Dikembe Declines Boston...but

[Toine43]

That's pretty funny comparing Posey and Scal. I have to say, there is a significant difference. Both like to shoot only 3's if possible, but Posey can launch from anywhere pretty quickly. Scal has a ritual of movements he has to do before shooting. Posey is also WAY better at hitting his 3's.

On defense, Posey can play perimeter players. Scal can hit them as they run by.

Btw, are there any links yet to Mutombo actually declining Boston? There is Doc calling it unlikely, but Deke hasn't said he wouldn't.

What's in bold is exactly what I've been thinking. And considering that it's down to either Boston or SA for Deke, we shouldn't rule out the hometown team quite yet.

[BrickJames]

You're suggesting that Doc talking to his agent and saying

We talked to David (Falk, Mutombo's agent) and I would say it's a no...

isn't credible enough?

[blueygreen]

I'll admit I haven't watched as many games this season as last, but from what I've seen it's that the offense often gets in trouble when Glen tries to do too much around the outside. I don't think he has the skillset to get the ball in the highpost and create. There was a play in the LA/Boston game where he took a deep corner 2 and the only thing I was wondering is why our PF/C is that far away from the basket when he is an excellent offensive rebounder and hustle guy? Similarly, he has scored points in bunches like that game against Detroit last year, but that was while playing with the starters and Paul was mainly feeding him in the lane where his feet didn't move faster than his brain. I'm in no way piling blame on him, as this is something that the second unit will need to sort out as a group, but I just thought it was something to add to the discussion of Tony's proneness to turnovers, Eddie's problems handling the ball and the lack of floor spacing.

Speaking of which, what do people think of a Tony/Eddie pick&pop similar to the Pierce/Eddie one they often run? I remember in the pre-season it seemed that Tony and Eddie had quite a rapport going in finding each other for open shots.

[Steve Weinman]

Speaking of which, what do people think of a Tony/Eddie pick&pop similar to the Pierce/Eddie one they often run? I remember in the pre-season it seemed that Tony and Eddie had quite a rapport going in finding each other for open shots.

Interesting question, bluey, and I don't think it could hurt, given the second unit's offensive proficiency or lack thereof. 

But with that said, there are a couple of reasons (aside from the fairly obvious issue of Pierce being a lot better than TA) why that particular set wouldn't be as helpful for TA as it is for Pierce.  The first is that at only 6-4, TA's size advantage over point guards isn't going to be as extreme as PP's, and that's a big part of the beauty that screen roll set.  The other issue is that Allen still doesn't have the jump shot, even from that foul line extended.  Pierce rising over a point guard from 12-to-17 is an effective look (in addition to the threat of him going toward the rim).  Allen's jumper isn't close to consistent enough to provide that dimension.

-sw

[blueygreen]

Speaking of which, what do people think of a Tony/Eddie pick&pop similar to the Pierce/Eddie one they often run? I remember in the pre-season it seemed that Tony and Eddie had quite a rapport going in finding each other for open shots.

Interesting question, bluey, and I don't think it could hurt, given the second unit's offensive proficiency or lack thereof. 

But with that said, there are a couple of reasons (aside from the fairly obvious issue of Pierce being a lot better than TA) why that particular set wouldn't be as helpful for TA as it is for Pierce.  The first is that at only 6-4, TA's size advantage over point guards isn't going to be as extreme as PP's, and that's a big part of the beauty that screen roll set.  The other issue is that Allen still doesn't have the jump shot, even from that foul line extended.  Pierce rising over a point guard from 12-to-17 is an effective look (in addition to the threat of him going toward the rim).  Allen's jumper isn't close to consistent enough to provide that dimension.

-sw

Yes, that was the concern of mine, that the defender could easily go under the screen to contain Tony's first step. However I think anything could be worth trying at this stage. The other thing I'd like to see in conjunction with Big Baby moving closer to the rim would be more pick and rolls involving  Glen as he has a good pair of catching hands and an uncanny knack of finding, as Tommy says, the "blue sky" and may help him become a more comfortable contributor to the offense.

I think the main reason for me wanting the Eddie/Tony pick/pop is because I think that Eddie may be one of the most consistent scorers we have, who can definately score in bunches and I'd like him to get more open looks.

In the end I believe the easiest way for this offense to improve would be if Powe could find some vision and passing ability on the block, as I hardly ever see him pass out of the post even when double or triple teamed.

TP as always for the good discussion Steve.

[D Dub]

Joe Smith would be a marked improvement over "No Outside Shooting Small Ball" - but I don't know that he fills the massive void at the 5. Perhaps PJ can be coaxed out of retirement.

Doesn't solve the lack of outside shooting and defense on the bench mess, though.

Ya know, I have come to respect your basketball knowledge - you are usually right on.  I gotta say this though, if we win the title this year, I am totally calling you out for your repeated beating of the dead horse that is James Posey. 

I for one think there are some holes on the bench (namely backup center) but I am certainly not ready to write off our title chances because of them.  As for defense and shooting off the bench I still think that House and Allen will provide what is needed there.  Both are above average defenders (TA being a great defender) and as for the outside shooting, we have Ray Allen, Paul Pierce and Eddie House -- 3 of the best 3pt shooters in the L.  When it counts, 2 out of 3 will be in the game.

Losing James Posey did not drive the stake into our teams heart.  And I hope you admit you were wrong about him when we raise banner 18, given your repeated condemnation of the team for letting him walk.  The backup C situation is different, I will agree with you that that does need to be addressed.

Yeah, I know. Danny's a genius. Blah, blah, blah.

I have said consistently that this team needs someone to stretch defenses and actually lock down a big scorer for a few minutes at a time. Despite the misinformation people love to post on this board, Posey brought those qualities to this team last year and we don't have them this year. The claim that Tony Allen has filled Posey's void is too laughable to warrant further discussion.

I've also wearied of the revisionist history that attempts to downplay Posey's substantial contribution to the championship last year. It's getting old reading that Posey couldn't defend, couldn't shoot, etc. None of that is true.

However, I have also consistently said that the mistake - and I will not waver from that statement; Ainge made a mistake not resigning Posey, one of several this summer - is done. Now, we must focus on replacing his skills, as listed above. A center, while a nice addition, does none of that.

I have also said consistently that this team will not win a title - or the Eastern Conference - with this sad excuse for a bench, put together by Ainge during the Dumpster Diving Summer of 2008.

A legitimate backup 5, instead of the failed O'Blount experiment, is a start. But it may not be enough to keep up with Cleveland, let alone Los Angeles.

Interesting.  Never once have I read anywhere, from anyone, that Posey couldn't shoot or defend.  And the fact that he is a daily topic of discussion only re-certifies how large his contribution was last year.  No one is debating that, certainly not myself.

I would have loved to have him back, but the reality is that we just couldn't afford him.  The crucial thing he brought last year was championship experience.  Now we have a roster full of championship experience.  

And you can flame me all you like for this next comment, but I will stand by it.  Brian Scalabrine has the EXACT same skill set as Posey.  Veteran player who defends the 4/3 and can hit the open 3.  Just like Pose, don't expect him to drive the ball and don't expect a 10 rebound night out of him.  

My point is that one bench wing player will not break this teams back.  The team defense is better, and we have 3 of the best 3pt shooters in the league.
  
As for Paddy O, you will get no arguement there out of me.  In fact I have given you credit for calling that one early on.  

Backup Center is BY FAR this teams biggest hole.  The wing situation just isn't as big a deal as you claim, imho.  

While I might not necessarily use the construction of the term "skill set" as you do D Dub, would you agree that even under your premise, the skill levels are vastly different?

-sw

What Steve said is exactly what I was thinking. D Dub is correct that Posey and Scal are in theory out there to do the same things. Posey is just way better at every facet of the game. I'm not sure if D Dub was implying that Posey and Scal are interchangeable, but it seemed that way. If that's what he was saying, then he needs to reevaluate that stance, to put it lightly.

I never said Scal could be our primary 6th man like Posey was last year.  

Here is the deal, barring some trade we will be able to add ONE player (and consiquently cut one guaranteed contract, which is a big deal to ownership).  
 
With our current bench, it is easy to fill the role of spot up shooter/solid defender with different rotations that include TA, Scal, and House.  Despite what the sheep say, Scal is a solid bench player - if you watch the games and think for yourself you will agree.  

Coach Bo seems pretty willing to spend Wyc's money, which is easy when its not your checkbook.  I on the other hand, live in reality where owning an NBA team is a business and you can't just sign everyone you want.  We should all consider ourselves lucky that Wyc is even willing to pay luxery tax on our Big 3...  

If you had the choice to add ONE player to the roster, which is the reality of the situation, what position would it be?  

The opinion that I am attempting to express is that our backup wing situation significantly more stable than our backup Center situation.  

[Steve Weinman]

Speaking of which, what do people think of a Tony/Eddie pick&pop similar to the Pierce/Eddie one they often run? I remember in the pre-season it seemed that Tony and Eddie had quite a rapport going in finding each other for open shots.

Interesting question, bluey, and I don't think it could hurt, given the second unit's offensive proficiency or lack thereof. 

But with that said, there are a couple of reasons (aside from the fairly obvious issue of Pierce being a lot better than TA) why that particular set wouldn't be as helpful for TA as it is for Pierce.  The first is that at only 6-4, TA's size advantage over point guards isn't going to be as extreme as PP's, and that's a big part of the beauty that screen roll set.  The other issue is that Allen still doesn't have the jump shot, even from that foul line extended.  Pierce rising over a point guard from 12-to-17 is an effective look (in addition to the threat of him going toward the rim).  Allen's jumper isn't close to consistent enough to provide that dimension.

-sw

Yes, that was the concern of mine, that the defender could easily go under the screen to contain Tony's first step. However I think anything could be worth trying at this stage. The other thing I'd like to see in conjunction with Big Baby moving closer to the rim would be more pick and rolls involving  Glen as he has a good pair of catching hands and an uncanny knack of finding, as Tommy says, the "blue sky" and may help him become a more comfortable contributor to the offense.

I think the main reason for me wanting the Eddie/Tony pick/pop is because I think that Eddie may be one of the most consistent scorers we have, who can definately score in bunches and I'd like him to get more open looks.

In the end I believe the easiest way for this offense to improve would be if Powe could find some vision and passing ability on the block, as I hardly ever see him pass out of the post even when double or triple teamed.

TP as always for the good discussion Steve.

Thanks blueygreen, back atcha.  Agreed that I'd like to get Eddie the open looks as well.

-sw

[Edgar]

Did we all now how good this years Jean Jaques is?

[celticmaestro]

I never really wanted Mutombo anyway.

Joe Smith on the other hand, that would be special. Or bring back PJ, either one I'd be ecstatic with.

[elcotte]

Joe Smith would be a marked improvement over "No Outside Shooting Small Ball" - but I don't know that he fills the massive void at the 5. Perhaps PJ can be coaxed out of retirement.

Doesn't solve the lack of outside shooting and defense on the bench mess, though.

Ya know, I have come to respect your basketball knowledge - you are usually right on.  I gotta say this though, if we win the title this year, I am totally calling you out for your repeated beating of the dead horse that is James Posey. 

I for one think there are some holes on the bench (namely backup center) but I am certainly not ready to write off our title chances because of them.  As for defense and shooting off the bench I still think that House and Allen will provide what is needed there.  Both are above average defenders (TA being a great defender) and as for the outside shooting, we have Ray Allen, Paul Pierce and Eddie House -- 3 of the best 3pt shooters in the L.  When it counts, 2 out of 3 will be in the game.

Losing James Posey did not drive the stake into our teams heart.  And I hope you admit you were wrong about him when we raise banner 18, given your repeated condemnation of the team for letting him walk.  The backup C situation is different, I will agree with you that that does need to be addressed.

Yeah, I know. Danny's a genius. Blah, blah, blah.

I have said consistently that this team needs someone to stretch defenses and actually lock down a big scorer for a few minutes at a time. Despite the misinformation people love to post on this board, Posey brought those qualities to this team last year and we don't have them this year. The claim that Tony Allen has filled Posey's void is too laughable to warrant further discussion.

I've also wearied of the revisionist history that attempts to downplay Posey's substantial contribution to the championship last year. It's getting old reading that Posey couldn't defend, couldn't shoot, etc. None of that is true.

However, I have also consistently said that the mistake - and I will not waver from that statement; Ainge made a mistake not resigning Posey, one of several this summer - is done. Now, we must focus on replacing his skills, as listed above. A center, while a nice addition, does none of that.

I have also said consistently that this team will not win a title - or the Eastern Conference - with this sad excuse for a bench, put together by Ainge during the Dumpster Diving Summer of 2008.

A legitimate backup 5, instead of the failed O'Blount experiment, is a start. But it may not be enough to keep up with Cleveland, let alone Los Angeles.

The more you post on the same subject doesn't make your point any more valid, rather it reeks of a stubborn critic. Ainge has a championship to his credit...you don't. End of story.

[moiso]

We were lucky to have Posey for that one year for the measly salary he was paid.  Of course Ainge wanted him back, but he was a luxury that the C's are unable to afford long term.

[cornbreadsmart]

ofcourse ,the c's could afford him long term.

[cordobes]

Mutombo is a better defensive player than PJ or Smith. Smith would struggle against taller/bigger players, the same way our current backups do. Smith is also more of an injury concern than Mutombo or PJ, who are always in great shape.

Mutombo is so far from being finished it's not even funny.

PJ brings two things over Mutombo: he's more of a banger and his physicality bothers a lot of current NBA players; he's someone you can use offensively, screening and popping out, passing from the trail, hitting a jumper here and there...

I'm somewhat pessimistic at this point; I think that we won't get any of these guys.

[moiso]

I really like Smith's game and he would be very productive with our second unit, but you are right cordobes, the man cannot guard centers or physical 4's.

[CoachBo]

Mutombo is a better defensive player than PJ or Smith. Smith would struggle against taller/bigger players, the same way our current backups do. Smith is also more of an injury concern than Mutombo or PJ, who are always in great shape.

Mutombo is so far from being finished it's not even funny.

PJ brings two things over Mutombo: he's more of a banger and his physicality bothers a lot of current NBA players; he's someone you can use offensively, screening and popping out, passing from the trail, hitting a jumper here and there...

I'm somewhat pessimistic at this point; I think that we won't get any of these guys.

Very well could be - and it could cost us HCA, let alone the hideous price we would pay trying to play small ball behind Perkins and his bad shoulders in the playoffs.