after the return of Rose. Who knows if he'll ever be the same. That could be one opening the Raptors could take advantage of. There are a few other teams that could struggle more than is expected. The Knicks and Boston come to mind. One thing I loved about the Raptors this preseason is their play in the last five minutes. They surprised me, especially getting to the line and knocking them down.
The first 20 games looks tough but if the Raps are taken lightly and they are in the game down the stretch they'll cause problems for some some favored teams.
Relax People. Here is a question that sums it up. Who is the better player?
Player 1 MPG 31.1 PPG 15.8 APG 2.9 RPG 8.2 BPG 1.0
Player 2 MPG 32.2 PPG 16.1 APG 1.0 RPG 7.7 BPG 0.4
Fairly similar right? I agree, Kevin Garnett is about the same as Ryan Anderson. See?
Without the big picture simply looking at a few stats can be very misleading. It doesn't at the same time mean it's useless.
of course not, don't be so dumb. in fact, i have it on preeeeettty good authority that the training staff makes it a point of emphasis to the guys to NOT warm-up or stretch in any way/shape/form before going full out in games, practices, madden12, etc.
also, they recommend eating a LOT of fried shit & mcdonalds before games, staying up late & getting shit-faced the night before early games, and recording themselves performing satanic rituals on kittens, then posting said vids to youtube.
Listen folks, The Raps are still rebuilding. Whether you hate Bargnani and DeRozen's game matters little. Yanking the offense away from those two doesn't make the Raps any better. Period.
Yall would like Mateen Cleaves if BC signed him to a 3 yr 24 mil deal....
"he fits nicely on our team"
fuck outta here
I am all in on Nash. At the very least, I'll be able to watch Raptor games without having one hand covering my eyes. At best, I'll be excited and giddy to be watching someone with a BBall IQ higher than the IQ of a BBall.
Tank another season for what? Another #9, or #11 pick? Whats that getting Houston? Fuck it, give me a team that can win 45 games for godsake, and doesn't make me burst into a combination of laughter and tears when someone asks who my team is.
"ESPN’s John Hollinger said “I had Ross 27th on my board. Not a fan of the pick and thought they could have traded down if that was their guy.”"I’d also offer that the media’s perspective of player values is interesting, but it doesn’t always align with pro team’s perspectives – and one of those two enjoys a significant information advantage by virtue of the resources invested into the draft process."What he wish he could say-"PER and WP is useless when trying to project a player at the next level. They are cute little numbers like Plus Minus. We have synergy and break down a players shooting numbers by playtype(iso, spotup, postup), shot selection(open, semi-contested, fully-contested) where(longrange, midrange,in the paint) and when(time on shot clock). We can also do this with passing. The same can be done with defence(opponentfg% by playtype, ppp by playtype). For example, our data says Rivers is poor coming off screens, we went over the tape and noticed that his mechanics are inconsistent in this particular playtype(doesnt square up, kicks out legs, fades, leans, etc.) On the surface Rivers appears to be a more dynamic scorer, but he was only strong in one playtype(pnr), average and poor(spotup, offscreens) in others. The data and tape suggest he will be a ball dominant volume shooter, thats not what we are looking for. T. Ross was above average to good across the board, he can score in many different ways. off the ball and with the ball. his skillset provides the team with more options on offense. He is statistically similar to Jeremy Lamb and Harrison Barnes on offense. Also, Ross is a better defender and rebounder"
8 Options for Raptors Draft Pick #8
With playoffs in mind, the addition of Jonas Valanciunas next season, the pre-injured form of Andrea Bargnani, & improved execution of D Casey’s defensive schemes might be enough to catapult the team post regular season berth. Raptors ranked 15th in Casey’s 1st year & could possibly improve 4 notches, & since the top 11 defensive teams made to the playoffs this year, the goal is not too far-fetched. However, the way lottery pick & cap space will be parlayed this year will determine if Raptors could keep the long term sustainability & become perennial contender. Putting yourself in BC’s shoes, what are some probable options you’ll work hard to come to fruition this offseason? I offer 8, ranked in the order of preference –
1. Keep the pick & address need for experience via free agency, w/ Andrei Kirilenko or Brandon Rush as prime targets
Bottom Line: Drafting Damian Lillard at #8 addresses need for PG of the future in the mold of D Rose, R Westbrook, R Rondo & T Parker. Pick #37 could produce quality player drafting either: W Barton, D Lamb, S Machado, K Murphy, or K O’Quinn (in this order of availability). Pick #56 could be used for rights for either: Hollis Thompson, Eric Griffin, Jae Crowder, Terrance Henry, or a foreign player to stash overseas.
Sidebar: The name Damian educes fear. Hope Lillard’s play evokes terror in NBA.
2. Package J Bayless, E Davis, #8 & #56 picks to Boston’s R Rondo, #21 & #22 picks
Bottom Line: Celtics need infusion of youth & could draft an impact player in the lottery. Raptors will have their PG of the future yet still pick assets at #21 & #22 for any combination of: M Harkless, A Moultrie, R White, M Teague, Jeff Taylor, A Nicholson, or E Fournier (in this order of availability).
Sidebar: Could Rajon impact sales of the car model bearing his last name?
3. Trade J Bayless & #8 pick for Houston’s Kyle Lowry & #14 pick (or #16 pick)
Bottom Line: Lowry’s co-existence w/ coach McHale is an issue & could be on his way out. Houston will get Bayless as back up PG to G Dragic (or as starter if latter signs w/ other team). Rockets will have better options at #8. Raptors will get an upgrade from PG position & could use #14 (or #16) pick to draft either: D Lillard, PJ3, J Lamb, D Waiters, A Rivers, T Ross, M Harkless, or A Moultrie (in this order of availability).
Sidebar: Will ties with Alvin Williams knot this deal?
4. Trade D DeRozan & #8 pick for Oklahoma’s James Harden & #28 pick
Bottom Line: Both Harden and Ibaka are expected to earn big deals next year & OKC will be hard pressed to keep both. Thunder would probably opt for Ibaka for defensive purpose & will have cheaper 3rd scoring option in DDR, plus lottery pick. Raptors will get a former 3rd overall pick & young clutch scorer in Harden, & could use #28 pick to draft either Will Barton or Doron Lamb to improve 3-pt shooting.
Sidebar: Hornets got the Brow, Raptors got the Beard
5. Package D DeRozan, #8 & #56 picks for Philadelphia’s Andre Iguodala & #15 pick
Bottom Line: Salary owed to Iggy will create flexibility to Philly & move Evan Turner as starter. 76ers will have better options at #8 than outside lottery. Raptors will fill the need for SF & could use #15 pick to draft either: D Lillard, PJ3, J Lamb, D Waiters, A Rivers, T Ross, M Harkless, or A Moultrie (in this order of availability).
Sidebar: Iggy will finally exorcize the ghost of Hoffa
6. Package E Davis, #8 & #56 picks to Charlotte’s Corey Maggette & #2 pick
Bottom Line: Charlotte will rid of enormous salary tied to Maggette while still can get an impact player at #8. E Davis is an alumna of UNC, so this deal might enamor w/ M Jordan. Raptors will have a chance to draft MKG to address need for lockdown defender.
Sidebar: MKG in tune with the Pound the Rock theme
7. Trade D DeRozan & #8 pick to Cleveland’s Luke Walton, #4 & #24 picks
Bottom Line: Salary owed to Walton will create more flexibility to Cleveland & will get an athletic SF to pair w/ Irving & still have a decent pick at #8. Raptors will have a chance to draft Beal & could add another asset at #24 to draft either: M Harkless, A Moultrie, R White, M Teague, Jeff Taylor, A Nicholson, or E Fournier (in this order of availability).
Sidebar: No Beal, no deal
8. Package J Bayless, #8 pick & Traded Player Exception to San Antonio’s Tony Parker
Bottom Line: Parker was almost a Raptor last year so maybe we could revisit the past. Spurs will get a starting caliber PG, a lottery pick & cash incentive. Raptors get a battle tested PG & clutch scorer at the same time, rich w/ playoffs experience.
Sidebar: Parker say “merci beaucoup” & Canada understands
Even at the #8 selection there are 3 or 4 players that if drafted I would automatically view them as better than 60% of the current roster.
Out of these players I would also feel more comfortable with them taking a primary/secondary scoring role on this team to replace the current production of the already established inefficient scorers that populate the team.
I wonder if BC is going to explore the market value of the pick?
I think the emphasis of these next 4 weeks should be on getting this pick right.
If we are truly in a "rebuild" this is another piece that you hope to be part of a future sustainable winning team, moving forward.
This decision would be so much easier if he already had an NBA championship ring. It's almost a shame for him to, and I don't want to say waste, but spend the last years of his career on a developing team and retire with no ring. I've always been a fan of his, and if so chooses to come here, then I'm all for it, but in the end I truly think he deserves a ring.
i'll remember this season...
- as one in which the bobcats established themselves as the worst team in history with 7 wins...and that 2 of them came against the raps.
- as one in which defense became an actual 'thing,' vs. a word spoken in interviews & immediately forgotten.
- as one in which the supposed 'core' played - at times - like a team that could compete with anyone...but that also played as competively with D-league callups & scrubbiest of scrubs. is that a reflection of the coaching, or the 'core'?
- as one in which questions were answered about this 'core.' they may not be the answers we wanted, but they are answers nonetheless...it may seem up in the air as to whether the 'core' is good enough going forward, but the fact that it's up in the air means that it isn't. in my eyes, the guys we needed answers on this year were davis, derozan & bargs (most others on the roster were already who we thought they were).
- derozan: proved he could be a somewhat effective scorer, but more likely as a 4th option on a decent team, and ideally as a guy coming off the bench who'd only be asked to score. simply too one-dimensional to be a focal point of a team that fancies itself a contender for anything. verdict: without one of a) reliable handles or b) legit NBA-quality outside shooting, or c) the ability to be a shut-down defender, he's a fringe NBA-er at best, and a guy that - if he were on another team - raptor fans would think of as a poor man's nick young (albeit, minus the knuckleheadedness).
- davis: proved he could be a decent defender, above average rebounder, and - when motivated - an energy guy. but that runs counter to what an 'energy guy' HAS to be for a team...it can't be turned on or off, if you're an energy guy, you have to bring it each & every game, and what he proved is that he doesn't have that in him. and that means he's a bench player...especially considering his almost complete lack of offensive game. i mean, it isn't just that he's lacking 'moves,' or any semblance of a reliable jumper...he didn't show that he was even comfortable with the notion of being an offensive player. verdict: a less talented joel anthony.
- bargnani: here we go...was he impressive to start the season? yes. was he as impressive in those games as some would have you believe? not really. he was making strides towards being a more complete player, but the injuries curtailed that, and we're therefore left with question marks. first question: is he injury-prone? is missing 10-30 games/season something that is just going to be something to expect? i don't trust bigs with leg issues in general, and the type of issues he's had tend to be of the reoccurring variety. injuries aside...did he show enough in his limited time to warrant remaining an untouchable? i really don't think so. offensively, it's a given that he can score the ball, but question remain as to whether he does so with enough efficiency to offset the weaker aspects of his game...at best, the jury's still out, and at worst, it's an emphatic 'no.' his fans will - undoubtedly - point to the lack of offensive production from other areas, and the team's W/L record with him vs. without him...which is valid, to a degree, as long as we're willing to accept that he showed zero improvement in terms of rebounding the ball despite it being a point of emphasis & despite the fact that he was not playing with anyone that could be considered an elite rebounder (i.e. no more reggie evans 'stealing' his rebounds), and accept that while his PnR defense - at least to start the season - was much better, he's still an overall poor defender. so...he's either an injury-prone, inefficient/high-volume scorer who brings (almost) nothing positive to the table from a rebounding/defensive perspective...or he's a uniquely talented big who can score from anywhere, spread the D, and play passable D in certain circumstances. i'm not sure there's really much middle-ground, so it depends on how valuable you consider his strengths in determining whether he should be part of the team going forward. verdict: to my eyes, this season simply confirmed what i've believed for years - that his best role is (like derozan) as a scorer off the bench. if that doesn't/can't happen in TO (and it won't), then they should look to move him & get on with it.
As much as people are doubting Barnes, i think he could end up being one of the best players in the draft. He has weaknesses, but I think with the right coaching and training facility he can improve his ball handling and his slashing ability. I really think Barnes will be on a mission to prove his doubters wrong after his performance in the tournament.
Great post.
But you left out some very related particulars:
Jack saying of AB during his hot first few minutes of the game- he's baaaacckkk!
Jack calling the game over in the late part of the 3rd Q in the Raptors favor.
The Raptors announcers are just regurgitating BC's memo'd talking points- I remember when Jack was digging at Thompson for getting his shot swatted away and Matt sorta reminded him that he one's of the talking points for fans (future Canadian National team player) & Jack changed his tune- it's all scripted bullchit.
Matt & Jack both need to go eat some BP sponsored Corexit contaminated New Orleans sea food asap...smdh
Also, AB's half ass efforts is the only thing that is consistent about his game as you can't rely on a 7 ft jump shooter that rarely posts up to be a factor when his J isn't going in the basket especially during crunch time.
If AB's shot is not falling he is a liability on the court that's why he is known as 'Small Nuts'.
What's the real deal with JJ & Casey?
AB's fan boys are str8 up toys with no heart just playing a part like a gay porn actor.
Btw- Justin Dentmon is a baller that I suggested the Raptors sign him earlier to a 10 day but you know BC he has to wait on SA to do something then pick up their scraps- you notice where Boris Diaw went to when released by the Bobcats......
Barnes played himself down about 5 slots or more in the tourney. My guess is he goes in the 10 range now. If we are picking then, Id love to get him .. but I sure as hell hope we are picking a lot higher than that - and I wouldnt take Barnes in the top five.
nope you will see what Bayless is made of when he destroys the bucks and the rest of the nba teams. Forget about linsanity. The era of Baylesstricity has arrived
Zach Randolph aka First Name 20 Last Name 10, is back in the starting line up for Memphis now.
After watching that NO vs Toronto game- D League All Star Game, I'm ready to view the Raptors playing against a real NBA team.
Can Raptors make it 2 in a row???
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