I'm So Mad, This Can't Wait...

Dwayne Casey needs to go. He just isn't a good coach. He cannot make any kind of adjustments or manage a basketball game at all. To start the third quater, Mike James was 0-3, 3 turnovers, 1 foul, and doing his best Sam Cassell-Bull fighter defense. And he's still in the game. Ricky Davis? 0-3, a turnover, and three bad passes. Still in the game. 8 points later, he calls a timeout and his team's once 9-point lead is 1. THEN he calls a timeout. Oh, but he pulled James OR Davis right? Nope. They're still in there fucking it up. Notice how, in the second quarter Popp made some adjustments and ended the quarter on a 10-2 run? Yeah, that's what GOOD coaches do: make adjustments. Casey can't. In his time here, he's never made a good one, or called a timeout when he should have, or pulled a guy out before he killed ALL of his confidence sucking it up.

He, Mike James, and Ricky Davis need to NOT be in Wolves uniforms. Then I might have some faith in this team, but they are just plain bad at basketball.


Rant, ended.

ESPN's Trade Machine and Allen Iverson

There are few things that can eat up hours of my time like the trade machine on ESPN. I spend about half the time dreaming up completely rediculous trades that would never take place, even under the most amazing circumstances. I spend time dreaming up deals that would bring another superstar to Minnesota to play alongside KG, even if it doesn't make much sense for the other team. Of course then a deal comes around that makes me really take a good look at what could be done - in the "real world" - to obtain an available player. In this case it's Allen Iverson. Now, I realize that Jim Gray's words can no longer be trusted, but I don't believe for a minute that our owner's can either. I doubt that the guys running our organization have the brains or the balls to get a deal done to bring THE Answer to Minneapolis, but that doesn't stop me from hoping that a deal could be done - hey, blind squirrel's gotta find a nut sometime, right?

So here are a couple deals that may - or may not - be too complicated for teams to complete, but that might make sense.

Deal #1

Teams involved: Minnesota, Philadelphia, Houston

Philly wants to be rid of Iverson, we all know that.

Houston has its own coach-player drama rearing its head. Bonzi Wells and Jeff VanGundy have not kept their inability to get along a secret. Now, I know they're giving it "one more shot" but I think that's just a professional courtesy on both their parts. So, assuming that doesn't hold, the Rockets may be looking to get rid of Bonzi as well (pun intended. I'll understand if you stop reading now).

Minnesota has so many bad contracts, only the Knicks keep them from looking like the dumbest organization in the league. That said, there are a couple they could dump to grab some more start power at the very least.

The deal:

Allen Iverson goes to Minnesota. Randy Foye, Ricky Davis, Bonzi Wells, and Rafer Alston to Philly. Houston gets Mike James

Why it make sense:

Philly gets two contracts that are up in the next two years(Wells, Davis), plus a Philly familiar, soon-to-be-star(Foye). Not to mention the salary dump over the nex two seasons by losing Iverson.

Houston gets rid of a team-chemistry problem(Wells) and nabs the point guard they were after this past offseason(James) for less than they offered.

The Wolves get rid of two bad contracts(Davis, James) and grab a future Hall of Famer to play next to KG.

The Catch:

Who really wants Rafer Alston?

Deal #2

Teams Involved: Minnesota, Philadelphia, Detroit

Philly we understand: Rid themselves of Iverson

Detroit, while playing well, has some issues on their bench. They're a capable bunch, that's for sure, but they don't exactly have a ton of fire power offensively. Their backup point guard situation isn't much better, not to mention the pending free-agency of Chauncey Billups. They could use some help in both areas.

Minnesota wants AI.

The Deal:

AI to Minny, Foye, Davis, Antonio McDyess go to Philly, Mike James to Detroit.

Why it makes sense:

The Sixers, like in the previous deal, get young talent and a couple contracts that go away in the next two years.

Detroit solves a bench scoring issue with James who could spell both Rip and Chauncey. It may also provide some point guard security in the event that Billups gets too much money in free agency - only a short year away.

The Wolves, get what they did in the first deal: Iverson and rid of two contracts.

The Catch:

Detroit, while interested in Mike James, may not want to mess with the chemistry they have right now - specifically putting any doubt in the fact that Chauncey is their point guard.

Obviously I'm no GM and I'm favoring the Wolves a bit, but I think both those deals would make sense for all teams involved. Of course that's like saying Kevin McHale will try to put a winning product on the floor - which we all know is true. He does try, he's just not very good at it.

Wolves 92 Kings 83

Good game. Nice to be back at it. I'm glad the expectations aren't very high - for me atleast - because it makes watching this team a lot more fun. They played well in stretches and poorly in stretched - mostly when Mike James was on the floor, but I'll get to that in a minute. Defensively they looked very good and on offense you can still see it's a work in progress. I liked what I saw out of our boys last night and I hope they can play like that every night, even if it doesn't always result in a win. They'll be competitive if they do.

The Good
Troy Hudson - I was sort of shocked when he got into the game, like I had forgotten that he could even play. He looked a lot like the T-Hud that earned the contract that we're currently paying him. The offense flowed very well when he was in the game and, even though he forced some shots, he played under control.

KG and Hassell - They were quietly dominant. KG did his thing and Hassell was knocking down open jumpers all night.

Marko the SF - This is what I'm excited about the most after watching the game. I've always liked his game, his size, length, and quickness on defense. But he's not a PG. He was disruptive on defense and he helped get the ball up and down the court on offense. If he does what he did last night all season, he could be a candidate for most improved player.

Craig Smith - The kid takes up a TON of space on the floor. He's smart and he plays very hard, sometimes to his detriment - he fouled out. He's a much more skilled version of Mad Dog who, if he matures, could be a very productive player for the Wovles this season.

The Bad
Mike James - I'm going to cut him some slack because he's in a new system with new coaches and new players, but he looked lost last night. The offense was stagnant when he was in, and I'd be willing to bet 2/3 of their turnovers came while he was in the game. It really says something when you feel more comfortable with Troy Hudson in the game. I'm hoping he can pick it up quickly and contribute the way the Wolves envisioned he could when they signed him.

Mark Blount - He hasn't attained Kandi status yet because he atleast looks like he's playing hard, but he was terrible last night. Some of that was Casey's decision to let him shoot so much early, but he was consistanly being beaten to the glass by opposing guards and employing his standard bullfighter defense "OLE!"

The Funny
Mo Taylor - His sad little effort to goad KG into getting another technical showed me exactly why he's been such a failure in the NBA. That and I think he may have wet his pants after seeing Kevin glaring at him.

Kevin being Kevin - As he's leaving the court after his post game interview, he says to Lea B Thompson, "you look good girl."

THE WOLVES JUST SIGNED...

I...

I can't.

I can't say anything. I can't do anything. This really happened. They really signed this guy. Really. No, really.

Do’s And Don’ts: A Wolves Season Preview

As the baseball playoff pictures shore up – Go Twins! – and the NFL season kicks off, the kids in the NBA begin to gather in preparation for the upcoming NBA season. This is an exciting time for every fan of every team. Dreams of vast improvement or repeating last years’ success dominate fan thought patterns. Everything is very positive for every team right now. Free agents and rookies reporting to camp, the vets coming back feeling refreshed and ready to battle for the next eight months. Expectations are riding high right now and it’s hard to keep them calm since we’ve been without the NBA for 3 months. I try my best to keep myself realistic, often edging more towards skepticism so as not to be disappointed when the Wolves don’t do what I expect them to do. So, here are some things I do and don’t expect to happen this season for my boys.

I do expect the Wolves to play better basketball.
They’ve gotten an infusion of new blood, have been improved in some areas, and will have a refreshed KG ready for another season

I don’t expect that play to be reflected much in their record.
Mike James and Randy Foye, while good players, will not be the save-all fix-all for this team this season. They need capable banger and someone who can help KG on the boards.

I do believe they’ll be in the hunt for a playoff spot deep into the season.
Much like last season, the West will be strong at the top, but tight through the middle and bottom. There’s a chance they could even be in the race into the last month of the season

I don’t believe they’ll make the playoffs.
They’re just not good enough. They don’t have anyone, besides KG, to play defense or rebound. They don’t have a lights-out shooter to keep defenses honest, and they don’t have a point guard that can run an offense effectively. They’ll be close, but they’re not there yet.

I do think Randy Foye will be a top contender for Rookie of the Year.
The kid has everything you want in a young guard: he can get to the basket, shoots the ball fairly well from the mid-range, plays with heart, and has very good character. He showed some flashes of brilliance in the summer league, earning MVP in the Vegas League.

I don’t believe he’ll win it.
He’ll put up strong numbers, he’ll contribute almost from the beginning, but in the end, the Wolves won’t be as improved as Portland, giving a lot of votes to Brandon Roy.

I do expect KG to come back strong this season.
He always does. He never enters a season without fire. KG always comes in enthusiastic, from the first day of camp. Last year is forgotten. For now.

I don’t expect him to be happy when the Wolves don’t achieve success.
When – I hope if, but – the Wolves start sliding, KG will get upset and will fade into that grimacing player he ended last season on. He’ll probably end up calling management out and making some suggestions

I don’t expect him to demand a trade or be traded.
He’s a class act and loyalty is one of his strengths. He may get frustrated, but in the end, he’ll be a Timberwolf at the end of this season

I do expect there will be changes made.
The Wolves have some excess baggage they could really get rid of, but I don’t know how much they’ll be able to dump. The continued lack of success will force McHale’s hand because if he continues to let it happen, the media won’t wait very long to lunge at his throat.

I don’t expect them to be as extensive as last season.
Part of the reason last year was such a debacle was because there was so much change that Casey didn’t know what his lineup would be day-to-day. Unless something comes by that the Wolves cannot turn down, expect the core players to be there all year

I do expect Dwayne Casey to be the head coach all season.
He’s young and he had a tough year last season but, as I said above, his lineup had no consistency due to the front office’s mangle-job. I think Glen will be a bit gun shy, firing two head coaches in three years.

I don’t expect him to avoid some heat.
He’s still young and he’s only in his second year in the first chair, so there will be some slack given, but not as much as last year. There won’t be the roster moves this year, so his effort will stand out more, for better or worse. Like I said, I don’t think their record will reflect the improvement, which means KG will not be happy. As people see KG getting unhappy, they too will get unhappy. The media in Minneapolis is nothing but negative, so they’ll be the first on the ‘Fire Casey’ bandwagon.

I expect almost nothing out of this team, as you may have realized. I hope Mike James is better than I think he is and I hope Randy Foye is half as good as I think he is. It’s still baseball season so I don’t need to talk myself off the ledge yet, but November isn’t that far away.

Here’s hoping this year is better than I expect it to be.

In the meantime, go Twins!

Hey, Did You Guys Hear...

The U.S. lost to Greece? Yeah, they lost, and the media still can't let it go. I mean, they lost. Hey radio jockeys, let it go already, Greece was exactly the team that could beat us and they did. Who cares!

For now...

Let My Bucket Swerrrrrrrrrrve, I'm Takin Off From The Curb

Say what you will about Steph, and lord knows my counterpart has said plenty (mostly things like "I heard he sits down to go pee!" and "He cried when he lost at Golden Tee!"), but this is pretty awesome.

The sneaker industry is like the diamond cartel DeBeers. There is no supply issue. There is no labor issue. The demand is simply CREATED. Nobody on earth needs sneakers. It's a unique marketplace in which the manufacturers drive up demand - through channels such as athletes and advertising - and then they basically challenge consumers. "How much are you willing to pay for these?" The answer is a lot. And it goes up every year. Stop and consider it: yes, Nike makes decent shoes. Most of the Nikes I've owned have been high quality kicks, most have not failed me in years of use. But do you honestly think there is 120 dollars worth of craftsmanship in those sneakers? No, they cost a few dollars to make and a few more dollars to ship. The cost is strictly a who-will-blink-first game of big dollars. And kids keep buying these shoes, because of the image and because they see their favorite stars rocking them on the court.

That brings it to Steph. Adidas could sell the KGs for 20 bucks. Nike could have sold the Jordans for 20 bucks. And they STILL WOULD HAVE MADE A PROFIT. But no, they had to be greedy, had to push the pricepoint, and kids shot each other for those fucking things. The point is that it's a good thing, endorsing these sneakers, and I hope that it catches on as a trend.

It won't. But I can hope, right? Just like I can hope that Buckets has a breakout year and that Marko learns how to pass sometime soon.

This Is Gangsta Shit, It's All I Know, So When I Show Up, Open The Safe And Hit The Floor

What the hell?

"Former NBA player Lonny Baxter was arrested by uniformed Secret Service agents on Wednesday after shots were fired from a vehicle about two blocks from the White House. "

and

"Both Baxter, 27, and the vehicle's passenger, 35-year-old Irvin Martin, were charged with carrying a pistol without a license and other firearms charges. It wasn't immediately clear why they were allegedly firing the gun. "

Oh, I know why. Because George Bush does not like....

Jimmy, get him on the list.

The NBA Takes On A New Tazed

I sat down this summer with Kevin McHale and Isaiah Thomas and discussed the state of the NBA and USA basketball and decided that they just weren't exciting enough. Isaiah was still feeling the pain from all the money he lost on the CBA and was on the hunt for the next big money maker, and McHale was just looking for somewhere else to try his hand at failing. We decided to we wanted to put together an exhibition team to tour around the world, playing similar teams in parts of the world where basketball may not have reached yet. Well, as mentioned above, with USA Basketball in full swing, we were limited in the talent we could take with us, plus, we were having a hard time deciding how to select our team. Isaiah seemed to only want to take selfish, overpaid players, who never quite reached their potential, so they can "earn their f'ing paychecks." McHale on the otherhand could only say one name: Joe Smith. I tried to suggest some other players and ideas, but both were pretty stubborn - I actually had to slap McHale so he would shut up. By this point Isaiah is screaming obsenities in an attempt to convince us that Marbury and Francis could indeed play together. I excused myself to go to the bathroom and left them to senslessly babble at each other. As I was sitting on my throne, reading the daily paper, I came across a story and had a brilliant idea run through my head. I hurridly finished, wiping of course, and ran back to the table where Zeke and McHale were still repeating themselves at each other.

"Guys, I've got it!"

They both turned, and started repeating themselves at me. I slapped McHale and told Isaiah Anucha was behind him and he shut right up. "Guys, check this out. I think I know how to make you both happy - well, you Isaiah, Joe Smith won't figure in yet Kev." He almost started crying until I mentioned Kandi - no Kevin, not the food, the player! "Well guys, we all know that toughness is a huge part of being a good player, right? Okay, well what signifies toughness more than being able to take a taser?" They loved it! It solved all of our problems, heck it even allows the team to chose itself!

So, starting this summer we'll be waiting to see who will select themselves for the first ever All-Tased Team, made up of NBA players! So far we've got committments from Michael Olowokandi and, most recently, Dale Davis. We're holding interviews for head coaches, with Gloria James being the front runner right now. We're keeping our hopes up that Jerry Tarkanian or John Cheney may make themselves available as well, but we'll have to wait and see.

Here's our most likely candidates thus far!


Michael Olowokandi, C - right now he's penciled into the starting lineup after he "forgot his sweatshirt" in the club


Dale Davis, F - he's also penciled into start unless Rasheed Wallace gets ghetto this offseason, or next.


Eddie Griffin, F - He's really just a matter of time. We've been talking to him and, with all the porn watching/jerking off/car crashing, we're just waiting for him to sign the contract


Isiah Rider, G - He might be a long shot due to "previous commitments" but we're hoping he can make parole in time - that's based on the good assumption that he'll be in jail. Here's hoping he resists arrest enough to get tased!


Darrell Armstrong, G - He almost made our squad at the first tryouts but fell just short. We're confident he'll have a better showing next time around.

I also received an email from Gib H. in Green Bay, asking what would happen if there weren't enough NBA players available to complete the team. In that case we're going to look into some other sports - namely the NFL or college football - to see if maybe we can fill out the team. Of course we don't see this as being a problem because we're on a 2-player-per-season pace right now, so we figure we'll have the team put together by 2011, just in time to help warm up the world for the 2012 Olympics!

We're happy to be presenting this idea to you all and, with some luck, we'll be seeing you across the globe!!

Junior Reed Is Back...

The Wolves signed the 6-8 forward to a multi year deal, details undisclosed, but it means he'll be gettin' ghetto in blue again this season. I know it's hard to believe that he gets ghetto - just look at that smile, he's so happy - but he does, and he does it Wu Tang style. He'll sneak up behind you, stick the shiv in, then alley-oop dunk on your head. Or he'll slice your achilles, jump over you, and slap your lay-up attempt into the fourth row. That's the thing about Little Junior Reed; He doesn't give a fuck about jail. Not one. I mean, would you want to spend any time in a cell with him? Fuck that, I know I wouldn't

He was a great hustle and energy guy for us last year, and he is a hell of an athelete. He was decent defensively, and he showed improvement on the offensive side. Hopefully he can come in and back up the 3 and 4 with some quality minutes.

It's so far away, but I still can't let it rest. I need this team, like I need a bag of China White

Why Broken Rappers Suck At Basketball

This summer it has been reported that Troy Hudson refused to workout infront of Timberwolves officials because he apparently doesn't trust them. He feels he's been rushed in the past. Really Troy? I think your agent put it best.

"When he goes to work for them, they push him to do more than he feels he's ready to do"

Hmm, so you don't want to workout because you're still broken and can't run or cut? You don't want us to know that? Hmm.

"I don't think Troy's unhappy being a Timberwolf; he just wants to be healthy and not pushed to do things he doesn't want to do"

Well frankly, there's a ton of shit I don't want to do, but I have to. Just because you're touring with your rap posse, doesn't mean you can skip out on workouts. Just because you don't want to? Troy, that's why you're still broken. That's why you haven't played basketball in two years - well, three if you only count the 2002 playoffs as playing.

Troy, you're broken, worn out, busted up goods, that should be retired and sent away. I know you don't feel like you're done, but you are.

Face the music Troy, you should just shut 'em down.

You Tell Me

You Lie, You Deny, Pass Me The Microphone, I Guess Like Eddie Murphy, You Was Givin Him A Ride Home

Banks out, James in, Eddie needs to spend some time in jail, and KG's in fucking India.

This could be a rough season.

I don't really know what to expect going into October. Mike James is solid, and I don't just say that based on one season in Toronto, because to judge NBA players on their time in Toronto is like judging Dr. Dre on the World Class Wreckin Cru. It just doesn't play in theaters nationwide. But I think he'll be good, certainly provide more leadership and stability than any of the clowns since 2004. He's been pretty consistent in his career, and shoots pretty hot from outside, which you've got to like.

Marko remains like a stone around the Wolves' neck. Every other player on the roster has an "out". Even Blunt, hell, just start him and give him touches, he'll be fine. Ricky could be traded at anytime, for anybody. There are no rules when you look like he does. Hudson... just bench him, forever. Don't let him play ever again. It's fine. He doesn't need to ever walk again. He's a scumbag and always has been.

But Marko... what do you do with this guy? Well, you PUT HIM AT 2 AND GET HIM THINKING LIKE A BASKETBALL PLAYER AGAIN. It's simple. Marko's problems are twofold:

1) His eyes are too close together
2) He plays point guard like I end a night after drinking heavily; that is to say, he pisses his pants

There is no cure for #1. But #2 has a solution built in. Marko has the physical tools to be a decent basketball player, dammit all, I'm serious! But not where he is right now. He's too stupid and scared to play against Americans at the point. He gets burned by Tony Parker 3 times, and he starts to cry (which looks funny, because of the narrowly-spaced eyes). But enough jokes. Get this kid some confidence, and he can be a soldier. He can't play scared.

By losing Banks, I think the Wolves are done making moves for this coming season. I just don't see a lot of trade activity that the Wolves will be a part of. They don't have enough pieces to go after a superstar, and they aren't so bloated they need to dump salary. And this season could be huge, because I feel really bad about KG, worse than I've ever felt. He's blogging in Asia right now, and there is a glaring deficiency of Wolves-related posts. I understand... he's on the other side of the earth, he should be talking about different cultures and his experiences and all, but it's obvious that he just doesn't have much interest in discussing his professional team. And that's ok, but you can tell he's stewing about something, I mean, these moves can't make him happy.

But Randy Foye, man, that guy is so ghetto I heard his momma stabbed his girlfriend's phone up cause she was late with the Burger King. So, it might be all good.

Who Doesn't Love KG Commercials?

You'll notice a couple other Wolves in this add too! Get out the box cutter mutha fukka!

KG v TD and the world

Remember this? Yeah, that's what I thought. This is one of my favorites!

A Miraid Of Pictures...

Eddie Griffin.


"Griffin also had a problem at Roman Catholic High School in Philadelphia. He was involved in a fight in the lunch room."

Awww, but look at him, he wouldn't fight anyone, would he?



"Griffin was suspended for one game by coach Tommy Amaker for an incident following Saturday's game against Georgetown. Reports indicated Griffin hit teammate Ty Shine in the locker room."

Well, if that's to dude he's hangin' with, I guess fighting in the locker room is just part of his business. Do you see the look in that dudes' eyes? I'm pretty sure someone will get 'dealt with' soon.



"He failed to show up for several practices in 2003 training camp and was suspended. During the suspension, there was gunfire at his home on Oct. 25. He was charged with assault with a deadly weapon. Later, he was ordered to stand trial on a misdemeanor for drug possession."

Hey Eddie, why you poutin'? You still mad you missed your ol' lady?



"The suit alleges that Griffin was drunk and watching a porno movie on a DVD screen while driving and masturbating when he lost control of his vehicle. "

Just imagine the same look, but the eyes are droopy and can't see clear.



"The hair on his head is closely cropped, and the facial hair is still thin enough to question whether or not it could grow other than above his lip and below his chin."

I just can't put enough emphasis on one's ability to grow a mustache. Your life success rate depends soley on that ability, and if you can't grow anything but a thin mustache, you're chances of success are just that: Slim.

Oh, and incase you forgot...

Oh, so we up and steal Mike James?

That's enough to bring me back from the dead, sho nuff.

James is old, but he's consistent. I'd rather have him than Marko and Troy. Yeah, no shit. And I'd rather have 2 chocolate bars than a bird flu sandwich. They trade like dice these days. Anyway, yeah, I'm excited at that. Does that mean no more Banks? Well, if so, I guess that's not so bad. Banks has too much potential and raw energy, and not enough skills like "holding on to the basketball" and "passing to teammates instead of opponents". I'm not knocking though. It's all good. I'm just surprised James wants to play with the Wolves. I mean, come on. We're not exactly asking our bosses if it would be ok if we took a few weeks off in June "just in case", now, are we?

Welcome aboard James! Have you met Eddie Griffin? He's got some movies to show you...

Summer In Las Vegas

It’s early and he’s only playing against B and C level talent, but Randy Foye has certainly shown why the Wolves coveted him in this years NBA draft. Although I haven’t had an opportunity to see him play this summer, it sounds as though he’s picked up where he left off in the NCAA tournament in March. Which is a great sign for us Timberwolves fans.

Here are his box scores from three Las Vegas Summer games:



A few numbers stick out for me, both good and bad.

Field Goal Percentage – The one thing that many said about Foye was that he needed to work on his shooting – 39.8% in college. While a majority of his shots are taken driving to the basket, it was reported that he settled for jumpers in the second half of the first game, in which he was 9-17 from the field. The Wolves still want him to work on his outside game, but he seems to have already done some of that work already.

Free Throw Attempts – This is an area that the Wolves have needed help in since, oh I don’t know, ever? They’ve never had someone who could consistently get to the charity stripe and so far, Foye looks like he’s pretty comfortable doing just that. His attempts, as you can see, have increased each game, and he shoots a good percentage – 78% in college. Again, it’s against low-tier talent, but if he can keep his aggressiveness up, he’ll really help the Wolves this season

Assists – The rap on Foye was that he was an undersized two-guard who, in spurts, could play the point. With only two assists in three games, that appears to be a more than accurate assessment. I also realize that Bracey Wright looks like he’s been playing most of the minutes at the point, with Foye at the two, so obviously his assists aren’t going to be there. He’s young and learning a new game, a new system, and hopefully soon, a new position. The comparisons to D-Wade – in game style only – seem to be accurate, which begs the question: What happens when Rashad McCants comes back?

The more I’ve read about Foye, the more I like him. He seems to be poised on either end of the floor and has a good head on his shoulders. I won’t really be able to make a complete judgment on him until I get to see him play, but thus far, I’m pleasantly surprised by McHale’s decision. I really can’t wait to see him play – again.

Bitter Sweet Finish To The Finals

There are a number of reasons why I was cheering for Dallas in Game 6. I love Dirk Nowitzki. He's such a fun player to watch and he seems like a good person. I love Devin Harris. I thought he was a great pick for them two years ago and that he would be a contributor for the Mavs in the future. The future is now I guess. I love Jason Terry. The transformation he's made since his arrival in Dallas has been fun to watch. He's become a much better player since his days in a Hawks jersey. I love Mark Cuban. Sure, he's outspoken, loud, and sometimes obnoxious, but the things he's trying to do for the game are great. Running onto the court and berating officials aside, he's great for the NBA. I love the Mavericks. Well, as much as a Timberwolves fan can anyways. They've been a fun team to watch for the past 7 years and I really feel they've got a ring coming to them.

But, my feelings for the Mavs aside, the reason I was rooting for them last night was simply because I wanted more. I wanted a game 7. I wanted to watch the Mavs and Heat just one more time. The series itself has been deemed controversial, which is probably true, but aren't they all? That's what makes them great. By the time the Finals come around, every NBA fan has picked a team they want to win - or NOT to win. Some say they don't care, but in the back of their mind, there's a little bit of emotion tied into one team more than that other. I'm clearly that way, but not because I dislike Miami. I just felt that it was Dallas' time, that it was meant to be. They knocked of their nemesis in San Antonio, then beat their old mate in Phoenix. It just felt as if it was going to happen. Of course, Miami fended of their nemesis and reached one step closer to the promise of their super-sized leader, made two years ago. So I guess they were both destined to win.

Of course that's not possible.

And so after 18 years, the championship trophy is in Florida. Which is okay. I guess.

Back to my feelings on the Heat

It's tough for me with the Heat. They're a great team - clearly - but they just don't make sense. They seem to be rebuilding every year - and it's working. Three years ago they signed Lamar Odom and drafted Dwayne Wade, and damn near made the Eastern Conference Finals. That wasn't good enough. So they send the nucleus, minus D-Wade, to L.A. for Shaquille O'neal. That gets them to the Conference Finals. Not good enough. They then nearly rebuild their bench, half their starting rotation, and their head coach and grab the trophy. It's very rare that you see a team damn near reabuild itself three years in a row and still find success - see Timberwolves last three seasons. So it's a surprise to see them having success with it.

But that's not what gets me.

What gets me is the personnel. The players they brought in are not guys you're supposed to get to win a championship. Antoine Walker, Jason Williams, James Posey. All these guys are "me first" guys. They haven't ever cared about winning or their teammates or any kind of sacrifice for the greater good. They were all cast offs, guys who alienated their former teams, but they were brought into Miami. And Pat Riley is the guy who orchestrated the whole thing. As Steve Simpson and I discussed over more than a few beers the other day, he has to be one of the greatest minds in the NBA. He knew exactly what he was doing when he brought those players in and he knew exactly what he was doing when he replaced Stan Van Gundy on the bench when those players weren't playing the way they were suposed to. He knew there would be a learning curve and a "getting to know you" period with those new players. He heard the criticism and took the bad press in stride. And now he's the one laughing all the way to the bank. I'm not a huge Riley fan, but I give the man all the credit for his ability to coach and run teams in the NBA.

Guys I'm happy/sad to see wearing rings

Antoine Walker - Of all the players on any roster in the league, this guy is the least deserving of a ring. Yes, he changed the way he plays to meld with his team - which I commend him for, but 40 games of "playing the right way" does not make up for 10 years of playing like a selfish asshole. Now, don't get me wrong, I liked watching Walker play in Boston, or as Dr. HotWings would say "I feel it, I'm open, HUCK IT UP!!" He's always been a good player, but a very selfish player. He, by himself, took more threes than some TEAMS took. It was rediculous, especially since he's a 30% shooter. I congratulate him, but grudgingly, because there are better players out there that deserve a ring more than he does.

Gary Payton - He, for many years, was one of my favorite players in the NBA. His ability to take over games on both ends of the floor and the swagger with which he carried himself were always my favorite things to watch. He'd pick a guys pocket in the back court, cross him back over, then toss a ball off the backboard to a leaping Shawn Kemp, who'd bring the whole basket to it's knees. When he was in Seattle he was an electrifying defender and a trash talk king. I'm happy that he won a championship. I only wish it had been with the Sonics. Ten years ago.

Shaquille O'neal - He's never made any gripes about who he is. He's always outspoken and seemingly honest with the media. His brash personality has rubbed many the wrong way and yet, he follow through on his promises and does what he says he's going to do. He no longer cares about his statistical domination of the game. He only wants rings. I'm glad he followed through on his promise, but not for him. I'm glad for the Heat franchise. They came into the league around the same time the Wolves did and have become the first of that bunch (Miami, Orlando, Minnesota, Charlotte(New Orleans now)) to win a championship. I glad he won it for Kobe too. I know Shaquille wasn't a saint when it came to the whole debacle in Los Angeles, but it was a shame that egos were too big to keep a dynasty together. This comes from a man who hated those Laker teams, hated every player, coach, or anything that even looked like something 'Lakers.' But it's always a shame to see a dynasty fall apart before it really gets going. I'm just happy he got his fourth ring not in Los Angeles.

Alonzo Mourning - I've hated this man for many, many years. Since his days in Charlotte as a matter of fact. He's a pompous asshole who doesn't give a damn about anything but himself. And probably never will. I've never, though, doubted his ability, his drive, and his heart. He was one of there last great centers. He was a physical banger who could score. I spent much of the late 90's watching him in playoff battles - enjoyed watching him - despite my utter hatred. It was like watching Patrick Ewing as well - don't get me started on that asshole. So seeing a ring on his finger is sort of bitter sweet. He's been a warrior in the NBA and has been a very good player, not to mention the second player to come back after having a kidney transplant. Does he deserve a ring? Yes, he does. But he's still an asshole. I'll just have to live with that.

Dwyane Wade - The kid is amazing, he really is. Anyone who doubted that after last season can be quiet. Anyone who doubted him after this season can be quiet. Anyone who doubted him after the Cleveland series can be quiet now. Anyone who doubted him after the Pistons series wasn't watching. And anyone who doubts him now is just in denile. He's the only player from that 2003 draft that is better than advertised. Way better. We're not going to talk about LeBron right now. He didn't win a ring. When Wade took over, the Heat won. Nobody could've guessed this kid would be this good this early. Shut up, no you didn't - do you even know where Marquette University is?


So congrats Heat, sorry Mavs, make way for the draft bitch-es!!!

And it’s done….

The draft lottery has been won by the Toronto Raptors. They now have the pressure of making the correct pick at the top of the draft, which will determine who gets who in the top three. They’ll have to recoup their mistakes made in the past, but with Colangelo in charge, NBA nation should have faith. Of course, if I were a Raptors fan, we’d talk more about that, but I’m not. I’m a Wolves fan. So here we are again with the sixth pick in a deep draft devoid of any sure fire top picks, which bodes well for the Wolves. I think this is a draft that will yield few great players but a large number of good players, which means it should be hard to screw this one up. But then again, we’ve got Kevin McHale sinking this ship, so it’s hard to say. Of course now is not a time of negatives and bashing, but rather, a time of optimism and hope for the future.

It’s kind of weird as a Wolves fan to be in the lottery – or have a first round pick at all – what with 8 straight years of post season play and the whole Joe Smith debacle. I remember back when the team was struggling to win 30 games a season, how excited I always was this time of year. A chance to grab a great player, a superstar of the future, someone who could take my team and put them on his shoulders and carry all of us to the promised land. Then we drafted Christian Laettner, Felton Spencer, Luc Longley, and Stoiko Vrankovic. Great. Ahh, but that’s Timberwolves past. That’s old ownership, old management, and old school NBA. That was before kids coming out early was the majority, before scouting in Europe was commonplace, and before we shook hands with Joe Smith – and recorded it. We’re through all that now – sort of. We’ve gotten out of David Stern’s doghouse, we’ve got an owner who shows he’s willing to spend money – sometimes, and a GM who does know the game of basketball – atleast from a playing standpoint. But we’re not that far removed from our early history or a recent history – say 2003. We’re right in the middle – not struggling to win 30 games, but we’re not in the post season either. This is an important time for this team. Their superstar is aging – both physically and mentally, and the fans are used to Western Conference championship games – after only one year. It’s tough for Minnesota fans to remember how long it took to get over the hump of one-and-dones, and now that they’ve seen it, they are much less willing to accept anything less. It’s amazing how quickly it is, as a fan, to get used to success.

6 straight years of road playoff series, with very little chance of victory, was tough on me as a fan. I started getting frustrated watching my team get close, but not close enough. Then, in 2002 they broke through and had home court advantage. Yay!! Great! This is awesome! This is their year. Only to draw the fucking Lakers. Damn it!! They fought valiantly in the series but just couldn’t beat them – and really, who though they could? Honestly? Okay, that’s okay, they made a break though, they were a four seed and just had a bad draw, that’s fine. Then, they make a couple moves and BAM! #1 seed Western Conference! HOLY SHIT!!! They won their last 9 regular season games to gain home court through the Western Conference Finals! They rampaged Denver, even though the media gave them a hard time – 4-1 series victory doesn’t count as hard. They won their first game 7 against a great Sacramento team to reach the Western Conference Finals. FUCK YEAH! And, in six games, without their dagger throwing point guard, lost to the Lakers who eventually got embarrassed by the Detroit Pistons in the Finals. Wow, what a fun year! That was awesome! And they have it all back next season!! Wooo Whooo!

Then, as we watched the last two seasons, the wheels fell off the bus, and we’re right back where I started with this blog – sorry, I get rambling.

Anyways….

So, the 2006 NBA draft should be an interesting one for the Wolves because I believe Kevin McHale’s future depends on it. If he cannot deliver this season, his star may fully turn on him and force Glen Taylor’s hand.

They’ve got the #6 pick in the first round this year, plus three second round picks – their own, Boston’s, and Phoenix’s. Their main needs are rebounding, defense, outside shooting, and playmaking.

What they do in the draft may very well depend on what they do with their current free agents. They have 6 guys who are not under contract for this year, three of which they most likely will not retain – Richie Frahm, Ronald DuPree, Anthony Carter. Justin Reed is a restricted free agent so the Wolves can match any offer tendered by another team. They have the draft rights to Bracey Wright so he’ll probably be a D-Leaguer again this season. The important free agent this year is Marcus Banks, who’s un-restricted, meaning we cannot match any offers to keep him. The market may be over inflated for the Wolves to retain him if another team is desperate for a good point guard. I presume the Wolves will resign him unless another team throws stacks at him – ala Chauncey Billups. Of course the Wolves did give him a chance to play and showcase his skills, so he may be retained at a “home town” discount – although he’s a Vegas boy, so maybe the money will sell.

If they do not retain Marcus Banks, the Wolves will have to pursue other options at the point guard position because Marko Jaric clearly can’t hack it as a starting PG in the league. If they don’t get one via free agency (thin, thin market) or trade (Stephon Marbury unlikely) they may need to take one in the draft. That would make Marcus Williams the sixth pick in the draft, which I would be okay with. The kid is a very good leader, has played well in pressure situations, is a pass-first point guard, and has seen his stock skyrocket due to great workouts thus far. He’s been shooting lights out in those workouts, which has quelled some doubt in his ability to shoot – which has been considered his biggest flaw. Having a rookie starting point guard is not an ideal situation but New Orleans and Utah had success with theirs and Marcus is definately in the same league as Deron Williams.

If they DO resign Banks, then that leaves the door much more open for that pick. Most mock drafts have the Wolves selecting Rudy Gay with their pick, and it’s hard to argue. He’s one of the most skilled players in the draft, who can pass, score, and defend – for a college kid. Of course his character has been called into question because of the lack of effort displayed during the NCAA Tournament, but so was Rashad’s and his hasn’t been a problem at all so far. Gay is big for a 3 and is a great athlete, who’d look pretty nice next to KG and McCants.

Obviously there are tons of workouts to be held plus the draft camp in Orlando so things could change. Not to mention the early entries that have yet to sign with an agent could throw some draft boards off. A couple other guys the Wolves should look at based on their needs are Shelden Williams and J.J. Redick – shut up Duke haters.

Shelden was one of the premiere defenders and rebounders in college basketball last season and has all the tools to be a contributor right away in the NBA. His offense needs some polishing, but he could step in right away and give the Wolves a good presence in the paint. He’s played in a great system, for a great coach, for four years, so I think he’s proved he’s a player. Obviously big guys out of Duke bring back memories of Laettner and Cherokee Parks, but Elton Brand and Carlos Boozer have both become solid NBA players.

Redick is a bit more of a wild card. Most project him as a late lottery pick and a guy who will be a complimentary player for the next decade. I believe he’s better than people expect – ala Reggie Miller. He’s been the go to guy at Duke for the past three seasons, with the whole of opposing defenses keying in on him. He’s a hustle guy who knows what it’s like to play under pressure and an amazing shooter. His quick release and ability to work off of screens will allow him to adjust to the NBA game. He might be a reach at six, but trading down to get him may be an option for the Wolves.

Second round options.

We all know the second round is kind of a joke, but tell that to San Antonio and they'll show you an All-Star calibur shooting guard who terrorized defenses on a nightly basis. It's a crapshoot most years, and is to an extent this year, but not as much so as in the past. The deepness of this draft will extend into the first half of the second round, with many of those guys contributing in the next two or three years. I belive this season, the second round is worth more of a look than in the recent past. If you have watched college basketball at all over the past two or three years, there will be many familiar names in the second round. Dee Brown and James Augustine from Illinois' runner up team, Nick Fazekas from Nevada's Sweet Sixteen squad, Mike Gansey (shattered my dreams of a GT championship two years ago) from West Virginia, sharp shooting Marquette guard Steve Novak, and Big Ten player of the year Marko Killingsworth from Indiana. There will be a lot of talent available towards the top of the second round, where the Wolves have two picks(#36,#37). I'm not even going to get into guessing who they'd take, but there will be some talented players available for them.

In conclusion….

Like I said last year at this time, the Wolves are in a good place in the draft with the sixth pick. There is a plethora of talent out there and they should be able to get a good talent no matter who they end up taking. The only problem with this draft for the Wolves is that the strength in this draft is in the SG/SF positions which they are over stocked at as it is. The free agent market is not very good this offseason, especially in the departments they need help at – rebounding and post defense, so they may need to deal a couple of their guards to get into position to really make improvements. I’ll be pretty comfortable with whomever the Wolves take, as long as it isn’t some foreign player I’ve never heard of or a stretch pick specifically to fill a need. Either of the Williams kids, Gay, or Redick would fill holes on the roster and help the Wolves now and in the future.