The Real Focus

by Tommy Dee on May 16th, 2010 at 12:29 pm

To me the real focus of the front office will be convincing Lebron James, when they get the chance to, how they will construct a lineup that will compete in the playoffs next season.

The Cavs ultimately and mistakenly tweaked their team this year by adding Anthony Parker, Jamario Moon and Shaquille O’Neal during the off season to match up with the Orlando Magic. I can’t blame Danny Ferry for doing such a thing, but what that does is expose you against other teams, like it did against Boston.

The Knicks most certainly need to address defense, and they need to bring in defensive players and or coaches, so the challenge is add both.As we’ve talked about, coaches earn their keep in the playoffs and the Celtics hedging screens with Rasheed Wallace at the key time in the 4th quarter changed the game. I hope the Knicks coaching staff was paying attention to such detail.

They already have 3 really talented two-way players in Gallinari, Chandler, and Toney Douglas, so they have a good perimeter base defensively, now they have to look to protect the hoop.

I think they will look very hard overseas. There are players who can be had on the cheap as free agents. I’ve had this discussion for some time now, but I truly believe a player like Anderson Varejao is a product of playing with Lebron James. The guy is big and plays with tremendous effort every night. But he’s not an overly skilled big man. I believe the Knicks can find a player with size either overseas or in the draft who can play with energy and be molded into a Varejao roll. Maybe not be as effective right away, but can be molded. He was a 30th pick after all. Aside from the obvious, how many big men would have been a better fit with the Cavs in that draft?

Fans have clamored in our comments section about Jerome Jordan of Tulsa, Craig Brackins of Iowa State and Dexter Pittman of Texas- all big bodies who expect to be there in the 2nd round when the Knicks pick. But forget skill, that’s important but it’s not as important as effort and having a motor to track down lose balls, rebounds and helping teammates on the defensive end.

The team can also look overseas for a pick and pop option in the pick and roll. David Lee should be considered because he’s improved so well in that roll and is a great finisher, but anyone who has watched the Cavs knows that Lebron was at his best with Big Z nailing mid-range jump shots on pops.

To clarify, I wouldn’t offer a Cavs 2.0 version when showing off the Knicks business model in recruiting James, but there should be tendencies. I think with Chandler, Gallo and Douglas you have players who can create space themselves and that only heightens James’ efficiency.

Great job by Mike Vaccaro in today’s column.

“…* I don’t pretend to know what LeBron James is going to do any more than the next guy. But the idea that he’s leaving some ready-made contender if he leaves Cleveland is ludicrous. Riddle me this: If you simply swapped LeBron and David Lee, best player for best player, how many games would the Knicks win? I say 50ish. How many would the Cavs win? I say 30ish…”

You sir, are correct ( Ed McMahon voice). Lastly, I’m with Hahn, who does a great job in his latest Fix being fair and balanced in talking about the Broussard article that got so many of us riled up. I don’t think D Rose is a fit at all with LBJ. Two players who have to dominate the ball and create plays are completely unnecessary. See the triangle offense. Same concept in the 4 out 1 in.

the oak

The one thing about the national media is that they almost always fail to mention that the Knicks have room for two max guys.

It bugs that crap out of me that all of them say that if Lebron James goes to New York it won’t be because he wants to win. Now if noone else comes with him I agree but they all fail to mention the possibility of Johnson, Stoudemire, Bosh etc.

So I ask these reporters, If he stays in Cleveland is it because he wants to win or is it because of loyalty? Because the roster currently constructed has proven it can’t win a championship.
jingo

The ‘two max guys’ thing should be somewhat discounted. After all only a few players may fit the bill and they may not be interested in NYC. Or may not be the right fit for Lebron.
ds2488

Yes Tommy I agree that Donnie Walsh needs to show Lebron a model much different from the Cavs. This is why(referring to an earlier thread) the Knicks need a good playmaker at the pg or sg position, someone who could easily average 5+ assists per game with a good assist/turnover ratio and someone who doesn’t feel the need to chuck the ball every time they touch it(like Mo Williams).

That way Lebron can rest for times during the game, and he would be an absolute beast working off the ball. Can Toney Douglas fill that role? It would have been nice to have known by now, but of course our Captain Chris Duhon had to play for 3/4 last year because he did such a remarkable job running our offense. Long live Chris Duhon, hopefully him and his fat manboob captain morgan-drinking bum a** will be back here forever and ever. Such a class act…
HaS

“Can Toney Douglas fill that role?”

His passing was pedestrian at best, _avi_ Lee was a better point guard than Douglas showed last year.
jingo

Douglas can be a nice hybrid third guard. I think Heinrich might be a nice fit for the Knicks, though I don’t see the economics working out.
the oak

The only way it should be discounted is if they all said there is no way I am playing in New York. How can a team have the ability to add Lebron and someone like Stoudemire or Bosh and not be a serious threat?

National Writers don’t want Lebron in New York and it’s fairly obvious.
DVJ

The Knicks are the most serious threat to take Lebron away from Cleveland. …period.

It’s been that way for the last year and change.
Soon as Lebron gets eliminated from the playoffs…Chicago all of a sudden jumps in front of us?

LMAO

Stay Patient My Friends
bob go knicks

really talented 2 way player Toney Douglass? I must have gotten up to go to the bathroom during that part!WHAT R U KIDDING?
VOR

“Fans have clamored in our comments section about Jerome Jordan of Tulsa, Craig Brackins of Iowa State and `Dexter Pittman of Texas’- all big bodies who expect to be there in the 2nd round when the Knicks pick. `But forget skill, that’s important but it’s not as important as “”effort”" and “”having a motor to track down lose balls”", “”rebounds”" and “”helping teammates on the defensive end”".

`Again I say it Tommy, ‘If only you had a clue!’ I don’t know how many times I’ve posted this clip on Dexter Pittman (obviously enough times for you to know who Dexter Pittman is). Yet you continue to display your lack of knowledge as well as your lack of perception!
How can any person with vision see tapes of Pittman and question his “EFFORT”, as well as the many other facets that go along with a being a productive Big man, and say that Pittman “lack them?” Unbelievable! Jerome Jordan, yeah he is a stiff, and a project even more raw than Jordan Hill was. And Craig Bracken (though I’m not sure why you would reference him as a “big”) is a highly skilled player, but he would have a hard time defending the post against the likes of “Perkins”, and “Horford” with no chance against “Howard!” On the other hand my guy Pittman I believe would more than hold his own, he would be a force as well!

Exhibit A: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCZryTYGp6E&feature=related
bbrody1

I think the knicks should take a serious look at the Toronto’s FA Amir Johnson

He is what he is – big, athletic, defense type guy – in 17 minutes a game hes giving you a block and 5 rebounds. He’s doesnt score much but his fg% is always around 60%. Hes also really young and has more upside and than downside.

If a sign-n-trade is on the table with DLee I’d like to think that the Knicks would be smart enough to get the Raptors throw him in as part of the deal. I dunno how the cap would play into that but its def something they should look into
VOR

“Dexter Pittman”,

Exhibit B: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N69e5kLP4uA&feature=related
VOR

Dexter Pittman”,

Exhibit C: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Hc-mvxHqaw&feature=related

“VOR Rest!”
HaS

“Douglas can be a nice hybrid third guard.”

Definitely, and a really good one at that. I even think he could be a solid backup if he works hard and makes huge strides in the next couple seasons.
ds2488

David lee is a great passing forward. Thats about the only thing he is good at, that and scoring efficiently.

I agree his passing was pedestrian, but I don’t think its fair to judge a player and his full potential with less than 2 full seasons under their belt, let alone 1/4 of a season. Douglas has good quickness and had at least one 8+ assist game that I remember, I think maybe 2 or 3.

Give the coaching staff some time to work with him and who knows what he can do. While he does seem to project as a scoring combo guard, I don’t think its out of the question to believe that with the proper coaching and playing time that he can average 5 assists per game.
Mucha

I think he can be a starter if he’s surrounded by star players. I mean he just needs to take care of the basketball and hit open jumpshots if LeBron James and Chris Bosh sign with the Knicks.

He doesn’t need to be a difference-maker or a playmaker.
PipeDreamin

Main-stream media is ignoring NY’s real assets. FLEXIBILITY & CAPSPACE. There is so much HATE for NY sports. And because we have sucked so bad for the last decade, we, the fans forget how much the Clevelands & Nowheresvilles of the the world hate on this franchise.

Chicago might have Derek Rose/Noah right NOW, but who can have the best roster once free agency begins??

Our FLEXIBILTY & CAPSPACE can offer us something like this…

PG – Tony Douglas – Can hit the 3 when lebron drives and kicks. Can defend and cause turnovers

SG – Lebron James – Can flat out score. Drive and kick to TD/Gallo/Walker for 3s. Can also distribute, getting Bosh/Dalembert involved.

SF – Danillo Gallinari – Can hit the open 3 & do a decent job defending. We’ll see if the other aspects of his game mature over the summer.

PF – Chris Bosh – Can be a consistent post-threat, and can also stretch the floor, hitting the 18 foot jumper.

C – Tyson Chandler – A legitimate shot blocker. Plus he’ll get easy baskets when Bron drives, drawing Tyson’s defender.

BENCH – DJ Augustin
Bill Walker
Earl Barron
2nd Round Big Man – Jerome Jordan / Craig Brackins

This scenario involves signing Lebron/Bosh, and trading Eddy Curry/Will Chandler & a 2nd Round pick for Tyson Chandler/DJ Augustin. And even if we can’t get DJ out of that, we can sign a PG in the 2nd round and still have a championship contending roster.
PipeDreamin

i wrote Dalembert in these somewhere by accident. I meant Ty Chandler.
Mucha

+ 1
Mucha

I think the Knicks need a stronger presence in the middle. I don’t think Tyson Chandler will be effective defensively against Orlando. I think Donnie Walsh should try to aquire Ronny Turiaf who’s stronger than Chandler.
thebossandbenji76

Your on the right track with your thinking, the only thing is TY Chandler is on a expiring contract I think, u have a much better chance of getting Okafor from NO, Andris Bendrinis from GS or Sammy Dalmbert from Philly. But I like your train of thought very much though.
BiggieSmalls

im sure we all agree this is Plan A.
Jack D

Assuming we can somehow sign or trade for a defense big man, I think Lebron and David Lee can play very well together. Lee is a great finisher around the rim and has improved his midrange shot. People have been talking about the Okafor trade. If we can sign him and Collison, that would be great imo. I’m not saying this is my number one scenario, but I would be more than happy with it.
the oak

Just looking at a list of Free Agents and I would go after Kurt Thomas. I know he is not a 7 footer and he is not a great shot blocker but he is a body and can play D. I would try and go after him for the vet minimum.
ds2488

yes good stuff PipeDreamin. This is pretty much plan A, although obviously if we can find a way to get a center without giving up Chandler I would be all for it, although I do like that trade you have to get DJ Augustin.

I don’t think its the media hating on NY as much as it is the media doing what it does best, creating hype and maintaining that hype. The media spent the whole year talking about the Knicks…Now that Lebron is out and there are other options out there the media is making sure to cover all its bases, in order to try and keep people as interested as possible.

If it was just between the Cavs and the Knicks for Lebron’s services, thats much less interesting than a 5 team race that includes LA, NJ, and Chicago too. Hyping this up gets all those other fan bases heavily involved and invested in this summer, which outlets like ESPN are chomping at the bit to cover, and will most certainly benefit from the seeds they are planting now and have been planting essentially since the Knicks traded Crawford and Randolph.
ds2488

I would love Kurt to return, but Im guessing he will resign with Milwaukee. He seems to love it there and he is a Scott Skiles type player who can be had for cheap.
thebossandbenji76

Lebron is not coming here unless another great player does and if Lebron is here then another big player will be as well, not David Lee.
YO SON

DDDAAAAAAANNNNNGGGG DOC RIVERS COMPLETELY out coached svg!!!!!!!!!!!!!
http://www.youtube.com/tharealest62qb DaGawD_KnowLedge

i think doug only had 1 game with 8 assist if i’m correct.
i do think with hard work he can be a starting p.g
http://www.youtube.com/tharealest62qb DaGawD_KnowLedge

dammmnnn i missed the game
orlando might get done in 5 or 6
DVJ

I think it’s so funny how people say this years Suns team is better than the D’Antoni Suns teams.

Let’s see what they say when the Suns get swept or outed in 5 games.

Then I guess they’ll say “well they played the Lakers” LOL

Stay Patient My Friends
jingo

Discounting the value of a particular asset means that the asset, in this case the cap space, cannot be valued fully because there is a degree of uncertainty related to its use. Typically, in biz, an asset is discounted if there is a time frame involved but in this case discounting means that the asset – the cap space – must be converted into the right players. Until this conversion happens the cap space must be discounted in the mind of Lebron and his advisers. Its not an arguable point.

Having his guy in the fold – say Bosh or Johnson – has more value to Lebron than the cap space itself. Thats all I meant.
HaS

“Discounting the value of a particular asset means that the asset, in this case the cap space, cannot be valued fully because there is a degree of uncertainty related to its use. Typically, in biz, an asset is discounted if there is a time frame involved but in this case discounting means that the asset – the cap space – must be converted into the right players. Until this conversion happens the cap space must be discounted in the mind of Lebron and his advisers. Its not an arguable point.”

Somebody get this guy a cigar.
jingo

I don’t smoke cigars
x-man

Dude, The Magic tried to out half court the Celtics. Yikes!

Stan Van Gundy is yelling “Da-m-n you Riley!” because he still have issues getting over that thurdle.

When Vince Carter has the better game of the bunch, you know it’s a problem!

I guess the Magic knows now that they’re not playing a Woodson coached team. Sometimes everybody doesn’t wanna be like Mike!

If Rasheed keeps playing consistently, the Magic might switch Van Gundys!
HaS

Is Dwight Howard still “the 2nd best player in the NBA”?
x-man

Yeah, I wonder who says that? hahahahaha

D’Antoni always swept the Spurs and just because his former players are saying Gentry has them playing defense don’t you dare read anything into that!

DVJ, When are you gonna join an investment blog so I can make so money off your great insight?
HaS

Ok, a “gold star” for you then lol.
x-man

lmao! Did you see where the annoucers were saying that Ewing is thinking that if the celtics played him they are playing Howard, he would have a cool 40 easily.

Howard is good for a dunk and not much beyond that on offense. He’s Super Darryl Dawkins!
HaS

Like I said in the other thread, LeBron might as well stay where he is if he’s going to come here to be the primary facilitator, creator and finisher.

The Knicks need to get another “playmaker” and another guy who can get his own shot off the bench even if they sign Bosh/LeBron.
HaS

“Assuming we can somehow sign or trade for a defense big man, I think Lebron and David Lee can find new ways to lose together.”

fixed.
the oak

Do you think Lebron is an idiot if he chooses to come to the Knicks if Bosh is on board?
DVJ

“Is Dwight Howard still “the 2nd best player in the NBA”?”

Why would I change my mind after one game and it’s the only game they’ve lost in the past 15 games? LOL

Dwight Howard is the 2nd best player in the NBA
HaS

“I agree his passing was pedestrian, but I don’t think its fair to judge a player and his full potential with less than 2 full seasons under their belt, let alone 1/4 of a season.”

Douglas will be 25 next year, he’s a pretty old for a rookie. Could he get better as a facilitator? Yes, but point guard is the hardest position to learn and to try to become one after you get to this level is nearly impossible.
http://www.youtube.com/tharealest62qb DaGawD_KnowLedge

usually what happens to a team that sweeps there way to the conference finals they get swept.lol.

howard been averaging like 6 7 turnovers in the post season so far..

as for half man half court fadaway he’s not going to get them over the hill they got a better chance by starting the french black dude.lol
HaS

Who’s number one?
DVJ

“DVJ, When are you gonna join an investment blog so I can make so money off your great insight?”

As soon as you get hooked on phonics….

OUCH!!! LMAO

j/k X
the oak

I haven’t said that but I think it’s funny that some people think the Spurs team is as good as they were a few years ago.
DVJ

The best player in the league is Lebron.
Kobe has the killer instinct but Lebron is clearly the best all around player in the league.
When it comes to scoring, passing, rebounding, block shots or whatever. Lebron has it all.
DVJ

Yeah…that tickles me to.
Don’t worry…the Suns are going to get man handled by the Lakers.

Take a look back and see what the Lakers have done to them since they’ve got Gasol.

Warning

It’s not pretty
YO SON

and the suns are……………………………………………….
HaS

So, Dwight Howard is better than Kobe Bryant?

Wow.

Kobe is playing with a bad ankle, bad knee and a broken finger… on his shooting hand!

I’m sorry, but I really don’t understand your logic on that one.

And after the way LeBron went out like a lamb in this year’s playoffs I’ve gotta put Kobe back in that number one slot. He would have found a way to put his stamp on those last 3 games and not been out-hustled while playing with no energy.

“Lebron is clearly the best all around player in the league.”

LeBron is a streak shooter (Kobe is too) and has no post up game even though he is a legit 6’8″ and at least 265 lbs. Kobe is clearly the better all-around player offensively in that he can drive, shoot, post-up and pass imho.
the oak

Has, we don’t agree on much but you’re right, no way is Howard 2nd best player in league.

Kobe, Lebron, Wade are at the top and probably in that order.
HaS

If the Suns lose to the Lakers (which I’m sure they will) it doesn’t mean they are not playing better than they were under _’antoni.

Aside from the team’s defense, Gentry is using the pieces he has a lot differently than the Knicks’ “coach” would. Period.
Mucha

Kobe Bryant is the most skilled player in the NBA. The best all-around player in the NBA (talent-wise). And the greatest player in the NBA today.

But in terms of impact I’d say that LeBron’s the best player in the NBA. But Kobe Bryant is clearly the best talent-wise, no discussion.

You can’t overlook Howard’s presence on the defensive end though… He’ll always be dominant on one end of the floor even when he’s not playing well. I’m not a fan but DVJ’s argument isn’t baseless.
Mucha

Yes he did.
Mucha

Hop up out the beeeeeed, turn my swaag ooooooooonnnnn

Not a Soulja Boy fan but the chorus is crazy
x-man

lmao! As long as you didn’t say hooked on D’antonics, I can get with that!

BTW Your rant about Howard being the 2nd best in the NBA and LBJ first is simply priceless!

Nether one is exacly Lord of the Rings since they have 0 rings combined but don’t let a little fact like that get in your way!
x-man

Yeah, the Spurs just took out the Mavs and yes they are older but the Suns don’t have the talent they had under D’Antoni either. Also, Nash and Amare is older too.

But even you have to admit that the Suns sweeping the Spurs is waaaaaaay far better than anything a D’Antoni team could have done! Remember, when the Suns beat the Lakers under D’Antoni, Shaq was gone from that Laker team and it was just starting to rebuild. hahahahaha
Mucha

He doesn’t need to be the primary facilitator.

James will have the ball in his hands regardless. But if Mike D’Antoni stresses (off-the-ball movement and) ball movement (I think he will and he’s capable of doing it efficiently) I think LeBron will be more effective with the Knicks. He will always be the primary ball-handler because he will always be the best player on the floor in my opinion. The biggest problem with Mike Brown strategy is the fact that everybody stops and watches LeBron go 1-on-5.
x-man

YES IT IS! The issue wasn’t if Howard could be dominant on defense. The issue was if Howard was 2nd best player in the NBA!

There are many better players than Howard! Howard is Super Darryl Dawkins or Daryly Dawkins 2.0! You push Howard 5 feet from the rim and he’s Clark Kent!
HaS

I never said that he would be an idiot to choose NY, but a move to the Knicks would have to be based on more than basketball because he would clearly have to be patient since the team is obviously in a rebuilding situation.

Bosh + LeBron + what’s here already + two 2nd rounders + a veteran minimum salary or two + a D-Leaguer or two is not competing for a championship next year. I think they would still be at least 2 years away from that.
jho

i love this scenario.
HaS

If the ball is going to be “in his hands regardless” and he’s the “primary ball handler” with “off the ball movement” how is he not going to be the “primary facilitator”?
http://www.youtube.com/tharealest62qb DaGawD_KnowLedge

lewis been wanted a trade cuz carter is taking all his an he didn’t have a good season due to half man half court fadaway
HaS

BTW that’s not _’antoni’s “7SoL” offense you’re describing.
x-man

lmao! So True! Carter has been my one player I could count on dissaapointing for years!

He did try to take it to the rim more in the game today but I’m expecting him shut that down and go full perimter in the games to come.

I’m sure his cusin T-Mac will give him a pep talk tonite telling him “Cuz, how come you you’re dribbling towards the paint. you’re not Superman, you’re J Fadeaway!”
Mucha

Superstars have the ball in their hands – no disrespect but you’re delusional if you believe that a pure point guard would be the primary ball-handler and LeBron just a finisher… LeBron James will have the ball in his hands… Just like Kobe Bryant, Larry Bird, Michael Jordan etc.

What I’m saying is this : LeBron James will always draw attention… if the other players move without the ball they will find a way to create mismatches/hit the open man after a couple passes… And LeBron doesn’t need to rack up 20 assists, he can be the primary ball-handler without having to be the primary facilitator if the coach stresses ball-movement.
the oak

Some of you are taking way too much joy out of this Suns run. I have said all along and even before the playoffs started that you can’t take much away from what the suns do, whether it be proving who the better coach is or proving if MD’s system can win or not.

I don’t know what some of you guys are going to do if MD wins a championship.
DVJ

“I don’t know what some of you guys are going to do if MD wins a championship.”

LOL..good one.

They can move to Cleveland and be placed on suicide watch with them.
x-man

Enjoyment of the Suns run? I hope the Lakers sweep them. I care less about the Suns. I just take notice that the team is trying to play some defense and many have noticed it inclduding their own players.

As for MD winning a ring. If he ain’t gonna win won with us, I could care less on that too. However, MD winning ring with his usual stubborness is like DVJ becoming a phophet!

Trust but Verify!
x-man

Many of know D’Antoni sucks. It a shame some of ya is me be waiting for the Saint of Lost Causes to inform ya of this!
ds2488

Tommy, I have to say I’m shocked you didn’t post Berman’s article in the post today. It was surprisingly optimistic about the chances of Lebron coming to NY, and Berman did not use it like usual as a pulpit from which to bash the entire Knicks organization.

Anyway, choice points from that article include the idea that Lebron loves Dantoni’s speedball offense, and conversely Berman says from Cleveland sources that Lebron long ago soured on Mike Brown’s “slow” and “unimaginative” offensive system.

Anyway, though some people on here would get a kick out of the article and the points Berman made…

http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/knicks/antoni_already_busting_at_seams_JzyZepXylmpgx5CX0taojL
HaS

“Superstars have the ball in their hands – no disrespect but you’re delusional if you believe that a pure point guard would be the primary ball-handler and LeBron just a finisher… LeBron James will have the ball in his hands… Just like Kobe Bryant, Larry Bird, Michael Jordan etc.”

LOL

And no disrespect but you’re blind if you think that’s what I’ve been saying. You’re not reading my posts.

I said that LeBron should have the ball in his hands at the end of quarters/game regardless of who plays the point, but it would benefit him and the team he plays for is he had a player who could capitalize on his ability to finish.

“LeBron James will always draw attention… if the other players move without the ball they will find a way to create mismatches/hit the open man after a couple passes… And LeBron doesn’t need to rack up 20 assists, he can be the primary ball-handler without having to be the primary facilitator if the coach stresses ball-movement.”

And again, that’s not _’antoni’s offense and we’ve all gotten a taste of this “coach’s” ability to adjust to his personnel.
HaS

“You can’t overlook Howard’s presence on the defensive end though… He’ll always be dominant on one end of the floor even when he’s not playing well. I’m not a fan but DVJ’s argument isn’t baseless.”

Not being willing to admit that “Dwight Howard is the 2nd best player in the NBA” is not “overlook(ing) Howard’s presence on the defensive end”.

“DVJ’s argument isn’t baseless”.

It isn’t I guess, but it is wrong and any basketball, expert, pundit and most knowledgeable fans would disagree.
x-man

Yikes! DVJ or Circlelimit could have wrriten that article. Why would Amare leave the Suns with Nash making him look good?

JJ and Bosh are our saviors?

LBJ needs D’Antoni speedball when both have 0 rings?

I truly hope our GM makes a real great and realistic pitch to FA like LBJ. I truly hope there’s a model that makes sense and achievable too!

LBJ must be having a hard time with not living up to expecations or having a ring by now, his teammates maybe f##king his mom. There’s no need for him to have GM to f##k him with total nonsense.

Hey Tommy Dee, how about a thread where we can express what should our GM do and what approach or advice would we give him. I know I know, I will say “Fire the coach” but there are other things to say to! lol
Mucha

1 I didn’t try to say that you were overlooking Howard’s impact on the defensive end. I just said : you can’t do it.

2 I’m not so sure. The Magic have reached the Conference Finals 2 years in a row and he was an unanimous choice for the All-NBA first team. I don’t think he’s the 2nd best player in the NBA talent-wise. But in terms of impact? He might be.
grahambo86

I think some people are over-estimating the pitch that Donnie has to make to LBJ. Bron has his own business team which I am sure have all the salary numbers, names of the free agents, coaches, etc. Not sure what Donnie or any other GM can say that will get him to change his mind.

I have a hard time thinking he doesn’t have a pretty good idea on where he wants to go by now. The season is all but settled for most and not much more can happen to influence him one way or the other. I highly doubt a rookie draft pick has that great an influence on him. I really think the top free agents will be waiting for him to sign before they do.
x-man

Great pts you make and I pretty much agree.

However, I’m sure LBJ or any good FA would want to know howour GM sees this team being put together, what coach and style of play, how the team expects to use them and etc.

That’s the pitch I would want to know for sure. If I was LBJ and I heard something like we plan to keep our coach, feature Duhon and RalpheAL to play along side ya, that owuld be a short meeting!

Imagine our GM being able to say to LBJ, I’m going strong after a star pt guard and even make plans to get pure SG or other star ASAP? Then explain how LBJ needs to be a threat like Kobe where he doesn’t have to have all the ball handling resp and we will have him in various location of the floor creating havoc and etc.
HaS

I like Howard and if I were starting a team he would definitely be a candidate you could start with (I might start somewhere else though), but he’s not the “2nd best player in the NBA”.
Mucha

“I said that LeBron should have the ball in his hands at the end of quarters/game regardless of who plays the point, but it would benefit him and the team he plays for is he had a player who could capitalize on his ability to finish.”

Man I do read your posts and I also believe that he’d benefit from playing with a pass-first point guard who can knock down open jumpshots… But I don’t think LeBron James “NEEDS” one and the fact that Mo Williams isn’t a pass-first point guard isn’t the reason why the Cavaliers failed to win a title.

Pure point guards who can knock down open jumpshots are a rare commodity in the NBA anyways and I believe that the team could capitalize on his ability to finish with ball movement.

“And again, that’s not _’antoni’s offense and we’ve all gotten a taste of this “coach’s” ability to adjust to his personnel”

7SOL is compatible with ball movement, I don’t know what your point is. Mike D’Antoni did a really poor job in 2009-2010 but he tried adjust to his personnel after the 1-9 start.
x-man

Dude, you hold on to the ledge with your very last fingers to keep from falling! lol ?Speaking of impact!

Impact vs talent-wise? hahahahaha

Vince Carter is one of the best in the NB talent wise but who would say he’s one of the best in the NBA?

Do you recall Mutombo when he used to swat away shots on defense. Did he have an impact? Was he one of the best few in the NBA?

Just Messing with ya Mucha. We all have jump out of that burning building dude, Just jump and you’re be ok dawg! lol

Look up Darryl Dawkins or Chocalate Thunder and then click upgrade to 2.0!
Mucha

I think you underestimate our flexibility, no homo. If the Knicks sign Bosh and LeBron I think the core is :

James, Bosh, Gallinari, Douglas

+ in 2010-2011 : A couple of valuable players aquired in trades (Eddy Curry and Wilson Chandler)

+ in 2011-2012 : 1 MLE signing + 1 1st round draft pick.

That’s- at least – a solid 8-man rotation + filler (2010 2nd round draft picks, minimum signings etcetera).
bb_dot

it’s all about providing the right vision. That’s what the GM needs to do in a pitch. LeBron’s team may have the “facts” and “numbers” but they don’t necessarily know the plan or level of commitment.
sportmaster163

Made a video about lebron James coming to the knicks http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcHBTAJ-E1k
HaS

“D’Antoni did a really poor job in 2009-2010 but he tried adjust to his personnel…”

Did I say he didn’t “try”?

“I think you underestimate our flexibility, no homo. If the Knicks sign Bosh and LeBron I think the core is :

James, Bosh, Gallinari, Douglas
+ in 2010-2011 : A couple of valuable players aquired in trades (Eddy Curry and Wilson Chandler)

+ in 2011-2012 : 1 MLE signing + 1 1st round draft pick.

That’s- at least – a solid 8-man rotation + filler (2010 2nd round draft picks, minimum signings etcetera).”

I think you underestimate my arithmetic lol, 2010-2011 + 2011-2012 is 2 seasons or as I said “2 years”.
YO SON

The reason why the cavs lost wasn’t because mo Williams wasn’t an elite point guard or his inability to run an offense…his lack of passing ability wasn’t the issue whether how high or low you rank his point guard skills….the reason the cavs lost the “serious” against the Celtics was mo williams inability to “GUARD” or even slowdown an elite pg…he was a defensive liability as well as jamison…. whoever the 2 were guarding was where the Celtics would predominately attack…..Lebron 9 turnovers although didn’t help was not the cause of the cavs losing game 6 ……it was MOSTLY there inability to defend that resulted into them losing…..with Lebron predominately handling the basketball and having 9 turnovers he still was able to find Jamison open twice in the 4th for right baseline 3’z and he missed ….he also missed a left side 15 footer……mo missed a pullup 15 from str8 away and then airballed a floater from like 8 feet away all in the 4th….F L A W D ….parker and moon are also defensive liabilities because they cant guard there man or make a jumper when it counts who ever the pg may be ….F L A W D….
YO SON

…….but most importantly u cant have 2 starters who are defensive liabilities and win a NBA Championship…..so this notion of having rubio and gallo as your starting 1 and 4 is only good 4 regular season basketball….an elite point guard can set the tone on both ends of the floor …..but most importantly on a Championship team a pg has be able to at least slow the opposing pg down and disrupt there offensive sets and or flow….putting your forward like Lebron on rondo will only result in defensive brake downs…. i.e. jj and the Knicks 29wins………..even if your starting 1 and 4 had a bad offensive games as did rondo and Garnet did 2day against orlando … they were still able to win because of there team/man 2 man defense plus intangibles…….
YO SON

Anytime u add an “elite” player at any position with another elite player will only result into a team becoming a contender especially if there team oriented and there only objective is WINNING…cant see that being a negative at all…Parker is the most proven/accomplished of all point guards mentioned on here when discussing trades but Chris Paul is the better point guard by far between them all….Lebron is to good not to be able to adjust to any elite teammate at any position…….but to make a long story short…..“the real focus “………DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS PERIOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!
kkwik2211

Draft question…
What is everyone’s thoughts on Lance Stephenson? I know he didn’t perform particularly well in college, but the kid’s still got a lot of talent. I feel like with a good coach, Lance could turn into a very good player in this league and i really hope we draft him…
Petemichaels

The two max is limited by who is out there (fit) and whether that player wants to come to NY (interest), but it shouldn’t be discounted much at all. Bosh and Stoudamire would be the two best fits, but Bosh is the clear favorite (I would pass on Stoudamire). In the next few weeks, one of the keys to the Knicks campaign, including the fans and every other New Yorker jumping on the “we want Lebron” bandwagon, is to make sure the second max player – Bosh – gets the attention he deserves. He is the best compliment to Lebron in so many ways and, if we didn’t land Lebron, Bosh would be the best realistic options out there to sign anyway. So, if you want to get Lebron, it is necessary to start sending Bosh the love as well … and not the chopped liver love … think about yourself on July 15 and Lebron announces he is going to Chicago … who you do you want now – Bosh. This is the upside of two-max capability. But as the Lebron is available euphoria settles a bit, it will be key for NY fans to be giving the red carpet treatment/admiration for who that second pick may very well be.
YO SON

second round cant beat it ……win win…….
Pingback: Being Lebron James | Prose Before Hos
Mucha

Haha you said they would still be “2 years away” from being a championship team next year.

Next year = 2010-2011

+ 1 year = 2011-2012
+ 2 years = 2012-2013!!!

You clearly didn’t work for NASA LOL

It’s all good, love is love
Skot

[...0 "And then there’s that $30 million clause in the Nike contract that kicks in if he plays in New York or LA. [...]
Never heard or read about this before…
Skot

Did anybody see that 2004 draft list? Looked like the draft was not very deep. However, it is interesting to see who did well, a weak draft and all. To me, the Celtics seemed to have done well and have picked players even in the mid 20s who turned out to be much better than the players drafted ahead of them. More recently they picked Rajon Rondo in the mid 20s and Glen Davis later on too, and they also had players like Bill Walker and Giddens on their bench. It appears they have a solid scouting department.
jingo

“The two max is limited by who is out there (fit) and whether that player wants to come to NY (interest), but it shouldn’t be discounted much at all.”

These are the discounting factors.
Big Blue St3

Would love to snag another 2nd rounder and grab Randle, Pittman and Varnado or Stephenson.

I think Randle and Pittman would be solid additions for us. That feature on Pittman showed me a kid who wants to play and better himself. You don’t lose that much weight and improve your game that much without a lot of hard work and determination. Hopefully we find a decent startgin PG and Randle can be a facilitator and shooter off the bench for his rookie season, and I think he can fit that role very well.

Varnado and Stephenson though to me have potential to be bigger game changers. We all know Varnado can block shotss, I think he can add a little more size and be a nice defensive player off the bench. Stephenson…classic low risk / high reward situation
HaS

“Next year = 2010-2011
+ 1 year = 2011-2012
+ 2 years = 2012-2013!!!
You clearly didn’t work for NASA LOL”

Years meaning seasons as in NBA years, c’mon Mucha it’s a blog about NBA basketball lol.
nick1985

Broussard is anti-NY, who cares what he says.
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