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Post by eddieeddie on Jun 4, 2021 12:04:03 GMT -5
The Blazers have aggressively year in and year out tried to put the best possible team around Dame but ultimately it's just been patchwork moves. If you go from their nonsense 2016 FA spending spree on Turner/Leonard/Crabbe/Harkless to acquiring Nurkic in 2017 to signing Seth Curry in 2018 to trading for Hood / Whiteside in 2019 to signing Melo in 2019 to trading for Kanter / Covington and signing DJJ in 2020 to trading for Powell this past deadline. Some moves worked. Some didn't. Honestly a small move like trading 2nd rd picks to draft Trent were most impactful. I mean, if Zach Collins was able to stay healthy and they actually kept Moses Brown rather than cutting him, who knows. Easy to forget Collins was a #10 pick and legitimately skilled and Brown went on to average 8.6ppg 8.9rpg 1.1bpg 54.5fg% for OKC this season. Would they be a title contender? Doubtful but the team might actually be significantly better by virtue of that frontcourt not being undersized and terrible on defense and living in a world where Covington was guarding Jokic at times.
Ultimately Olshey needs to realize patchwork moves are not cutting it and might be time for drastic change to move on from having the same undersized backcourt of the last 8 years and coach the last 9. I'm sure Dame has love for CJ/Stotts but can't imagine he'd be thrilled with what amounts to running the team back. If I'm Olshey I re-sign Powell and make him the starting SG, move Covington to SF and look to trade CJ for a real PF. I'd then use the MLE, whether it's on one player or split, to add to the bench a defensive minded backup C and a 3&D wing.
I agree the timeline from 2019-2020 to 2020-2021 definitely didn't do the Heat or Lakers any favors. Lucky for them I suppose is they now have an extended offseason to heal up. Front office also has ample time to figure out what their plans are because both teams face major decisions about the future.
Lakers go as Lebron/AD go but when you figure Lebron's age + AD's tendency to get banged up, the emphasis obviously is on putting the best talent around them for the short-term while still keeping the long-term in mind. I trust in Pelinka. The Schroder/Harrell/Gasol/Drummond moves didn't quite pan out as hoped but reality is he exceeded my expectations in terms of building a roster. No one saw that coming. I trust the FO and their eye for talent. So we'll see what happens but what is clear is this team needs a reliable #3 - and someone who can be a viable #2 in the event of injury to Lebron or AD. Like the guy but I don't think Schroder is it. He lacks consistency and I'd prefer a better 3pt shooter. It sure as heck isn't Kuzma. Could it be THT? Maybe but that's a big ask for that jump. So while I realize the Lakers lack trade assets/cap flexibility, that should be the focus because short turnaround or long turnaround, the health of Lebron/AD will continue to be a big question mark for as long as the team is built around them.
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Post by varsity on Jun 4, 2021 13:47:53 GMT -5
I had no idea Stotts was there 9 years until I read your post. Yeah I think the easiest path of change will be to let him go. Watching Antoine Walker on Colin Cowherd and he brought up a good point: If you are going to keep bringing in the same type of players, you need to run a scheme that maximizes their talents. And right now, Portland just runs the same scheme over and over again. If Dame Lillard wasn't as good as he is, they are really a bad team. His talent alone probably won them 6-8 games and without them, they are a sub .500 team. It's time to bring in a new voice with a new scheme along with improvements.
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Post by doakley8 on Jun 4, 2021 14:18:05 GMT -5
Yea, but Kidd is supposedly the front runner..maybe he would play more uptempo As long as my guy Dame gets his fantasy #'s Great starting lineup (when healthy) they just need a deeper bench.
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Post by wareagle on Jun 4, 2021 19:06:53 GMT -5
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Post by varsity on Jun 5, 2021 9:47:14 GMT -5
Yea, but Kidd is supposedly the front runner..maybe he would play more uptempo As long as my guy Dame gets his fantasy #'s Great starting lineup (when healthy) they just need a deeper bench. Dame wants Kidd. But he didn't make Woj's list and we know Woj knows who is being considered. Interesting to see how that goes. I think Billups would be a great candidate. I don't see Juwan Howard leaving Michigan that fast. They've got another good recruiting class coming in and he seems to be in love with that job and they love him back.
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Post by eddieeddie on Jun 5, 2021 20:33:39 GMT -5
Yea, but Kidd is supposedly the front runner..maybe he would play more uptempo As long as my guy Dame gets his fantasy #'s Great starting lineup (when healthy) they just need a deeper bench.
I think they need to try and replicate their 2018-2019 team composition that made the WCF. Less firepower on offense but much better on defense and rebounding. So if the team doesn't want to break up the Dame/CJ backcourt, which if I had to place a bet it's that they won't, they need to get a defensive minded F to go in their next to Covington rather than an extremely undersized, defensive liability that is Powell. The defensive playoff stats for a Dame, CJ, Powell lineup was abysmal for obvious reason and if they even contemplate running that back they may as well reserve vacation plans for right after the 1st round in 2022again. Granted they tried that with DJJ but they need someone who isn't totally inept on offense. What they need is a Jae Crowder-type - which may seem redundant with Covington but I don't think you could have enough of those guys. Should try and see if they can get Jake Layman back from MIN. They also need to shake up the bench with more 3pt shooting and defense. A 2nd unit of Simons, Melo, Kanter was atrocious on defense. Not good when your starting five also sucks as a unit.
We'll see what they do but have to think a coaching change and defense improvements are atop the list of priorities.
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Post by wareagle on Jun 6, 2021 12:56:45 GMT -5
I don't know about anyone else but this 2nd round (no matter who wins the Clips-Mavs series) is shaping up to be one of the best 2nd rounds of the playoffs I've ever seen. Up and down the line the matchups are just amazing. Trying to figure out who to root for now that the two teams I root against every year are gone.
As a Rockets fan, it's kind of hard to root for the Mavs. Definitely want the Nets to lose (always root against super teams). I kind of like the Bucks, but the Hawks are fun too. I'm thinking I'm going to root for the Suns and the Hawks/Bucks until one or more of them lose.
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Post by eddieeddie on Jun 6, 2021 13:38:50 GMT -5
100% rooting for the Hawks - hoping they don't blow the lead they've gained in this game. Rooting for the Suns because I find them enjoyable to watch and easier for me to accept Lakers losing the further the Suns advance. Not rooting for Utah regardless of who they play between Dallas and the Clippers. I'm rooting for the Bucks because I can't support the Nets with KD, Kyrie and Harden, even if the last one is out. These matchups should be fun and if it happened, ATL vs MIL and LAC/DAL vs PHX would be quite the Conference Finals.
Slim chance it happens but can you imagine how much the media would pump that Trae and Luka were traded for each other in an ATL vs DAL finals.
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Post by doakley8 on Jun 6, 2021 14:45:09 GMT -5
I hope Nate, 1 game just goes full hack-a-Ben. Put him on the line 20 to 25 times.
I think Luka runs out of magic tonight. Clippers should win
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Post by eddieeddie on Jun 6, 2021 15:13:32 GMT -5
Via Jabari Young on CNBC:
"A person close to Lillard told CNBC that he’s expected to wait to see what the Blazers do this off-season before deciding his future........ A top asset like guard CJ McCollum could attract a healthy return. McCollum will make $30 million next season, part of a three-year extension.
The Cleveland Cavaliers were mentioned as one possible destination for McCollum. The San Antonio Spurs like McCollum, but his name hasn’t gained traction within their trade scenarios. A Western Conference executive floated the idea of the Clippers trading Paul George this summer if the team failed to meet expectations. Hence, a possible McCollum to the Clippers package. And if Miami can’t lure a Lillard deal, McCollum could be an option there, too."
With the team firing Stotts so quickly, I can definitely see them eager to make sweeping changes to appease Dame and avoid any scenario where he is unhappy and wants out.
Doubt Spurs make a move with their young, locked up backcourt of Murray/White being the best part of that team. Highly doubt Clippers trade PG for CJ, even with a 1st round knockout. Also the idea of Dame and PG on the same team sounds unlikely. I'd be surprised if the Cavs traded for CJ given he is turning 30 before next season - unless it involved unloading Kevin Love. While the Cavs could attach pieces to Love to try and entice Portland to take on Love, you'd hope they don't go down that road given their need for defense. Miami could certainly use CJ. Makes sense as a 3rd piece with Bam/Butler. However, they have little to offer Portland - with cap space in hand Miami could offer theoretically Herro + Achiuwa for CJ and give Portland two young pieces and a fat trade exception, but is that enough?
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Post by eddieeddie on Jun 6, 2021 19:17:33 GMT -5
Luka needs help. End of story.
Honestly I can see the Clippers making the Finals. Say what you will about Pandemic P's consistency but Kawhi can carry the team and production from guys like Morris, Kennard, Mann etc. can go a long way. I think they can beat Utah and then Denver or Phoenix.
That said, if Harden is active, I think the Nets crush the Clippers and Blake Griffin has a huge hand in it.
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Post by doakley8 on Jun 7, 2021 7:22:27 GMT -5
For sure needs a #2, one that plays off the ball since Luka dominates it so much. Zingis is far from a #2. He's a good #3, that can play the #2 role from time to time. and on big nights when he plays like a #1a, they'll win. They have a few nice role players..just need that 2nd guy
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Post by varsity on Jun 7, 2021 9:30:08 GMT -5
If I had my choice, I'd want a Hawks vs Suns finals. But that's probably the greatest longshot. Long as the Clippers and Nets lose, I'm fine.
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Post by eddieeddie on Jun 7, 2021 11:15:57 GMT -5
For sure needs a #2, one that plays off the ball since Luka dominates it so much. Zingis is far from a #2. He's a good #3, that can play the #2 role from time to time. and on big nights when he plays like a #1a, they'll win. They have a few nice role players..just need that 2nd guy
A healthy regular season Porzingis would have been a viable #2. That guy averaged 20.1ppg and shot 37.6% on threes. Problem is they got banged up playoff Porzingis who averaged a measly 13.1ppg on 29.6% on threes. Re-signing THJ is a must. I also think they need to stop with Richardson/Finney-Smith as starters and just move Brunson into the starting lineup. That guy is solid and with Burke/Terry/Green, they have options off the bench to replace Brunson in that 2nd unit. I'd then find any big with offensive skill. Toss the MLE at Harrell or Portis or Olynyk. The Kleber/Powell/Boban C rotation isn't the answer.
A SL of Brunson, Luka, THJ, Porzingis, Harrell/Portis/Olynyk would at least give Luka 4 guys around him who can score instead of random hustle guys who just capitalize off open looks that Luka creates.
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Post by doakley8 on Jun 7, 2021 11:21:40 GMT -5
Luka, THJ, Derozan, Porzingis, Drummond
Finney has shown to be a quality role player..but I think he'd a 6th-7th man
THJ is gonna get paid a ton..so probably can't afford Derozan..but they need an upgrade at the 3
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Post by eddieeddie on Jun 7, 2021 11:23:28 GMT -5
Luka, THJ, Derozan, Porzingis, Drummond Finney has shown to be a quality role player..but I think he'd a 6th-7th man THJ is gonna get paid a ton..so probably can't afford Derozan..but they need an upgrade at the 3
If we're talking about Luka needing help on offense, Drummond isn't it
I also think DeRozan is a poor fit next to Luka given he's a crappy outside shooter who needs the ball in his hands. Luka needs off the ball scorers.
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Post by doakley8 on Jun 7, 2021 11:27:34 GMT -5
Drummond is just there to get the 15-17 rebounds since Zingis like's to have nights where he gets 4 boards and just stay on the perimeter. and yea Derozan's not a catch and shoot guy, and clearly not spotting up in corners for 3's. I think Drummond's a better fit with Luka just setting picks and rebounding and catching lobs than he is on the Lakers.
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Post by doakley8 on Jun 7, 2021 11:31:27 GMT -5
www.spotrac.com/nba/free-agents/Fournier..although I'm not paying him 17-19 mil Oubre? Barton Norman Powell is gonna get paid I'd go Powell, is who I'd pay out of that list
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Post by eddieeddie on Jun 7, 2021 12:52:06 GMT -5
Drummond is just there to get the 15-17 rebounds since Zingis like's to have nights where he gets 4 boards and just stay on the perimeter. and yea Derozan's not a catch and shoot guy, and clearly not spotting up in corners for 3's. I think Drummond's a better fit with Luka just setting picks and rebounding and catching lobs than he is on the Lakers.
Could the Mavs use rebounding? Sure, but at his potential cost - likely full MLE once he realizes he can't get more than that despite his fantasy stats - and given their limited resources, I think they need to find a more well-rounded big man. The fact that the Pistons and Cavs dumped him and the Lakers barely used him in the postseason, just speaks to the inherent flaws in Drummond's game. His lack of scoring/shooting and poor FT shooting makes him a liability. A guy like Portis - 11.4ppg 7.1rpg 52.3fg% 47.1 3fg% in 20.8mpg in the regular season - would bring a lot of what the Mavs need with his all-around game.
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Post by doakley8 on Jun 7, 2021 12:56:27 GMT -5
...side note Landry Fields is possibility for Morons GM...you know he's still on 32?..he got his offerpaid contract and making a good up and coming living
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Post by eddieeddie on Jun 7, 2021 15:19:15 GMT -5
Personally I think Drummond should go to Charlotte
The team is frankly sad at C with 6'7" PJ Washington, Cody Zeller and Bismack Biyombo as their options They ranked 19th in offensive and defensive rebounding Drummond can just live off LaMelo lobs and let LaMelo, Hayward, Rozier, Washington, Bridges, Graham, Monk and whomever the draft in the lottery to handle the scoring.
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Post by doakley8 on Jun 7, 2021 15:21:50 GMT -5
Agreed, if he goes to Charlotte, I may make him a keeper
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Post by doakley8 on Jun 7, 2021 19:29:16 GMT -5
Man..seems like so long ago I was dogging Blake Griffin and dropping him from my team. Good for him
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Post by doakley8 on Jun 8, 2021 7:15:02 GMT -5
I know he's a stud..but I wouldn't pay a dime to watch Giannis play. He's so annoying to watch. Just get's the ball to get a full head of steam and bulldoze his way to the basket to lay it up or get fouled. It's predictable when he's going to do the spin move in the lane. He should have been called for atleast 3 charges last night. and for some reason he took some terrible pull up 3's from the top of the key. Grant Hill made references a few times on it. I just dont like watching him play, Bucks are a boring team, slow team. and They got 7 foot Lopez guarding 6'6 Brown and just bringing Lopez out to the top of the key and they are switching pick and roles. Budenholzer's getting out coached
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Post by varsity on Jun 8, 2021 9:26:55 GMT -5
Milwaukee, as a team, bores me. So I'm inclined to agree with you regarding watching Giannis. And it seems like every year it's the same issue come playoff time. It's no way they are beating the Nets 4 out of 5 games unless KD goes down as well. Not the way they are playing at least.
Solid win by the Suns.
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Post by doakley8 on Jun 8, 2021 9:39:02 GMT -5
and I even put the damn stopwatch on my phone on him last night at the end..he was consistently 11 seconds. I just can't watch the Bucks play. Nets ball movement was actually a joy to watch..and KD is so good..and Kyrie played well, even tho I don't care for Kyrie
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Post by eddieeddie on Jun 8, 2021 9:49:23 GMT -5
Ayton played great. If he can pretty much battle Joker to anything even remotely close to a push the entire series - and CP3 stays moderately healthy - the Suns have a definite advantage against a Murray-less Nuggets. That said, Gordon/MPJ looked great too. I think the Nuggets need to funnel their offense more through these two with the size advantage they often have. The Nuggets will live and die with that frontcourt because they really shouldn't be hoping for more miracle Austin Rivers performances.
KD is unstoppable and with that supporting cast, even sans Harden, the Bucks are done. They'll need to go back to the drawing board to figure out why going all-in on Jrue/Tucker wasn't enough. Even if it's stating the obvious that Giannis needs to work on his shot. 3 for 24 on threes and 23 for 43 on FTs won't get it done in the playoffs.
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Post by doakley8 on Jun 8, 2021 9:55:23 GMT -5
Well they had Giannis bringing the ball up alot (so he can bulldoze his way to the rim) and several possessions in a row where Jrue didn't even touch the ball. He's not much of a moving without the ball guy, so he was standing on the wing..bc Tucker never leaves his corners. and whenever Jrue did have it up top it was pretty much, ok I haven't touched the ball in a while, I'm going one on one. Then it was Middleton's turn and he just was coming off screens and getting his shots. Giannis has to be tough to play with.
damn..didn't realize his shooting stats were that bad..and 80% of his makes are dunks, layups.
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Post by eddieeddie on Jun 8, 2021 13:20:32 GMT -5
Remember when the Sixers drafted Mikal Bridges and it was a fun story because his mom worked for the organization and he could stay local having been born and raised in Philadelphia and then it crashed down when the Sixers traded Bridges to PHX for Zhaire Smith and a future 1st.
Anyhow Mikal Bridges looks great whereas Zhaire Smith sucked and was already out of the NBA at age 21.
(At least they used that future 1st as part of the Tobias Harris deal)
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Post by doakley8 on Jun 8, 2021 14:20:44 GMT -5
yea, that was a classic. Zhaire got caught in the "trust the process" era and his whole Philly time was injured or never played.
13.5 -3 -2 career stats in the G-League..while he just needs to go overseas and give up on the NBA Dream and make a better living
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