Tip-In, Toronto Raptors Post-Game: Don’t Believe the Hype!

by RaptorsHQ - Archives on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST

Lacing Them Up –

I hope Doc Rivers took note of Jose Calderon’s game-winning lay-up when the All-Star game rolls around...

Well what can you say, what a win.

And not "what a win" in the same way that Toronto took over against San Antonio when it counted most, or absorbed the gut-shots from the Blazers for the eventual win.

But talk about winning by the skin of your teeth.

Or in this case, your 3-point shooting.

The Raptors long-range bombers were absolutely on fire last night and Jose Calderon did an outstanding job of penetrating and finding his teammates.

The strange thing, as we’ll take a look at in a second, is that from a stat-sheet perspective, you never would have guessed that the Raptors would have won without looking at the final score.

However the team got some lucky bounces their way, some poor decisions near the end of the game by the Celtics and just enough offense from their key players to eke this one out.

A Numbers Game –

I’m not even sure which numbers to highlight first in this affair.

Let’s start with the negatives, aka the things that almost did the Raptors in.

-16 to 4. While Toronto did a decent job overall on the glass, once again the Raptors were pounded on the offensive boards by 12. The worst part of this was that most of these offensive rebounds came in the fourth quarter, the time when Toronto needed to keep possession the most.

-18. Speaking of keeping possessions, the Raptors were terrible with the ball last night turning it over an uncharacteristic 18 times. This resulted in 29 points for the C’s off of these miscues and between the turnovers and the rebounding, had Toronto lost this game, these two stats would have been the main culprits.

-56 to 16. This would be the ridiculous discrepancy between Boston’s points scored in the paint, and Toronto’s. Had the first two stats not done the Raptors in, most nights, this one would have. If Bryan Colangelo needed further proof that perhaps swinging a draft day deal for DeAndre Jordan is a good idea, this was it. It really was a tale of two cities as while Boston did all their damage inside, the Raptors did theirs from the outer limits.

-71 per cent from the 3 point line. Yes, that would be the outer limits I’m referring to. I’m not sure I’ve EVER seen a Raptors team shoot this well from beyond the arc and in this game, Toronto hit an amazing 15 of their 21 shots. And even crazier perhaps was that the team only took 69 shots to Boston’s 89! Yes, the three-point bomb was indeed the great equalizer on this evening and was the difference in the end.

The Turning Point –

The turning point in this one was Ray Allen’s missed shot and the buzzer sounding; it really was that touch and go. The Raps seemed incapable of grabbing a defensive rebound, I was screaming about Ray Allen missing his shot and running untouched to the baseline to get his own rebound, and you just never felt confident that someone in green wouldn’t hit a buzzer-beating heartbreaker. However Toronto’s luck held and this is one game you chalk up as a W, wipe your brow and move on.

Temperature Check –

Hot – Andrea Bargnani.

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Nope, it’s the return of the magician. It was a bit strange watching Andrea tear it up and CB4 struggle, not to mention you’d hardly even know that Andrea has had such a tough year if this was your first time tuning in. Everyone’s got their fingers crossed that this is the start of the Andrea we’ve all been waiting for but let’s give him some space. I’m still going to take the "forget about Bargs" mentality until I see some consistent production going forward but that’s not to say I’m not conceding the difference a game like this from Andrea makes to the team. His scoring opens things up for everyone and when he started cooking early, the Celtics couldn’t simply hang around Toronto’s other shooters on defense. In previous games, with Andrea struggling or being passive, it was essentially five on four for the defending club. Last night you saw however how effective his A game can be as he not only had seven rebounds but had seven assists and as a result Toronto had five players with over 15 points. I also thought he did a solid job defensively in this one.

Is this the Andrea we'll see for the rest of the season?

Besides Steve Nash, I’m not sure there’s a better point guard in the league at turning the corner on the opposition. Jose had a tough time guarding the quicker Rondo but did a much better job finding his teammates for open bomb after bomb. The strange thing is that it took the entire game for Boston to figure out what Jose was doing. As Jose kept rounding that corner, getting down into the paint, and then firing passes out to his shooters, I kept waiting for Boston to start vulturing his passes. It didn’t occur until almost the end of the fourth quarter when KG hung around and grabbed one of Calderon’s lobs but by then, most of the Raptors’ 3-point damage was done. Heady play by Jose on the game winner and at this point we just gotta hope that he stays injury free...or Mighty Mouse arrives.

Hot – Sam Mitchell.

I got a little antsy watching Dixon play 10 minutes in relief, especially in the first half when Boston stretched their lead to 11 with him running the show. However Mitchell didn’t let things get out of control, and in the second half, did a great job of making sure Jose was in the game when Rondo was. That’s really all you can ask for as JC can’t keep playing 45 minutes a game, and I thought all game Mitchell did a great job of subbing players in and out. Players like Moon and Hump got the quick hook when they weren’t living up to his expectations and his match-ups of Bosh and Bargs worked wonders on offense.

Lukewarm – Chris Bosh.

Bosh still seems somewhat intimidated by this Celtics team. He played tight, especially in the first half, and had seven of the Raptors' 18 turnovers. He did have a quiet 23 points and came through in the fourth quarter when Toronto needed it most so it’s tough to nitpick. However a more aggressive and decisive Bosh might have put this one away early.

Cold – Paul Pierce.

I’ve seen the Celtics a number of times this year and Paul Pierce is the weak link to this club. Allen and KG are a seamless fit, both can takeover when needed and both, Allen in particular, are deadly when they get open looks from various spots on the court. But Pierce has a bit of Mike James in him. He too often forces his offense when he feels he needs to takeover games and his eight of 20 shooting hurt the C’s in the clutch.

Cold – Raptors bench.

Nothing new to report here really. Carlos Delfino was huge for the Raps but other than his scoring, and some solid minutes from Rasho, Toronto didn’t get nearly enough production from their reserves. Unfortunately I don’t see this changing until Toronto addresses the point guard situation or TJ Ford returns. The geniuses on NBA TV last night were discussing Kapono’s lack of production and blaming it on Moon stepping up and Kap-One simply struggling. Man I can’t wait till these guys actually start WATCHING Raptors’ games instead of just reading news headlines.

Will we see a match-up of Yi and Bargnani tomorrow night?

Prior to the game Sam Mitchell was adamant that it wasn’t a big game in his opinion for his club. You’d never know that from his reaction on the sidelines when the buzzer sounded however.

This was a huge win for the Raptors on many levels.

First of all, it showed that even without a top-notch defensive performance, the team’s offense is more than capable of carrying them through games, a trait that we saw time and time again last year.

Second, the Raptors really didn’t play a great game in many respects and still got the win.

Third, in the words of the great Chuck D of Public Enemy, "Don’t Believe the Hype."

Maybe this Boston team isn’t so invincible? The final score reflected the fact that it was the most points the C’s had allowed an opponent to score this season and perhaps Toronto and it’s run-and-gun style is the exact type of team Boston doesn’t want to face in the playoffs?

In fact, in my pre-game thoughts, I stressed how important it was for the Raptors to play to their style, and that I felt that if they could do that and not wallow in the C’s half-court misery, that would be the difference.

Post-game, Boston coach Doc Rivers confirmed this:

"The game was never a power game, it was a finesse game. We can be a good team playing that style, but not a great one."

I have to agree with Doc in this respect and you can chalk this up as another example of "any team can beat any other team on any given night."

Yes, the NBA it’s fantastic.

The final reason I felt this was an important win was for Andrea's development. This wasn't the Sonics he was playing when he started firing on all cylinders, this was the league's premier defensive team, whose anchor he was matched-up with for most of the night. In that sense, I hope fans now can stop believing the hype regarding him being a bust. You never saw Kwame Brown, Joe Smith or the Kandiman let alone other successful top picks do some of the things he did last night. Consistency is an issue with any young player so hopefully fans will stop focussing on Andrea, who seemed completely annoyed with Leo's half-time questions last night, and focus on the entire team improving from game to game.

Up for next for the Dinos is the Milwaukee Bucks, a team that I really thought would be competing for a final playoff spot this year. They’ve had their injury woes but have struggled even when healthy.

My hope though is that Toronto comes out "guns drawn" for this affair as last time these teams met, the Bucks crushed the Raps as Toronto’s offence sputtered.

Defensively they were even worse but Toronto has tightened the screws at that end since then and we’ll break things down tomorrow, hopefully with the help of a Bucks’ blogger.

Until then we’ll see if we hear any news on the Damon buy-out situation...oh and a little something expected today called the All-Star selections...

FRANCHISE

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Comments

I agree with Franchise's assessments. We were lucky that our bombs were falling in. We had tons of turn overs, out-rebounded, and gave up 50 points in the paint and still won. Wow! A win's a win, and I'm sure Raptor fans are happy to take it. Great to see Andrea played well. Great game by Jose. Parker scored well but way too many turn overs to my liking.

by tfan on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Well, if this was against any other team, I'm sure we'd be heavily rippin the Raps for the win. However, they won inspite of their obvious and not so obvious weaknesses (rebounds/turnovers).

Bargnani demonstrated his blip ability again - showing that maybe one day he can be a triple double threat. He did it again for me, more so on the defensive end, and his ability to pass. How many bigmen can do those no look passes?

I get to watch the Raps in person for the first time, and will also get a meet a greet with Yi Jianli after the game tomorrow night, hopefully I'll get to report on that.

by ustation on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Who got Tommy points? lol

Why would Mighty Mouse head to Toronto when a championship is possible with the C's or Suns?

by Davl on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

ESPN....The Raps have to shoot a high % to beat the C's....no kidding!!!!Do you think that Parker,Captain Eye Liner ,Bargs,Kapone were assenbled because they can rebound...They should watch a Raptor game once in a while.
A great win....we could of kicked their collective asses,if it wasn't for the turnovers....Oh! they scored 60 in the paint...who gives a sweet shit,if they score 100 in the paint,WE won the game,be happy and shut the F up !!!!I loved it when Bargs gave Leo the big ...We have to beat the Bucks,they kicked our ass last time...and we have to split wit the Wiz....

by d279 on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

What a nail biting and heart throbbing game. Although at times, it was quite frustrating to watch especially the number of unforced turnovers. Surprisingly for most of the game, the Raps did managed to keep the game within reach. I was very impressed with Il Mago's all around performance last night. Hopefully this will help build his confidence and a small stepping stone for the remainder of the season. This win should also be accredited to Sam who made wise decisions with his strategy and substitutions.

By the way, great post game analysis Franchise!

by Diesel on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

What a huge win. Raps have to follow up this up with a win Friday night though. No more of this 1 step forward, 1 step back crap.

Instead of a big man coach for Bargs, how about a PR coach? I've never lost faith in Il Mago, but you have to admit the guy gives the worst interviews. At least when Mitchell is an ass to the media, he's entertaining.

Anyway, not to nitpick, as this was a huge game for Bargs. Hopefully he can follow it up on Friday. He disappeared pretty much in the 2nd half and he still has a ways to go. But he'll get there.

Jose ... I'm constantly in awe over how good he's become.

by SonicSuper on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

As usual a spot on analysis of what happened in the game. Like the others who've posted, I view this game as another reason to just leave Bargs alone. We saw what he's capable of last night, it's simply a matter of consistent effort on a nightly basis. Let's hope this game makes the light go on inside Il Mago.

by RaptorsAddict on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

SonicSuper,
["Instead of a big man coach for Bargs, how about a PR coach?"]

I actually liked that interview. Leo focused on Bargs' slump, and you got a sense that AB was miffed. Actually saw some emotion out of the guy -- maybe that's a good sign.

For those who think AB's game was just the first 1/2, he had 4 assists and 8 of his 20 points in the 2nd. As for another stat, he was +11 (behind Calderon at +12). Bosh by the way, was -5. Even though he poured in some important points in the second half, it wasn't one of his better games.

Calderon was smoking in that game, despite 4 T/O's. I think TJ going down solidifies who our main PG is for the future. Now we just need a REAL backup!

by RapthoseLeafs on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Forgot to mention. For all those Bargnani doomsday folks, I have to wonder if they're also Leaf fans needing a new source to vent. Get some anger management help!

As both a Leaf fan (gulp!), and a Raptor fan, I've enjoyed watching the Raptors build a team, as opposed to buying one. Patience is a virtue -- some Leaf fans need to work on that.

by RapthoseLeafs on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

In the 4th quarter, I believe Bargs had 1 assist, 0 points and 0 rebounds.

But hey, I do not want to pick on Bargs. I'm a huge Bargs fan and am happy as hell that he played great last night. Just making the obvious point that he has a lot to improve on. And I know he will!

Also happy he showed some emotion in the interview.

I've said all along, with a good Bargs the Raps go from a 44-46 win team to a 50+ win team. So much rides on the guy.

by SonicSuper on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

I think Bargs did more last night than Hoffa did in his two years in Toronto.

But that's okay, BargsBust will still trade him to Chicago for Joakim Noah.

Sophomore Slump, people.

by jjdynomite on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Interesting point about the Leafs. Article in the Toronto Sun today discusses BC's role with the club (in regards to what a Leafs GM might be looking for) but more importantly, there's a great quote from Colangelo in regards to Garbo's absence...

http://torontosun.com/Sports/Basketball/2008/01/24/4790930-sun.html

by Franchise on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Aside from the offensive accolades, Andrea did a great job defensively. Did anyone catch that box out of KG? I know Leo and Chuck didn’t. It was awesome! Good to see a good performance, hopefully consistency will follow.

Love Doc’s comments:
"Fifty-eight percent (from the floor); 71 percent from the 3; 100 percent from the foul line. At least the foul line wasn't guarded," Rivers said after the Raptors made 15 of 21 3-pointers to beat Boston 114-112 on Wednesday night. "Half the guys in our league couldn't shoot 15-for-21 if they were in a gym by themselves," he said. "It was almost like we didn't believe they would shoot another one."

Calderon was fantastic last night.

by Erezona on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

I think it's time we stopped talking about the Raps as a "running team". They are the second slowest-paced team in the league, with the Pistons being the only team that has fewer total possessions per game.

This is a direct consequence of Calderon taking over as the full-time PG. He is not a running style 1-guard, he's a master of the half-court game, and as such the Raps have transformed into an almost purely half-court offense. This is now their identity, and there's nothing wrong with that... in fact, it's working out just fine.

by Costa on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Kinda the opposite of our fisrt meeting with the C's this season. Came down to the wire, we lost and our shooting percentage was in the high 30's. Is that Karma?
Sams reaction at the end was priceless. Thought Chuck had an orgasm.

by Tinman on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Costa - not sure if you are referring to the recent post on Grange's Blog from the orchestrator of T.Jose Caldeford, but a solid point. For those who haven't seen it:

http://caldeford.blogspot.com/2008/01/keep-up-pace.html

Without TJ, the Raptors offence at times crawls along. Not that there's anything wrong with that, Toronto has the playmakers to execute in the half-court. But all this "Suns of the East" stuff is way off with the only real similarity being the shooting abilities of the Raps perimeter players. Against perhaps the best half-court club in the league, the Celtics, Toronto needed to play more to their style and that's indeed what they did last night. The Raps still only got up 69 shots, but part of that was because of the turnovers, many of which were unforced.

Also - interesting timing for this piece by ESPN.com's David Thorpe:

http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/insider/columns/story?columnist=thorpe_david&page=Sophomores-080124

Especially interesting is the player he compares Bargs to...gulp...

by Franchise on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

While I agree that we are fortunate that the shots were falling, it wasn't as though we were taking bad shots. I only saw the game in six minutes, but some of the passing was amazing.

The Raps seem to be able to do one thing well, if they focus on it, but not everything well at once. If they ever figure out how to bring their best effort in offence, defence, and rebounding they will be tough to beat.

It was a great win for everyones confidence, even if they were a little lucky to pull it out. It was good to see Bargnani again, he been invisible for a while.

by Sorael on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Calderon is King for a day!!!

Boston never could figure out his decision making.

Two stats are a little misleading, Turnovers & rebounds. While Raptors did not do well in either the real impact was not great. Raps gave up 26pts off 19TO's, but Celt's gave up 23pts on 12 TO's. Celt's took 20 more shots, from off RB's but only made 4 more than Rap's.
Rap's made 8 more 3's & 2 more FT's which led to the win.
Turnovers are not usualy a problem as Rap's avg 12/game.
Offensive rebounds however are a major concern that requires correction.

by Johnn19 on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

I thought bosh played a good game, anchoring the d, wearing the bigs out while looking damn tired himself. Kept us in the game with half his points coming in the fourth quarter.

Smart of Sam/jose to not force the issue with bargnani in the fourth.

Also this is the kind of three-point shooting I've been waiting for all year, and kap-one was not even part of it.

I thought the raps played tight, got rattled like they do against all the top teams, but the way they kept it together enough to have a chance was very encouraging.

I was sure Ray Allen was going to break our hearts at the end there. A bit of overdue good luck for the team and fans.

by axl on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

A great offense will always beat a great defense. The only problem is that a great defense can actually be more easily sustained over a stretch of games than a great offense.
In any case, I was and still am in awe of the shooting display by our guys, with Kapono not even attempting a 3. It was unbelievable. In the end, yesterday's game was an excellent proof that the b-ball is really about putting the ball in the hoop more times than your opponent..regardless how you do it...
The mental toughness of our team is incredible for players so young. I love our team.

by Daniel on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Some interesting numbers when comparing Raptors to Celtics, Pistons, and Spurs.

The average NBA experience of the starting units on all
four Teams.
Detroit 9.4 years
San Antonio 8.2 years
Boston 7.4 years
Toronto 1.6 years

Might have something to do with why Raptors struggle to beat these teams.

by Johnn19 on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

I could say I told you...but I will just put a line from my post yesterday..."My X-Factor tonight is none other than the Magician himself..Go Bargs..Italians are very resilliant and I know Bargnani is going to bounce back before the seasons end.....Raps4life"
Way to make me look good Bargnani...I have some numbers I would like to throw out there since Franchise always put up the numbers....15-21 number of 3's by the Raps. 12 number of TO for Boston so the diff there is only 6. 100% 19-19 from the stripes. 44-24 this one is good..they outscore us by 44 in the paint but we outscore them by 24 from outside...diff 20 does look that bad anymore does it. The good thing about basketball is that its a fair game. You have to give the ball to the other team after you score. So if your scoring percentage is high it does not really matter about all the negatives you can still win the game and that is exactly what the Raps did last night. This was one of the most entertaining game the Raps played this year. Right up there with the Portland game. Great W Raps...keep it going...Raps4Life baby.

by raps4life on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

I love my Raptors, but the games are not as exciting to watch as they use to be that run and gun is not there anymore, but I guess it will come back when TJ comes back I really miss the talk about the running and gunning. But Nerve recking win

by Marcia on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Great Chard Ford interview with BC today:

http://sports-ak.espn.go.com/nba/index

Once again, doesn't sound like Jose is going anywhere ...

by SonicSuper on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Sorael - was thinkgint the same thing - if this team can ever do more than one thing well at once, they'd be unstoppable. Sadly, I expect the shots not to fall against the Bucks...

by fromlongrange on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Didn't notice in the last three games if the Celtics were doing this, but last night it killed them. When Calderon brought the ball over half, Bargnani or Bosh would run the pick and roll well outside the 3-line, but the Celtics never switched and Calderon would just dribble by Rondo and whoever else came out to help (usuall Garnett). At this point, Calderon would drive to the basket and either kick it to an open Bosh or Bargs to his left, or dish it to an open Parker or Delfino on his right when the defense had to collapse to prevent a lay-up by Calderon.

I think I saw this happen about 20 times last night, but it seemed like on offense, after the initial pick and roll, it was a 5 on 3 for the Raps.

I also think this is why Bargs went off last night as, once Garnett came off Bargs to "defend" the pick and roll, Bargs would fade away and would be wide open to get a pass from Calderon and either drive (with no one in his way until help arrived late) or pass it off when the help defender came at him(7 assists).

It was incredible to watch how the Celtics just never made the adjustment to have Rondo guard Calderon one-on-one and to leave Garnett (or whoever else was out there, sometimes Pierce) at home to defend the paint.

by Casey on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Great Calderon !!!

You are the spanish star on NBA . We forget you on spanish league but you will be a great star in America.

KIM,
http://www.servifans.com

by KIM on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Glad somebody brought up the point of the Raps not being like the suns.

I can't remember where I heard it but I think a much better comparison is the Mavs of the east.

Both teams are teams which are in search for their true identity, have a firey coach who holds players accountable and preaches hardwork, both have a lot of good role players and depth, both have a star powerforward who is not a traditional back to the basket guy, both have a great pg combination.

The one thing the mavs have over the raps is a legitamate second scorer in josh howard....lets wait for Andrea...

by wtf on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Calderon is on fire.

Satisfying win.

Boo - Yah - Ka - sha

Great Analysis, 2nd point guard = bench play pick up

Delfino can score when he plays with Calderon, same holds true with Kapono.

If TJ returns look out, Boston.

by DayOner on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Thanks for that interview link, Sonic Super

Everyone should check it out.

Again, Colangelo simply shines and puts your worries at ease.

He even gives Babcock props for signing Calderon, class act all the way....we kind of forget how lucky we are to have him sometimes.

Imagine being offered a trade from this guy? He's so smooth you'd just be like "ok Bryan whatever you say".

Eric Williams, Aaron Williams a bunch of stuff and alonzo Mourning umk? Hoffa! LOL! What a loser Babcock was! It's just unbelievable how far we've come in four years.

Like I said, I don't care if we lose every game left in the season, we are headed somewhere great people.

by DayOner on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Bust? Stats? Surely a lttle love for Bargs.

by Tinman on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Marcia,

"But the games are not as exciting to watch as they use to be that run and gun is not there anymore".

I don't think the run and gun was ever there. TJ used to dribble at full speed across half court and then slow the game down. What is it that you really dislike about Calderon's play? Are you sure you aren't TJ's little brother...I meant little sister?

Geez!!!

by Assistant GM on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

NBA.com says Jose should be an allstar

http://www.nba.com/allstar2008/allstar_game/east_reserves_20080124.html

by wtf on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Important note on last nights game was the refereeing. Totally fair. KG did his usual whining, and still totally fair. It changes the game considerably when the refs don't give Star calls, or respect calls. This game was proof that you can call a good game in the NBA without having to anticipate fouls. Think back to the advantage the Nets had in the playoffs with Kidd being allowed to hand check all the time. Same with Bowen on Nash and Detroit all the time. I still think that favourtism in the officiating based on "reputation" is a huge elephant in the room.

Other note: I was suggesting the previous day that Raps fans were suffering from Hoffaitis and allowing them to put Bargs in that category. Not the case. And I admit I was a Hoffa supporter, so I've been wrong, but Bargs can do stufff in this league, even if he doesn't become another Dirk.

I never thought Babcock got a fair shake here. he implemented a plan fully accepted by MLSE suits, who bailed on him for doing what he said he would. Drafted Hoffa on team advice and 3 weeks on the job. You start thinking he got the John Ferguson treatment. When he got some time,he drafted very well and signed very well (JC). He may be more brilliant yet if Ukic becomes a piece. I'm interested to hear everyone bitching about VC in Jersey and remember how he played himself out of the starting lineup. Let's see if they can move him and his lazy attitude for much better.

I hope BC can get some PG help here soon. I think the best thing BC has is the power of presense to have the suits shut up.

by EaseMyPain on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions

Hey EMP,

I respect Babcock's moves for Ukic and Calderon (obviously), Villanueva was a fine pick.

True he got blamed for Hoffa when it should have been shared.....but he was a scout I believe, if not scouting was that guy's hobby, and more than aware of the upcooming draft class....so that is also used as a copout by Babcock defenders.

The reason I think he is sn incompetent fool is why everyone else does, the VC trade.

VC may have been playing horribly, but again, that does not excuse the trade that was consummated.

He didn't just lose that trade by a little bit, it will probably go down as one of the worst trades in the NBA.

That makes him a loser.....If you build a thousand bridges but you.....make a trade VC for a sack of shit......what does that make you?

by DayOner on Jan 25, 2008 12:00 AM EST reply actions