Tip In: Raptors Avoid Another Collapse; Narrowly Defeat Knicks at MSG
by Scott Campsall on Jan 3, 2012 8:30 AM EST
in Tip-In (Post Game Reports)
Email
PrintThe Toronto Raptors pulled out an impressive victory in New York on Monday night. The HQ has your recap on some important strides the Dinos took in the victory.
The Toronto Raptors defeated the New York Knicks 90-85 last night in what turned out to be a rather wild contest. The matchup was very much a game of runs as the Raptors dominated the first half, but couldn't maintain that level of play over the course of the entire game.
The Raptors began the game with an extremely impressive opening half, highlighted by a 29-11 advantage in the second quarter. In the half the Raptors shot 58.3% and held the Knicks to a miniscule 28.2%. This effort was by far their best of the season and especially impressive with the Raptors playing on the second night of a back-to-back. The Raps carried an impressive 51-39 lead into half time.
Bargnani set the tone early, going 4-4 in the first quarter and finishing the half 5-5 with 12 points and 3 boards. DeMar DeRozan was also big in the first half, showing a nice combination of drives to the bucket and pull-up jumpers. This mix in his game is something that has been lacking thus far this season, and it was a welcomed sight to see him mixing things up and getting back on track.
The third quarter, unfortunately, was not as kind to the Dinos- cue the Knicks comeback.
New York came charging out of the half with vengeance; going on a massive run that brought them within 3 points with the score 59-56. Toney Douglas was huge in this quarter as he buried three 3-pointers, sparking his team's comeback.
The Raptors, to their credit, did not fold like they did against Orlando; they fought back and widened their advantage back to 9 at the end of the 3rd.
The fourth quarter was battle for both teams. The Knicks gave the ball to their superstar Carmelo Anthony and just let him go to work; he finished the quarter with 13 points including some big time shots to bring New York within striking distance, but it was the Raptors that would ultimately prevail; getting some surprising help from Rasual Butler-who finished with 13 points, 10 rebounds and a couple of timely shots in the fourth quarter.
In the end though, it was Andrea Bargnani that closed the game out for the Raps; first he knocked down a jumper with 46 seconds left, and then on the following possession, he baited the defense into a foul and proceeded to calmly drain both free throws that provided Raptors with the eventual victory.
Dwayne Casey leaned on Bargnani when they needed a number of important baskets and the 7 footer came through, providing some vindication for Casey who has insisted that Bargnani will be Toronto's "star" player going forward.
Despite the outstanding performances by DeRozan, Bargnani and yes, Rasual Butler, the victory really was a complete team effort. Amir Johnson was tough inside; he blocked 4 shots and was a + 13 on the night and Jose Calderon had another stellar 12 assist, 9 point output.
Off of the bench, Leandro Barbosa, Jamaal Magloire and Anthony Carter all gave the Dinos good minutes providing gritty defense and in Barbosa's case, some lift in the scoring department.
The Raptors showed something that I am not sure they showed a single time last season-and that is the perseverance to stave off runs from the opposing team and go out and get the victory.
This may have only been one game, but to see that type of bounce back effort out of the Raps is a good sign for the future. Dwayne Casey has clearly made an impression on this club and it will be interesting to see how the team progresses throughout the rest of the season.
The bad news is, with more efforts like this, the chances of the Raptors grabbing that number 1 pick will continue to diminish.
The Raptors will get the day off tomorrow as they turn their attention to the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Raptors host the Cavs Wednesday night at the ACC.
118 comments
|
0 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
2012 draft
Im not worried about getting the #1 pick – seems to be value 1-8 pick. I would be happy with the 8th pick if it means we’ve changed the team identity and see significant improvements in our current players.
by drebans on Jan 3, 2012 8:50 AM EST via iPhone app reply actions
Thinking along the same lines at this point. Plus, with the lottery, who knows. I need to see this team make SOME gains.
Besides, my favourite player in this draft isn’t slotted as a top 5 pick by Draftexpress anyways…Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.
Adam Francis - Publisher - RaptorsHQ.com
by Adam Francis on Jan 3, 2012 10:28 AM EST up reply actions
Lets Not Forget About Jonas
Jonas could turn out to be the best player in last year’s draft.
I also like Kidd-Gilchrist and he could be available at #7 or #8. Right now he is #8 on the DraftExpress Big Board. Of course the Big Boards will be different after March madness and who knows what they will change to.
Finally got to watch Quincy Miller play last night. He played okay but Perry Jones II dominated for Baylor. I need to watch more of Baylor and Miller. Baylor could win it all this spring.
I am not sold on Terrance Jones. I need to watch KY play more.
Interestingly enough I can’t recall having seen Terrence Ross play even though he plays for WA in the PAC 12. Will definitely have to pay attention when UCLA and USC play WA this season..
Buddahfan in L.A.?
Are you in Los Angeles too? We should meet up to watch a Raps game or go to see them at Staples. Send me an email. aaron_craig@yahoo.com
With the way he has been playing of late, this may not stay the same
by Scott Campsall on Jan 3, 2012 11:03 AM EST up reply actions
+1 on MKG!
That performance against Louisville was IMPRESSIVE.
+1
Culture change is key to any organization. Players will not be productive unless the culture and mindset is fixed first.
Surprised by Barbosa
Cassey has done a great job thus far but he has got to get a leash on Barbosa. For being a veteran, he plays way out of control. Having said that, when he is under control, he is a hell of a player.
Nice Win - Now 2 - 2 On The Road To Start The Season
With Jonas arriving next season the Raptors will have two top five picks on their roster, Andea and Jonas. That is the same number of top five picks the Mavs had on their roster last season.
The Raptors need to draft a very good player next June who knows how to win and is willing to put in the effort needed to become a winning NBA player. In next June’s deep draft I am sure that there will be a number of those among the 7th to the 14th picks
Better for this young group to learn how to win and keep winning than wind up in the bottom of the barrel.
You say, the Raptors need a superstar to win the NBA title. Who is to say that Jonas won’t become that player? You don’t become MVP of the U17, U18 and U19 tournaments leading your country to winning the respective tournaments without being pretty darn good. Did Dirk ever do that?
if 6/7 wins
are what is between getting a good player and getting a potential star are you sure you do not want to trade? do you think we are better off, right now, with DD rather than Curry/Harden?
You have to factor in the team chemistry. There is also the advantage of young players playing together as a unit.
Trades based upon what draft positions might be are all hypothetical.
Right now the Raptors have a good group of growing young talent + Jonas coming. With a young group of talented players who have a very good locker room situation and are developing a good on court chemistry I want the Raptors to win as many games this season as they are capable of. You don’t win by not learning how to win.
What I want to see is for the Raptors to win as often as they can, add Jonas, another good draft pick who will fit in with the core and be willing to be a team player who will accept their role and play hard every night.
Then let BC decide what pieces need to be moved or added to take the Raptors to the next level.
The worst thing the Raptors could do in next year’s draft is get a player with a “me first” attitude who is used to being an elite player in high school and college and is unwilling to be a team player in the NBA.
One should never underestimate the positive value of good team chemistry and experience playing together as a team. Right now the Raptors are developing that. They already have two starters who can score. They need to add a third at SF who can also play team basketball. Maybe a healthy Kleiza will turn out to be that player. Don’t underestimate the value that KIeiza will bring in helping Jonas make the transition from not only European basketball to the NBA but also from Lithuania to Canada.
I say win now as often as possible and then draft the best winning attitude player on the board when it comes time to make the draft pick.
I would argue
That team chemistry obviously has been horrible the past few years. Which I think was due to the coaching staff preaching, lets call it, an equal opportunity scoring system and no defence. Which inflated too many ego’s into thinking they didn’t need to give as much on the defensive side.
I love what Casey is bringing. At the same time from what I have seen it is looking like maybe Ed Davis is completely lost… and Amir is also looking out of sorts… must be due to playing the 5. And when we’re talking chemistry, we want those two to be on board. Ed looks upset at everything right now to me. And that is no good.
Barbossa seems to be trying to get it right, though yes he is out of control at times (but hey that’s what he had been doing for years). But the effort he is putting into team play is showing.
And when they finally are able to trade Bayless away I think things will be much better. Yes I said Bayless. I think he is a hard worker and deserves a spot on some teams bench. But not one on the Raptors at all. He has a knack for really disrupting the flow when the team is on a good roll. I do not think he see’s the court well enough to play the point. Though again I like his effort. But effort alone is not enough to win it at this level. Also, back to chemistry, I think the team does not play as hard when he is on… maybe it is because of being the 2’nd unit mostly and they know he is going to be looking for his own shot mostly. Effort alone is simply not enough If that was the case then old JYD would have retired with rings on all his fingers and toes.
Finally, it is nice to see Bargs doing well. and if this continues then I think we can look back and say that it was definitely the coaching that stunted his growth. And sticking to the chemistry thing… when I watch the games, and see them walking back to the bench, halftime, and endgame, it kinda seems to me that the others ignore Bargs a bit. Last night he made a big bucket, and then went to the bench and everyone around him BUT him was getting the high-fives. Kinda weird I thought. Hope I am wrong on this… in the name of team chemistry.
Short term, in my opinion, the team is better off with DeMar because he’s not impacting wins the same way a Harden or Curry would. Long term, I’d always prefer to have the best player.
Adam Francis - Publisher - RaptorsHQ.com
by Adam Francis on Jan 3, 2012 11:00 AM EST up reply actions
Who were the two in Dallas? As far as I can tell, only Chandler was a top 5 pick and if that draft was done over I am not sure he would be picked in the top 5 now. Here is how would rank the 2001 draft.
1.Pau Gasol
2. Tony Parker
3. Gerald Wallace
4. Joe Johnson
5. Zach Randolph.
6. Chandler
7. Gilbert Arenas
8. Mehmet Okur
The Two Were
Chandler and Kidd
Dirk was a #8 pick
And guys like Terry and Marion were top 10 picks with Dirk.
Adam Francis - Publisher - RaptorsHQ.com
by Adam Francis on Jan 3, 2012 11:01 AM EST up reply actions
Good win
Now we need to give PT to Ed Davis. Bringing him up to speed should be one of this team top priorities. I believe it has to do a little with opposing teams having figured him out so it will be up to him to elevate his game, never the less this is part of the learning process all out rookies went trough, nothing new, he needs to be able to play trough some mistakes and be given PT even if from a production stand point he seems not to deserve it.
I would like to see Ed, Amir and Bargnani all out there for a few minutes a night. Play a big zone. Amir and Ed are quick enough to rotate out. Those minutes should come at the expense of Rasual.
Bargnani should also be playing 5 or so minutes less a game to make sure that he does not get hurt/burned out. Give those minutes to Ed as well…
Talkinf fantasy bball on twitter http://twitter.com/FinalsFantasy#
by JumpShootersRUS on Jan 3, 2012 11:17 AM EST up reply actions
Interesting idea…also, curious to see if Ed keeps getting limited minutes, if Bryan steps in.
Could be similar to what happened with Andrea in his rookie and soph seasons with Mitchell.
Adam Francis - Publisher - RaptorsHQ.com
anything that makes him playing more
I am still among those who does not think winning is the most important thing this year
Winning Is Always The Most Important Thing
and only thing that counts in sports.
Obviously not cheating comes first but that is a given.
According To Tyson Chandler
The Raptors won last night because the “Knicks were uptight”
NEW YORK — According to Tyson Chandler, the Knicks were “uptight” Monday night in their first home game since their Christmas Day victory over the Celtics. Playing without Amar’e Stoudemire will do that to you.
But on the two possessions that doomed them against the Toronto Raptors, the Knicks weren’t uptight. They were just at the mercy of Andrea Bargnani.
LOL
More on link above
My two cents...
85 points allowed, 36% opp fg and winning the boards is outstanding. While Amare was missing it was the 2nd game of back to back it was a great effort. Carmelo had 35 points but took 31 shots to do and only got to the line 8 times. What made the defence outstanding in my opinion was the Raptors ability to run shooters off the three point line (much different than the Orlando game) and still clog up the middle, forcing long twos.
Andrea Bargnani was hot at the start but invisible through the 2nd and 3rd quarter until some clutch baskets at the end. Again he started to rely on his jump shot as he got tired but boy does his game look better after some huge shots down the stretch. While some of it is due to Bargnani’s fatigue alot of credit to Tyson Chandler but because the Knicks had to goto this matchup it really opened the paint up for the Raptors, allowing us to win the FT line battle again because the Knicks had no rim protection with Chandler hugging Bargnani at the 3.
Welcome to the season Rasual Butler, need I say more? James Johnson with a huge 3 from the corner, lets hope we don’t have to rely on that all year.
Three games in a row the Raptors have taken the crowd out of the game by controlling the pace and forcing teams to play at their tempo, which is grinding. Calderon has definitely controlled the game on the road for this young team which is a huge reason we have been in all three games.
Ed Davis has just not looked good. I don’t know how you give him more minutes when the games are competitive. I know that it is about developing our young players but it is also about developing a culture of competing and if other players are out performing and out working him they deserve the playing time. How do you justify to guys like AB, DD, Jose, Amir and company that decision, when clearly other players are out playing him.
Two plays at the end of the game, we got the shot we wanted which was nice to see. How about putting AB as the player using the screen in the PnR. Good play calls by Casey.
With Portland being thin up front and us not having a quality 3 man, would an Ed Davis for Nicolas Batum deal make sense for both sides?
If that would not be enough on their end, they could throw in draft picks. If it would not be enough on our end, my suggestion would have to make a separate trade that sends them Rasual Butler for their small trade exception. HA HA, I just want him gone…
Talkinf fantasy bball on twitter http://twitter.com/FinalsFantasy#
by JumpShootersRUS on Jan 3, 2012 11:37 AM EST reply actions
That’s a VERY intriguing idea.
It’s tough to say yes as Davis is younger, and as a more “unknown,” his upside is extremely tantalizing…but Batum would give them length, D, and 3 point shooting from the 3 spot…all sorely needed.
Adam Francis - Publisher - RaptorsHQ.com
BTW
We started the season with the mob asking for AB to be amnestied. Can we get at least a second rounder for him these days?
Maybe a conditional one. (Condition – if he doesn’t finish dead last defensively again you might have to give the Raptors the number 60 pick).
See last comment I just put up – he’s playing pretty well. I want a break in games so I can go into detail on this, but I’m really happy with his play. This was the Andrea I always hoped for, but never saw…at least not consistently. He’s a different player so far in many ways. Yes, still a putrid rebounder for his size, but again, I never expected him to be a double-double machine, he’s just not that guy.
Adam Francis - Publisher - RaptorsHQ.com
I still do not think he is worth the money the team has invested in him and I have no faith that he can maintain his play. In fact, maybe I have just been unlucky as I have not been able to watch all of the games or even one full one, but i just have not seen the defensive intensity and have been disappointed in his rebounding which is still terrible.
I think you have been unlucky then
There is a definite increase in defensive intensity and purpose in Andrea. Sure, he’s not getting the rebound totals that Casey wanted (2 per quarter) but he’s been much more active trying to get the ones he’s actually gotten.
I’m not saying that Bargnani is a defensive stud, because he’s not. But I’d say that he’s being actually useful on defense, particularly in hedging hard and then running to get back into position. I do agree that some skepticism is warranted because I want to see this effort sustained for meaningful length of time before I say that he has turned the corner.
I’ve watched all the games and while Bargnani is certainly trying harder, his defense is still poor. In fact his defense against New York was pretty bad a lot of the times.
I think too many people are mistaking working harder on defense for actually good defense.
Tim W.
The Picket Fence
Speak for yourself. But, it is a good analogy.
Tim W.
The Picket Fence
+1
Bargnani still get’s burned on rotations routinely and still has significant problems following through on simple things – like boxing out. He has been more active, granted, but not sure the tangible results are there. What is interesting is that by adding just a tad more effort on defense, he’s useless for quarters at a time because he’s completely gassed due to a lack of fitness. But hey at least he isn’t crushing the souls of his teammates by simply not giving an effort at all on D as he has done for the past 5 years.
His rebound numbers are essentially the same as are his points per game. Although, I will be the first to admit he has been MUCH more efficient so far this season. However, one must remember that he came out of the gates playing well last season as well and then faded quite quickly. Let’s check back in after 20 games or so before we start stroking each other…
Agreed on the efficiency – he has a tendency to bait us early in the season – hopefully the effort remains all year round. We shall see. Nice to see early at least though.
I disagree about the rebounding numbers staying the same – he has seen about a 15% increase in his rebound rate (still bad but definitely better), and a huge jump (+25%) in his defensive rebound rate (implying that he is not giving up as many offensive rebounds as in the past). His offensive rebound rate has plummeted, but so has the entire team’s, so that seems a system thing. Of course, this is subject to the ‘early season tease’ condition as well, but there has certainly been statistical improvement thus far.
his reb% may have increased 15%, but in real numbers its up:
(from last year)
+1.2%
+0.5 per 36
+0.6 per game
(from career)
+0.3%
- 0.1 per 36
+ 0.9 per game
Thats a very marginal difference. Yes its a big jump as a total , but his rate was so small to begin with even a marginal change makes his % change large (like a guy scoring 2 pts per game on his career, and scores 3 pts per game one season has a 50 increase in scoring).
That said, he IS definetely working much harder, the unfortunate (and I still think concerning part) is its making a negligible difference in his rebounding. (plus there is no Reggie or Bosh to steal rebounds this year either……)
by Not so Friendly Stranger on Jan 4, 2012 10:22 AM EST up reply actions
The per 36 numbers are deceiving you a bit due to the drastic change in pace the Raps have this year compared to years past. There are simply less opportunities for rebounds. I think the year to compare to is last year, as that is the only year he had a comparable load on the offensive end as well. So the increase in RB% by 1.2% (from 8.6% to 9.8%) is admittedly small, but not insignificant – especially if you look at the system-driven drop off in everyone’s offensive rebounding – his defensive rebounding has actually increased from 13.9% to 17.4% – and that is certainly not insignificant.
by dhackett1565 on Jan 4, 2012 12:02 PM EST up reply actions
the numbers
aren’t deceiving me. I realize pace has its effect, but thats why I included % and career #s aswell.
But while his DReb% has increased, thats been offset by his decrease in OReb%. End result is a marginal change in his Rebounding. I realize you see it as a 15% increase, but I see it as a 1.2% increase which isn’t much. He needs something in the neighboorhood of a 40-50% increase or 4-5% real increase (just using rough numbers) to be in ‘average’ rebounding territory (compared to last year). There is no reason something close to ‘average’ rebounding shouldn’t be achievable or expected.
by Not so Friendly Stranger on Jan 4, 2012 12:58 PM EST up reply actions
Of course – he can still be better – but there has been improvement (thus far). And my point with the offensive rebounds is that everyone’s offensive rebounding is hurting – the team as a whole is far and away the worst in the league, and it is because only one big is crashing the boards on offense – the system calls for 4 players running back on transition D (and Bargnani appears to be the designated ‘running back’ big).
And my point is, he has seen an increase in his overall rebounding despite this system change that adversely affects his offensive rebounding. If you look at his defensive rebounding, Bargnani’s 17.4% ranks 130th in the league (yes, I know, still not good) – which is a huge jump up from his previous year’s DRB% rank: 213th.
Watching Jonas Play Right Now
Rytas vs Spartak in the VTB United League. VTB is a Russian league consisting of teams from Russia and Eastern and Northern Europe
On the season Jonas is averaging in 7 games in the VTB league
MPG 19
PPG 8
RPG 5
Today at half-time
Min 14
Points 12
FG 3 – 5
FT 6 – 6
Rebounds around 6
Jonas made a four point play in the first half on four free throws. Technical fouls in European leagues are two shots for the technical foul and two shots for committing the foul if it is in the act of shooting.
Spartak changed their offense after not being able to score in the paint for about five minutes after Jonas entered or score at all for that matter. They moved their Bigs including the player Jonas was guarding to above the arc. LOL
He also shot one sky-hook and bricked it. LOL
Watching Jonas as well
and I’m not impressed with his size. He definitely has some game but he’d get eaten alive in the NBA because he’s rail thin and relatively weak compared to NBA bigs.
Hopefully he’s just young and has plenty weight/strength to gain.
I like his hustle and fight, he’s smart and unafraid of contact. Those are some good positives.
Everyone’s talking ant Jonas coming next year but the games I’ve watched since October including this one leads me to believe he’s coming but won’t do much for us for another couple of years. Good pick for the Raps but I think fans might be surprised by how far off from contributing he is.
I think it’s going to take a while for him to get accustomed to the NBA size…anyone who remembers Tyson Chandler with the Bulls can relate, similar situation in my books.
Adam Francis - Publisher - RaptorsHQ.com
season ticket holder
saw lots a games down low….
and I was never a fan of the kid.
I knew he was young, as was Eddy Curry, so allowed for the growth.
But it never happened as big men take a whole lot longer to develop in the NBA.
I don’t know why this is so, but it seems so.
This is another reason I have high hopes for Gray…I saw him in college and then with the Bulls. After just 4 years of very limited opportunity, I think he is about ready to offer some really solid play.
But again..I am one who gets angry when I see the money thrown at player like Chandler. No way in hell is he worth the money just given him…other than you are worth whatever anybody is willing to pay you.
In that case, he is.
But Tyson as well as that selfish star playing for New York last night.
You know who….
They simply are not worth the money.
Perfect comparison...
Which means Raptors fans will have to be patient…
yes...
and I keep saying that not just the Raptors…but most NBA teams THIS season need to understand that their teams will not show up till the 3rd or 4th week of this season.
No way can they become teams with this season settings!
And without Gray helping shore up the bench and giving 15 minutes of time…this team itself is not really all it can be.
I say Gray get well and we will see come mid january what teams are going to look like.
He Is 19 Years Old
He will fill out. All Lituanians fill out. It is in their DNA. I am not worried about it.
Anyway he finished with a double-double in about 30 minutes.
Attempted and made one sky hook in the second half. Swish.
He also had two blocks in the second half.
I agree that at this point he is not ready to carry the load. However he should be effective in 10 – 15 MPG coming off the bench.
The way to get a better indication of how effective he might be next season is to watch him play in this summer’s Olympics where he will get to face a fair share of some pretty darn good NBA Bigs.
LithuaniaBasket Simonas Baranauskas
Lietuvos Rytas give Spartak first loss in the VTB League lithuaniabasketball.com/news-810-lietu…
Yep love the summer Olympics – It has my two favorite sports in it.
1. Men’s basketball
2. Women’s track including women’s long distance running. (Don’t ask why. LOL)
aslo
women high jump gives interesting … perspectives…
They Grunt More In Women's Volleyball
If you want “perspective” you can always watch
Raptors Dance Pak
Remember ...
European game is very different from NBA game…just ask Brandon Jennings and Ricky Rubio. Everyone thought Rubio would be awful in the NBA as he didn’t even start for his Euro team. Just heard some interesting stats abotu him, he has played every minute in the fourth quarter for the T-wolves this year, (all 60 minutes). If you haven’t seen him this year, definitely take a look so far he has been outstanding and yes I am drinking the Kool-Aid. haha.
The NBA is a very different game than Euro leagues but those are guards and usually bigs take longer to develop but with the rules and lack of zone hopefully it benefits JV and his skills with a solid post move and in PnR. Even the Olympics will be hard to judge because of those rules.
I agree! I didn’t expect much from Rubio this season, but he has been amazing and fun to watch.
by Assistant GM on Jan 3, 2012 7:13 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Hollinger Rankings
As further proof of how well Andrea and Jose have played, both are in the top 50 of PER so far this season in Hollinger’s metrics.
DeMar barely cracks the top hundo…and it’s pretty rough after that though.
Adam Francis - Publisher - RaptorsHQ.com
I think last season was the first time Bargs posted a PER above that of an average player (correct me if I’m wrong). But he is shooting the ball more efficiently and appears to be at least trying on defense. You’d think any advanced stats would hint at some sort of improvement – it would be damn near impossible to go in the other direction.
Ultimately, I’d love to see some analysis from the Wages of Wins guys after a few more games.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Jan 3, 2012 2:45 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
The Coran, The bible, The book of revelation, The book of Nostradamus
got nothing on the wages of wings….. just saying….
English Lesson
Koran
Bible with a capital B
Book of Revelation with a capital R
Thus ended the English lesson.
It may not be WP (which is a huge mess to calculate, thus no values on that as the season progresses game by game) but WS has him drastically improved. He’s always been seen as “scrub but not negative impact” by WS, so it is at least comparable to the results drawn by WP. And he has gone from a .053 WS/48 (well below the league average of .100) last year to 0.133 so far this year – which is significant.
That IS significant. Granted the sample size is quite small and I’d love to revisit this at the midpoint and end of the season. But still…
Is it possible that in an effort to coddle Bargnani, Bryan Colangelo actually set back his development tremendously by firing Sam Mitchell in favour of Jay Triano?
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Jan 3, 2012 5:21 PM EST up reply actions
"Is it possible that in an effort to coddle Bargnani, Bryan Colangelo actually set back his development tremendously by firing Sam Mitchell in favour of Jay Triano?"
Is it also possible that in the first season that Colangelo has admitted he was in a rebuild, where he purposefully went out and got scrap players to simply fill the void he’s actually built a better team than when he was actually TRYING to build a winning team? Ahhh… Brian Colangelo!
Regarding Bargnani’s numbers, great to see the improvement. Although I think it is based on his offensive efficiency more than anything else – which has been impressive to date. Let’s remember Bargnani usually starts the season well and then fades drastically… Will be interesting to see the numbers in about 20 games or so.
+1
… on the wait and see. But better to see him doing this early than to already see bad numbers like last year.
One more point about Orlando's colapse
Am I the only one who is troubled that a 2 guard who doesn’t play D, fouled out of the game after playing terribly on offense? I swear, every time I watch the Raptors play, it looks like Barbosa is trying to get bought out.
Showcasing
Barbosa, Casey, and BC all know that Barbosa will be playing for another team before the end of the season. I think Barbosa is trying too hard to impress.
Just a thought...
Imagine if Andrea Bargnani tried to pull those off? haha
If You Look At HIs Left Calf
you will notice what appears to some bandage or wrap covering his left calf under the warmers. He hurt his left calf a few months ago and this whole deal could be to cover the wrap on this left calf. Then again even when he no longer wearing the wrapper he might keep wearing the leg warmers especially at home games in Toronto. LOL
Yes I know they turn the heat on at the ACC during Raptors games. LOL
he may be wearing a wrap
but I hope his boyfriends there are wearing condoms.
by Not so Friendly Stranger on Jan 3, 2012 3:59 PM EST up reply actions
shamefully stealing from Double Helix post on Real GM
SOTD – Bargnani’s defensive stats (82 games)
Postby Double Helix on Tue Jan 03, 2012 3:14 pm
82 games has released the Raptors defensive stats through their first 4 games of the season (excluding the New York game yesterday).
Cue the disclaimers:
1) Small sample size
2) BorisD’s stats are more inclusive since he watches everything and records it.
3) 82 games has bizzare PF/C tracking.
With all that in mind, this is easily the best start on both ends of the court that the 82 games team has ever recorded for Bargnani during his career.
http://www.82games.com/1112/11TOR12.HTM
Talking points:
- 18% of his shots have been with less than 3 seconds left on the shot clock and he’s still hitting them .500 of the time.
- 5.5 points per game are now coming from “in close.”
- Net points so far per 100 possessions with Bargnani on the floor +1.6
- Net points so far per 100 possessions with Bargnani on the bench -27.4
- Net positive +29.0
- Bargnani’s PER (through 5 games): 21.1
- Opponent PER (over 48 minute distribution) against Bargnani – 15.8
Bargs has been a rock star so far this season and already strung more consecutive good games together than I can remember from last year.
Love to see him go to the rim…. That’s the highlight for me.
Ed davis is just too far down the depth chart to get the minutes he needs, but when someone goes down, he’ll get his shot.
Anyone else looking forward to getting kleiza back at small forward? We need that offensive threat … If he buys into the new D.
by axl t on Jan 3, 2012 4:31 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I do not think that Kleiza will be capable of keeping up with most threes defensively. He always seemed to try defensively, but just could not keep up…
Talkinf fantasy bball on twitter http://twitter.com/FinalsFantasy#
by JumpShootersRUS on Jan 3, 2012 4:41 PM EST up reply actions
I think he will be better than jj or forbes in certain matchups. They just seem so limited. Klieza has great size… I’d like to see what he can do under Casey.
by axl t on Jan 3, 2012 5:14 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
This is a “painting” of Dorian Gray (Movie League of Extraordinary Gentlemen). “The Picture of Dorian Gray” is a famous story by Oscar Wilde, see this http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dorian_Gray
Read something today about the Raps being 4th or 5th in the league in points in the paint allowed. If that holds up, it will be an absolutely massive turnaround compared to last season. Guys were getting to the bucket at will last year. And we’d constantly joke about the likes of Hilton Armstrong and Luke Harangody tearing it up inside every time they played the Raptors.
The thing that blows my mind is that it’s the same frontcourt rotation… actually, check that – it’s a less talented frontcourt on paper when you consider that the massively productive Reggie Evans has been removed from the equation.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Jan 3, 2012 5:27 PM EST up reply actions
The Differences Among Others Might Be Due To
switching the positions of Andrea and Amir and Amir bulking up along with several other important defensive schemes instituted by Casey. Then there is the improved chemistry that comes from the unit playing together for another season except for Butler
Plus I think Jamaal is a better in the paint defender than Reggie. Reggie is a very good rebounder but doesn’t do that good of job in protecting the basket.
Other stats that indicate a huge turnaround thus far...
Raps rank…
FG%: 4th (.470)
Opp FG%: 8th (.419)
3FG%: 5th (.413)
Opp 3FG%: 15th (.341)
ORTG: 15th (103.2)
DRTG: 21st (105.7)
OReb%: 30th (.198) <—- That’s a problem, but is part of the defensive system…
Opp OReb%: 6th (.226) <—- And that almost makes up for it.
I noticed
his 111 DTRG wasn’t included in there
After the NY game it jumped to 108 (I guess the rookie Harrellson helped that…. but in fairness he didn’t go all Luke Harangody on the Raps).
I really don’t think his D has improved as much as people seem to be leading on to. BUT, he is doing the things on offense he historically hasn’t (ie. drive to the net) and that is definetely moving him away from a net negative player he had been.
by Not so Friendly Stranger on Jan 3, 2012 5:54 PM EST up reply actions
Ya, I don’t understand why everyone has been praising he defense. It’s improved, but that doesn’t mean it’s good. And his defense in the New York game was almost as bad as last year.
Offensively, he’s playing at a high level, though.
Tim W.
The Picket Fence
+1
Totally. See my post above, his defense really hasn’t improved that much, but his offense looks considerably better. But again, Bargnani has started hot in the past and faded quickly. As Buddahfan would say – We shall see…
Jay Triano coached the Toronto Raptors in 2010-11
Dwayne Casey coaches them now…
I think we can all agree that Jay Triano should never coach at the NBA level again.
by RaptorsHQ - Defensive Stance on Jan 3, 2012 11:45 PM EST up reply actions
completely disagree
imagine him trying to control the miami heat. would be good for a few news cycles
being an NBA coach comes without instruction book
Likely he would do something different next time. I am not sure he’ll get the change tough
I don’t think Triano was as bad a coach as people paint him. I think he made some mistakes, as all coaches do, but I don’t think his coaching style fit the personnel, especially Bargnani. He’s not a great motivator, which is fine, but on a team with the roster he was given, he had to also be a motivator.
Tim W.
The Picket Fence
Tristan Just Missed a Double-Double Tonight
Off the bench
Minutes 24
Points 16
Rebounds 9
Cavs up tomorrow are 3 – 1 since the Raptors beat them.
Rubio and Irving
Well I love the Rubio highlights and wish him well; I do not believe he is going to be an integral part of a winning team. He needs to shoot well to pass well. That’s why Steve Nash is so good. That’s what the scouts said he couldn’t do, but he has been successful so far shooting at 50%. I believe that number will decrease to 30% from 3 and under 45% total fg%. People will leave him open and therefore cut off his passing lanes, forcing him to shoot. If he can do it, it will be interesting and I could be wrong on him. But I don’t think so. BTW, so far he has shot well in the NBA.
I was unimpressed with Irving in the first game we played Cleveland, but he certainly looked to be settling in well in tonights game. He has the athletic ability that Rubio lacks and it will be interesting to see him next game. I look for him to be far improved after a few games, which is scary and shows why he got taken first.
Good luck to both young guys. I hope Rubio proves me wrong because he is a lot of fun to watch.
“I do not believe he is going to be an integral part of a winning team. He needs to shoot well to pass well.”
Ya, that Rajon Rondo hasn’t been able to do anything in the NBA without a jumpshot, has he?
Tim W.
The Picket Fence
point tim?
But that is also a very rare occurance, and Boston has two outstanding perimeter players who can shoot the three and KG also has good range. So with the right cast no doubt he can be a good player and K Love is a great start. Too bad they don’t have a draft pick this year….
Jason Kidd
rookie year:
fg 38.5% – he has never topped 45% in his career. Best ever was 44.4%
3pt 27.2% – he has pver his career become a good 3pt shooter, but never topped 40% for a season until he was traded to Dallas
I do think efficient shooting (both FG% and 3pt%) is very important for a point guard, but not nearly as much as play making/passing. Rubio may or may not ever become a decent shooter, but if he becomes the play maker he looks like he could be it will more than compensate for his shooting woes.
by Not so Friendly Stranger on Jan 4, 2012 11:01 AM EST up reply actions
I was going to bring up Jason Kidd, but NSFS already did, I see.
A jumpshot definitely helps a PG make his defender not sag off him, but there have been plenty PGs who couldn’t shoot on winning teams. Avery Johnson was always a pretty poor outside shooter, and he started on a Championship team. It’s certainly not ideal, and it’s something Rubio should work on, but to say he won’t be an integral part of a winning team without a jumpshot is overstating it.
Tim W.
The Picket Fence
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
NBA Playoffs Content Module
Related FanPosts on Raptors HQ
Related FanShots on Raptors HQ
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recent FanPosts
In Association With
Ball Don't Lie - NBA - Yahoo! Sport
- Shaquille O’Neal is in a Chinese beer commercial, too (VIDEO)
- ‘Deep Thoughts’ and Cheap Thoughts: San Antonio Spurs vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
- C-a-C: This is probably as close to LeBron James working with John Waters as we’ll ever get
- Dwyane Wade’s hot pink pants: The kind of thing you can get away with when you drop 41
- Lamar Odom to New York? Dwight Howard on the move? For now, it’s all talk
