Tip-In, Toronto Raptors Post-Game: A Frustrating Finish to a Frustrating Season

by RaptorsHQ - Archives on Apr 28, 2008 12:00 AM EDT

Superman was a monster again with 21 and 21 in Orlando's win...

Lacing Them Up –

6:36 left in the game.

Bosh at the free throw line.

Raps down five.

Bosh makes the free-throw, and it’s a four point game.

This then kicked off what I figured was a hugely critical sequence as Howard had picked up his fourth foul.

And on the next possession, Bosh went right at Howard who backed off of him. It was a two point game and it looked like Toronto had the upper hand with CB4’s quickness on the block.

However after that play, here were Toronto’s offensive possessions:

– A Carlos Delfino jumper early in the clock that missed, no touch for Bosh on the possession,

– A Jason Kapono running jumper that missed badly, and that was once again early in the clock, no touch for Bosh.

– Kapono again with a jumper that misses early in the clock, luckily a foul was called on the rebound which resulted in a fifth foul for Dwight Howard.

–And then finally, Bosh gets a touch and attacks, but at this point is double-teamed and forced to take a fade-away baseline jumper that misses.

You’d think at this point with five fouls Toronto would have learned their lesson and gone back to Bosh but nope, the next possession results in a wild 3 by Delfino before CB4 gets a look.

And in the meantime, the Magic are playing their draw and kick game, and by the time Jameer Nelson hits a 3 to make it a 10 point Magic lead, the Raptors had gone almost four minutes without getting Bosh any real looks down low and the game was over.

It was a frustrating end to a frustrating season, a game that was easily winnable for the Toronto Raptors that once again escaped their claws in the final moments thanks to some poor decisions and shaky defence and rebounding.

In the final "tip-in" of the season, let’s take a look at just went wrong for Toronto…

A Numbers Game – Plus 18

Well, can’t say this is the first time I’ve written about a discrepancy on the boards in a Raptors loss. But hopefully after this off-season, it won’t be nearly as regular a feature in this section.

However last night, Toronto was absolutely destroyed on the glass 55 to 37 and Dwight Howard led the way with an incredible 21 himself. Chris Bosh gave a warrior’s effort in the loss but his nine rebounds, four of which were on the offensive end, sure look paltry in comparison. Neither team shot the ball very well in this one from the field, Toronto at 41 and Orlando just under 45, but the Magic’s ability to get second chance points kept them around until they took the lead for good late in the game.

The Turning Point –

The turning point in this one was as listed to kick-off this recap. Toronto had the game within their grasp, had Dwight Howard in foul trouble, and had Chris Bosh ready to take over. Instead, it was jump shot after jump shot until it was too late.

The Sports Guy, Bill Simmons, recently wrote that he had a hard time watching this series because it resembled the NBA’s version of the NCAA’s NIT. Last night’s game didn’t do much to sway his opinion in all probability. In fact, are there two more maddening teams in the league? Both settle far too often for jump shots when they have powerful inside presences and at times this game was like dumb vs. dumber. Case in point, Maurice Evans took as many shots tonight as Dwight Howard. And Keith Bogans only took one less! Howard still finished with 21 points to go along with his 21 boards but can you imagine if he actually got the ball with any regularity, or down the road once he develops a back-to-the-basket game?

Right…can someone explain to me again why I traded young Frankenstein off my fantasy team?

Temperature Check –

Hot – Dwight Howard. What else can you say? This guy is going to be a huge problem for whoever has to guard him next round. Bosh is wiry strong and did his best but Howard tossed him around like a rag doll. I never felt that Howard was the deciding factor in this series but tonight was an exception. Toronto was forced to leave open shooters too often this evening and Howard wreaked havoc in the paint. The refs missed a few "three in the key" calls on him but nevertheless, the guy was a wrecking ball. On one occasion he took Bosh, Kapono and Parker into the paint as if they were bowling pins.

Who said the era of the big man is over?

Hot – Jameer Nelson. You gotta give Nelson some props here. In fact, I think he was actually the team’s MVP in this series, even though Dwight and Hedo may have put up more impressive numbers. With Nelson in the game, Van Gundy’s draw-and-kick offence ran without a hitch. Without Jameer, things were a bit more helter skelter and that’s when Toronto usually made their run. Most of all though, Nelson was clutch when it counted most for his team. He completely dominated TJ Ford over the course of the series and had key basket after key basket in the fourth quarter. Nelson displayed a mental toughness that few on this current Raptor team possess.

Warm – Jamario Moon, Chris Bosh, Carlos Delfino, Jason Kapono and Sam Mitchell. Can’t put these four in the hot category as none really carried the club on their backs tonight. However all four deserve some accolades for coming ready to play in this one. Moon, injured groin and all, still turned in some solid defense, rebounding and unbelievably, 3-point shooting, in limited minutes. Bosh as mentioned had a tough night offensively, but fought tooth and nail for everything he got and was repeatedly double-teamed. And Delfino and Kapono took some ill-advised shots down the stretch, but it was their aggression in the second and third quarters that kept Toronto in the game when no one else was scoring.

Finally, we come to Mr. Mitchell. After the first game and a half of the series, I actually thought Sam did a good job against Orlando. He made the Magic adjust to the Raptors’ game plan on occasion, threw everything he could at Dwight Howard and did the best with what he had. And that’s the bottom line I think here. As most know, I’m no huge Sam Mitchell fan but this series revealed what was painfully obvious to us Raptor fans all year; Mitchell just doesn’t have the talent to work with right now. He’s got Chris Bosh, and Jose Calderon, and even those two were hardly lifesavers consistently in this series. We’ll get into this a little more during our end of the year report card and series wrap-up but this club needs an infusion of talent in the off-season among other things.

Luke-warm – TJ Ford. It was a fitting end of the season for TJ Ford in this game. He used his speed to burn the Magic and made some beautiful plays on offense. He also made some horrendous decisions with the ball, forced shots, and let his ego get the best of him in the individual match-up with Jameer Nelson…which Nelson won again. The interesting thing about last night’s match was that I started to realize just why Sam keeps having to turn to Ford at times. No one on this team can consistently score or create his own shot besides Chris Bosh. So as a result, I think sometimes Sam just sort of leaves MeJ out there, hoping he’ll get more of the good than bad. Tonight was indeed a mix of both, but regardless I tend to believe that Ford has played his last game in Raptors’ red.

What does the future hold for these two in Toronto?

Moving On –

So that’s it eh?

In like a lion, out like a lamb for the 2007-08 version of the Toronto Raptors.

It’s weird right now to think that the season is done. In many ways, I feel like come Wednesday night, the Dinos will be back in front of Chuck and Leo, trying to give us fans a reason to believe that they’ll turn things around.

But the fact of the matter is they didn’t.

A season of promise turned to one of uncertainty, before eventually turning to one of disappointment and frustration.

And not just frustration for us fans, but can you imagine the emotions of Bryan Colangelo right now? This was certainly not the way he envisioned the season ending and you could probably make the case that overall, the team actually took a step back from last year.

I thought that based on the team’s final month and a half they’d lose to Orlando in five games and it was painful to be correct. In fact, this loss is actually more painful to me than last year's to New Jersey in the strange way that it bugs me that I'm not really that upset. Does that make any sense to anyone?

Instead of the "if only they had of done this," or the "why didn’t they try this," I was left with a feeling of blasé…just one of "well, on to the draft I guess."

That’s not the way it should have been this year and I’m confident BC will make sure it doesn’t happen again next season.

In the next few days we’ll break down what us fans can take from this series, dole out our year-end grades, and chat with some other Raptors’ bloggers before putting a cap on 07-08.

It’s not the end, but it is a short break in the action before our draft coverage really kicks into high-gear next month.

Last Saturday at Harbour Sports Grille there was lots of talk about Toronto tying up the series with the Magic 2-2, a thought that seems so far removed now. Raps fans were discussing that and pondering a match-up with Philly, who was up 2 to 1 in their series over Detroit at the time.

Oh the delusions of grandeur were coming fast and furious.

And one fan spoke up about the NBA’s split screen commercials and how he had heard that there was one featuring a split of Chris Bosh and Dwight Howard to commemorate their battle in this series.

I finally saw the promo tonight for Raps-Magic on TNT…only to have the buzzer sound on the Raptors’ season a few short minutes later.

Talk about lousy timing.

FRANCHISE

Tweet Comment 47 comments | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

In fact, this loss is actually more painful to me than last year, simply because I didn’t really care when all was said and done.

Sad to say but I believe U are not alone in that statement. For Me it was over quite some time ago. When TJ whined his way back into the starting line up I gave up on the team.

Already looking forward to next year though.

by Davl on Apr 28, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Well, on to next year I guess. Franchise, I think this team needs both better/complimentary talent and better coaching. Not to beat a dead horse, but I really do believe that a lack of good coaching and collective understanding of the team (due to coaching) is the reason why you saw that horrible sequence of jump shooting you described above. Popovich would never have needed to call a timeout to remind his team that d12 has 5 fouls because his players would collectively understand what their purpose on the floor would be under this circumstance. Obviously, Popovich is not coming to toronto, but if a great coach becomes available (Perhaps D'Antoni? although I don't see him leaving) I think this team needs to make a move like the pistons did with carlisle and brown a few years back. I think sam is a decent regular season coach but that is about it. That is why you saw 2 games of bad coaching, 2 games of good coaching and 1 game of lukewarm coaching in this series. It's because sadly he is average and doesn't have the faculties to become anything better. I say we keep him until our coach is available. I think we also need to balance the roster out and strengthen our players 1-8 since in the playoffs there is no need to be 1-10 strong. Curious to see what happens.

by Oyster Boy on Apr 28, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

while it is nice to be in the playoffs, 42-45 is not very good. I hope there is a star for sale in the offseason as we have a lot of expiring contracts and much need for someone to play off of bosh. big props to Hedo Turkoglu. he did not shoot well yet went to 31/34 from the line the line and averaged 8 boards and 5 dimes. he wins the 'robin' award in my mind,

by raptorville on Apr 28, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

well, there's always next year. BC definitely has some work ahead of him in the off-season. I would really like to see him turn a bunch of our role players into one real impact player. Also draft a tough rebounder/shotblocker, someone like Javale McGee or Hasheem Thabet.

by Sorael on Apr 28, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

I thought Delfino had the ball way too much down the stretch and I really really can't stand his game. He reminds me of mike james. 'nuff said. Too bad CB4 stunk it out too shooting wise.

Without our glue guy, garbo, we just come apart. He just gets the ball moving, facilitates mismatches, plus nice defense. If every minute delfino played, would have been a garbo minute the regular season would have been much different. I'm not sure we're beating orlando, but I think the talent is there already to be better than this.

Minor tinkering, some major homework for bargs, get rasho to opt out and lock him up long term. Even TJ, is he MeJ, or is that just his style of play? Seems to me he's played the same way since day one and I've never absolutely loved it, but you have to give him props for taking risks and taking the knocks when things go bad. Now, when I see what Calderon can do with extended minutes, I'd be all for getting a creative scorer for TJ, but without a deng, maggette type I'd be scared to see where dribble penetration might come from.

I'm also excited about what we might get from moon in years to come. I thought he improved hugely as of late.

by axl on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

The loss was harder to take in light of Atlanta's win over the Celtics. At least we didn't get swept like the Nuggets.

IMHO, Sam is not a bad coach, just the wrong one for the Raptors. A case in point is the under-utilization of Kapono, who played much better during the playoffs. Hopefully, BC will get us a new coach and some grittier players this summer.

by tfan on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

I'm not as upset by our loss to Orlando as I was losing to Jersey last year. This year, deep inside, I knew Orlando was a better team. New Jersey was not.
Anyway, IMO BC will keep Sam and trade a bnunch of bench players for one quality wing player.
Moral of the story: CB4 needs help. We cannot expect him to be the best defender, blocker, rebounder and scorer. It's just not possible.

by OneandDone on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

I'll cheer for Spurs today like there is no tomorrow.
Mitchell is not fit for the kind of team BC envisioned. We don't even know if it would work or not because Sam is unable to fulfill that vision. At least D'Antoni fits BC's vision and we would start showing an identity on the court. That's my main issue with this team: we lack an identity. If we don't play defense at least let's score 120-130 pts/game.
We are in building process and last season blinded the management who made a ton of mistakes last summer. This season the true colours showed up and the management has a chance to correct its mistakes. I am definitely looking forward to this off-season.

by Daniel on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

I missed Garbo more than ever this series.

This offseason should be interesting. The legomaster is not going to just sit still this year. Let the trade rumours begin!!

RapsHQ - this ball season would have 10 times worse had it not been for this blog. You guys rock.

by utes on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Thanks F&H
this site was the best thing about this years raptors season. My thought are although I'm not fond of Smitch, i think he'll be back one more season hopefully with help at the 2or3 position. We just need a guy that can get to the basket. If we can't play defense then we need to score!

by roamz on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

My team to root for is Pistons.....God I don't like Boston.

Rooting for the Spurs but not tonight.....Don't like Lakers but Like New Orleans and hope Mo Pete and team goes far.

by Davl on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

No doubt, the best team won last night which is why this series loss was less painful than last year’s exit. What can be viewed as a positive is that I learnt a few things this year that wasn’t evident to me at the end of last year because I really thought that only a tweak here and there was all that was required.

- I have a better understanding of how coaches must use their bench players. I really thought that if you have a strong bench it could be used to relieve the starters, reducing the amount of pt and extending their effectiveness season long. Wrong. Starters need extended time to get into the flow of the game because if they sit too long their effectiveness is diminished (i.e. Calderon, Kapono).

- The success of this season depended on the success of our 1st round pick Bargnani. What I didn’t realize was the major project he would turn out to be. He’s probably 2 years away from being close to what was expected from him. Did Colangelo factor that timetable into his plan? Until then we probably need a centre that can defend and corral rebounds.

- The Raptors need a slashing/driver middle range shooter in the worst way. Bosh can not do himself and our second best scorer is not nearly good enough.

That’s my shopping cart requests. The off season should be interesting.

by OldSchool on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Same sequence as always, same frustrated (but not surprised) reaction. Raps get opposing big in foul trouble, then go for jump shots. I was actually yelling at my computer for Delfino to drive (he already did it twice before) against Howard. Strange, though, the Raps never seem to hear me yelling at them. I thought after Howard picked up the fifth, Mitchell might call a timeout to let his troops know to feed Bosh and try to get Howard out of the game, or at least get easy blowbys on a tentative Howard (he didn't immediately, but had to some plays later). I know people are going to say he shouldn't have to waste a timeout on that, these are veteran players who should recognize, yada yada yada. But, really, what makes us think they really do recognize these things?
Anyways, bitterness is over and frustration eased, I know I'll keep following this team. I'm now in a Starbucks listening to some of the typical MOR pablum they play, this time Joni Mitchell, so with apologies to her:
"I've looked at the Raps from both sides now
From win and lose and still somehow
It's Rap's illusions I'll recall
I really don't know the Raps at all"

by Tim on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

I echo the comments already posted by everyone here - frustrtaing way to go out but thank god for this blog which helped most of us keep our sanity. Looking forward the HQs usual topnotch offseason coverage starting with the draft.

Go New Orleans

by fromlongrange on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

The only thing consistent about this Raptor season was this blog and its commenters. Great work, everyone. Nuts to you, Raptors franchise.

by dsl on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Franchise - the title summarizes all. But lets try and keep that glass half full attitude.
To qoute Oldschool from a while ago " to be a fly on the wall in BC's office"

Last year upon our elimination we still felt good. Well I still feel pretty good about our team.

Big decisions to be addressed

1- coaching - I have always been a huge supporter of Sam but would give him at highest a "C" this term.
I believe with his contract situation he will get the opportunity to start next year but this team better get off to a good start. Do not like how he handled the Euro's(including Delfino and Kapono- but we don't wanna get into race)Sympathize with his PG situation and the decisions he had to address this year. Not sure any coach could of handled it any better.
2- PG situation. I have not given up on TJ yet. Jose is the better player. But I think our most precious commodity would be a sign and trade with Jose. We could get a quality player(either a swing or a bigman) in return. Do we deal our most popular player? I do not think we would get equal value for TJ - his health status is too questionable.
3- Bargnani - will he develope as hoped. I saw some toughness from him in the playoffs and possibly a mean streak. His confidence was shot this year( and I relate it to his relationship with Mitchell and his stars, Bosh and Ford)
Hard to argue with BargBust about his performance this year- but next year I expect a big step forward.
4- Rasho - will be a valuable commodity. Do we deal him in the offseason? Trade deadline? Rework his deal?

To be a fly on the wall...

by Tinman on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

I have always thought that you don't learn anything until you screw it up, so I consider this season one long screw up. We really know where the holes are now, and for the sake of the quality of the playoffs, I'm almost glad we didn't get through b/c Orlando was the better team (how they played and in terms of talent, at least their top 3 or 4).

I think BC will figure the player thing out, and it is the coach that is his hardest decision. I agree w/Franchise that I was ready to fire Smitch after the first 1.5 games, and thought he did the best he could w/what he had after that. Just didn't have the horses. And why does everyone seem to think that things will be better w/D'Antoni? I'm pretty sure my grandma could have coached those teams w/Nash, and I've always hated the fact that he only played 6 or 7 guys. How is that coaching - let Nash run the offense and don't make any subs. I don't get it.

by nyfan on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Whenever I return to this site I check out readers’ numbers and I’m left somewhat disappointed that they are not greater because this site, thanks to Franchise & Howland is superior to anything else out there. During the reading of the quality of poster comments that disappointment fades and I’m thankful for the lack of puerile comments so prevalent on blog sites.
I will move on to other sports viewing but not before thanking you for your insightful articles throughout the season. It was essential reading.

BTW…how are the Jays doing? LOL

by OldSchool on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Thanks to all for the props on the site. We'll be working diligently again this off-season behind the scenes to try and further improve things so as to provide an even better place for Raptors' fans to come and discuss the team.

Lots of questions for sure now that things are done and yes, to be that fly on the wall.

We'll start things off with the draft and will be updating our top five list today now that a few players have decided to return to college thereby affecting our rankings.

by Franchise on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Thanks for another great year, Franchise and Howland. This is always my first stop the morning after a game, and you guys never disappoint.

Sad to see the Raps go out in the first round again, but really, this team isn't yet ready to play with the likes of Boston or the Lakers. Bargs and Ford were (mostly) disappointing this year, but the escalation of Jose's game and the emergence of Moon give me hope. They need to stress defence more, through both coaching and acquiring at least one great defender.

by rgwillie on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Well it's all over, lemme shout a big THANK YOU to Franchise, Howland and the many insightful posters for the great commentary which made it easy to closely follow this team even from the distance while only getting occasional Raps broadcasts in spanish TV amidst the Gasolmania.

I'm sure the offseason will be quite interesting, look forward to be following all the details through the HQ.

by Sergi P on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Well, it was fun while it lasted. Disappointing but cant complain with 2 playoffs in 2 years (look how long it took Orlando and Atlanta to get back).

On next year's roster:

- Kapono: I have changed my mind and feel he just needs to be better utilized on this team.
- Moon: Like Calderon, 2 years ago, needs to lock himself in a gym and practice jump shots and dribbling. If he gets consistent, he could be the next Josh Howard (minus the weed!)
- Bargnani: F&*k it, just go eat some carbs!
- TJF: pack!
- Calderon: get a realtor.
- Bosh - take a load off and & maybe practice some 3 pointers from midcourt
- AP: watch Tony Robbins.
- Delfino: practice free throws

by Rubik on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Raps have too many slightly above average players. The roster can work with a stud at SF - who rebounds and can guard the perimiter. Rasho can stop and box out bigs, but doesn't rebound. Sam never played him with Moon, the athletic rebounder, only with Bargs who doesn't rebound either...

Raps need a Shawn Marion type, if not Shawn Marion.

Deal TJ, Kapono and Bargs for Marion and Chris Quinn. One year gamble for Raps. Miami needs players - Raps need another star player.

by Alplanet on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

if only we'd been swept maybe we coulda got larry brown. oh well. btw i think the reason d'antoni only ever plays 7 guys is the other 7 guys, and the general uselessness thereof.

by benjibopper on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

The Raptors lost this series because when it comes down to crunch time the players could not make a shot...wide open looks and miss them, that's my friend is not the coaches fault...Bad shot selections .the players have to take the blame...If I was BC I would get rid of the following players...
BARGNANI( he is battling with Quami Brown for the worst #1 pick overall),
DELPHINO (cant make a shot in crunch time..doesn't listen to the coach)
HUMPHRIES…trade package
JOSE or TJ(can't afford both jose and TJ ... I prefer TJ…if Sam would have kept TJ in the game last night the Raps would have won. Jose don’t have the NBA killer instinct as yet…good luck somewhere else),
Maceo Baston…we don't need another ball boy
Brezic…nice knowing you
RASHO…..cap space...
Joey Graham....This team needs some players that can put the ball on the floor and create a shot and that is the reason I would keep TJ...I am so hurt that we couldn't even bring the series back to Toronto...Delphino, Kapono and Jose could not buy a basket the last 4 min of the game...Sam should have put Delphino on the bench and bring TJ in with Jose...after all it was a do or die game...If Sam goes it wouldn't surprise me but I think that would be a mistake on the Raptors part...Raps4Life

by Raps4Life on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Thanks again to Franchise and Howland for creating this marvelous site, and let me echo the commentary preceding me that this site tends to get the cream of the commenters compared to others.

Mad props gentlemen, you deserve it.

(and I have officially entered the 'please kill me' stage of my life for using the phrase 'mad props' non ironically, but I digress)

Here's my take on things;

- Bosh is God, and in contrast to one of the comments above I think even if we added a superstar player he could still be our best scorer, rebounder, shot blocker and defensive presence. Howard is those things for Orlando and we just lost to him - so it is definitely possible.

- As much as I love Anthony Parker he is not the answer at the 2 guard spot. Yes he hustles, plays good D, and is a solid team guy. That and $5.00 will get you a coffee at Starbucks.

- For all the concerns about our small forward position, I believe that between Kapono and Delfino (Flipper!) the Raps are actually pretty solid.

- Despite the fact he wasn't being featured in the offense Bargnani managed to impress me with his defense on Howard. I know I was shocked too. I expected Howard to bend fold spindle and mutilate him, but Bargs hung tough and used his size to good advantage.

As one of the Bargs boosters (pass the cool-aid) I'd also point out that the kid has moved from a 2-3 spot in Italy to the 5-4 spot in Toronto, and he is doing so at an age when most players have long established themselves at a position.

Is the experiment a bust? Not yet. I currently hinge my hopes on the fact that Smitch/BC have never attacked his work ethic or practice habits, and they have acknowledged he's a project that will need more time.

My real concern is not that he won't develop into an above average player, but rather that his natural position may well end up being power forward - which just brings full circle back to the Chuck V problems.

- At point guard I'm now totally sold on Calderone over TJ, and I suspect that TJ's act has worn thin with management too. Too bad, but the Raps need some new blood via trade and TJ should bring something solid in return.

- Smitch continues to drive me absolutely crazy as a coach.

The beginning of this post was right on target, with the game ready to be seized by the Raptors they made the mistake of running quick plays away from Howard rather than sending Bosh right at him. I threw popcorn at the screen when Delfino took the first shot in that sequence and I threw the bowl when Kapono jacked up the second.

What on earth was he thinking? You pray to the referee gods that Howard gets into foul trouble late in a winnable game precisely so you can attack him with your best offensive weapon and potentially drive him out of the game! But with Howard on four fouls and Smtich turning the play over to perimeter gunners early in the shot clock it sealed the deal for me. Smitch, bless his media hating heart, has to go for us to advance any further.

- Rasho. The big man was gold down the stretch and if he were an underpaid guy I'd love to keep him - but he isn't. In fact, his $'s might make him our most tradeable commodity (after Forderone) because of the expiring contract.

To me the big thing missing from the Raps is a Dalembert type. Someone physical to clean the glass, play D and score mostly off put backs and dunks - cuz no matter how much cool-aid I drink I can't see that guy being Bargnani.

In any case I'm now jonesing for the NBA Draft and for the Raptors HQ breakdown of it to hurry up and arrive.

If you guys have any insights into the trades that may/could occur for the team I'll be waiting with baited breath!

Keep on rocking in the free world!

by bedhead on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Offseason priorities:

1) Clean out half of the redundant wing players -- that means you Joey Graham! And: if possible, pick up any 2/3 who can actually create a shot. Is Magette still available?

2) Get rid of TJ and his $8M/yr contract to any disfunctional team also looking to dump players - like Denver, Dallas, Sacramento, Chicago, and Indiana.

3) Get rid of Bargnani, unless Bosh and/or Kapono are getting traded. Kapono is a much better 3-pt option off the bench (which is what Bargnani seems to think he is), and Bosh is the starting 4 (which is the only position where Bargnani might be able to start).

4) Get an aggressive 260lb+ Rebounder/Shot Blocker so that Bosh doesn't get beat up every game. Some players out there who might be available would be Emeka Okafor, Reggie Evans, Nene, etc.

Trades I would make immediately if they are at all possible:

- TJ Ford and Bargnani to Philly for Reggie Evans and Andre Miller.

- Rasho and parts to Denver for Nene and parts.

- Bargnani and TJ to Charlotte for Okafor and spare parts.

- Anyone but Bosh to NY for David Lee

- Any spare parts for Brandon Bass on the Mavs.

- Joey Graham to Indiana for Stephen Graham.

- Sign some cheap specialist free agents like DeSagna Diop

by BC on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Western Conf playoffs are a bit of a sleeper! Thought there would be a little more fight. Detroit and Boston Series by far the best first rounder.

by Davl on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

I already kind of knew what Howard brought, but Turkoglu and Nelson really impressed me.

First game, I was like Bogans, Evans Who???? But even those guys had a great series.

For all my badgering Mitchell, the Magic players really did outperform our roster, so for once I will state that in Sam's defense.

(For all those in need of ranting, check my last 25 or so posts.)

Truth is, I actually passed out with about 7 mins left and haven't brought myself top watch it.....like you guys said, I strangely didn't really give a shit and just kinda figured they were toast as I woke up and called up the score, and was like, surprise,surprise.

by DayOner on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

"- Joey Graham to Indiana for Stephen Graham. "

Classic. I say go for it.

Yeah, rooting for the Celtics is just wrong.

Big Up to RaptorsHQ, best Raptors site, I stopped reading most other Raptor online, nothing compares...really inspired me as well, maybe have my own "Drunk Raptor Fan Blog" next year...get some corporate beer sponsors....ok back to reality...big up to all the posters and lurkers....it's nice to not be ridiculed for saying things outside the box...I lurked on this site for 3 years before staring to post this season thanks for putting up with my garbage....all the lurkers let's hear from you next year.

Next year will kick ass I think.
Peace.

by DayOner on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Just saw clips of raps post season press conference or whatever that was:

TJ: He doesn't see himself anything else but a starter. He sounded firm about it..

Mitchell: Asked if he might lose his job, responded with that's the GM's decision

Colangelo:

On TJ and Jose: Admits that they can't co-exist. An indication that one of them will be moved. I don't see TJ getting traded. I like Jose better for the team but, from a GM's perspective, the team will gain more if Jose is traded for a player with equal value and TJ is decent enough to start.

On the other hand, if TJ was to be traded, we probably won't get as much back.

Colangelo on Bargnani:
He's stil a project and it sounded like BC is keeping him.

BC also said he will definitely be addressing rebounding woes this summer.

by Aaron on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Some honest and bang-on comments from bosh and other about bargnani and other things. Bargs has to decide if he wants it or not...

http://www.globesports.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080429.wraptors0429/GSStory/GlobeSportsBasketball/home

by axl on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Now that the season is over, I'm going to be getting my basketball fix on Cybderdunk. Not nearly as frustrating as the Raptors season. I don't know how many of you already play, but I thought maybe us Raptor fans could get a team together. I'm looking for a defensive SF and offensive C in particular. Join here: http://www.cyberdunk.com/?ref=1679

by Bosh Looks Like a Raptor on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Well, I can't really be disappointed when I saw this coming from a mile away, can I?

For me, the Raps' other problems pale in comparison to the black hole in our coaching. It's not just Smitch; Triano and Evans haven't shown a lick of basketball sense in any of the interviews I've seen all year. Too many times this season, the Raps didn't make adjustments during games, came out of timeouts with no play except for either an ISO for Bosh at the elbow or a high screen-and-roll, or just failed to perceive what was happening on the court. You can't lay that at the players' feet. Smitch is by no means the worst coach in the NBA, but he is at best mediocre, and mediocre isn't going to cut it if you want to advance in the playoffs. This is the second straight year he's been significantly outcoached in a playoff series, and it's not like Lawrence Frank and SVG are HoF coaches. My question to you guys is, did it seem to anyone that Smitch had any kind of strategy or gameplan drawn up for this series? It seemed to me like the Raps played exactly the same as they had all year, while Orlando's coaching stand had clearly been watching tape of the Raptors and made the appropriate adjustments.

by fire smitch on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

If the Raps choose Ford over Calderon (as some here suggest) they will not win more than 30 games over the course of the rest of the his contract.

He's Mike James minus the strength and size. I would trade him for a bucket of piss just to get his selfish ass off the team. He lost the game last night plain and simple. What a piece of crap.

by The Real Apocalypse on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Anyway that we can grab Josh Howard from Dallas? He would make an amazing contribution to our Raptors team. He's an already an elite SF and he likes to go the line. Did I mention that he also rebounds? We should get him.
Can you imagine if the Raptors had R.Gay at SF instead of Moon, they could have had him had they not drafted Bargs. Sigh....

by BargsBust on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Please, I beg. Lets lay off these potential trade scenarios at least until the season is open.

155 days til training camp!

Jays will be fine. Solid pitching. Lovely way to spend an afternoon, shame Rogers Centre is horrendus.
Think we should trade Halliday for ARod?

by Tinman on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

err.. meant until season is over.

by Tinman on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

These are the internal changes that I would make for the Raptors
Start
PG: Jose Calderon
TJ Ford is going to be traded. He's already said that he wants to start and not want to be a bench player. He's showed this with his own action on the court. Jose Calderon also is extremely efficient. With more minutes, our team will be even better.

SG: Jason Kapono (He shoots better than AP), and on paper AP stat's aren't that much different than Kapono. And Kapono shoots at a higher % across the board.

SF: Jamairo Moon. 15pts, 8rbs is not out of the question for Moon next season
Moon had comparable numbers to Marion in his rookie season. If Moon's rebounds jumped to 10 per game that would be awesome! I think that Moon has the potential to do this because he is athletic.
Also, Kevin Martin is a slimmer frame than JM. I don't see any reason why JM can't go to the hoop for more FTs.

PF: Chris Bosh

C: Andrea Bargnani

Our lack of trips from the FT line easily comes from JM and Bargnani. Most of the best players in NBA to get to the line are either slashers, usually SF, or Centers. In fact D.Howard takes the most trips to the line in the NBA.

Bargnani needs to step up next season and get more trips to the FT line. But, for now Bargs is a bust. And that Globe and mail article poster earlier in previous posts, just proves that what I was saying all along is right. Bosh says so himself.

I love it when I'm right. :)

We need another center beside Bargnani.

With Rasho getting as many rebounds as Parker, and with Rasho's large contract, I think that Rasho and possibly AP time with Toronto is over.

So say goodby to AP, TJ, and Rasho. And say hello to some good rebounding and interior defence, which again is what I've been saying all along.

Look forward to a busy offseason

by BargsBust on Apr 30, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

SG: Jason Kapono (He shoots better than AP), and on paper AP stat's aren't that much different than Kapono. And Kapono shoots at a higher % across the board.

PF: Chris Bosh

C: Andrea Bargnani

I love it when I'm right. :)

We need another center beside Bargnani.

With Rasho getting as many rebounds as Parker, and with Rasho's large contract, I think that Rasho and possibly AP time with Toronto is over.

So say goodby to AP, TJ, and Rasho. And say hello to some good rebounding and interior defence, which again is what I've been saying all along.

Look forward to a busy offseason

by BargsBust on Apr 30, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

I stopped posting after game 1 because I had a distinct feeling it would go the way it did. One game that gets everyone believing, the rest average or worse. I would be really interested for an analysis of the available talent pool this off-season and who you guys (Franchise/Howland) feel are the best fits for us. Hope this is part of the end-of-the-season recap deal. Oh, one last point, your post didn't touch on Andrea's embarrassing (there is really no other word for it) effort in an elimination game. I thought the turning point of the game was when he came back on for a good chunk at the start of the third. All the rhythm just dropped out of the offense. I hate to say it, but BargsBust may have a new ally by sometime early next season, Andrea is just too bloody soft man. Can we drop this guy into a war zone or something for a few weeks? Anyways, looking forward to the season recap. Excellent job this whole year guys.

by Branden on Apr 30, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

nyfan,

I'm surprised at your remarks regarding D'Antoni. Have you seen this guy frantically drwaing up plays during a timeout, then frantically erasing it, quickly scribbling up another play, then erasing it again, until finally drawing up a play that the team executes to perfection. Their loss against the Spurs (all games were close) had more to do with hacking Shaq and questionable officiating than coaching...just my thoughts.

Thanks HQ for allowing me to vent my frustration this year while enjoying insightful commentary and intelligent dialogue.

I am not ready to actually comment on the Raps performance just yet!

by Assistant GM on Apr 30, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Judging Triano and Evans by in game interviews doesn't mean squat. Watch Pop on interviews, he acts like he's just hoping for better things. But we all know that ain't the truth.

Loved Kapono's post season but don't see him as a starter over the course of a full season. Lots more minutes sure.

Judging by the free agent list Smith posted, I don't see the Raps picking up the kind of guy they need through the mid-level exception. Trades will be necessary.

Concerned about Bargs. His interview transcript with Grange says he doesn't practice his offense, strictly defense and rebounding. He doesn't worry (I didn't say he didn't care) about his shooting form. I understand why they are working him to death on D and rebounding, but shooting can come and go. Listen to the work and analysis Kapono puts into his shooting and you'll recognize it needs constant practice. Remember, Shaq had a season of FT % in the 60s in like 2002 but decided not to retain the guy he had been working with on FTs. Look where it's gone since then.

by Tim on Apr 30, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

D'Antoni only played 7 guys because that's all he had. Sarver keeps selling his first round picks to Portland, so they have no bench.

Wonder if Orlando fans feel some vindication now that Grant Hill got hurt for the playoffs after finally having a mostly-healthy season? I'm sure they'll be even happier once Utah offically extends T-Mac's streak of first-round futility too.

Can we officially adopt MoPete, CP3, and the "2nd seed but still underdog" Hornets as the semi-official rooting option for disappointed Raptor fans?

by MattK on Apr 30, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

mattk I am with you on adopting the Hornets..I love those guys..it couldn't have happen to a better person in Mopee...I hope they knock out the Spurs in 5...By the way a big respect to franchise and howland and all the Raps fans that visited Raptorshq your input and insight make this season a very enjoyable one...We all know that the Raps was not going to win a championship this season so I am not really dissappointed with their performance I look forward to a better season next year and another trip to the post season for Bosh and the boys...Looks like my boy TJ will be gone but I will still be a TJ fan where ever he goes, except when they play the Raps....God Bless ..Raps4Life....and ps I am not Marcia...lol

by Raps4Life on Apr 30, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions

Couple things. D'Antoni is done in Phoenix, Johnson is likely out in Dallas, Karl is done in Denver...Would we want any other these three? If we could have any of the three, who would we take? My money is on D'Antoni. I think that with the lack of defense that we have at the cornerstones of the francise (i.e. Calderone, Bargnani, Bosh - to a lesser degree), I would rather have D'Antoni. Let's make this the highest scoring team in the East, like we were promised when Colangelo came on board.

Also, RealGM had a story this morning on how the Raps should trade Ford to the Pacers for Mike Dunleavy Jr. Would anyone be down for this idea? Or is MDJ basically a slightly better Delfino? I mean, MDJ did put up 19/5/3 this season, so we could use the scoring. But he doesn't add the toughness that we're missing.

And my thoughts on Sam Mitchell are that while he hasn't made us a worse team, he hasn't made us a better team in the same way that a Popovich/Nelson/SVG/Mo Cheeks make their teams better. So I say, we could do better in terms of a coach, but he's not what's killing us.

by casey on Apr 30, 2008 12:00 AM EDT reply actions