Toronto vs. Denver - Game Day Thread
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 8:45 PM EST
326 comments
Toronto Raptors at Denver Nuggets, Nov 17, 2009 9:00 PM EST
Toronto Raptors vs. Denver Nuggets
November 17, 2009
TV: TSN at 9:00 pm
Having lost in Phoenix the Raps look to grab a victory in the Mile High City. It will be a tough match-up and the Raps will need to bring some defensive intensity against the likes of Billups, Smith and Carmello. Can the Raps steal a win from this Western Conference contender?
From the opening tip to the last second the HQ will be live-blogging through out the game.
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Ready to roll
Tip in 15 and if you’ve been MIA from Raps news today, well Pops is back, and apparently going to be in the line-up tonight.
The Pops re-signing is a bit of a puzzler though to me, something I’ll be blogging about tomorrow morning. Yes, the team has rebounding issues but unless we’re going to see Pops at the 3, or Johnson there, not sure how he’s going to get minutes. With the on and off Wright injury issues, I’m curious as to why BC didn’t look at adding another swingman.
Anyways, should be a tough one tonight – key focus will be on Hedo trying to guard Melo and Bargs on Nene…
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 8:49 PM EST reply actions
Update
And on the Hedo note – he’s apparently out and Wright is in.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 8:49 PM EST up reply actions
Wright contained Melo last year with Dallas
Except he couldn’t make clutch fouls.
"I always believe there's a reason why you go through everything." -John Elway
Pops
I love the move. Having these energy guys is such a plus. I am not sure this team needs another 3 with Wright, Hedo and Weems able to play there.
Pops has upside…..more than can be said for O’Bryant or Douby. Think the preseason game where he destroyed the Raps left a bad memory in BC’s mind?
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:06 PM EST reply actions
Tough start
Can’t let Nene get deep position all night.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:12 PM EST reply actions
Tough look for Bosh...
but man is he in the zone so far this season…
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:12 PM EST reply actions
Solid defense....
by the Raps there…..in particular Bargs preventing Billups from getting to the rack
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:16 PM EST reply actions
Good D to start
Raps look calm and focused so far at that end.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:16 PM EST reply actions
bzzz.....
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:17 PM EST up reply actions
Wright....
going one on one with Melo?
I think there are better options out there.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:19 PM EST reply actions
They are taking it....
to Bargs. Nene is just a beast….and there is the second foul on Bargs….
great strategy by Karl.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:19 PM EST reply actions
DD
Catch the feeling!!!
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:21 PM EST reply actions
Comin’ to you LIVE from ROGERS :p
Kinnon "Vicious D" Yee
Author - RaptorsHQ.com Twitter @RapHQVicious
by Raptors HQ - Vicious D on Nov 17, 2009 9:22 PM EST reply actions
Game day feed...
sponsored by ROgers?!
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:23 PM EST up reply actions
Actually, most of the ACC… I have to see that logo EVERYWHERE now
Kinnon "Vicious D" Yee
Author - RaptorsHQ.com Twitter @RapHQVicious
by Raptors HQ - Vicious D on Nov 17, 2009 9:32 PM EST up reply actions
Welcome Mr. Vicious.
Great start by Toronto – don’t even know what to say here, best I’ve seen them look at both ends so far this season to start a game.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:23 PM EST up reply actions
Good to hear. See if they have it for the long run considering the air..
Must be the POPS effect :p
Kinnon "Vicious D" Yee
Author - RaptorsHQ.com Twitter @RapHQVicious
by Raptors HQ - Vicious D on Nov 17, 2009 9:32 PM EST up reply actions
WOW
Couldn’t ask for a better start here.
Active D and great looking offence.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:24 PM EST reply actions
though
it’s been mostly all jumpers on offense…we all know how that runs out when you need it
true....
but nothing forced and hitting the open look. Can’t really argue with that right now.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:26 PM EST up reply actions
Um...
Maybe only one of us needs to post tonight ha ha – sharing a brain here.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:27 PM EST up reply actions
What I like though is that they aren’t forced, simply open looks off of good ball movement.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:26 PM EST up reply actions
think....
we are on the same page?
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:27 PM EST up reply actions
wright
could please stop shooting though…that would be nice
Good opportunity....
for Weems tonight. Let’s see of he can step up.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:29 PM EST reply actions
Here's the difference....
the shots early were from good ball movement. Belinelli’s…..not so much and a really bad result.
Fade-away three’s are for late in the shot clock situations only….unless you are Lebron
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:30 PM EST reply actions
MY GOD
What is Belinelli doing?! Another fade away AIRBALL?
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:33 PM EST reply actions
Um...
What was THAT Marco ha ha? Classic chuck.
Don’t like this line-up from an offensive perspective.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:33 PM EST reply actions
Almost forgot about Jack
Wow – 10th man tonight?
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:37 PM EST reply actions
I like it from a legs perspective....
but from a flow perspective it can be hard to keep things going….bit of a catch 22….
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:38 PM EST up reply actions
Was about to say that. Dreadful looks tonight. Too much one on five.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:40 PM EST up reply actions
Weems
pretty good leaper…..
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:40 PM EST reply actions
Well....
good thing for the fast start. Can’t argue with being up by one but the momentum is clearly in the Nuggets favour.
If the team had started slow as they have a lot lately this wouldn’t have been a game.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:41 PM EST reply actions
weems
actually looked good on defense that last possession…might see some burn from the kid tonight if he keeps that up
He’s always been tenacious and aggressive… Uh… Sounds like JYD i know…
Kinnon "Vicious D" Yee
Author - RaptorsHQ.com Twitter @RapHQVicious
by Raptors HQ - Vicious D on Nov 17, 2009 9:47 PM EST up reply actions
JR Smith...
is a weapon.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:44 PM EST reply actions
JR Smith
Such a tough cover because he’ll shoot it from halfcourt, but is athletic enough to take it to the cup.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:45 PM EST reply actions
Now that...
is attacking the rim!!! Well done Bargs! AND CONTACT!
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:46 PM EST reply actions
BARGS
Great play – want to see more of that now.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:47 PM EST reply actions
Jack
Jeesh his ball-handling makes me nervous! But he made the right play the last two possessions.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:47 PM EST reply actions
One thing about Belinelli....
he’s not shy and definitely has a shooter mentality.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:47 PM EST reply actions
Wow
Just turned on the game in time to see Bargnani throw down on the Birdman. That’s the first time I’ve gotten out of my seat and yelled after a Bargs play! Haha.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 9:50 PM EST reply actions
Hey
Sounds like we are holding our own, despite some brain farts.
Bargs dunked on the Birdman ...
I think a nickname is in order for Bargs. I will start with the “Ostrich”.
Ray Bala
CANadian BasketBALL Report
on www.raptorhq.com
Belinelli vs. Smith
Take cover because they are bombing from the outside!
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:51 PM EST reply actions
belli
and smith seem to be canceling each other out
So much love for the Chucker! At no point does he ever think “maybe I should make the extra pass”.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 9:51 PM EST reply actions
Disagree with Jack there
Didn’t think it was necessarily a bad shot, he was going to the rim. And loved that he hustled for the loose ball.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:51 PM EST reply actions
completely agree
plus the birdman was flying there.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:52 PM EST up reply actions
Weems just plays smart
Really like his IQ on the court.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:52 PM EST reply actions
What's Weems been doing so far?
I liked that drive and kiss off the glass.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 9:52 PM EST reply actions
Nothing crazy, just giving the team some nice minutes. JR Smith is en fuego though.
Oh wait…and Weems with that out of nowhere turn-around…
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:55 PM EST up reply actions
More fuel for the FREE SONNY WEEMS movement!
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 9:57 PM EST up reply actions
Who's been guarding Melo
Dude’s already got 16 points!!!
Like to see them switch Weems onto him, or Wright.
Wait…looks like Triano’s doing that.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:55 PM EST up reply actions
Wow
Absolutely no defense being played here….
but it is entertaining.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:55 PM EST reply actions
Can’t remember so many early Raps games that were this entertaining in a few seasons!
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 9:56 PM EST up reply actions
You can see that with even a mediocre defensive effort, this team could just destroy people… I just don’t see them locking down guys like Melo or JR Smith.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 9:56 PM EST reply actions
finger crossed, with lots new faces one could expect the defense o be the last thing to get fine tuned… maybe best time are ahed?
I think so… this performance is really dialing up the optimism for me, so far…
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:00 PM EST up reply actions
Belli
Ok, love the way Belinelli is playing, but is it just me or does it look like he has a spray-tan?!?
The running...
is unexpected but I am loving it! Weems climbing the ladder!!!
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:57 PM EST reply actions
I don’t understand how anyone can watch Weems the last couple of minutes and decide that “hey, this guy belongs in a suit at the end of the bench.”
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 9:58 PM EST up reply actions
He has abilities...
that no-one else on the roster has. He should play.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:59 PM EST up reply actions
And TSN with the Sonny Weems highlight package right on cue… nice…
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:00 PM EST up reply actions
This might not be
fundamental basketball at its best but man….I am loving it from an entertainment point of view
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 9:58 PM EST reply actions
pardon me
while I go purchase my Sonny Weems jersey…..
by the stylin' assassin on Nov 17, 2009 9:59 PM EST reply actions
I’m getting one for each of my kids.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:01 PM EST up reply actions
I’m not sure they’ve made that many yet
by the stylin' assassin on Nov 17, 2009 10:02 PM EST up reply actions
more than hangin in there then
thanks posterized
lol, im with yah stylin. If Weems can put on some muscle and improve his shot he’d be starting material
he just looks so comfortable out there…I love the aggression
by the stylin' assassin on Nov 17, 2009 10:03 PM EST up reply actions
One thing
REALLY impressed by the preparation of this team tonight through positions 1 to 10.
DeRozan looking better and better this road trip.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:02 PM EST reply actions
Okay...
everything is going down right now
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:02 PM EST reply actions
Oh crap
I’ve been out of the loop and just noticed POPS MENSAH-BONSU on the bench!!!
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:02 PM EST reply actions
Honestly, if the guy barely plays, you know he will pick up the effort on the glass in practice.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:04 PM EST up reply actions
yeah, I love Pops, but whose minutes does he take? Amir has earned his burn, and Evans will command minutes when he gets back….when do we play him?
by the stylin' assassin on Nov 17, 2009 10:06 PM EST up reply actions
I don't think we have to....
he will be a situational player. Better him than Douby.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:07 PM EST up reply actions
Better him than Patrick O’Bryant! Oh wait, that scrub is still drawing a pay cheque.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:07 PM EST up reply actions
The Raps are playing so well....
I totally forgot that Hedo was not playing.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:04 PM EST reply actions
a good thing?
I’m just sayin’…
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:05 PM EST up reply actions
I’ve been biting my tongue in that regard…
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:05 PM EST up reply actions
well, you bite your tongue… I’ll just pour some Haterade on our boy Hedo… haha
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:07 PM EST up reply actions
If the boys...
continue to play like this Hedo will have the opportunity to prove his worth in the playoffs.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:08 PM EST up reply actions
Don't count that!
that was NOT goaltending!
by the stylin' assassin on Nov 17, 2009 10:04 PM EST reply actions
hey, he's only being payed...
for 4th quarter magic, apparently.
If you’re being sarcastic, that’s the comment of the night! Haha.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:08 PM EST up reply actions
Why is Donaghy....
calling this game?!
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:09 PM EST reply actions
Franchise!!!
I just went into our fantasy league to claim Hickson!!!
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:10 PM EST reply actions
Doesn't matter....
who you claim….i am winning
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:10 PM EST up reply actions
This is true. If I avoid last place, it’s a moral victory!
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:11 PM EST up reply actions
Grabbed him about an hour ago :)
Sorry kids.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:12 PM EST up reply actions
I’ll trade you Dampier for him (that’s who I was going to drop to get him). Haha.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:14 PM EST up reply actions
if anything, they compound each others weaknesses
by the stylin' assassin on Nov 17, 2009 10:11 PM EST up reply actions
I thought they went away from that look (shaking my head).
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:12 PM EST up reply actions
I think Triano is a smart guy
so I really don’t understand how he figures that pairing a undersized shooting guard who can’t shoot with a point guard who can’t play D is a good idea
by the stylin' assassin on Nov 17, 2009 10:17 PM EST up reply actions
I think Jack probably came here with a certain handshake agreement on minutes, and playing him with Calderon is the only way to get there… I dunno — that’s all I’ve got…
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:18 PM EST up reply actions
I hope that’s not the case…..he got the mid-level. the way he’s played, that’s more than generous
by the stylin' assassin on Nov 17, 2009 10:20 PM EST up reply actions
don't get me wrong
I like the signing, I’ve just been disappointed so far
by the stylin' assassin on Nov 17, 2009 10:20 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah, he’s been a huge disappointment. Hopefully he’s not one of those guys who has to start to play well.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:27 PM EST up reply actions
That....
was a man dunk.
Calderon couldn’t take Nene’s arms off with a chainsaw.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:12 PM EST reply actions
I was waiting for that :)
He’s not exactly protecting the paint.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:15 PM EST up reply actions
I will be more critical in the 2nd half — I didn’t start watching until the 2nd quarter.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:19 PM EST up reply actions
Actually...
that play was Jack’s fault
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:15 PM EST up reply actions
Don’t tell me this team doesn’t still need to go out and find a SF. Look at that line up put there a PG playing SG and a SG playing SF. This line up is way 2 small and weak.
Totally agree
That’s why the Pops signing makes me scratch my head.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:16 PM EST up reply actions
They claimed him on waivers — minimum deal that he signed with Houston. Not sure about guarantees.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:22 PM EST up reply actions
It was a great block....
on Nene
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:15 PM EST up reply actions
I've got Nene on my fantasy team...
…but come on Raps. Get him out of the paint!
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:14 PM EST reply actions
Melo
He’s been the difference so far along with JR’s shooting.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:16 PM EST reply actions
One or two calls we should've got....
We would be leading this one at the half
Man, it will be hard to watch the games when the Raptors are playing in the Western Conference. My god this is some up tempo, 1980s NBA we’re watching!
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:16 PM EST reply actions
I wouldn't say up tempo
more like just bad defense and solid shooting.
not trying to start the bosh vs bargs thing again but this is the second game in a row bargs plus minus has been much better than bosh’s
Plus/minus is one of those ‘take it with a grain of salt’ stats.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:21 PM EST up reply actions
are you serious?
bosh has been a monster. and not the sesame street kind either
C....
is for cookie….
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:36 PM EST up reply actions
cookie,,,,
cookie…cookie starts with C.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:38 PM EST up reply actions
Bargs and Bosh
Comparing these two guys is rediculous.
They are totally different players. I will say this….as solid as Bargs is I don’t think he is a franchise/superstar player which is where Bosh appears to be heading.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:31 PM EST reply actions
No
No caveat.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:33 PM EST up reply actions
Let's see
who starts fast here…Raps or Nuggets
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:33 PM EST reply actions
well, it’s Denver so far…
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:35 PM EST up reply actions
crappy start....
not a good sign
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:35 PM EST up reply actions
Ellis is available
would ellis & Turiaf for Calderon & Evans make us better?? i know trade talk is anticlimactic but I’m always looking for ways to improve the team. Would anyone do this trade?
If Monta Ellis was a lock-down defender, I’d be all for it… paging Trevor Ariza…
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:36 PM EST up reply actions
Been thinking about Ellis today…he’d be a beautiful fit with this club as someone who can create off the bounce with the clock winding down.
But who do you give up?
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:36 PM EST up reply actions
Calderon & Evans for Ellis & Turiaf
high risk/ high reward
Here's the thing...
Calderon doesn’t force shots on the offensive end and is always looking to create for others. Ellis….not so much.
Not sure I want to deal Evans before I see what he brings night to night
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:40 PM EST up reply actions
true but
the advantage of having a guy like Ellis is you can slide him to SG (which i think is his natural position) and all of a sudden you’ve got a potent scoring threat that can creat for himself and others. Then J Jack gets more minutes at PG and acts as ur true pass first pg. I guess there are pros and cons to both players. I’ve always liked Ellis tho and a mature version of Monta will eventually be a very very good thing doe some nba team out there. I also think he’s got more resale value than JC so even if it doesn’t work out, we’d still be able to get something for him.
ESPN Trade Machine likes this deal…
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:42 PM EST up reply actions
But...
Two great offensive rebounds on the weak side.
Meanwhile…Bargs chilling behind Melo??
To me that’s the major difference between the two. Once I see Andrea outworking guys on the glass, I’ll revisit things.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:38 PM EST up reply actions
Melo...
is killing us.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:44 PM EST reply actions
Just got back
Looks like another blown lead. Or is the score misleading?
He's heating up... HE'S ON FIRE!!!
Melo (with a shout out to the greatest video game ever, NBA Jam). I think Melo is in ‘Big Head’ mode right now.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:44 PM EST reply actions
Yep – I can see the flames coming off the ball right now.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:45 PM EST up reply actions
Good Time Out
Team looks tired and out of synch here…
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:45 PM EST reply actions
melo is killing us?
wait till jr gets back on the floor
Looking winded? Thought the 2nd half would be rough.
Kinnon "Vicious D" Yee
Author - RaptorsHQ.com Twitter @RapHQVicious
by Raptors HQ - Vicious D on Nov 17, 2009 10:45 PM EST reply actions
Lovely. Well, I PVR’d it, so I’ll have at least 1/2 a game to watch :p But who knows. I think this team can toss on a really energetic-game changing lineup on the floor if it gets really stagnant
Kinnon "Vicious D" Yee
Author - RaptorsHQ.com Twitter @RapHQVicious
by Raptors HQ - Vicious D on Nov 17, 2009 10:47 PM EST up reply actions
And here’s the thing, the Raptors can torch the twine — but when you go cold, you need to recognize what has to be done (take the ball to the basket, get to the line, etc). Raps aren’t quite there yet, which is evident by the amount of jumpers they’re putting up right now.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:47 PM EST up reply actions
And Marco with the ‘and 1’ — at least SOMEONE gets it!!!
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:48 PM EST up reply actions
Jack Armstong...
is trying to make that Leo Rautins joke funny….but it is not.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:46 PM EST reply actions
those are the shots
billups usually makes to break you
Yep. Liked the last two possesions a lot better on O.
Not that one on D.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:49 PM EST up reply actions
The refs
are horrible!
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:50 PM EST up reply actions
Yep
And terrible shot by Weems. Go back to Bosh and make the refs make a call.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:50 PM EST up reply actions
This feels like a big sequence here
Denver feels like they’re about to blow it open.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:51 PM EST reply actions
Raptors look like a fatigued team. When guys are leaking out and posterizing your a$$, that’s not a good sign…
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:52 PM EST up reply actions
Weems is useful but he’s gotta know his limits. He can hardly hit a 2pter so not sure y he’s unloading 3s
Exactly – that last take was his game, not 3’s.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:52 PM EST up reply actions
Wow
Denver is KILLING it…
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:51 PM EST reply actions
Wheels....
are shaking…..if it wasn’t for Beli and Weems….
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:52 PM EST reply actions
Triano...
has had the starters on for WAY TO LONG.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 10:53 PM EST reply actions
Bargnani with the nice block
Renato must be smiling after that one… haha…
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:54 PM EST reply actions
Bargs Issues
That last play was the perfect issue I have with Andrea.
You take that 3 early in the clock and then Denver runs out and everyone’s out of position. Bosh has to pick-up Andrea’s man and the ball moves around until Nene takes it right down the hole.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:54 PM EST reply actions
Not sure who they're going to go to here...
If Bosh and Bargs sit for Amir and Rasho etc, not sure they’ve got the offense to keep things close with Denver.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:55 PM EST reply actions
Agreed. They should’ve put a bit more thought into the big man rotation tonight.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 10:58 PM EST up reply actions
3 of 11 for Bargs
Just has to be better than that.
My neighbours probably think I’m beating my wife.. well if I was married… sigh gotta make some dinner.
Ha! I haven’t eaten supper yet either…might start something up here.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:58 PM EST up reply actions
Arby’s and chocolate ice cream… dinner of champs!
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:01 PM EST up reply actions
Are you endorsing Zantac now, Franchise?
Kinnon "Vicious D" Yee
Author - RaptorsHQ.com Twitter @RapHQVicious
by Raptors HQ - Vicious D on Nov 17, 2009 11:02 PM EST up reply actions
Well...
Not out of it yet but they need to draw on some reserves. Tim Chisholm just tweeted “why not use Pops” and I think I’d give it a shot. Just a shot of energy early in the 4th.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 10:58 PM EST reply actions
But we get Patrick O’Bryant. Sweet mother of god… they’ve waived the white flag…
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:02 PM EST up reply actions
melo
can’t and doesn’t play 48. he’s no lebron.
I think bargs is the big x factor right now. he needs to start hitting his shots and he needs to start hitting them right now. it would open up some space for bosh to operate.
Man...
Jameer Nelson now out 4-6 weeks….killing my fantasy squad!
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 11:00 PM EST reply actions
Pick up White Chocolate!
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:01 PM EST up reply actions
Trust me....
I did.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 11:02 PM EST up reply actions
Pretty sure....
an O’Bryant sighting means nighty night
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 11:03 PM EST up reply actions
15-point lead
Yep, time to put this one to bed…
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:04 PM EST up reply actions
Man
Everything going in right now for Denver.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:03 PM EST reply actions
Hey did you see that WAGON....
IT"S WHEELS FELL OFF!
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 11:04 PM EST reply actions
Yep, if guys aren’t too tired, they’ve got too many fouls. Tough.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:05 PM EST up reply actions
Team ran out of gas...
… and it’s the FIRST night of a back-to-back!!!
Get the starters out and run O’Bryant, Mensah-Bonsu and even Marcus Banks if he’s in uniform.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:05 PM EST up reply actions
Cool man, we’ll be doing it again tomorrow night against the Jazzy Jazz.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:06 PM EST up reply actions
not the greatest line up
out there. still time. stime tille. tile tim. tie tie…damn. losing my mind again.
apart from running out of gas, i think we were beateb by a much better team. not to stressed abt it. it was an entertaining loss.
Still time but totally agree. I talked about it in the preview today but I think this is the most balanced team in the league top to bottom. Them and the Lakers in the West if they get healthy.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:07 PM EST up reply actions
Wages of Wins says Portland is the best in the West…
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:09 PM EST up reply actions
Denver,,,,
will they score 130?
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 11:07 PM EST reply actions
struggling to score
a guy like Monta Ellis would be helpful here :)
gotta think....
defense is the culprit here….
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 11:08 PM EST up reply actions
To me it’s both sides right now. Fatigue on D, and poor decisions on offense leading to easy transition baskets that Toronto can’t stop.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:12 PM EST up reply actions
The fatigue scares me. I mean, what the heck are they going to look like tomorrow night in Utah?
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:14 PM EST up reply actions
our defence tonight was the same as lastnight and the night before and the night before that. The second we stop scoring tho, we’ve got no chance. Hedo’s veteran presence was missed tonight as well.
Hedo would not have helped defensively though.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:14 PM EST up reply actions
No, but I think another fresh pair of legs might have helped on both sides.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:14 PM EST up reply actions
OK ENOUGH....
all starters on the bench NOW.
Dave "Howland" Randell
Co-Creator of RaptorsHQ.com
by RaptorsHQ - Howland on Nov 17, 2009 11:15 PM EST reply actions
Yep – winnable game tomorrow night, let’s not see any late injuries here or anything.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:16 PM EST up reply actions
I’m pretty much ready for 6 solid minutes of Sonny Weems and Pops Mensah-Bonsu.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:16 PM EST up reply actions
Hi guys, sorry coming late to the chat, but this has been the worst officiated game I’ve seen this year, not saying it cost the game, but just total BS no calls all night.
Reffing was atrocious. 2 FTA for Bosh? Give me a break.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:20 PM EST up reply actions
After reading the donaghy excerpts where he talks about how they made calls or non calls not to affect a specific basket or play, but to disrupt a player’s/team’s rhythym, it’s just so obvious now how that works. And I’m not saying the fix is in, but if it’s not, then the refs are being unduly partial to the home crowd, the ‘bigger name’ team/players or they’re are just not very good at their jobs. Honestly, tonight felt like the fix was in. The three no-calls in a row in the third followed by a marginal call the other way and the raps gave up. I’m continually amazed that refs don’t get punched in the face during games. I have to say that I’ve been happier than in a long time with reffing so far this season until this game.
Actually, according to the Mavs advanced stats guy, Wright’s best position last season was SF. He was a complete disaster when playing the two.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:22 PM EST up reply actions
DeMar
At least DeMar is showing something in garbage time.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:21 PM EST reply actions
Kind of enjoying this garbage time
Feel like guys like Jack and DeRozan can use all the minutes like this that they can get. Nothing builds confidence like beating up on scrubs…
…and on that note, JOEY GRAHAM!
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:21 PM EST reply actions
I'm noticing a pattern here...
Raptors play good Western teams (San Antonio, Dallas, Denver…) and they give up 130+
Bring on the Lakers with a healthy Pau Gasol or the Blazers!
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:24 PM EST reply actions
POB
Anyone else notice just how bad he is. U’d think he’d make an effore out there so maybe he can get some minutes here and there but my goodnesssss he’s lackadaisical. There’s gotta be another young big out there we can invest this time and money into developing
Same thing as when we saw him up close in Vegas. I just don’t get it.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:27 PM EST up reply actions
I watched him up close during the last game of the season vs. Philly, and ‘soft’ is the perfect word to describe that guy. He’s just getting by on height.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:30 PM EST up reply actions
7'0fter blocked
POB just got his shot blocked, now I’ve seen at all. A seven footer being stuffed.
Woah...
Pops just took out his frustrations for his treatment at the hands of the Rockets.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:29 PM EST reply actions
You're cut
Blocked by Petro Canada? Really?
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:31 PM EST reply actions
Does it matter? He was getting me a can of Coke from the fridge.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:34 PM EST up reply actions
Ouch
Good question…I actually feel for him. I mean if you don’t get in the game tonight then…well…you’re joining O’Bryant on the unemployment line very soon.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:34 PM EST up reply actions
Well...
Raps just don’t have the horses to hang with the Nuggets, especially minus Hedo and Evans.
Final score was misleading though, Toronto hung tight through 3 quarters but ran out of gas.
Good chat as usual folks, we’ll be back tomorrow night to do it again.
by RaptorsHQ - Franchise on Nov 17, 2009 11:33 PM EST reply actions
Well, that was probably to be expected. The same thing that happens when the Raptors visit Denver every year. But the Dinos did look good for a while.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Nov 17, 2009 11:33 PM EST reply actions
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