SB Nation - Patrick O`Bryant

J.J. Redick: Seven Questions for Number Seven on the Orlando Magic

erivera7 — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:00:50 -0000

More photos » by Phelan M. Ebenhack - AP

A hard worker, a professional, a rapper.

Okay, maybe the last designation is a bit much (funny, nonetheless), but the first two labels are accurate descriptions of J.J. Redick, an individual for the Orlando Magic that has worked his tail off to be in the position that he is today.

Whether it's been on the practice court or in the weight room, Redick has paid his dues after the past couple of years. Although one looks at his fellow peers from the 2006 NBA Draft, players like Adam Morrison, Shelden Williams, Patrick O'Bryant, and a bevy of others who have struggled to receive playing time or remain in the league, J.J. has remained relevant in the NBA and has become an integral role player on a championship-caliber team. It took a while, and general manager Otis Smith prescribed patience with Redick - who was frustrated with a lack of playing time in the past - as he attempted to break into the Magic's rotation, but here he is. Helping Orlando win.

Not bad.

When looking at the statistics, one has to be impressed with how efficient J.J. has performed on offense so far this season - TS% (60.5%), eFG% (56.6%), and an Offensive Rating of 123. All career-highs and excellent numbers. Granted, it's early but it's encouraging for Redick to see the stats one figured he would be producing when he left Duke University (likewise, it seemed possible he had the potential to do so this year).

Because he is contributing on defense, diversifying his game on offense, passing the ball without turning it over, and more, J.J. has turned into an asset for the Magic. More importantly, he's gained head coach Stan Van Gundy's trust over a period of time (see the 2009 NBA Playoffs).

The following transcript is a one-on-one conversation I had with J.J. Redick after practice was over yesterday, in which I asked him seven questions on a number of topics.

Click after the jump.

You're averaging career-highs across the board, how much does that mean to you to know that the hard work you've been putting in these past few years is paying off?

It feels good to be in the rotation. I think that's the most important thing for me is playing every night, doing my job contributing, whether I play 10 minutes or 30 minutes and I think I've done that just about every game. It's been a positive. I can't get too caught up in numbers, I mean, we're 18 games into the year so I'm not really worried about that but if anything, I look at shooting percentages. I don't care about points or anything. That's going to fluctuate throughout the season, that's just depends on minutes so if I'm shooting the ball well and contributing defensively and with passing and stuff, then I feel good about my game.

Have you seen a difference in terms of how defenders are guarding you? I know that you're taking it off the dribble more this year and trying to attack the basket, have you see a change in terms of how they're trying to approach you?

It's different every night. A lot of it has to do with just other team's schemes. I mean, a lot of stuff that I'm getting now is with pick and rolls and stuff and so every team is different, some teams show, some teams zone, some teams push the ball down the baseline. We generally talk about it before the game, what that team is going to do and then I know how to attack. If I'm in the game with Vince [Carter], obviously I'm not afforded as many opportunities, but when he's out of the game, lately I've been getting a lot of pick and rolls and even some plays called for me so I just look to be really aggressive. Going in, I have a good idea, a good sense of how I'm going to play.

When you go into the game, is there a role that you're trying to fulfill? Are you trying to score, trying to defend, trying to move the ball?

I'm trying to win. *laughs*

That's the most important thing to me. I really do think that ... actually, me and my dad were having a conversation last night, he's in town, and we were talking about different guys in the league, guys I've played with in the past, guys I've played with in college. I turned to him and said, 'Dad, do you know what's the hardest thing to do in the NBA is?' and he said, 'What?' and I said, 'Win.'

You can play for a bad team, you can score and put up numbers. It's hard to be on a good team because there's not many of them that win consistently. I think that's what I'm most proud of, that's what I try to do. I look at my plus/minus every night and I want it to be in the positives. I know that Stan [Van Gundy] looks at that, too. It's not the tell-all obviously because it depends on who you're playing against and who you're out there with, but I want my unit, whether I'm playing with [Marcin Gortat] and [Jason Williams] and Ryan Anderson or whether I'm playing with Rashard [Lewis] and Vince, I want that unit to win when I'm out there.

You talk about the numbers and I know that Stan is big with that. Does he try to give, whether it's Dwight [Howard], or you, or anybody else the numbers and tell you what you've been doing, what you can improve on, and such?

Yeah, in the past, yeah, we've discussed it. Two of our biggest focuses are always rebounding and turnovers. He kind of sets goals for everybody based on turnovers per minute, rebounds per minute, a lot of it depends on how much you have the ball in your hands, how much you play, and throughout the year he brings up those numbers in team meetings and yeah, we want to reach those goals.

You talk about winning, you've dealt with injuries, illnesses, suspensions, fines, pretty much everything you can think of. How much does it say to you about the team that you're 14-4, despite all that?

Well, I like our group. I think good teams become an extension of their coach and I think we've become a resilient group. I think Stan is still pleading with us to have more focus and more energy, which I think on a nightly basis we can improve on, regardless of who's in the lineup.

You got the rap group going, you won the Iron Magic belt, how much fun are you having this year?

Yeah, it's been good. I think this is my fourth year with the team and I'm a little bit older now, I've settled down a bit, I'm more comfortable with myself, so all the other stuff is just fun but I think with the conversations I've had with Otis [Smith], Stan, and even with a lot of my Duke coaches the past couple summers, it's just about being a professional, and being a pro, and coming to work every day. It's something I've learned to do.

On the road, is there anything that you guys do aside from basketball, that you try to do as a team?

Well, I think everybody is different and I think everybody has a routine. You got to respect guys' routine. I think if anybody said 'we're having a team dinner,' there would be a mutiny. You got to respect guys' routine. I know for me, I'm a pretty low-key guy, so I order room service, sometimes I go to dinner alone. This year, I usually go to dinner with Ryan [Anderson] and J-Will, last year I went to dinner with Adonal [Foyle] if I did go with somebody.

Personally me, I wouldn't like it if we all 13 of us went out to dinner, it'd be a scene. I don't want a scene. *laughs*

I just want to go have a low-key [dinner], focus in on what I go to do the next day.

RaptorsHQ at Media Day Part II: Scrum Humbug

Raptors HQ - Vicious D — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 11:38:44 -0000

This would be the last time this area would be quiet for the rest of the day. Expect to see lots of this broadcast area for the entire season

View full size photo »

Vicious D gives us a breakdown of his first Media Day event and how sometimes the best opportunities and interesting moments come after the huge scrums...

There are times where I've been incredibly thankful for the opportunities that have been given to me thanks to the HQ. While Howland and Franchise are old hands at Media Day, this was my first time attending. Luckily for me, there were a lot of firsts for everyone this year. For one thing, the Raptors were holding the meeting at the newly revamped Gate 2 area rather than at their practice facility. It was key for several of us because it leveled the playing field somewhat because the area was untested. Often, multiple players would exit the TV interviews area and would become swarmed with the scrum. Sometimes however, you could manage to get some alone time with a major player before the media outlets would rush over.

What you've heard over the years is true. The media outlets are fairly ruthless with how they set up their questions and how they grab their sound and video bites. However, most of these outlets would also pick up the same footage as they would all move together at the same time from player to player. As a result, a lot of the same stories will appear thanks to how people choose to pick up their bites for the 6 o'clock news.

For us in the independent press however, Media Day is invaluable. We're allowed a bit more luxury to grab personnel and players we don't always have a lot of access to. For Franchise and myself, it meant that we would be looking to bring you the more personal side of the players.

For example, did you know that the best way to get photos of the players is to hide around the concession stands?

As the players started to filter in, each of them seemed drawn to the new donut stand and their tiny donuts. Reggie Evans seemed to make a bee line for the stand and picked up quite a few with Patrick O'Bryant, while Marco Belinelli ended up sharing his food with his buddy. Afterwards, it was off to taste the new hot dogs. Of course, you get to run into a meal between Chris Bosh, Jarrett Jack, and Antoine Wright. I was lucky enough to try both the hot dogs and the donuts and can say that your arteries will be just that much harder at the end of games, but both do taste great and are definitely above previous stadium fare.

I've also found out that you get the most honest and unique moments after all the big boys have gone.

For example, I managed to catch Chris Bosh for a couple questions after his scrum, just to break up the monotony about his leg.

Raptors HQ: Hey Chris, I was just wondering what your take is on the new NBA social media rules?

Chris Bosh: I haven't seen it yet.

RHQ: Oh, no?

CB: No, my friend actually was texting me last night cause he was real excited to see the new rules and everything, but, I didn't (see them yet). I'm sure I've got an email right now telling me everything.

RHQ: And one final question Chris. I was just wondering if you've played Halo ODST?

CB: I don't know what that is.

RHQ: You still haven't played it yet?

CB: Naw, I just don't know what it is.

RHQ: It's kind of like Halo, but with a squad. You don't play as Master Chief anymore.

CB: Alright... You know man... It was taking up too much of my time. I'd like play that thing for four or five hours and you don't know where the time goes. I felt like, you know, no offense to Halo, but I felt like I was gettin' stupid or somethin'.

RHQ: So, the 360 is put away for now?

CB: It's on the shelf. You know, I play it every now and then.

So it's good that Chris's demeanor seems to be very focused on this season. We've heard already about the time that he's been putting in the gym to bulk up, and how that's led to his unfortunate injury. However, it's good to see that he's taking this philosophy into his recreational life as well.

Of course, earlier in the day, Jarret Jack also mentioned something about being a PS3 guy and how he and Chris will have to find some common ground, maybe through a Wii. Jack also mentioned that he lives just above Chris Bosh in their condo, so I was lucky enough to find an opportunity to ask a pressing question from reader Jenge after Ryan McNeil from Hoops Addic t accidentally set up the question.

Raptors HQ: Hi Jarrett. Just wondering what your philosophy is on fostering chemistry on the floor as a point guard?

Jarrett Jack: Man, it's just going to come with time. We're not going to get it the first day, the second day... It might take a month or so, or however long, but I think as much as we can gel and talk to one another and find out certain things like what we do like or don't like, that will be half the battle.

Hoops Addict: You mentioned gelling. How quickly has that camaraderie with Bosh on the court come back?

JJ: It's come back. I know his game pretty well. Him being hurt a little bit, you know, kinda put him out of the drills and stuff that we were doing. But I have faith that when he gets back that we'll be able to re-live some of that old magic.

HA: Following your twitter this summer, you were in Toronto a lot, hanging out. How did it help you get used to the city having a good friend already in Toronto?

JJ: Yeah, he kinda knows my personality, so he knows the places that I wanna go and places that I really don't wanna go... So, he took me to a couple nice restaurants and he took me to a couple nice places. And we live in the same building. We live one floor above and under each other, so if I ever need some help I just go downstairs.

RHQ: So are you going to start growing out the dreads like him?

JJ: Nah, I'm not going to. That's the next order of business, which I'm going to get him to cut those off, right now! We're trying to get a petition goin' and you guys are welcome to sign.

RHQ: You trying to get him back to his first year look?

JJ: Yes, yes. I don't know about this "dreads" business...

RHQ: (laughs) Thanks Jarrett

Of course, it'll be interesting to see if Jarret makes good on his promise considering Chris's twists have gotten even longer this year.

Now one of the more interesting aspects of having such an international team and especially having such a large international presence is that the foreign Italian press was also in attendance. We were lucky enough to capture some of the opening audio from Marco Belinelli's scrum before the English media swooped in to the annoyance of the Italian reporters. I've asked one of our readers, Renato, to translate the questions so that we could get a better feel of Belinelli speaking in his native tongue and getting a more unfiltered look at one of the possible linchpins of the Raptors' offense this year.

Here were the results:

Marco Belinelli: We seem to be a nice group. We are all now waiting for training camp to see how we are as a team. Anyway, my situation here in Toronto is very good

Interviewer: It is always important to start on the right foot and you'll be encountering a top team for your first game. How do you think this first game will work out, and how do you prepare for the big first match?

MB: Let's just say that personally, at the moment, I am not really focusing on that game at all (against Cleveland). What I think is important for myself and for all of us, is to use the training camp to get ready. During training camp, the coach will take his decisions (about whether he will be a starter or not) but in any case this will be an important year.

Interviewer: Last year because of your coach, you did not have much playing time, albeit you played well when given the opportunity. When you played here in Toronto last year, you had a great game. What do you expect from that past experience in Toronto?

MB: I believe I can be important (for this team). I have had little playing time time so far in my first two years. That is why I have plenty of energy. I know that this is definitely the best place for me. The team is young, I am surrounded by many European players, and there is a good coach who has proved himself at the end of last season. So there seems to be all the right ingredients to do something meaningful.

At this point, the other reporters came in and butted straight into the interview leaving us with just these three questions. However, I think you can get a really good feeling about Belinelli's optimism for this season and just how excited he is. Renato also wanted me to point out that he's noticed that Belinelli seems more unfiltered speaking in both English and his native tongue compared to Andrea Bargnani. Whereas Bargnani is still often thinking in Italian and translating his words into English, Belinelli seems more comfortable to speak in a natural, native dialogue. It should make for a quick assimilation of Belinelli onto this Raptors squad and a big thanks to Renato for the translation assistance.

At the end of the day, my first Media Day was interesting and full of new experiences. We've got lots more content from this day coming up on the site, including some interviews with management and coaches, but for me, the interesting part about this squad is just how confident everyone seems to be. The Raptors at the end of last year seemed to be lacking hope and direction. However, at the beginning of this training camp, we're quickly seeing the emergence of a team that if nothing else, believes that they can make some noise. They understand the challenges that are awaiting them, but at the same time they also seem to be focused on overcoming those challenges.

I'll leave with a little bit of Jose Calderon, who probably explains it best.

Jose Calderon: We gotta get back to winning. I think that's the only goal I have right now. Last year, I had better numbers, individuals, but I was playing 50%, so I don't worry about that. I just worry about win, and we gotta win this year. We got a great team and everybody can play, everybody can contribute to this team, that's the more important thing. That's my goal: Back to Winning.

Polling GSoM: Should the Warriors pick up Brandan Wright's 4th year option?

Atma Brother ONE — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:47:43 -0000

One story line that has gone relatively under the radar in Dubs Land is that the Warriors have yet to pick up Brandan Wright's 4th year rookie option. The team has until October 31st to make their decision, but I"m little surprised that they haven't made a decision already. Is there really anything in training camp or the preseason that is going to change their mind? I guess you can't fault them for playing it safe, but it'd be nice to send a clear message roughly a month before the season that a) they have faith in him or b) he better make big improvements in his game or he should start packing his bags like Patrick O'Bryant.

Ain't nuthin wrong with a little Funleavy Foto Fun!

Jump for more of the Wright stuff...

Over at NBA.com John Schuhmann takes a look at some names from the 2007 NBA Draft who are running out of time to develop and Wright unsurprisingly made the list:

It wasn't too hard to see this coming. As a freshman with length and athleticism, but one who was inconsistent and not nearly the best player on his college team, Wright was drafted for potential. Two years later, it has yet to be realized. Worse yet, we've seen the same things at Golden State that we saw at North Carolina.

Injuries were an issue last season, but so were inconsistency and the whims of Warriors coach Don Nelson. Of course, the Warriors also have a slew of players that do the same things that Wright can do, only better -- such as rising second-year forward Anthony Randolph.

It's very possible that the Warriors won't pick up Wright's fourth-year option by Oct. 31, making him an unrestricted free agent next summer. A change of scenery might not be a bad solution for the forward who doesn't turn 22 for another two months.

Earlier this offseason we discussed this in Brandan Wright and Marco Belinelli: To Renew or Not to Renew. The Warriors obviously didn't renew Marco Belinelli, instead electing to ship him out the country, so that's a non-issue.

One down, one to go?

Here's my unchanged thoughts on Wright and the renewal:

Brandan Wright: Picking up Wright's 4th year option seems like a no-brainer to me. He is an extremely talented, big man with Inspector Gadget like wingspan. He's still only 21 too, so I doubt we've seen his peak. Current Warrior double-double machine Andris Biedrins was a complete disaster his first 2 seasons in the league. Wright has been bad, but not nearly as bad as Biedrins was and Biedrins definitely blossomed. Wright is far more naturally hoops talented and physically gifted than Biedrins, so maybe there's hope for Wright too in year 3 and beyond.

Wright has shown very little of the right stuff in his first 2 seasons.

via i.cdn.turner.com

Reality is the problem though. Wright has been injury-prone, absolutely lost on defense, and has shown less fire than a cigarette lighter. There are some huge physical red flags: he's a 6'9 "big man" who still weighs about 20 pounds less than the shooting guard the Warriors foolishly traded him for and his body looks very, very brittle. Additionally, there are some huge mental red flags: he doesn't seem all that prepared or cognizant of what the Dubs are trying to run on offense and his man-to-man defensive instincts and positioning are very, very poor.

As an aside, I must admit I do feel bad for him. All signs and indications point to the Warriors never really wanting Wright. He was (most likely) a mistaken selection for the Minnesota Timberwolves (way to work the phones Chris Mullin). Then he was (most likely) part of a failed attempt to land Kevin Garnett, before old green buddies Danny Ainge and Kevin McHale decided collusion was the best way to hook up their alma matter with another banner. Just recently Wright was part of a failed attempt to land Amare Stoudemire. Since day 1 the Warriors have been trying to ship off Wright. I don't doubt for a second that this has dramatically hurt his psyche.

I'd say: Pick up for year 4.

Brandan Wright: To Renew or Not to Renew? That is the question.

Poll

Should the Warriors pick up Brandan Wright's 4th year option?

YES: Like Redman said "Pick it up! Pick it up!"

731 votes

NO: It's not the Wright move.

217 votes

948 votes | Poll has closed

Warriors (seem like they're) down to Arizona PF Jordan Hill and Davidson PG/SG Stephen Curry

Atma Brother ONE — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:15:22 -0000

The pre-draft mania continued yesterday with Larry Riley and Don Nelson's media session. Nellie has quite the intriguing draft record, so you've got to be naturally excited about Draft Day 2009. Chris Mullin won't be getting in their way with his seemingly endless affection for raw, skinny big man (ahem Patrick O'Bryant, Kosta Perovic, Brandan Wright, and Anthony Randolph). Riley has said he'd like some beef as well. So what does this all mean? Quite possibly Arizona power forward Jordan "Shake 'Dem Dreads" Hill.

Riley and Nellie talk to the media. [via cache.daylife.com]

J-U-M-P for the L-I-N-K-S.

Marcus Thompson's got the info:

Riley, in a session with the local media Monday, said the Warriors are likely to draft either a point guard or a power forward, with the discussion centering mostly on Davidson guard Stephen Curry and Arizona big man Jordan Hill. A selection at either position would create interesting roster decisions this offseason and, if a point guard is drafted, perhaps the need for some smoothing over with guard Monta Ellis.

Who would've thought that in a draft supposedly loaded with point guards and weak in power forwards aside from the Clips new big man, the Warriors would be seemingly fixated on a power forward? BPA always though, but again I ask: Is Hill the best player available? Better than my fav and your fav Brandon Jennings?

Part of me thinks the Riley and Nellie are just messing with the New York Knicks front office and trying to make them sweat with all the Curry vibes. Donnie Walsh and Mike D'Antoni seem to be enamored with Curry and he's also friends with a certain Muppet, which is critical for the summer of 2010. I wouldn't mind some Curry Nights at the Roaracle next season though. Even though they're already "Partying Like It's 2010" our friends over at Posting and Toasting can you tell you all you'd ever want to know about the enigma that is the NYK.

We shall see soon enough...

The linkage:

Warriors might select a power forward [Bay Area News Group]
Warriors G.M. Riley will need thick skin [Mercury]
Riley and Nelson talk Warriors: On the Monta Ellis visit, the point guard issue, and Jordan Hill [Talking Points]
Warriors not afraid of a little competition after draft [Bay Area News Group]
Hill the guy - if Warriors pass on point guard [SFGate]
Warriors GM Riley can't win in draft [SFGate]

Draft Central over at Warriors.com has a Tim Roye interview clip with Riley that's worth checking out too.

Also don't sleep on the ongoing Ball Don't Lie 2009 NBA Mock Draft. You should recognize the pick and words: BDL 2009 NBA Mock Draft: Pick No. 7, Warriors

			FG			3PT			FT			Rebounds			Misc
	G	M	M	A	Pct	M	A	Pct	M	A	Pct	Off	Def	Tot	Ast	TO	Stl	Blk	PF	PPG
2008 - Jordan Hill	34	35.7	7.4	13.8	53.7	0.0	0.0	0.0	3.4	5.3	65.4	4.2	6.8	11.0	1.5	2.9	0.9	1.7	3.0	18.3

			FG			3PT			FT			Rebounds			Misc
	G	M	M	A	Pct	M	A	Pct	M	A	Pct	Off	Def	Tot	Ast	TO	Stl	Blk	PF	PPG
2008 - Stephen Curry	33	33.6	9.1	20.0	45.6	3.8	9.9	38.7	6.7	7.6	87.6	0.6	3.7	4.3	5.6	3.6	2.5	0.2	2.3	28.7

Poll

If both college stars are available for the Warriors at the #7 pick who would you prefer?

Arizona PF Jordan Hill

544 votes

Davidson PG/SG Stephen Curry

595 votes

1139 votes | Poll has closed

Warriors (seem like they're) down to Jrue Holiday, Jonny Flynn, Brandon Jennings, Terrence Williams, and Tyreke Evans

Atma Brother ONE — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 17:43:21 -0000

Have the Warriors narrowed down their 2009 Draft selection to a Fab 5?

Excellent book by the way. [via mitchalbom.com]

Jump for the details.

From Chad Ford's excellent Mock Draft v4.0 on ESPN:

Analysis: The Warriors don't have a traditional point guard and while Don Nelson would prefer a veteran I think it will be hard for them to pass on Jrue Holiday if he's still on the board. Holiday isn't nearly as polished as Flynn, but he gives them some much-needed size and defense in the backcourt next to Monta Ellis. I also expect that the Warriors will take a long look at Brandon Jennings here. But his lack of size hurts him a bit.

And while were at it, I'm hearing significant buzz that Louisville's Terrence Williams is also high on the board at Golden State. Seven seems too high, but don't be surprised if the Warriors are willing to do a swap to get him.

Tim Kawakami thinks it's down to 3 players [Talking Points]:

I’d say, all outside issues being equal, Holiday and Memphis’ Tyreke Evans and Louisville’s Terrence Williams are the most likely options for the Warriors at 7, given their needs and Don Nelson’s interests.

There's that little workout scheduling quirk that Tim describes which makes you wonder about the interest in Holiday. But who really knows if that means anything come draft day. The Warriors worked out Patrick O'Bryant right before the 2006 NBA Draft (turned out great didn't it?). They also never brought Brandan Wright in for a workout and they were willing to expedite the destruction of WE BELIEVE to make that trade for him.

Any of these 5 interest you?

Poll

Who interests you the most out of this 5?

Jrue Holiday

217 votes

Jonny Flynn

187 votes

Brandon Jennings

433 votes

Terrence Williams

69 votes

Tyreke Evans

246 votes

None of them do much for me right now

132 votes

1284 votes | Poll has closed

Polling GSoM: Do You Still Believe?

R Dizzle — Wed, 27 May 2009 18:14:46 -0000

This is straight up sad...

Warriors "We Believe" fan no longer believes [Mercury News]

As if things couldn't get more shady for this organization, now even one of the most hardcore fans is finding his way out. Yes, the famous Paul Wong (didn't he do a song with Nelly?) is done with the Warriors. Just a few tidbits from the article,

Wong says he barely broke even on We Believe, and the Warriors had no interest in teaming up for 2007-08. He also says, though, that the Warriors promised not to use the slogan but went ahead anyway. He asked for some reimbursement; failing that, he wanted a thank-you from team president Robert Rowell, who sat a few feet away from where Wong paid $5,800 for two season tickets.

No thank-you came. To top it off, Wong said, the Warriors told him he would be the fan of the night at the season finale in April 2008, then switched to another fan with no notice.

Great Public Relations by the Warriors as always.

Jump for some more thoughts...

Yes, I do agree that this is a weird time for this article to be surfacing the scandal involving Raymond Ridder posting on many blogs, but this is still important. Paul Wong was the HEART of "We Believe" and the fact that this man didn't get the credit or respect he deserved from the organization is straight up shady.

He also says, though, that the Warriors promised not to use the slogan but went ahead anyway.

They promised not to use the slogan again? I'm pretty sure those two words ran rampant amongst the Roaracle, the fans, T-Shirts, and the national media. True GSW fans give the man credit, but I bet if we go ask Charles Barkely where it started, he wouldn't have a clue.

To be honest, if he's about to give up...I'm having second thoughts on it all myself.

Just to continue on with some reading...

So what's it going to be?

Poll

Do You Still Believe?

We Still Believe!

291 votes

We Believe is Dead

648 votes

939 votes | Poll has closed

Open Thread II: 2009 NBA Draft Lottery- Welcome to the 2009 Playoffs Warriors fans!

Atma Brother ONE — Tue, 19 May 2009 07:15:10 -0000

UPDATE (4:06 pm): Originally posted on May 19, 2009 12:15 AM PDT. Bumped up for the big show, but you better believe it's going back down if the Warriors fall to #10. Whether the Warriors land the #1 pick or slip 3 spots- remember GSoM is a family show!

----------------

How's this for dedication? We had an open thread up for today's big event TWO whole months in advance!

It's playoff time in the Bay! It's time for our annual installment of the NBA Lottery.

Photo: Warriors.com

After the jump a look at the 7 different possible scenarios for the Warriors this afternoon and how they've worked out the past 10 years for the teams drafting in those respective slots.

Odds via Wikipedia

#1 PICK (4.3% chance): A dream come true.

Hey you know GSoM did win the 2009 NBA Blogger Draft lottery, so maybe our luck will continue. Blake Griffin is the consensus #1 overall pick and I doubt the Warriors deviate from the norm here. Griffin would be a god-send and looks like a real deal franchise player.

Here's the last 10 #1 overall picks:

2008: Derrick Rose (Chicago Bulls)
2007: Greg Oden (Portland TrailBlazers)
2006: Andrea Bargnani (Toronto Raptors)
2005: Andrew Bogut (Milwaukee Bucks)
2004: Dwight Howard (Orlando Magic)
2003: LeBron James (Cleveland Cavaliers)
2002: Yao Ming (Houston Rockets)
2001: Kwame Brown (Washington Wizards)- BUST
2000: Kenyon Martin (New Jersey Nets)
1999: Elton Brand (Chicago Bulls)

#2 PICK (4.9% chance): So close, but not close enough.

The pundits seem to be picking Ricky Rubio to go #2, but is he really that much better than the next point guard on the board Brandon Jennings who is "mocked" to go as low as 7? I don't know.

#2's since 1999:

2008: Michael Beasley (Miami Heat)
2007: Kevin Durant (Seattle SuperSonics)
2006: LaMarcus Aldridge (Chicago Bulls)
2005: Marvin Williams (Atlanta Hawks)
2004: Emeka Okafor (Charlotte Bobcats)
2003: Darko Miicic (Detroit Pistons)- BUST
2002: Jay Williams (Chicago Bulls)- BUST
2001: Tyson Chandler (LA Clippers)
2000: Stromile Swift (Vancouver Grizzlies)- BUST
1999: Steve Francis (Vancouver Grizzlies)

#3 PICK (5.8% chance): In any other year this would be a real blessing.

But this year? Not too exciting, but who knows?

2008: O.J. Mayo (Minnesota Timberwolves)

2007: Al Horford (Atlanta Hawks)

2006: Adam Morrison (Charlotte Bobcats)- BUST

2005: Deron WIlliams (Utah Jazz)

2004: Ben Gordon (Chicago Bulls)

2003: Carmelo Anthony (Denver Nuggets)

2002: Mike Dunleavy (Golden State Warriors)- BUST

2001: Pau Gasol (Vancouver Grizzlies)

2000: Darius Miles (LA Clippers)- BUST

1999: Baron Davis (Charlotte Hornets)

#7 PICK (60.0% chance): We tanked it for this one.

Thanks to that marvelous extra tanking by Nellie and crew this is where the Warriors are currently slotted. If the Warriors don't move up to one of the top 3 spots and none of the teams below them move up they'll be drafting here.

Just for reference here are the last 10 players drafted at the #7 spot:

2008: Eric Gordon (LA Clippers)
2007: Corey Brewer (Minnesota Timberwolves)
2006: Randy Foye (Minnesota Timberwolves)- BUST
2005: Charlie Villanueva (Toronto Raptors)
2004: Luol Deng (Phoenix Suns)
2003: Kirk Hinrich (Chicago Bulls)
2002: Nene Hilario (Denver Nuggets)
2001: Eddie Griffin (New Jersey Nets)- BUST
2000: Chris Mihm (Chicago Bulls)- BUST
1999: Richard Hamilton (Washington Wizards)

#8 PICK (23.2% chance): Moving down...

2008: Joe Alexander (Milwaukee Bucks)

2007: Brandan Wright (Charlotte Bobcats)

2006: Rudy Gay (Houston Rockets)

2005: Channing Frye (New York Knicks)

2004: Rafael Araujo (Toronto Raptors)- BUST

2003: T.J. Ford (Milwaukee Bucks)

2002: Chris WIlcox (LA Clippers)

2001: DeSagana Diop (Cleveland Cavaliers)

2000: Jamal Crawford (Cleveland Cavaliers)

1999: Andre Miller (Cleveland Cavaliers)

#9 PICK (1.8% chance): 2 teams leap-frogged the Warriors.

2008: D.J. Augustin (Charlotte Bobcats)

2007: Joakim Noah (Chicago Bulls)

2006: Patrick O'Bryant (Golden State Warriors)- BUST

2005: Ike Diogu (Golden State Warriors)- BUST

2004: Andre Iguodala (Philadelphia 76ers)

2003: Michael Sweetney (New York Knicks)- BUST

2002: Amare Stoudemire (Phoenix Suns)

2001: Rodney White (Detroit Pistons)- BUST

2000: Joel Przybilla (Houston Rockets)

1999: Shawn Marion (Phoenix Suns)

#10 PICK (less than 0.01% chance): God is not a Warriors fan

This would mean THREE teams with better records this past season and consequently worse lottery odds for a top 3 pick moved up ahead of the Warriors. This would mean the 2009 NBA Draft Lottery went something like this: 1) New York Knicks, 2) Phoenix Suns, and 3) Charlotte Bobcats. Looks funny huh?

Here's the last 10 #10 picks:

2008: Brook Lopez (New Jersey Nets)

2007: Spencer Hawes (Sacramento Kings)

2006: Mouhamed Sene (Seattle SuperSonics)- BUST

2005: Andrew Bynum (LA Lakers)

2004: Luke Jackson (Cleveland Cavaliers)- BUST

2003: Jarvis Hayes (Washington Wizards)

2002: Caron Butler (Miami Heat)

2001: Joe Johnson (Boston Celtics)

2000: Kenyon Dooling (Orlando Magic)- BUST

1999: Jason Terry (Atlanta Hawks)

On a side note, it's too bad the Golden State Warriors unlike the NY Times didn't pay attention to Polling GSoM. We wanted Thunder to rep the Dubs in Secaucus, NJ, but it looks like new GM Larry Riley will be manning the ship. I would've loved to see Thunder, but I wish Riley the best.

Still...

It's PLAYOFF TIME in the Bay!

Poll

Where will the Golden State Warriors be drafting in the 2009 NBA Draft?

#7- They'll stay in the same spot

195 votes

#1- Hello Blake Griffin!

166 votes

#2- Ricky Rubio?

132 votes

#3- They'll move up 4 spots for the right to overpay someone

67 votes

#8- The Bricks, Craptors, Bucked, Net Loss, BETcats, Posers, or Sunny Delight will move up to the top 3

49 votes

#9- Ike Diogu, Patrick O'Bryant, and ??? (2 teams with better records than the Warriors will move up)

20 votes

#10- "Unstoppable Baby!" (THREE teams with better records than the Warriors will move up)

69 votes

698 votes | Poll has closed

Q&A: Ridiculous Upside (Part 2 of 3)

Atma Brother ONE — Wed, 13 May 2009 06:15:10 -0000

If you thought we were ridiculous in Part 1 wait till you see what we've got here.

Atma Brother #1 (Golden State of Mind): In relative terms how good are the teams in the NBDL? Where would they finish in the NCAA tourney?

Ridiculous Scott (Ridiculous Upside): North Carolina was pretty good this season, and I'm not sure the best D-League team could beat them. Not in terms of talent, as there were more talented teams, but it's difficult to get any sort of roster continuity in the D-League, as they only carry 10 players, and thus, if a player isn't doing what he's supposed to be doing, he's going to get cut (this includes injuries as well). If a D-League team was together for three seasons, they'd be head and shoulders above any NCAA Team. The Colorado 14ers, this season's D-League champions, started Josh Davis (52 NBA games), Eddie Gill (187 NBA games) and Billy Thomas (53 NBA games), bringing John Lucas (60 NBA games) and Nuggets Rookie Sonny Weems off the bench. In January, Sean Williams (Nets) and Cheikh Samb were also assigned to Colorado. I would have no qualms taking them all the way in my bracket, though that doesn't mean much, as my wallet would tell you after this seasons Madness that happened in March.

Atma Brother #1 (Golden State of Mind): In your estimation is it better to send a young player who is riding the pine in the Big Leagues (ahem, Patrick O'Bryant) down to the Minors for "development" or keep him practicing with his NBA team? What can young NBA players gain from playing in the NBDL that they can't from practicing with their respective teams?

Ridiculous Scott (Ridiculous Upside): In my opinion, I'd prefer players to play in the D-League rather than riding the pine, and not just so the millions of GSoMer's start to read RU. Getting in NBA practices is great, but toward mid-season, NBA teams aren't regularly practicing, leading to the bench warmers basically turning into donut getters. In the D-League, players can gain confidence and, more importantly, real live playing time. Guys can learn a lot in practice, but executing in game situations is a whole 'nother ball game.

Atma Brother #1 (Golden State of Mind): Which D-League players in particular should NBA junkies be following closely? Who are we foolishly sleeping on right now? More specifically the biggest weaknesses on the 2008-2009 Golden State Warriors were passing and defense. Are there any hidden gems in the NBDL that can help the Dubs out in these areas?

Ridiculous Scott (Ridiculous Upside): Actually, the Warriors apparently nearly called-up Othyus Jeffers, who was, in our opinion, the best defensive player in the D-League this season (number 4 here). Other great defenders include, at the SF, Brent Petway (probably best remembered for winning the NCAA dunk contest), F/C Kurt Looby (rookie out of Iowa that averaged 2.5 blocks in 25 minutes per game), SF Renaldo Major (former GSW call-up) and PG Dontell Jefferson, if he isn't re-signed by Charlotte. As far as passing, options include Walker Russell or Jared Jordan. Both are short point guards, which I've learned you guys aren't interested in judging from the comments on my mock draft, but that's about all the D-League has to offer in terms of pure point guards.

**********

Can you believe we still have some more ridiculous in the pipeline? Don't forget to stop on by Ridiculous Upside for all your 2k9 NBA Draft needs.

Poll

Would Patrick O'Bryant be a much better player if the Warriors didn't send him down the D-League several times?

YES: The Notorious P.O.B. would be a much better player if he wasn't sent down

65 votes

NO: He's a bust, moving on...

365 votes

430 votes | Poll has closed

Polling GSoM: Who should represent the Golden State Warriors at the 2009 NBA Lottery?

Atma Brother ONE — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 09:15:08 -0000

Chris Cohan's Golden State Warriors version of the NBA Playoffs is coming up on May 19th. (That would be the NBA Lottery for all your bandwagoners playing along at home.) Thanks to our friends at Welcome to Loud City we understand the lottery system. So now we turn our attention to one simple, but incredibly important question: Who should rep WE SUCK at this fine event celebrating well... suck-ness?

Wallpapers @ Blogging with Tony.psd

A case for each of these candidates to rep The Suck after the jump. Don't forget to vote!

Chris Cohan: The man Dubs Nation booed at the 2000 NBA All-Star game should suck it up and represent the organization he has led with such uncanny levels of incompetence for a decade and a half front and center. Cohan- show people you actually care about the team you sued your way into owning for a change.

Robert Rowell: Rowell's not exactly a fan or local media favorite. If he flashes a friendly smile out of nowhere and the Dubs luck out with a top 3 pick, he could win a lot of points based on shock value alone. Honestly, Rowell's got nothing to lose by representing the Warriors and everything to win.

Cohan and Rowell: Panelists at the Making Millions of Suck Series

Chris Mullin: Just like his promotion to VP back in 2004, it would be a nice publicity stunt as he exits stage NY.

Even Mullin thinks the back-to-back lottery busts
of Ike Diogu and Patrick O'Bryant are hilarious!

Don Nelson: Yes, he's quite the drama queen as even the biggest Nellie apologists have to admit, but there's no denying that this old man knows his hoops. If there's anyone to believe in and restore fan confidence, it's this eccentric hoops legend who has resurrected the Dallas Mavericks pretty much out of nowhere and the Golden State Warriors not once, but twice. He has the interesting distinction of being the only head coach to take Cohan to the playoffs in two different decades. (Haha I can't even type that with a straight face.) Good luck getting Nellie to leave his poker game with Willie Nelson in Maui for Secaucus, New Jersey though.

Nellie spies lotto balls!

Larry Riley: He's heavily rumored to be Mullin's replacement in the front office. If so, this would be fitting introduction to Warriors fans and the NBA world.

Let's hope Riley can scout and fine some hoops stars even in the boondocks.

Stephen Silas: How can we forget when he balled up fools on Family Matters alongside Eddie Winslow?

Jamal Crawford: It would be an entertaining way for JC to announce that he isn't opting out of the remaining 2 years $20 million on his contract, much to Nellie's and many silly and confused Warriors fans' (!) dismay. Maybe Jamal can somehow work in that funky behind the back crossover dribble too. Can't get enough of that!

Can't wait to see JC drop 50 again!

Anthony Randolph: Given his terrible body language, weird sense of entitlement to unearned minutes as the last pick of the lottery, cheapshot at everyone's favorite 12th man Rob Kurz in practice, and the entire coaching staff's criticisms about his attitude and work ethic earlier in the season, I had some serious doubts about AR's future both on the Warriors and in this league. However, Rudolph finished off the season leaving every Warriors fan and many hoops junkies wanting more. If there was a bright spot to this sorry season AR was it. He's the #1 reason to look forward to 2009-2010 GSW hoops.

Like Archie Bunker and crew- Nellie and Rudolph keep it All in the Family.

Can you feel the love?

Rob Kurz: Everyone's favorite 12th man! (Apologies to Adonal Foyle.)

Almost as good as Kosta's Zero Threat Position!

Jason Richardson/ Baron Davis: (ducks and hides for cover) Just to see how many entertaining comments I can get by bringing up the BoomRich backcourt. My goodness- is there any other team in the league dumb enough to prematurely break up this duo and the rest of that We Believe 2007 PLAYOFF team, just so they can build around an undersized center and 2-guard with extremely limited upside and the complete inability to guard their counterparts mano y mano?

The golden life was the high life.

Kelenna Azubuike: If Kaz flexes those biceps, do you really think they're going to deny him that top pick?

Corey Maggette: See Kelenna.

Andris Biedrins: He might be the most popular Warrior player right now. Biedrins can do no wrong in many Warriors fans' eyes. It's almost at that annoying Dunleavy-esque level circa 2004-2006, except at least Biedrins has some game, albeit an unpretty one. Just like when the Warriors lose in real games on the hardwood- if they end up being big time losers on super lotto day, the majority of Warriors fans will go absolutely nuts if even the slightest blame is directed his way. It's a win-win situation for the Dubs.

How does a guy who lead the team in rodmans by a WIDE margin have the worst season +/-? It's his teammates and the coach right? Riiiiight.

Ronny Turiaf: He would easily have the best celebration dance if the Dubs defied the odds and moved up. Shoot, he'd probably have a fun dance even if the Warriors moved down from the 7th spot.

Another funky dance that few can comprehend.

Monta Ellis: MopedGate was the #1 reason the 2008-2009 Golden State Warriors were an eyesore. Make the "franchise player" suck it up and show up for the lottery festivities and the fans. Along with Jack and Maggette, he sure didn't do that for the final home game of this past season.

Let's hope the moped was at least X-treme!

Stephen Jackson: In terms of roster personnel what the Warriors need right now is some serious turnover. As he proved this season, there's no better man to help the Warriors do that than Jack.

Even with 3.9 turnovers a game, Jack is still one bad mofo.

Franco Finn: My man Franco brings the HYPE!

Thunder: Bring our muscled super hero back! Inflatable Thunder too!

I know you can hear us man. It's time for a comeback like New Edition!

Who should represent the Golden State Warriors at the 2009 NBA Lottery?

Poll

Who should represent the Golden State Warriors at the 2009 NBA Lottery?

Chris Cohan

21 votes

Robert Rowell

22 votes

Chis Mullin

126 votes

Don Nelson

76 votes

Larry Riley

14 votes

Stephen Silas

14 votes

Jamal Crawford

10 votes

Anthony Randolph

106 votes

Rob Kurz

46 votes

Jason Richardson/ Baron Davis

113 votes

Kelenna Azubuike

27 votes

Corey Maggette

3 votes

Andris Biedrins

36 votes

Monta Ellis

50 votes

Stephen Jackson

100 votes

Franco Finn

42 votes

Thunder

199 votes

Ronny Turiaf

97 votes

1102 votes | Poll has closed

1 Ring + 19 Straight + More Rings Coming- What Could Have Been in The Town

Atma Brother ONE — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 19:06:44 -0000

As the Boston Celtics and the Boston Three Party ride into the venue formerly known as the Roaracle tonight, I can't help but ponder- What could have been in the town.

What am I talking about? Kevin Garnett to the Warriors of course.

We Believe 2.0 would've been fresh!

Jump like KG swatting a soft Patrick O'Bryant layup in Celtics' practice last week!

A LINK Back:

KG Loves India?! We Love KG!!: The GSoM Crew would've happily taken KG out to one of the finest Indian restaurants the Bay has to offer (Kabab & Curry's, Pakwan, Shalimar, Udupi Palace, and Saravana Bhavan) if he was on the Dubs! It's on us man.
The Bloggers' Bidding War for Kevin Garnett: Bring KG to the Bay!: KG for Al Harrington, Adonal Foyle, and Patrick O'Bryant? Naw we would have been giving up too much. Just kidding, but we would have been dealing with Kevin McHale you know.
Help Kevin Garnett Find the Warriors: It's funny how little credit we all gave Celtics' alumni and current assistant GM McHale.
Rumor: Kevin Garnett Interested in the Warriors: The interest was mutual my friend.
Rumor: Kevin Garnett Wants to Play with Baron Davis and for the Warriors: I have to admit if KG and BD were on the Warriors on '07, Robert Rowell would have probably let them go for nothing. So no loss right? It saved us from plenty of misery.
Jim Gray Says Warriors in the KG Talks: At least the Warriors were in the talks? (Warriors fans have incredibly low standards.)
Rumor: KG almost a Warrior on Draft Night: A very, very painful read and link indeed. Wildly entertaining though.
WHAT IF... Kevin Garnett joined Golden State?: Seriously, WHAT IF?
Rumor: At least 4 teams had better offers for KG: Credit T-Wolves headman McHale though. Not only is he employed as the Minny GM, but he does some "consulting" for his alma matter Celtics on the side.
Rumor: Warriors Offered Al Harrington, Andris Biedrins, Monta Ellis + #18 Pick for KG: Seems to trump the Al Jefferson package the Timberwolves got at the end of the day in my book. If you're part of Warriors Nation you have to do that deal. A below average starting forward who's a great guy and intregral piece of the We Believe run, but pouted his way out of here, an extremely limited, undersized big man who can't guard a single 4 or 5 mano y mano, Where Skipping Half a Season to Ride a Moped Happens, and what ended up being the pick for Marco "no shot selection, defense, or hoops IQ" Belinelli? You got it!
Q&A: Henry Abbott of ESPN TrueHoop:
"Much more importantly ... did the Warriors even want Brandan Wright? Agents and various NBA insiders refuse to believe that's so. There are a million theories -- he was supposed to go to Minnesota for Kevin Garnett, Milwaukee for Yi Jianlian, anywhere for anyone -- but no one talking to me seems to think this is really the guy the Warriors wanted."
Well we know Nellie didn't/ doesn't want him.
Q&A: Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress on Brandan Wright: On the J-Rich for Brandan Wright trade:
Skill-wise, there really aren't that many question marks about Wright. He has all-star potential for sure. The question about him is mentally, whether he has the heart and especially the drive to reach his potential. Not quite as bad, but similar to the question marks people had about Patrick O'Bryant. About whether or not this was a good deal for the Warriors...I personally don't. There's a lot to be said for financial flexibility, and the luxury tax, and all that jazz, but from a talent standpoint, the Warriors took a huge step backwards, which makes very little sense to me considering last year's success, and Baron Davis' age, etc.
Q&A: Jeff Clark from CelticsBlog.com | Q&A: Jim from Green Bandwagon: Most Celtics/ Boston fans come across as entitled whiners, but Jeff and Jim are beyond classy. The Celts' recent success couldn't have happened to two nicer guys. Two of the best in the blogging business have formed like Voltron to bring you CelticsBlog on SBNation.
Offseason Q&A: Tim Kawakami (San Jose Mercury) Part 3 of 4: The beauty of KG on the Dubs revisited.

This limited edition comic is going for over $21k on eBay!

What would life have been last season and this incredibly difficult one with one of these lineups I dreamed up over a year ago?

So let's say the Warriors were able to nab KG without dealing JRich to the BETcats for another project (not that this was ever even possible, but we're playing "what if's" here). We'd be looking at:

PG: Baron Davis
SG: Jason Richardson
SF: Stephen Jackson
PF: Kevin Garnett
C: Chris Webber? Haha, well let's not go there.

Bench: Kelenna Azubuike, Matt Barnes, Mickael Pietrus, Gary Payton?, and possibly a few other vets looking to win a ring without having to live in the frigid Boston

Or maybe crazy old Nellie (I mean that in a good way) would go small with:

PG: Baron Davis
SG: Kelenna Azubuike
SF: Jason Richardson
PF: Stephen Jackson
C: Kevin Garnett

I like what I see... or at least what I'm dreaming.

Keep those dreams alive my golden people. Some day it'll be all good. Chris Cohan will finally sell the team to an individual or investment syndicate that genuinely cares about winning and has pride in the product they put out nightly. Robert Rowell's unprofessionalism, lack of credibility, and poor qualifications will be replaced by a classy, brilliant front office executive. Chris Mullin will be swapped out with a GM that has actually earned their stripes instead of lucking into a job thanks to a publicity stunt, has some grasp of the NBA's salary cap, and knows what they are doing. And The Don himself Don Nelson will be racking up 3 straight rings setting up the foundation for the next great hoops dynasty as he rides of into the Maui sunset.

We Believe it will happen... some day.

Poll

Do you wish the Warriors were able to trade Al Harrington, Andris Biedrins, Monta Ellis + #18 Pick (Marco Belinelli) for Kevin Garnett?

Yes- KG to the Bay! Roracle, playoffs, trophies, and rings because We Believe!

240 votes

No- I can stomach the current losing and think this young core is championship caliber.

342 votes

582 votes | Poll has closed