Many people have been speculating whether or not the Heat would eventually draft Michael Beasley, and now that the Heat don't seem very interested about selecting Michael Beasley at No. 2, there are many trade rumors heading into tomorrow evening. Pat Riley desperately wants a point guard to team up with Dwayne Wade in the backcourt. Pat Riley doesn't seem comfortable with Beasley's character and personality.
Sources have stated that Miami has worked out with USC's combo guard OJ Mayo, along with Arizona's Jerryd Bayless. OJ Mayo is probably the main player in contention to be selected by the Heat at No. 2. The Heat really want a guard, ecspecially after they were informed that Shawn Marion would not opt out of his contract.
I don't know if Pat Riley is crazy, but Michael Beasley is the only other franchise player in this draft other than Derrick Rose. He acctually thinks Bayless and Mayo are speciall talents. According to close sources, Jerryd Bayless had a amazing workout, but overall, I don't really care. Beasley is the ovious selection. They have even made comparisons about Jerryd Bayless being the next Chauncey Billups. Again, the insane Miami Heat thought OJ Mayo was great and that he will be the next Gilbert Arenas type of point guard.
I have three different solutions to this trade talks:
#1: The Heat just want teams to offer better trade offers for the No. 2 pick in the draft and they don't think they need a player like Michael Beasley.
#2: They really believe that somewhere in the future, Bayless and Mayo will be great point guards.
#3: The Heat hope they will land Utah's Carlos Boozer in free agency next year. Boozer acctually owns a home in the Miami area.
According to the different ESPN analysts, (Chad Ford, Andy Katz, and Bill Simmons), here are the 4 teams are most active in the Michael Beasley sweepstakes.
Minnesota Timberwolves:
The Timberwolves would be extremely fortunate if Michael Beasley falls to them at No. 3. With the selection of Beasley, they could eventually go small and have Al Jefferson at the 5 and Michael Beasley at the 4. But unfortunately for the T'Wolves, the possibility of Beasley slipping is very unlikely, so now the Wovles need to pull a trade for this to work out.
A possible trade that could work out would be Minnesota sending the the Heat's 2009 first-round pick, which they currently hold, along with Corey Brewer, last year's lottery pick, for Michael Beasley. But I highly doubt Miami would pull the trigger on this.
Seattle SuperSonics:
If Seattle could send a solid package of players and picks to Miami for Beasley, then two best friends, Micheal Beasley and Kevin Durant would reunite. In my mind, Beasley and Durant would be a perfect compliment for each other.
A deal that could work out here would be Seattle sending Chris Wilcox (solid player with an expiring contract), Johan Petro (young talent, but seems like a bust), and the No. 4 pick to Miami for the No. 2 pick and Mark Blount, who holds a very big contract. Miami, on the other hand, would love to have Jeff Green instead of Wilcox and Petro. However, if this deal were to work out, Miami would be saving some earnest money.
Los Angeles Clippers:
This is probably the best trade in Miami's standpoint because they would receive a great big man in Elton Brand along with the No. 7 pick, were Jerryd Bayless could still be available, in the exchange for Shawn Marion and the No. 2 pick.
Although the Clippers really like the idea of Shawn Marion and Michael Beasley playing together, the drafting of OJ Mayo at No. 2 for the Clippers wouldn't be a surprise either. This trade would stop the Heat's interest in Carlos Boozer next offseason as well. A trade that I thought would work well for Miami is send Udonis Haslem, Jason Williams, and their 2nd round pick next season to Millwaukee for Mo Williams and the No. 37 pick.
Memphis Grizzlies:
This team makes the most sense out of all the teams in contention, and ever since the Grizzlies traded away their star, Pau Gasol, they have had a big hole to fill in the PF position. At this point, the Grizzlies are willing to trade away any of their players except for Rudy Gay. They see Gay and Beasley being a very impressive pair of players to team up with. I would love to pull this trade off if I were the Grizzlies. You have Conley (possibly), Beasley, and Gay in the future to work with.
There are a numorous number of deals the Grizzlies can make to entrice the Heat. One deal would include the No. 5 selection, Mike Miller and Kyle Lowry. But if the Heat aren't necessarily interest, the Grizzlies would just swap Mike Conley with Kyle Lowry. The Grizzlies can afford to lose Conley because of their extreme depth at the point guard position. After this, the Heat can go with either Kevin Love or Brook Lopez at the No. 5 spot.
Overall, I believe the Heat should either go with the Memphis trade, which makes them more versitale, the Clipper trade, which gives them a big man down low in Elton Brand, or, they just stick with what they have and select Micheal Beasley tomorrow night.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Monday, June 23, 2008
Shaq Freestyle Rap: Big Shaq
Here is the link: http://ballhype.com/video/now_playing_shaq_rips_kobe_via_freestyle_rap/
Shaquille O'neal's freestyle performance at a New York nightclub was just killer, I have to admit it. But dissing Kobe the way he did after four years, two teams, and a NBA championship was just, well, pretty cool. Be prepared, because this is where I start ranting about the subject:
"You know how I be, Last week Kobe couldn't do without me." - Shaq
Kobe and Shaq have a friendly relationship, and I'm not sure you all know that. In fact, Shaq congradulated Kobe on his accomplishment on winning MVP, and, he stated that he deserved to win.
The freestyle was for fun, and you know that is what Shaq is all about. Kobe and Shaq are all cool. When Kobe and Shaq were teammates, them and another handful of players participated in freestyle sessions all the time. Kobe, Brian Shaw, and J.R. Rider acctually witnessed Shaq destroy Vlade Divac in this youtube video. Here's the link.
Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKhP3PnB_xM
I love Shaq's comments, and I think they are genious. Do you remember the Sacramento "Queens"? How about Ericka Dampier? I hope nobody was offended by the remarks, and that they know it was only a joke. Before you know it, Shaq will be rapping about Slowey McChoke. lqtm
Shaquille O'neal's freestyle performance at a New York nightclub was just killer, I have to admit it. But dissing Kobe the way he did after four years, two teams, and a NBA championship was just, well, pretty cool. Be prepared, because this is where I start ranting about the subject:
"You know how I be, Last week Kobe couldn't do without me." - Shaq
Kobe and Shaq have a friendly relationship, and I'm not sure you all know that. In fact, Shaq congradulated Kobe on his accomplishment on winning MVP, and, he stated that he deserved to win.
The freestyle was for fun, and you know that is what Shaq is all about. Kobe and Shaq are all cool. When Kobe and Shaq were teammates, them and another handful of players participated in freestyle sessions all the time. Kobe, Brian Shaw, and J.R. Rider acctually witnessed Shaq destroy Vlade Divac in this youtube video. Here's the link.
Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKhP3PnB_xM
I love Shaq's comments, and I think they are genious. Do you remember the Sacramento "Queens"? How about Ericka Dampier? I hope nobody was offended by the remarks, and that they know it was only a joke. Before you know it, Shaq will be rapping about Slowey McChoke. lqtm
Friday, June 20, 2008
Reaction to Many NBA Rumors
The Golden State Warriors are rumored to have interest in Cavaliers forward/center Anderson Varejao. A trade rumor circulated by ESPN.com -- Varejao and the No. 19 pick to Golden State for second-year forward Brandan Wright -- doesn't appear to have much validity. The Warriors do have a $10 million trade exception, which would make a deal like that work. They also apparently want to hold onto the 6-foot-9, 205-pound Wright, picked No. 8 by the Charlotte Bobcats in 2007 and dealt to the Warriors in the Jason Richardson trade. Morning Journal
I believe this trade proposal would be decent for both squads. Sure, the Warriors are getting a player who rebounds well and has great energy. You might think giving up a prospect like Brandan Wright is just too much, considering he is set to be a starter in the league some day, but getting the No. 19 in return just might even this trade up. And if they Cavs want to become serious contenders in the East, Brandan Wright will be a good backup to a great power forward if they go out and get one. The Warriors, on the other hand, get Varejao and his expiring contract next season. The 6-10, 240-pound Anderson Varejao would provide toughness and defense around the basket. His role and minutes diminished in Cleveland after the aquisition of veteran big man Ben Wallace on Feb. 21.
If the Warriors ever made forward/center Al Harrington available, the Cavs might have an interest. Harrington, 28, averaged 13.6 points and 5.4 rebounds for the Warriors last season. The 6-9, 250-pounder will be entering his 11th season in the league. Morning Journal
This could be very interesting. If you think about it, you could just package Al Harrington and Brandan Wright to Cleveland for Anderson Varejao along with a couple of 1st rounders. Even though I came up with this trade and I think it could work, I don't believe Al Harrington and LeBron James can coexist and work together to their full potential on a team that is a half-court team like the Cavs. Al Harrington loves to run the floor as a power forward. This would definately improve this team in the present, but their may be questions in the future. As stated above, Al Harrington did average 13.6 points and 5.4 rebounds per game for the Warriors last season. I acctually like this trade for both teams, ecspecially Cleveland because they are receiving a veteran big man in Al Harrington.
Rumors say the Cavs would be open to moving up and taking Kansas shooting guard Brandon Rush in Thursday's draft. They currently hold the No. 19 pick. Morning Journal
This move could only happen if they found a way to move either Wally Szczerbiak or Sasha Pavlovic. Brandon Rush is a very underated talent in this draft. Rush is a good shooter and excellent one-on-one defender. He is very versatile, meaning he can play both the two and three positions. I have heard rumors that the TrailBlazers are will to dump their No. 13 pick for a point guard or a veteran, and that is exactly what the Cavaliers have. Some possible movers could be sign-and-trades for Daniel Gibson or Delonte West.
Seattle has four second-round picks in the draft (Nos. 32, 46, 50 and 56). The Cavs have reportedly talked to the SuperSonics about acquiring one of those selections. Morning Journal
Something tells me the Cavs will be busy this Thursday on draft day. Something tells me Sasha Pavlovic could be heading to Seattle, or possibly Oklahoma City. The Sonics also have 2 first rounders, and if I were them, I'd package them or trade just one to move up into the Top 2, or, just go out and get a legit starting center in the league, possibly Marcus Camby. Let's continue talking Cavs basketball, shall we?
Suns GM Steve Kerr said former Cavs coach Paul Silas is still in the mix as the lead assistant coach in Phoenix. However, Nets assistant Bill Cartwright interviewed for that position on Tuesday.
Good for Silas. He deserves another chance in this league, after his Cavs gig. But the question is, what will happen to Flip Saunders? It looks like all the coaching openings are closings now. How about Elston Turner, assistant for the Rockets? He sounds like a good candidate? Anyway, moving one.....
With Barbosa, the talks of most substance have been with Portland and New York. A Portland deal would have sent 21-year-old swingman Martell Webster, next week's No. 13 pick and another piece for Barbosa. Webster, who is 6 feet 7, averaged 10.7 points and hit 39 percent of his 3-pointers as a starter last season while improving his defense and rebounding. He missed the final seven games due to an irregular heartbeat. Arizona Republic
This would be horrible for Portland. It's just like the Jazz trading Deron Williams for David West and Tyson Chandler. Barbosa definately can't play PG, and if that's what Portland wants to do, than go ruin the future that you have. Martell Webster is an emerging star. Barbosa would be a better fit in Seattle, so they can convert Durant to SF, and Jeff Green to PF, making a projected starting lineup of Bayless, Barbosa, Durant, Green, and Chris Wilcox or Nick Coillison. On the other hand, this deal would greatly help the Suns, in the aspect of Webster replacing Grant Hill in the future, who is now 35 years of age. I think Steve Kerr is beginning to find that trading away your draft picks doesn't make you better, it makes you older.
New York, with its No. 6 draft slot, often comes up as a trade destination for Barbosa since Mike D'Antoni accepted the Knicks job last month. Barbosa's tutor, Dan D'Antoni, also will join the Knicks staff. Arizona Republic
There's always trade rumors with New York, but this one might be legit. You have Barbosa playing for his former coach Mike D'Antoni again, plus, as mentioned above, Barbosa's tutor, Dan D'Antoni, also will join the New York Knicks staff. This is a great move for New York, because Jamall Crawford and Leandro Barbosa could start at guards and be successful. The Suns' average age is 30. Ouch! Trading away a 25 year old Barbosa won't help either. And with the No. 6 selection, the Suns could acctually be going after Eric Gordon, Brook Lopez, or Danilo Gallinari. With their later selections, the Suns will look at future PGs to replace Steve Nash. Overall, Barbosa says he does not wish to be traded.
A Diaw trade possibility involved Toronto, where talk centered on Diaw leaving for point guard T.J. Ford and the Raptors' No. 17 pick in Thursday's draft. Talks cooled but might reignite with Porter aboard. In Porter's first season as Milwaukee's head coach, Ford helped the Bucks to a 41-41 playoff season. When Ford missed the next season after neck surgery, the Bucks went 30-52 and fired Porter. Arizona Republic
Toronto would acctually benefit after this trade. They can shift Jamario Moon to shooting guard because Carlos Delfino will become a free agent. Then, you start Jason Kapono at SF with Boris Diaw backing him up, even though they split Chris Bosh and Andrea Bargnani are at PF while Kris Humphries and Rasho Nesterovic split playing time at center. And with an emerging Jose Calderon and T.J. Ford as trade bait for a center, the Raptors just might be elite contenders in the East. This would also help the Suns because it makes them younger and more athletic. Now they don't have to go after a point guard in the draft.
Thank you for reading...
The rumors are from InsideHoops.com
I believe this trade proposal would be decent for both squads. Sure, the Warriors are getting a player who rebounds well and has great energy. You might think giving up a prospect like Brandan Wright is just too much, considering he is set to be a starter in the league some day, but getting the No. 19 in return just might even this trade up. And if they Cavs want to become serious contenders in the East, Brandan Wright will be a good backup to a great power forward if they go out and get one. The Warriors, on the other hand, get Varejao and his expiring contract next season. The 6-10, 240-pound Anderson Varejao would provide toughness and defense around the basket. His role and minutes diminished in Cleveland after the aquisition of veteran big man Ben Wallace on Feb. 21.
If the Warriors ever made forward/center Al Harrington available, the Cavs might have an interest. Harrington, 28, averaged 13.6 points and 5.4 rebounds for the Warriors last season. The 6-9, 250-pounder will be entering his 11th season in the league. Morning Journal
This could be very interesting. If you think about it, you could just package Al Harrington and Brandan Wright to Cleveland for Anderson Varejao along with a couple of 1st rounders. Even though I came up with this trade and I think it could work, I don't believe Al Harrington and LeBron James can coexist and work together to their full potential on a team that is a half-court team like the Cavs. Al Harrington loves to run the floor as a power forward. This would definately improve this team in the present, but their may be questions in the future. As stated above, Al Harrington did average 13.6 points and 5.4 rebounds per game for the Warriors last season. I acctually like this trade for both teams, ecspecially Cleveland because they are receiving a veteran big man in Al Harrington.
Rumors say the Cavs would be open to moving up and taking Kansas shooting guard Brandon Rush in Thursday's draft. They currently hold the No. 19 pick. Morning Journal
This move could only happen if they found a way to move either Wally Szczerbiak or Sasha Pavlovic. Brandon Rush is a very underated talent in this draft. Rush is a good shooter and excellent one-on-one defender. He is very versatile, meaning he can play both the two and three positions. I have heard rumors that the TrailBlazers are will to dump their No. 13 pick for a point guard or a veteran, and that is exactly what the Cavaliers have. Some possible movers could be sign-and-trades for Daniel Gibson or Delonte West.
Seattle has four second-round picks in the draft (Nos. 32, 46, 50 and 56). The Cavs have reportedly talked to the SuperSonics about acquiring one of those selections. Morning Journal
Something tells me the Cavs will be busy this Thursday on draft day. Something tells me Sasha Pavlovic could be heading to Seattle, or possibly Oklahoma City. The Sonics also have 2 first rounders, and if I were them, I'd package them or trade just one to move up into the Top 2, or, just go out and get a legit starting center in the league, possibly Marcus Camby. Let's continue talking Cavs basketball, shall we?
Suns GM Steve Kerr said former Cavs coach Paul Silas is still in the mix as the lead assistant coach in Phoenix. However, Nets assistant Bill Cartwright interviewed for that position on Tuesday.
Good for Silas. He deserves another chance in this league, after his Cavs gig. But the question is, what will happen to Flip Saunders? It looks like all the coaching openings are closings now. How about Elston Turner, assistant for the Rockets? He sounds like a good candidate? Anyway, moving one.....
With Barbosa, the talks of most substance have been with Portland and New York. A Portland deal would have sent 21-year-old swingman Martell Webster, next week's No. 13 pick and another piece for Barbosa. Webster, who is 6 feet 7, averaged 10.7 points and hit 39 percent of his 3-pointers as a starter last season while improving his defense and rebounding. He missed the final seven games due to an irregular heartbeat. Arizona Republic
This would be horrible for Portland. It's just like the Jazz trading Deron Williams for David West and Tyson Chandler. Barbosa definately can't play PG, and if that's what Portland wants to do, than go ruin the future that you have. Martell Webster is an emerging star. Barbosa would be a better fit in Seattle, so they can convert Durant to SF, and Jeff Green to PF, making a projected starting lineup of Bayless, Barbosa, Durant, Green, and Chris Wilcox or Nick Coillison. On the other hand, this deal would greatly help the Suns, in the aspect of Webster replacing Grant Hill in the future, who is now 35 years of age. I think Steve Kerr is beginning to find that trading away your draft picks doesn't make you better, it makes you older.
New York, with its No. 6 draft slot, often comes up as a trade destination for Barbosa since Mike D'Antoni accepted the Knicks job last month. Barbosa's tutor, Dan D'Antoni, also will join the Knicks staff. Arizona Republic
There's always trade rumors with New York, but this one might be legit. You have Barbosa playing for his former coach Mike D'Antoni again, plus, as mentioned above, Barbosa's tutor, Dan D'Antoni, also will join the New York Knicks staff. This is a great move for New York, because Jamall Crawford and Leandro Barbosa could start at guards and be successful. The Suns' average age is 30. Ouch! Trading away a 25 year old Barbosa won't help either. And with the No. 6 selection, the Suns could acctually be going after Eric Gordon, Brook Lopez, or Danilo Gallinari. With their later selections, the Suns will look at future PGs to replace Steve Nash. Overall, Barbosa says he does not wish to be traded.
A Diaw trade possibility involved Toronto, where talk centered on Diaw leaving for point guard T.J. Ford and the Raptors' No. 17 pick in Thursday's draft. Talks cooled but might reignite with Porter aboard. In Porter's first season as Milwaukee's head coach, Ford helped the Bucks to a 41-41 playoff season. When Ford missed the next season after neck surgery, the Bucks went 30-52 and fired Porter. Arizona Republic
Toronto would acctually benefit after this trade. They can shift Jamario Moon to shooting guard because Carlos Delfino will become a free agent. Then, you start Jason Kapono at SF with Boris Diaw backing him up, even though they split Chris Bosh and Andrea Bargnani are at PF while Kris Humphries and Rasho Nesterovic split playing time at center. And with an emerging Jose Calderon and T.J. Ford as trade bait for a center, the Raptors just might be elite contenders in the East. This would also help the Suns because it makes them younger and more athletic. Now they don't have to go after a point guard in the draft.
Thank you for reading...
The rumors are from InsideHoops.com
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Watch and Learn
The Lakers-Celtics series was a very anticipated one, with a lot of anxious fans to watch the rivalry continue. But what we didn't know is that the Game 6 of the Finals drew highest NBA Finals television ratings in eight years. The last time that happened was in 2000 when the Pacers took on the Lakers. Eventually, the Lakers would beat the Pacers.
This is a very good thing for the NBA and it's players and coaches. The bad image has finally been removed and now the Finals have become fun again. The NBA finally got the ratings they deserved, and on a 39-point blowout. Imagine what would have happened if they Lakers would have acctually showed up?
Hey look, there's more good news. The Pistons and Spurs are both going on the decline. Yes, that's right. You saw what happened after the collapse against the Celtics and Lakers respectively. The Spurs are looking to dump half their team in free agency while you've heard all the possible trade rumors going on in the Motor City.
I'd just like to congradulate David Stern all the NBA executives for finally getting the NBA where it needs to be.
This is a very good thing for the NBA and it's players and coaches. The bad image has finally been removed and now the Finals have become fun again. The NBA finally got the ratings they deserved, and on a 39-point blowout. Imagine what would have happened if they Lakers would have acctually showed up?
Hey look, there's more good news. The Pistons and Spurs are both going on the decline. Yes, that's right. You saw what happened after the collapse against the Celtics and Lakers respectively. The Spurs are looking to dump half their team in free agency while you've heard all the possible trade rumors going on in the Motor City.
I'd just like to congradulate David Stern all the NBA executives for finally getting the NBA where it needs to be.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Arenas Opts, O'neal Does Not
Gilbert Arenas has opted out of the final year on his contract, as we all suspected. Many people are overlooking this though. Once Gilbert opted out, he wanted to rejoin the Washington organization for more money possibly. But if Antawn Jamison doesn't return, there is little hope that Gilbert will come back. Wizards president Ernie Grunfeld has said he wants to re-sign both Arenas and Jamison so they can keep the core of their franchise and build around it.
If Agent Zero doesn't stay put, here are some franchises that I think would be a excellent fit for him:
Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, Portland TrailBlazers, Sacramento Kings, Seattle SuperSonics, Toronto Raptors
On the other hand, this star has choosen to decline to exercise his opt-out clause with the Pacers and continue playing in the Hoosier state. The main reason is his huge salary, which pays him $19,728,000 per year. That is just a horrible thing to do, which is stay for the money. If you really love the game of basketball, you'd try to win with less money then be a loser and be paid greatly.
There are many trade rumors including Jermaine O'neal. Here are some destinations I think he might land in:
Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks, Detroit Pistons, Golden State Warriors, Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat, Millwaukee Bucks, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Sacramento Kings, Seattle SuperSonics
If Agent Zero doesn't stay put, here are some franchises that I think would be a excellent fit for him:
Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, Portland TrailBlazers, Sacramento Kings, Seattle SuperSonics, Toronto Raptors
On the other hand, this star has choosen to decline to exercise his opt-out clause with the Pacers and continue playing in the Hoosier state. The main reason is his huge salary, which pays him $19,728,000 per year. That is just a horrible thing to do, which is stay for the money. If you really love the game of basketball, you'd try to win with less money then be a loser and be paid greatly.
There are many trade rumors including Jermaine O'neal. Here are some destinations I think he might land in:
Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks, Detroit Pistons, Golden State Warriors, Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat, Millwaukee Bucks, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Sacramento Kings, Seattle SuperSonics
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Rumblings From the NBA Draft
Even though this is one of the deepest draft classes of recent memory, teams haven't stalled from discussing trade discussions. These engaging conversations have involved many of the organizations. In Orlando, Florida, during the pre-draft camps, there were numerous rumors about potentially picks being swapped. These are the teams most likely to be involved in any player or prospect movement June 26th.....
Miami Heat:
We are continuing to hear that if the Chicago Bulls select Derrick Rose with the #1 overall selection, the Heat are most likely to move the pick. If Rose doesn't fall to them, some possibilities could be to trade down and draft rookie combo-guard O.J. Mayo, or veterans point guards T.J. Ford or Kirk Hinrich, who are now on the trading block.
There has been a really heated discussions over the Bulls' first selection, where Miami would give them Dwayne Wade. The trade would include the Bulls swapping the #1 selection, Ben Gordon, and Luol Deng to the Heat for the #2 selection and Dwayne Wade. The Heat could change their opinion on Michael Beasley, but right now, it's highly unlikely.
Seattle Supersonics:
It really looks as if the Supersonics are looking to move downward in the draft board. But as you know already, this is just a rumor. They seemed to be really high on Jerryd Bayless as their future point guard, not Earl Watson or Luke Ridnour.
If I were them, I'd jump on Jerryd Bayless immediately. He is a hot young prospect that could help the Sonics have one of the best future trios in the NBA with Durant, Green, and Bayless. The best choice is to trade one of those point guards they have for another additional draft pick.
Memphis Grizzlies:
Oviously, the Grizzlies seem to be rebuilding. They are happy with being the #5 pick, but they are extremely greedy, and they want more. They have the young assets to complete a blockbuster deal to grab a top two selection, most likely the Miami Heat.
One rumor could be packaging Mike Miller and Kyle Lowry for the second selection. Other players potentially involved could be Udonis Haslem, Marcus Banks, and Mark Blount. If I were the Memphis general manager, I would do this in a heartbeat. At least it would bring fans to the stands.
New York Knicks:
Donnie Walsh is on a mission, and he doesn't like what he sees. The Knicks really don't believe that anyone can really help inprove their team greatly, ecspecially if O.J. Mayo and Jerryd Bayless are off the board. They would love if they could possibly move up a couple of positions. But I highly doubt they would send any of their younger players, Nate Robinson and David Lee, for a chance to draft a future star.
My tip for the Knicks: move down and select more players, you'll need them.
Los Angeles Clippers:
The Clippers have no idea what to do know. Both Corey Maggette and Elton Brand have chances to opt out and test free agency. Even though Brand might opt out, Maggette is more likely. If they both stay, they could easily contend for a playoff berth next season, ecspecially with the emergance of Chris Kamen and Al Thorton.
Their major needs are a solid point guard to take Shaun Livingston's place at point guard and more depth, ecspecially in the backcourt. Keep an eye on them in the draft.
Milwaukee Bucks:
I believe the Bucks are determined to crawl out of the bottom of the standins this season. GM John Hammond has a roster full of young, unproven players to build upon, or possibly, for trade bait.
The most likely player movement just might be to trade out of the NBA Draft completely, most likely to get Andrew Bogut a counterpart down low in the post. Michael Redd, Mo Williams and Charlie Villanueva are all possible movers for the Bucks. Milwaukee could be the most noticable shaker in the draft.
New Jersey Nets:
The Nets at a serious crossroads. The could either cut payrool and patiently wait for the 2010 free agency period to take a run after LeBron James or make a move to get into the playoffs right now. We all realize what the popular thing to do is, but it isn't necessarily the correct thing to do.
There is nobody in the 10-20 range that the Nets believe could help their team. Even though trading for a player such as Carmelo Anthony could seriously risk their chance at LeBron, they would pull the trigger. Nenad Krstic, Richard Jefferson, and a couple of 1st round picks could help pull that trade off.
Portland Trail Blazers:
At this point of the draft, the #13 pick for the Blazers is their last resort. They are all looking at possible trades to do something during the draft. They have plenty of young players and draft picks to package for a veteran point guard or small forward, their two weaknesses. Once again, they are a team that could go after Ford or Hinrich.
Jarrett Jack, Martell Webster, Travis Outlaw, Channing Frye and Sergio Rodriguez are all assets that they could include in big deals. They could also save some cap room for next year to pull a deal.
Golden State Warriors:
They have a lot of tough decisions to make this offseason, ecspecially the frontcourt. They have numerous players hitting free agency, including Monta Ellis, Andris Biedrins and Mickael Pietrus.
Also, a deal with Brandan Wright and the #14 pick for a veteran big man back would be a trade they would complete without hesitation.
Phoenix Suns:
Considering they have a deep history of wasting their draft picks, they need to be on this list. There are no other explainations needed for the Suns.
Miami Heat:
We are continuing to hear that if the Chicago Bulls select Derrick Rose with the #1 overall selection, the Heat are most likely to move the pick. If Rose doesn't fall to them, some possibilities could be to trade down and draft rookie combo-guard O.J. Mayo, or veterans point guards T.J. Ford or Kirk Hinrich, who are now on the trading block.
There has been a really heated discussions over the Bulls' first selection, where Miami would give them Dwayne Wade. The trade would include the Bulls swapping the #1 selection, Ben Gordon, and Luol Deng to the Heat for the #2 selection and Dwayne Wade. The Heat could change their opinion on Michael Beasley, but right now, it's highly unlikely.
Seattle Supersonics:
It really looks as if the Supersonics are looking to move downward in the draft board. But as you know already, this is just a rumor. They seemed to be really high on Jerryd Bayless as their future point guard, not Earl Watson or Luke Ridnour.
If I were them, I'd jump on Jerryd Bayless immediately. He is a hot young prospect that could help the Sonics have one of the best future trios in the NBA with Durant, Green, and Bayless. The best choice is to trade one of those point guards they have for another additional draft pick.
Memphis Grizzlies:
Oviously, the Grizzlies seem to be rebuilding. They are happy with being the #5 pick, but they are extremely greedy, and they want more. They have the young assets to complete a blockbuster deal to grab a top two selection, most likely the Miami Heat.
One rumor could be packaging Mike Miller and Kyle Lowry for the second selection. Other players potentially involved could be Udonis Haslem, Marcus Banks, and Mark Blount. If I were the Memphis general manager, I would do this in a heartbeat. At least it would bring fans to the stands.
New York Knicks:
Donnie Walsh is on a mission, and he doesn't like what he sees. The Knicks really don't believe that anyone can really help inprove their team greatly, ecspecially if O.J. Mayo and Jerryd Bayless are off the board. They would love if they could possibly move up a couple of positions. But I highly doubt they would send any of their younger players, Nate Robinson and David Lee, for a chance to draft a future star.
My tip for the Knicks: move down and select more players, you'll need them.
Los Angeles Clippers:
The Clippers have no idea what to do know. Both Corey Maggette and Elton Brand have chances to opt out and test free agency. Even though Brand might opt out, Maggette is more likely. If they both stay, they could easily contend for a playoff berth next season, ecspecially with the emergance of Chris Kamen and Al Thorton.
Their major needs are a solid point guard to take Shaun Livingston's place at point guard and more depth, ecspecially in the backcourt. Keep an eye on them in the draft.
Milwaukee Bucks:
I believe the Bucks are determined to crawl out of the bottom of the standins this season. GM John Hammond has a roster full of young, unproven players to build upon, or possibly, for trade bait.
The most likely player movement just might be to trade out of the NBA Draft completely, most likely to get Andrew Bogut a counterpart down low in the post. Michael Redd, Mo Williams and Charlie Villanueva are all possible movers for the Bucks. Milwaukee could be the most noticable shaker in the draft.
New Jersey Nets:
The Nets at a serious crossroads. The could either cut payrool and patiently wait for the 2010 free agency period to take a run after LeBron James or make a move to get into the playoffs right now. We all realize what the popular thing to do is, but it isn't necessarily the correct thing to do.
There is nobody in the 10-20 range that the Nets believe could help their team. Even though trading for a player such as Carmelo Anthony could seriously risk their chance at LeBron, they would pull the trigger. Nenad Krstic, Richard Jefferson, and a couple of 1st round picks could help pull that trade off.
Portland Trail Blazers:
At this point of the draft, the #13 pick for the Blazers is their last resort. They are all looking at possible trades to do something during the draft. They have plenty of young players and draft picks to package for a veteran point guard or small forward, their two weaknesses. Once again, they are a team that could go after Ford or Hinrich.
Jarrett Jack, Martell Webster, Travis Outlaw, Channing Frye and Sergio Rodriguez are all assets that they could include in big deals. They could also save some cap room for next year to pull a deal.
Golden State Warriors:
They have a lot of tough decisions to make this offseason, ecspecially the frontcourt. They have numerous players hitting free agency, including Monta Ellis, Andris Biedrins and Mickael Pietrus.
Also, a deal with Brandan Wright and the #14 pick for a veteran big man back would be a trade they would complete without hesitation.
Phoenix Suns:
Considering they have a deep history of wasting their draft picks, they need to be on this list. There are no other explainations needed for the Suns.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Why the Gasol Trade Was Not So Lopsided?
On the very first day of February, Memphis and Los Angeles pulled a deal on the one-and-only Pau Gasol, who is a one-time All-Star and 2006 FIBA World Championship MVP. Once the trade was first announced, many people beleived the aquisition was unfair. Even though I am a huge Lakers fannatic, I believe both teams were winners in this trade, and this is the reason why.....
Memphis was situated in last place for several years. They were forced to construct a trade to get rid of Pau Gasol, their leader. They couldn't win with him in the playoffs at all. In the trade, the Grizzlies received Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, Aaron McKie, rights to Marc Gasol, and the Lakers' first-round draft choices in 2008 and 2010. But their is one player from this list that can be a star. I guess it runs in the family?
Marc Gasol's potential has Memphis eager. The basketball world is keeping their eye on Marc Gasol, the younger sibling of Pau Gasol. Playing for Akasvayu Girona, Gasol is averaging 16.2 points on 66-percent shooting along with 7.8 rebounds. Scouts are strongly impressed by Gasol's upper-body strenghth and soft hands, just like his brother. He is a back-to-the-basket type of big man, and the Grizzlies are impressed by that.
Some other advantages that most NBA fans overlook is that this offseason, Kwame Brown's contract is set to expire, which will free up approximately $9,379,279 in cap space. The draft picks are also a crucial addition.
Not many people think this, but the Laker-Grizzlie trade was acctually a success for both clubs.
Memphis was situated in last place for several years. They were forced to construct a trade to get rid of Pau Gasol, their leader. They couldn't win with him in the playoffs at all. In the trade, the Grizzlies received Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, Aaron McKie, rights to Marc Gasol, and the Lakers' first-round draft choices in 2008 and 2010. But their is one player from this list that can be a star. I guess it runs in the family?
Marc Gasol's potential has Memphis eager. The basketball world is keeping their eye on Marc Gasol, the younger sibling of Pau Gasol. Playing for Akasvayu Girona, Gasol is averaging 16.2 points on 66-percent shooting along with 7.8 rebounds. Scouts are strongly impressed by Gasol's upper-body strenghth and soft hands, just like his brother. He is a back-to-the-basket type of big man, and the Grizzlies are impressed by that.
Some other advantages that most NBA fans overlook is that this offseason, Kwame Brown's contract is set to expire, which will free up approximately $9,379,279 in cap space. The draft picks are also a crucial addition.
Not many people think this, but the Laker-Grizzlie trade was acctually a success for both clubs.
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