SB Nation - Austin Croshere

IC Cold Links: Nets Present Challenge As Pacers Strive For Something Positive To Grasp Onto

Tom Lewis — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 11:00:16 -0000

The Indiana Pacers face the New Jersey Nets tonight at Conseco Fieldhouse which makes one wonder just when the Pacers will win again.

Tonight?

Won't be easy. Sure the Nets are 2-20 and the Pacers already beat them in New Jersey, but both teams arrive at tonight's game in vastly different situations. The Pacers are without Danny Granger and in a team-wide shooting slump that is simply puzzling. On his radio show last night, Jim O'Brien made the point that at the law of averages will kick in at some time and shots will begin falling. No better time than the present.

JOB also raised a point about the lack of practice time for so many players. Yesterday, as has been the norm, Mike Dunleavy, Tyler Hansbrough and Jeff Foster didn't practice. He didn't bring it up as an excuse, he was responding to a caller who thought the players were looked tired at the end of games. JOB responded that he's never had a team that he's practiced less than this group so they shouldn't be tired. First thought: That's a problem.

The team is trying to work through problems but doesn't have key players available to take reps. He mentioned the team working on special situations yesterday and that Hansbrough had to watch instead of taking part fully. Just another reason why it's easy to point fingers of blame but in reality there are myriad issues of varying levels involved in the Pacers struggles right now.

As for the Nets, they're trending the other way with the return of Devin Harris and Courtney Lee to the lineup. The Pacers had their hands full with Chris Douglas-Roberts and Brook Lopez in the last meeting, so remember that tonight's game will be a bear. Harris was a nightmare for the Pacers last year and I expect that will be the case again.

After the jump a few links of interest including some great radio interviews, A.J. Price earning some time and Danny Granger trying to take his time to make sure he returns healthy and ready to play full throttle.

PACERS: Pacers-Nets preview
Bruno's scouting report reminds us that the lowly Nets aren't the same team the Pacers beat in New Jersey earlier in the season.
Coach Dakich had some extra-sweet hoops talk on his radio show yesterday. First, all hoop fans will enjoy his chat with Sam Perkins (audio link) as he and Big Smoov discuss some great Bob Knight stories and Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame speech. Later in the day, the Mighty One, Mike Wells dropped by the studio (audio link) for an extended discussion of the Pacers' current woes. Miss a little, miss a lot!
Granger disappointed but upbeat
Bruno checks in with Danny Granger with rehab in full swing.
Pacers' Price to get more time
Mike Wells reports on A.J. Price taking advantage of his playing opportunity and quickly earning the trust of Jim O'Brien. "I'm going to find a way to get A.J. some minutes every game just because I think he's going to be a very good player and I think he's going to be a very good player quickly," coach Jim O'Brien said Thursday. "If that means I'm going to have to give some looks occasionally at a three-man rotation at the point, then I'll do it. But I think it's important I grow A.J."
Granger: Comeback ‘going to be hard’
Mike Wells reports on Danny Granger trying to stay patient so he can rehab his injury back to full health.
The Pacers launched a pretty cool campaign yesterday, allowing fans to submit a nomination for people they know who would benefit from a pair of free tickets to either the December 26th game against Atlanta or the December 30th game against Memphis. They're looking to reward Indiana residents who are in need yet continue to make an impact in their community.
Distributing Granger's shots
Andrew Perna takes a look at where the Pacers will find their offense without Danny Granger taking the bulk of the shots.
On the Beat: Hansbrough Adjusting to NBA
John Perrotto checks on on Tyler Hansbrough finding his way in the NBA.
Pacers Crate: Austin Croshere joins the boys
The latest episode of Pacers crate includes Austin Croshere in on the discussion. The group discusses Cro's transition from playing to yakking as an analyst for home game television broadcasts.
New Jersey Nets want Terrence Williams to show more drive
Julian Garcia reports on the Nets and rookie Terrence Williams trying to get on the same page.

Hornets 108, Pacers 96: Pacers Come Up Empty In Dress Rehearsal Finish

Tom Lewis — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 03:27:20 -0000

More photos » by Patrick Semansky - AP

Chris Paul and the Hornets ran away from the Pacers at crunch time.

Browse more photos »

The Indiana Pacers dress rehearsal in New Orleans revealed the team needs more work before opening night.

No, this wasn't a full dress rehearsal with regular season playing rotations for the full 48, but it wasn't far off and the final 5:33 of the game was indeed a regular season test drive in which the Pacers sputtered badly.

With the game tied at 88, Danny Granger checked back into the game to even up the sides pitting the starting lineups for both teams against each other for an end of game test. The Pacers in general and Granger in particular went, CLANK and the Hornets closed out the game with a 20-8 run for a 108-96 win.

After making his first shot, Granger missed his final four shots including three 3-ball attempts that were one and done possessions for the blue and gold. Meanwhile, Chris Paul and David West took turns torching the Pacers to close out the W with ease.

Granger wasn't the only problem, though because during the final stretch of the game JOB put Dhantay Jones in for Brandon Rush, then Rush back in for Roy Hibbert and finally Luther Head in for Dahntay Jones.

Without television it is hard to tell what the problems were at the end, but fortunately Mark Boyle and Austin Croshere were offering HD visuals with the radio call (we're talking 1080i quality) and it sounded like some of these guys were passing up shots. Dhantay in particular passed up a couple of corner threes at different times in the fourth quarter. May have been a smart play when viewed through an objective lens, but JOB wants that shot in the air.

The Pacers battled through a lot of missed shots early to hang around and even appear in control until late in the game, but 16 second half turnovers coughed up the lead and gave CP3 the chance to do what he does and finish off the game in style for the Hornets.

Plenty of teachable moments for JOB to utilize from this one. The Pacers will have three days of work before playing at Orlando on Wednesday.

Anything stick out in the box score for you? I know I'm wondering if that starting shooting guard position is back up for grabs.

Ronny Turiaf – Still Gettin' Hyphy :: 2009-2010 Golden State Warriors Player Recap and Previews

R Dizzle — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:00:31 -0000

Oh Mr. Turiaf, how I enjoy having you around. Yes, through the dark days and the rough games, you've seem to bring a smile to my face. Why's that you ask? It's not the funny accent, the hyphy dance moves, or the big smile on YOUR face (although I do love those things.)

It's cause you love animals!

I guess you get an extra big teddy bear when you're extra big like Ronny!

I like how I get to write about my favorite players year after year. Check out what I said in his previous Player Preview and Recap.

Maybe this guy just needs better fans around him that will appreciate what he brings to the table and with our "defense," I can see this man grabbin boards left and right while Beans gets some time to rest. We need this man to do essentially what Austin Croshere was supposed to do last year...let our starters get some rest and make sure we don't get destroyed on the boards. Bare minimum - he won't be a Warrior killer. That's a good enough reason to get this guy on our team.

Boy, do I enjoy being wrong. Grabbin boards left and right? That's it? Austin Croshere? What in the world was I thinking?

Let me count down the ways I love Mr. Turiaf.

3. He has the flyest French accent ever.

Ronny Turiaf takes Franco Finn on the Cribs Tour!

Listen to what this man eats for dinner!

2. Every game with Ronny is a party - A BLOCK PARTY!

1. He's just happy to be here!

First down! Wait...wrong sport.

YESSSSSSSSSS! I get gummy bears after the game!

Wait, if I get 3 Blocks I get free Chipotle? REALLY?!?!

So Goofy.

What can I say? Ronny's just Ronny - and you gotta love him for that. He's not about to be an All Star any time soon, but who cares? He brings the fire every night and he does it with a huge smile. Coach Nelson and the rest of the teammates only speak great words about him and what he contributes.

Stephen Jackson used to be my favorite player, but as the drama continues, it's getting harder and harder to support him. And the more I think about it, the more I realize that Tender-Ronny is exactly what I enjoy about basketball players - hard-working, fun loving, and just happy to be there. Through the Youth Movement, he's never complained, never made trade demands, hell, I rarely hear his name in the Warriors Tabloids (trade rumors or other types of drama). He's exactly what we need for the Young Gunz and that makes me happy.

There aren't too many bright spots this year, but I'd put my money on Ronny Turiaf making this enjoyable.

Ronny Turiaf

#21 / Center / Golden State Warriors

Height: 6-10

Weight: 250

Born: Jan 13, 1983

College: Gonzaga

If I were to meet any of the Warriors players tomorrow, I'd want it to be Ronny Turiaf. (I already got the chance to meet Anthony Morrow, which was dope!) Fun guy sure, but he's been through a lot health wise and to see him on the court playing hard and having a great time - it's really inspirational. I appreciate that.

Can't stop, won't stop Ronny. Keep doin your thang my man.

2009-2010 Golden State Warriors Preview

Anthony Morrow: Ammo + Chocolate Rain
Stephen Jackson: O Captain, My Captain
Speedy Claxton/ Devean George, Acie Law: Wouldn't Count on It
Brandan Wright: Injury Prone
Stephen Curry: Let There Be Hope
Monta Ellis: Back in the Saddle
Corey Maggette: The 6th Wonder of the Oracle
Anthony Randolph: Hope Beyond the Hype
C.J. Watson: Storm-a-brewin'?
Mikki Moore: Ronny Turiaf Sr.
Andris Biedrins
Ronny Turiaf
Kelenna Azubuike

Coming 10.26.09 to a web browser near you...

Golden State Warriors 2k9-2k10 Super Preview Blowout Special!

Poll

Are you happy to have Ronny Turiaf on the Warriors?

HELL YES! Shake dem Dreads!

1029 votes

No. I'm a hater.

34 votes

1063 votes | Poll has closed

Watson Signs Contract With Pacers; Conflicting Details Being Reported

spstevenson — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 21:42:40 -0000

The Indiana Pacers officially signed Earl Watson to a contract today, that we know for sure. But whether that contract says he will be a Pacer for only one year or multiple years, that is not clear.

Immediately after the signing, the Pacers released a story stating that Watson signed a multi-year contract with the club and, per team policy, the rest of the details (the money side) would not be discussed. Indianapolis Star reporter Mike Wells, who broke the story last week that the Pacers would sign Watson, has been writing all along that he would sign only a one-year deal with Indiana. Wells is sticking to his story.

Wells is reporting that Watson signed a one-year, $3 million deal, and after the Pacers released conflicting details, Wells checked with sources again and they stand by the one-year contract story. I've tweeted and facebook'd Pacer officials looking for an answer but, so surprisingly, have not received a reply. I'd believe Wells before I trust the Pacers, but you would think they'd know how many years they just tied up a backup point guard to on his contract. Or would they? Hmm, maybe that explains the Austin Croshere deal...

I know one of the things that let me really embrace bringing Watson to this team was the opportunity to also get him off the books next summer with just a one-year deal. That would at least allow the contracts Travis Diener, Watson and possibly T.J. Ford (player option) to vanish into thin air during the big summer of 2010. But a multi-year deal obviously changes that. Maybe he's a guy who comes back from a bad situation last year and makes us want to keep him, but I'm really hoping that Wells is correct and the Pacers just screwed up their story here.

Check out the jump for more details on Watson and his chat with fans today.

Watson becomes the 12th player under contract for the Pacers next year. He's coming off a tumultuous season in Oklahoma City, which you can read about here, but his quotes today obviously sounded like a happy guy who's glad to have some new digs.

Watson, who went from starter to benchwarmer with the Thunder last year, had this to say about his role with the Pacers:

"My role is helping the team win. Being a leader whichever way I can be. Whether it's by skill or being vocal or by example; just going out and helping the team win."

Team president Larry Bird added: "We're very glad to have Earl as part of our team. I've been watching him for years. He's a solid point guard that we know can help us on the defensive end."

The Pacers also hosted an online chat with fans so Watson could get real with the people of Indiana. Here were some of his more interesting comments:

"I think someone who's going to hold himself accountable on and off the court. I'm a player that's going to be versatile and determined to help this team win, and always looking for the opportunity to make this team better. I emphasized to my agent I wanted go to a team that was on the verge of winning if not already winning, a team that could play deep into the playoffs, but at the same time exciting to play with -- character guys, organization, city.

In this offensive system I think everyone grows. It's going to be fun for me to go back to my Denver days and early Seattle days and shoot a lot of threes. And also scoring in transition, mid-range jumpers in transition which P.J. Carlesimo emphasized, really help me grow.

[on being the starting point guard] It's a decision for the coaching staff to make. A lot will depend on rotations, matchups or strategy. When you get to the NBA, it's so deep. You look at guys like Jason Terry and Ginobili, who come off the bench and play the whole game. What I want to do most is make the playoffs and make a push, more than start."

He also mentioned he has very close relationship with Brandon Rush and he'll wear No. 2 on his blue and gold jersey this season.

Other notes: Wells said in his story that Solomon Jones will officially ink his contract in the next two days. He also noted the Larry Bird insists the team will carry only 14 players on the roster heading into this season. Jones will become the 13th man on the roster.

The Five Stages Of Accepting Tyler Hansbrough

spstevenson — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:46:55 -0000

More photos » by Michael Conroy - AP

After completing the five stages of grief, you will want to buy a replica of the #50 jersey.

Browse more photos »

It has taken 24 hours, five stages, several drinks and one trillion text messages, but I have finally done it - I now accept Tyler Hansbrough as an Indiana Pacer, and I'm OK with it.

How did I get here? It was a long, arduous journey that was a montage of crying, smiling, dismissing my Pacer fandom, praising our leader Larry Bird and, ultimately, cowering in the corner of my apartment wondering how the hell to feel about a lottery pick being used on a 6-foot-9 forward from the University of North Carolina who should have taken 10 picks later.

But eventually I got up, brushed the draft off my knees and realized that the world was still spinning and everything was good in PacerLand. So let's take a walk down the five stages of acceptance of Tyler Hansbrough. This process isn't for everyone, so if you need a visual, watch this.

Stage 1: Denial
With the 13th pick in the 2009 NBA Draft, the Indiana Pacers select...Tyler Hansbrough from the University of North Carolina. Before the Pacers made that pick, I had been frantically scanning the draft board for the player who the Pacers were going to draft.

I needed to update Indy Cornrows as soon as the pick was made, so I loaded all of the YouTube highlights of players who might be drafted by the Pacers. I had each one tabbed: Eric Maynor, DeJuan Blair, Jrue Holiday, James Johnson, Jeff Teague and Ty Lawson.

I even went a step further by making a fake headline saying the Pacers had drafted Holiday. I was certain Bird would take Holiday, trade down in the draft and pick up the player that he and O'Brien had been gushing over for the past week - Tyler Hansbrough. Every time either Bird or O'Brien talked about Hansbrough this week, it became more apparent that they were in love with him. Remember when you were a teenager and your friends asked you about that super, hot chick that you had a crush on? Your eyes gazed toward the ceiling, an innocent smile slid across your face, and you talked and talked and talked about how wonderful she was in every way. That was O'Brien on the radio Thursday before the draft. He did both afternoon sports radio shows, and it was easy to see O'Brien gazed toward the ceiling and transfixed with a love potion when discussing Hansbrough. It was disgusting.

Then, the pick was announced. Like other fans, I was floored. As the great Clark Griswold once said, I wouldn't have been more surprised if I had woken up with my head sewn to the carpet. This just didn't happen, did it? I raced through my mock drafts, thumbed through other people's mockings and found that the Pacers had made a mockery of us all. Larry Bird pulled a fast one. The Pacers really did draft Tyler Hansbrough.

Larry Bird: "We had some point guards we wanted, but we felt if Ty was there, we had to take him."

Stage 2: Anger
The texts poured in immediately after the pick was made. From my cousin, "R u kiddin me? Croshere Junior, that's who we draft?" From a Bulls friend, "I am so happy I get to watch Hansbrough suck on yer team next year." From a Celtics friend, "Hahahahahahahaha."

My wife's response helped out too. "Oh wait!" she exclaimed. "I've actually seen that guy before. He's the guy I always made fun of for looking like a baby! How cute! I can't believe that's who the Pacers drafted." Wow.

Now I was starting to hate the pick, hate Larry Bird and hate the Pacers for ruining my life. If Hansbrough doesn't pan out, I'm going to hear about it forever from everybody. This is your fault Larry Bird. How could this happen? What was Larry Bird thinking? The negatives raced through my mind: too slow, too short, struggles defensively, no potential, undersized, another Josh McRoberts, a younger Jeff Foster, another Austin Croshere.

I started to get angry.

Larry Bird: "Not everybody's going to be happy with who you take, but once they see him play, they'll be very surprised. He fits in well with us, and he's going to have a great career."

Stage 3: Bargaining
I couldn't understand how Hansbrough was the best pick at No. 13. The thirteenth pick should give you somebody who can become a starter and situate your team for the playoffs down the road. Every scouting report on Hansbrough says he'll be in the league for 10 years as a decent role player who thrives on intensity to better the team, but he'll never, ever, ever be an All-Star.

As the draft kept going, I started to bargain with Mr. Bird. "If you just trade this pick down in the draft, or maybe make another blockbuster deal somehow involving Jamaal Tinsley, all will be forgiven. I promise to keep making payments on my season tickets. I promise to buy another Granger jersey. I promise to never doubt you again. Just, please, do NOT keep this pick!"

I started thinking, "Why couldn't we have taken a chance on somebody?" Bird's insistence on drafting experienced collegiate players seemed to be leaving promising young talent on the draft board. Since Bird's return to the franchise in 2003, only one first-round pick by the Pacers played less than three years in college, and that guy, Shawne Williams, didn't set the best precedent for underclassman. So, Bird is scared and scarred by underclassmen. But when you've got Jrue Holiday, Eric Maynor and Ty Lawson available, you go after them, right? They have potential to be stars and be compliments to Danny Granger. Our only true starter needs a wingman, and Hansbrough is not the answer.

In several columns preceding the draft, I pleaded for the Pacers to trade down and pick up some pieces to provide depth in all the weak areas (point guard, wing, post...hmm, everything). The worst-case scenario was the Pacers staying at No. 13 and picking a player who only shored up one roster spot. Consider the worst-case scenario accomplished with flying colors.

The night went on and no trade was announced. It was rumored that the Pacers came close to unloading the No. 13 pick to the Bulls for two first-rounders. Hansbrough still would have been the pick at No. 16. I went to sleep, dazed and confused.

Jim O'Brien: "We're just trying to take the most talented guy when we pick. Last night, for us, it was certainly Hansbrough. [His workout] was by far the most intense workout we had and it was a direct result of what he brought to that workout."

Stage 4: Depression
By Friday morning, I reached the fourth stage of denial. I didn't want to talk about the pick, didn't want to open the paper, didn't want to ask questions and didn't want to get answers. I just wanted to get away from it. I did not care anymore.

But I could not get away from it. Everyone kept texting me. "What do you think?" they asked. People at work asked, "Hey, about that Tyler Hansbrough?" Yeah, how about that, you stupid jerk. Can't you see I'm depressed here? I moped around, head down to the floor and wondered when it would be 1998 again. When will I love to watch this team play night-in and night-out again? Why am I still a Pacers fan after all the crap that went down these past four years? Maybe all those people who shunned the team after the Brawl were right, maybe it was time to move on.

Larry Bird: "He's a mature four-year guy, great college career. He's got good mechanics, he's very well-rounded. He scored in college, he'll score in the league. Tyler's been beat down for four years. Everybody says his game won't translate to the NBA. He'll be fine. He'll do a good job."

Stage 5: Acceptance
Dateline: Friday afternoon. I get a text from a buddy that says, "I don't why, but I like this pick. It was the worst draft ever, so at least we got something from it. Something is better than nothing."

It was the worst draft of the decade. People had been saying that for months. When I pleaded for the Pacers to trade down in the draft, it wasn't just to get more picks, it was to get away from the lottery. There were too many unproven players. Earlier this week, ESPN's Chad Ford said the 2009 No. 8 pick would be the No. 18 pick in a normal draft. So the Pacers were really drafting a player who would've gone in the mid-20's one year ago. If you think about it that way, Hansbrough doesn't seem so bad.

Here's a guy who was massively productive four straight years in college. This is a guy who won a NCAA title, was a big man who could dominate in the paint, score from the elbow and control the ball on the outside. This is a guy who played intense every night. This is a guy who faced one-on-one with a 7-foot-7 behometh and instead of taking the wide-open jump shot, decided to drive straight to the basket and dunk on his face. Jeff Foster would have shot...and missed.

"Maybe it's not such a bad pick," I kept telling myself. "Maybe it doesn't matter if we couldn't trade down. We got the guy we wanted. Bird did good last year, maybe I should trust him again. He's got other tricks up his sleeve this summer. I know it."

People are ticked off now, but I guarantee that come November, Hansbrough will get one of the loudest ovations every time he comes off the bench and leaves the court. That's just how it works at Conseco "Reggie Miller" Fieldhouse. Pacers fans love work ethic and determination. They love players who take charges, go for loose balls and show that they care even in games against Memphis and Washington. Of the 25 games I attended last year, Foster, Josh McRoberts, Jarrett Jack and Granger always got the biggest boost from the crowd when entering the court. Why? Because fans applaud players who give them their money's worth.

There's no guarantee that Hansbrough will be an All-Star. There's no guarantee that Hansbrough will be a starter. There's no guarantee that Hansbrough will be a role player. But he is going to give fans their money's worth. So no matter how much we don't like the pick in June and July, most fans will appreciate him in six months.

I didn't like this pick. I still don't love it. But I'm accepting it. Please prove everybody wrong, Tyler. Otherwise, I'm getting rid of text messaging.

Tyler Hansbrough: "There's nothing to it but to prove some people wrong. I think some people just love me or hate me. That's the way it is. The way I look at it, people didn't think I was going to be a very good college player, and I was successful in college. I am coming in there, ready to prove some people wrong."

Daily Links 6/24

FLCeltsFan — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:31:50 -0000

Herald Kevin Garnett on mend
Danny Ainge blasts Rajon Rondo rumors
Dirk Nowitzki discusses troubled relationship
North Carolina’s Danny Green enjoying life before the draft
Florida State’s Toney Douglas hopes his work ethic pays off
Patty Mills’ draft status still muddled
Al Iannazzone’s mock NBA draft
Tony Gaffney hopes to live dream
Bucks send Richard Jefferson to Spurs, acquire Amir Johnson from Pistons
Globe Jeff Adrien works out for Celtics
Slugfest: Debating the Rondo rumors
Deal or no deal?
Ainge dealing in reality
SPEARS: Latest draft rumors, including new Rondo whispers
Ainge critical of Rondo, says he has to 'grow up in some places'

MetroWest Daily    Celtics: Ainge downplays trade rumors
CelticsBlog     Danny Gave A Press Conference, And Donoghus Was There
Make Your Draft Night Predictions
Latest Rondo Rumor: Memphis
Celtics 17   Spurs-Bucks Aftermath Over at Project Spurs
Red's Army     Rumor: Rondo, Scal for Grizzlies' Conley, Gay
Green Street     What Ainge Said
Ainge: Celtics fined Rondo
Celtics Impact: Bucks-Spurs Trade
Celtics Circuit    The Latest Danny Ainge Comments Regarding Rajon Rondo
Celtics Hub   Rondo, Scal to Memphis for Gay and Conley?
NESN    Ainge: ‘We love Rondo’
Are the Celtics on the brink of major change?
Toxic assets?: An in-depth look at the Celtics’ offseason roster
Celtics Town    Len Bias: The Possibilities, The Potential, The Death
17 Banners    To trade, or not to trade
North Station Sports     Bill Russell on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Sporting News    Latest Celtics trade rumors involve Grizzlies
Patriot Ledger    Danny Ainge comfortable with what he has
Celtics will have a long wait before picking in a weak draft on Thursday
CSNE    Celtics Stuff Live: Draft Night Show
Bleacher Report    A Message to the Boston Celtics: Please Fire Danny Ainge
Boston Celtics: Before Paying "Big Baby" Study the Austin Croshere Case
Timberwolves Going To Get Fifth Pick, Are Now Eying Grizzlies' Second Pick
Hoopsvibe     Making moves to beat Kobe’s Lakers
Concord Monitor    The point is, Rondo must stay
Middletown Sports    It’s all about opportunity for Jeff Adrien
PBN   Random stuff: Musselman says Wizards a true threat again
BasketBawrul   The 2008-09 Worsties: November
Star Tribune    Kahn the dealer strikes early
Daily Tribune     Pistons trade Johnson to Milwaukee
Dime Mag     Jefferson puts Spurs back in title hunt; CP3 jumps Kobe & LeBron
Hoopsworld    NBA AM: Feeling Minnesota
Yahoo   Suicide lines: Phil may only coach home games, Stack, Knicks
Ainge expects Celtics to have same starters next season -
Examiner   How well would former Clipper Quinton Ross fare in Boston?
My top draft moments in Celtics history, Part I
Enterprise    Ainge doesn’t foresee Celtics making a major move
My South End    Three Draft Day prospects for the Celtics
Need4Sheed    No Thanks Boston - Rondo and Allen for Rip, Tayshaun and Stuckey
CSNE   Ainge: "I Expect Current Roster to Be Back"
SI.com     GM Danny Ainge says�Celtics unlikely to trade up in NBA draft
All-time top 30 draft picks by slot
SportsBlog    Ainge declines comment on trade rumor, says 'We love Rajon'
NECN     Brookline's Jeff Adrien works out for Celtics
Dime Mag     The Great Tyler Hansbrough debate
Sports of Boston    Why are the Celtics Itching to Trade Rondo?
ESPN    Tony Allen On Celtics' Trade Offer
I wish the NBA would toughen up
Deal sends Minnesota Timberwolves' Randy Foye, Mike Miller to Washington Wizards
NBA.c om     Ainge: Celtics unlikely to move up in Draft
Detroit Free Press    Celtics' reported lowball offer to Pistons is a laugher
Sir Charles in Charge     The Tuurrible Ten: Biggest Stiffs In The NBA
New England Sports 24/7    Rondo Rumors Won’t Die, Ainge Tries to Help
FanHouse    Five NBA General Managers Feeling Heat
Layup Drill     Spurs land Richard Jefferson
The Smoking Cuban   NBA Trade Rumors & How They Affect The Dallas Mavericks
NBA Roundtable    Team’s Summer Plans – Atlantic Division
CBS Sports     Another Rondo rumor; Knicks' Plan B
WEEI     Danny Ainge, Celtics GM on WEEI

The Mullin Myths: Chris Mullin made the Warriors a franchise players wanted to join

Atma Brother ONE — Tue, 12 May 2009 08:32:17 -0000

The big word around The Town yesterday was that the Golden State Warriors elected to not renew one of their most popular players of all time Chris Mullin as a front office executive and decided to promote Don Nelson's right hand man Larry Riley to the GM spot [Warriors.com]. GSoMers have had a lot to say about the official transition.

For various possible reasons there seems to be a ton of myths about the Mullin front office era, perpetuated by the media at large (most of whom probably didn't know the first thing about the Warriors pre- 2007 NBA Playoffs) and some mostly bandwagon fan analysis plagued by a case of selective memory. Some of it romanticizes the 5 years of Mullin reign and some of it is simply unfair criticism.

Today's topic is the unfounded notion that Chris Mullin made the Warriors a franchise players wanted to join. Jump like you're dunking for some d-bunking.

One of the main contentions of the fans of Mullin's up and mostly down front office tenure is that he made the Warriors a desirable destination for players across the league.

If that were true, you'd expect to see some tangible benefits in terms of free agency and the trade market. A quick look back will show you that wasn't the case.

1) Al Harrington (summer of 2006)

For whatever reason Chris Mullin was in hot, hot, hot pursuit of Al Harrington in the summer of 2006. Harrington, a below average starting PF in the league at best, was the prize in Mullin's eyes. So what happened? Mullin's supposed magic didn't work and Al headed to Indiana, despite countless (and head scratching) attention and devotion. The rest is all history.

2) Allen Iverson

When the 76ers were ready to part ways with The Answer at the beginning of the 2006-2007 NBA season many teams and fans were going nuts trying to get him. Shoot I went absolutely nuts covering it. Sadly at one point AI straight up said he wasn't having any of the Dubs or Kings. Do you really think Iverson cared the least bit that Mullin was in the charge of the Warriors back then?

3) Kevin Garnett

KG to the Bay! (Sorry I just felt obligated to yell that for the one millionth time.)

Unfortunately we all know the sad ending to this tale after the Warriors struck out. Kevin Garnett's camp had a big chip in their hands with a looming extension coming up and the right to opt out. If Mullin really had that star power that made the Warriors a destination, don't you think KG would've used that chip and lobbied hard for a trade here? I have never heard anyone argue that Celtics front office man and former Celt Danny Ainge made Boston attractive for Garnett. To be honest I think the only thing that mattered here was Kevin McHale's never ending love for his NBA alma mattar and the respect Paul Pierce and Ray Allen carried around the league.

4) Gilbert Arenas

The funny thing about this one is that the Warriors actually offered Agent Zero more money than he actually signed for with the Wizards. In spite of the extra dead presidents, Mullin's supposed charm did absolutely nothing here.

5) Elton Brand

After Boom's departure to Warriors South, Brand could've came to Clippers North to a ton of money- more than the Clip show could've offered. Instead he bolted to the Leastern Conference and red-shirted his first season. It would surprise me if Brand and his agent even spent more than a second caring that Mullin was the VP of the Warriors. It was about the money.

On the trade market the biggest fish Mullin netted were Baron Davis, Stephen Jackson, and Al Harrington. For BD and Jack I don't think you can say either of those guys specifically wanted to play on the Warriors for Chris Mullin- both of them just wanted to catch the first train out of NOLA and Indy respectively. I'm sure both of the Hornets and Pacers wanted to send them packing ASAP as well. Remember this is just after a few short months when Harrington spurred Mullin and the Dubs in free agency, so it would be somewhat shocking if he was jumping out of seat to play for Mullie and the Dubs then.

The "big name" free agents that Mullin and his "big name" signed include Derek Fisher, Austin Croshere, Troy Hudson, Ronny Turiaf, and Corey Maggette. That's not exactly a "big deal." If that's what Mullin nets as an executive because of his famed playing career- who honestly cares? At the end of the day the Warriors paid for more for those guys than any other team in the entire association saw fit (and for good reason).

The supposed star power Mullin had during his 5 year tenure in the Warriors' front office and its translation into his ability to make the team a place impact players wanted to play is grossly exaggerated. Players don't care who is signing the checks or who is in charge of the front office. There's exceptions where some vets will come back from retirement or play for a slightly cheaper deal to play alongside superstars and chase a ring, but that's about it. The playing career of the members of the front office means next to nothing in making a team a more desirable place to play.

It's all about the dolla bills and w's ya'll.

This isn't to say that solely Mullin's impact as a former hoops star in the front office is overrated. The greatest basketball player to ever play the game Michael Jordan hasn't had much success either in his two stints with the Washington Wizards and Charlotte Bobcats in making them destinations for today's players. You didn't for the Wizards and don't for the Bobcats see any big names clamoring to play for MJ- and he's got that iconic hoops logo too.

Great for kicks and threads, but meaningless in the front office.

Give me a competent and talented basketball mind minus the "star power" a la Greg Poppovich when he first started in San Antonio or Donnie Nelson in Dallas than a big name ex-player who got a job he was never qualified for any day. Is new Warriors GM Larry Riley that guy? We'll find out soon enough.

(Two Dubs connections there in case you missed it- Pop moved from an assistant coach on the Warriors to the GM spot on the Spurs and Donnie is Nellie's son who oddly enough "doesn't smoke Cuban".)

Poll

How would you describe Chris Mullin's supposed ability to make the Warriors a franchise players wanted to join?

ACCURATE: Mullie made the Warriors a place free agents and other team's players wanted to be

413 votes

OVERRATED: No one wanted to play on the Warriors if they had other good options

456 votes

869 votes | Poll has closed

NBA GM's: Call Up Some More!

Scott Schroeder — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 20:34:43 -0000

Dear NBA General Managers,

Today, I'd like to go over a few more guys that deserve a call-up, even though you all have a done a fine job over the past two weeks of deciding to look to the D-League for some help. My main concern is this: If you guys don't look to the D-League, and instead look at players that have had their shot(s) and blew it, we're going to keep losing players overseas. This month, we've lost Charles Gaines, Coby Karl, Smush Parker, Alton Ford, and Andre Brown, among others. All of these guys, save for maybe Alton Ford, would have been suitable NBA pick-ups, and certainly have more upside than guys like Austin Croshere and Fred Jones, who've recently picked up 10-day contracts.

First on my list is going to Walker Russell, Jr., AKA, according to ShamSports, "I made the Knicks training camp roster only because my dad is a scout there." This, at the time, was probably true, because a kid that averages six points and four assists in 15 games, shooting less than 35% from the field in the D-League probably doesn't deserve an NBA camp invite. For some reason however, since then, he has went off! Russell is averaging 18 points and 12 assists in nearly 40 minutes of action for the Mad Ants! That he hasn't been called-up is almost as big of a traveshamockery as the time last season when Too Much Rod Benson averaged his double-doubles, including that big 28 point, 28 rebound game, and still didn't get a callup! In the month of January, Russell is averaging 19 points, 13 assists, and 2.4 steals, playing over 40 minutes per game! Tell us, NBA GM's, why isn't he called-up yet?

Next, let's talk about Will Conroy. Here's a guy that's played well in the D-League, but hasn't really had his chance in the NBA. He can score, though not really shoot, and is a great floor general that will 'D' up. Certainly someone could use him as at least a 3rd point guard. This season, Conroy is averaging 25 points, eight assists, and five rebounds, to go with two steals. He also apparently has unlimited stamina, as he's AVERAGING 45.5 MINUTES PER GAME!

A third point guard I'm going to have you look at is Dontell Jefferson. Jefferson's numbers aren't outstanding, 18, 5 and 5, but he's a floor general, a leader, that learned from one of the best point guards in the D-League the past two seasons in Maurice Baker, and now has a bit more upside. When needed, he's the best player on the floor, though this season he's been playing along side JR Giddens, Billy Walker, and Kyrylo Fesenko from the NBA, so he's just had to lead the team, and he's done that very well. When he needs to take over however, he will. In his most recent game, an overtime victory over Walker Russell Junior's Fort Wayne Mad Ants, Jefferson had 38 points, five assists, making 15 of his 27 attempts, and putting in 14 of Utah's final 15 points in the fourth quarter to force overtime!

If you're looking for a swingman, I'd say you should be looking at Marcus Williams. The good one, not the Golden State one. Williams is averaging 21 points, seven boards, and four assists, on a stacked Austin team that included Andre Brown and Charles Gaines until recently, and still includes Malik Hairston. Now that Williams is becoming more of a focal point, I'm sure his numbers will only go up. In his last game, and first without Andre Brown, Williams scored 34 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, and dished six assists. I'm not really seeing the downside on this kid.

Now, on to the big men. My first choice is going to be Richard Hendrix, the 2nd round pick out of Alabama and current Dakota Wizard. Though he's not the most consistent player, when he's on, he's on, and when he's not, he's still a big man with a good body and RIDICULOUS upside. He had 25 boards in a New Years Eve game against Erie -- that's a lot! Also, over his past three games, he's averaging 17 points and 14 rebounds. A young kid who is going to work in the post and grab the boards certainly should get a look this season.

Chris Hunter is going to be my darkhorse pick. A teammate of current Phoenix Sun Courtney Sims in college, Hunter is doing work right now in the D-League. Hunter is currently averaging 17.6 points and 10 boards a game (4 offensive), shooting an efficient 55% from the field. Over his past four games, he's averaged 20 points, 10.5 boards and a block, playing less than three quarters per game. His best game of the season was Courtney Sims last in the D-League, when he matched up against his fellow Michigan alum. In that game, Hunter scored 23 points and grabbed 18 boards in 33 minutes of action. Talk about efficient!

Also, NBA GM's, if you don't like those picks, I've got a few that I'll mention in passing that probably deserve a break. If you're looking for a shooter, pick up Dakota's Blake Ahearn. Thinking about a veteran point, why not Dakota's Maurice Baker or Colorado's Eddie Gill? Looking for a defensive specialist on the wing that can play the Scottie Pippen/Stephen Jackson point-forward role, go with Renaldo Major. If you need lots of scoring and some high-flying dunks, James White is your man. Pick up Othyus Jeffers, just to make me happy.

Croshere picked up on waivers, Griffin cut

Frank Madden — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 01:12:11 -0000

Thus far Adrian Griffin has mostly been known as one of Scott Skiles' favorite binkies from Chicago, and we've previously wondered aloud why the Bucks would pay the 34-year old the handsome sum of $1.71 million to sit on the bench when his deal was non-guaranteed. Well, score one for rationality: Griffin has been cut and veteran power forward Austin Croshere was claimed off waivers on the eve of the Bucks' season opener.

Croshere provides the Bucks a reasonably mobile big off the bench that can occasionally hit threes (34% career), and while at 33 he's not someone you want playing extended minutes, he could certainly find his way into the rotation given the Bucks' complete lack of depth up front. Either way he's of more use than Griffin and costs less than half as much, so it's difficult to complain. The move also provides further evidence that Skiles and company have been less than thrilled with their PF rotation this preseason, which has consisted mainly of Charlie Villanueva, Malik Allen, and rookie combo forwards Joe Alexander (who's better suited to SF) and Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (who's also seen time at SG).

I'm not sure Croshere does anything the freshly-waived Matt Freije can't do for less money, but we all know the NBA hates young players who weren't lottery picks. So guys like Freije, Nick Fazekas, and Elton Brown will continue to be ignored when they have the potential to actually be decent role players. Fortunately, the Bucks will only be on the hook for $798k of Croshere's $1.26 million deal; as a veteran signing for the minimum, Croshere gets anything above the two year veteran's minimum paid for by the league. As a result, the Bucks save about $903k and are probably (ever so) slightly better on the court as well.

In other opener-related news, Gery Woelfel writes that Villanueva is likely to start tomorrow night alongside Andrew Bogut, who tested his perpetually sprained ankle today in practice. Meanwhile, Ramon Sessions may start in place of Luke Ridnour, who missed today's practice with back tightness. Sessions has been wildly inconsistent this preseason, but the irony is that a significant proportion of Bucks Nation would secretly (or not so secretly) like to see him get a shot at starting at some point anyway. Well, that chance may come sooner than expected.

Pacers 102, Bulls 93: Fort Win, Indiana

Tom Lewis — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 02:10:44 -0000

Ahhh, that's better. Preseason wins and losses don't mean a thing, especially with starters sitting out and random combinations of players filling the various playing rotations. But effort and at least appearing to know what you're trying to accomplish as a team is worth measuring. With that minimal metric in mind, the Pacers put forth a vastly improved performance on Friday night in Fort Wayne and relied on their new faces to put away a 102-95 win.

With the game in the balance in the fourth quarter, T.J. Ford led the team with plenty of help from Brandon Rush and Jarrett Jack. Both Rush and Ford finished with 18 points. Ford can't be stopped with the ball in motion and with the ball in the lane showed he can finish with a bucket or an assist depending on what you give him. He sealed the game shut by taking rookie Derrick Rose to the bucket for a hoop and the harm. Beautiful.

As Quinn Buckner mentioned, Rush contributed a quiet 18 points which is backed up by his efficient 7 of 9 shooting night from the floor. Rush played 27 minutes and really looked comfortable on the floor in the second half. One nice aspect of Rush's scoring tonight was his ability to finish at the rim on several occasions. During the first game against the Hornets, Rush was bumped while going to the hole and kind of gave up on the play. But what would've been a foul last year in Allen Fieldhouse, was a clean play in the NBA. No foul, we're going the other way. Tonight he finished strong and certainly wasn't expecting to draw any fouls. I guess the kid's a quick study.

Late in the game somebody had Larry Bird chuckling from his seat in the stands when the camera was on him. Honestly, I can't remember seeing Bird smiling from his seat while watching a Pacers game over the past couple of years. I couldn't help but share the laugh even though I didn't hear the joke.

Here are a few other thoughts from the game:

Danny Granger continued to struggle shooting the ball, but Marquis Daniels was able to get it going. Danny was getting good looks so at this point that's all that matters. When the lights brighten for the regular season, he'll be ready. Both Danny and Quisy sat out the second half.
Is it just me or does it seem like Del Harris is coaching the Bulls and Vinny Del Negro is his assistant? Seemed like both were up every time they showed the Bulls' bench and the familiar face of Harris had me thinking, wait, who's the head coach?
Mike Dunlealvy spent most of the third quarter on the television broadcast with Chris Denari and Quinn Buckner. Sounds like he plans to start practicing next week and will be ready to go for the start of the regular season.
I could watch T.J. Ford break down his defender, pull up and knock down that 15-17 footer all night.
Austin Croshere is officially in the Jonathan Bender zone. We hear about how Cro is wowin' 'em in practice, hardly misses a shot and then his game results reveal pretty much what we've always seen. He'd be a great veteran presence to have on the roster but any actual production will remain a pleasant surprise.
David Morway chatted with Stacy Paetz about the trade. Difficult to give up Shawne but picking up some financial flexibility and assets while thinning out the crowded wing position is a good thing. But wait, Bird said the Eddie Jones will report to the Pacers on Sunday. Has to be a formality, otherwise the wing position remains clogged.
Great to see Stephen Graham back with the team and playing. Toward the end of the third quarter, Stevie was the only player on the floor who was with the Pacers last year.
I may say this after every game, but watching the easy stroke of Brandon Rush is quite enjoyable. Watching said stroke after Ford finds him spotted up on the wing, even better.
Tyrus Thomas is freaky athletic. While Dun was on the broadcast, Thomas missed an open jumper that Dun mentioned wasn't in the scouting report. In other words, let him shoot it all night. A couple of possessions later Thomas flew through the rafters for a highlight finish. Dun remarked that was a shot he (Thomas) won't miss.
Roy Hibbert forced me to yell out loud when he dropped a sweet back-door bounce pass to Jack for a reverse layup. A few minutes later he converted a difficult past to McRoberts for a dunk. Nice. Love seeing all the young guys (Hibbert, Rush, McRoberts) get big minutes.