As a diehard Blazer fan from the time I was able to know what basketball was, I'm sharing a few thoughts that have been running through my head. As a student of the game, playing for almost all life, from HS to college, I've always enjoyed the aspect of the little things that make the difference between winners and losers in this game. The fundamentals, the things that make champions, as opposed to routine playoff losers, which is easy to be in the NBA.

                What gets me to on here today and write a post, is the fact that I think the Blazers erred in extending McMillan to two more years as coach. While I think he has done the admiral job this year, one thing that I believe is considerably lacking in the Blazers style of play is true development of championship basketball. While the Blazers ball movement has been better this year than all the other years of his campaign; one thing that is strikingly missing from his regime is the ability to improve our overall defense. So much of the argument to keep McMillan has been who is better out there? That is one of the weakest arguments that one can have, considering we have someone that hasn't proven he can win a playoff series. Take the Bulls this year, they are a great example of a team that was mediocre at best last year, well they got a great defensive minded coach and they have become title contenders. Yet Blazer fans in general have this idea that we are better served to remain competitive than take risks and see if we can't get into the championship level. I think Nate is a great person, someone who has great moral value, great intigrity, but for whatever reason, lacks the ability to get the team to play great defense. Considering the Bulls, who have played without Noah half the year, without Boozer for a third; yet they have mostly scrubs playing and at such a high level on defense that they are the best defense in the league.

                Now if you step back and consider that Blazers; they have one of the most premier defensive players, Camby, Wallace, Matthew, and Batum. With proper coaching Aldridge could be one of the best defensive power forwards in the league, yet he remains tentative, unsure and soft compared to the likes of Garnet and Harford. While I'm not trying to bash McMillan, I think perspective is needed to see what attainable goals could be reached with the talent the Blazers have. The difference between winners and losers are the little things, the fundamentals, the idiosyncrasies. that winners take the time to do. Great coaches know how to get these qualities out of their players, while good coaches are ok, they get by. I don't think it’s a coincidence that the Blazers are where they are, and when they struggle going forward, I won't be surprised to see Blazer fans frustrated.

                I am not trying to get on my soap box and spew my opinion, even if that is how it comes out; but truthfully I think as Blazer fans we need more of reality mindset than dreamer mentality. When we win one game against the Heat, we are giddy, we become instant believers that we can win a couple series, and I admit it’s like taking a drug. But in the 4 plus years during McMillan’s tenure have you ever felt like these Blazers are a great team, playing up to their full capability? It’s been a stretch at any point to really think they have the coaching to be great, you assume they are being coached to be great, but truthfully I think they have underachieved. You can say, well look at what McMillan has done with all the injuries, well look around the league, compare Blazer talent to what other teams have. They have done a great job with the talent on the roster and that is credit to the management. However I think what is truly lacking in all the perspective about the Blazers, the NBA is like a marathon, teams are continually coasting, going through the motions. While Nate gets his guys up for the game, gets them to bring a good game; one glaring aspect is missing, when the pressure is on, the game is meaningful and everyone is playing at their best, Blazers are usually on the losing end.

                I share these opinions and thoughts for only one reason, for another perspective, another view. As a fan I think it’s very easy to get so close that you can't see the forest for the trees. Instead we assume everyone is seeing what we see, Instead reality is somewhere in between all the mayhem. When it’s all said and done, the Blazers are 21rst in defensive field goal percentage, 21rst!! (Just take a look at who is in front of them) They have not won a series, and they haven't gotten better on defense as the team has aged. They have one of the best defensive centers in the league (camby), they have two of the best defensive forwards(wallace & batum), and one guard that is considered pretty good in matthews. So you tell me, what is the reason for mediocrity? Why is the defense so poor overall? What is the reason for not growing in this area?

                I'll leave you with a final thought, someone once told me defense isn't about talent, no its about effort and knowing where you should be. Take it for what you will, but as fans you have to wonder what could be with this team if a great coach was coaching it. I hate to call out McMillan, because he is such a good guy, but that isn't why he should be the coach. Rather because he is a great coach, now as Blazer lovers that we are, are you confident that McMillan is the guy?

We are starting to see a trend with this team that makes you wonder what is really going on. These players are constantly inconsistent and fighting this upward battle of trying to establish themselves on this team. There are two players that have gotten consistent playing time that still remain on this team, Roy and Aldridge. However you look at all the other players on this team that still remain, we never know what they are going to produce. Everyone jumps on Rudy, Martel, Bayless, Oden, Batum, and Miller for their unpredictably, yet there is a much bigger problem.

I know what I might say may get my post removed, but I'll take that risk. The problem resides solely on the system implemented by the coach. We can continually talk about how certain players aren't achieving success or playing well, but folks the system is designed for one player to succeed, Brandon Roy. I don't care who you have on the team, this style will not win championships period! Everyone who wants to believe otherwise is only fooling themselves into thinking it will work, the fact that its been tried and proven to fail. Any comparisons to Kobe and MJ, you're really looking for something that isn't there, they ran the triangle offense, that has far more player and ball movement than any type of system we run. All the players besides Roy are suffering because of it, yet we are constantly banging on the players.

Its like only feeding your kids fast food, yet you blame them for getting fat. Well feed them something that is real, that has vitamins and natural foods in it, not some fabricated junk food that you want to stuff down your kids throat cause your lazy! You wonder why they're fat? Their body can't break down all the chemicals in the food, what they need is structure and a sound eating habits to help them thrive and grow, kind of like the Blazer players.

The frustrating element to all this is that the media has totally bought into Nate McMillan. ESPN, Blazers Edge, Comcast, and the Oregonian have all given us this Coach of the year mumbo jumbo. Hello these players get thrown under the bus every game when the system fails. Take Utah the other night, do people really believe that the players quit playing hard, didn't scrap enough? Really??? Did anyone really see the game with constant ISO of Brandon Roy? Even peoples posts after the game said we lost because LA and Batum couldn't hit a shot. Folks one or two missed shots doesn't cost you the game, the system cost you the game!! The problem isn't the players here, trust me the players are good to great for the Trail Blazers. The system doesn't make the players any better or help them get any easier shots. The game isn't supposed to be one on one, no its supposed to be give and goes, cuts and screens, back doors, quick precise passing that makes the defense have to adjust which creates easy shots. Instead we play a style which we constantly fight the clock and have to take horrible shots, yet blame Rudy.

Its like reality is completely distorted and everyone who doesn't agree is considered a hater. This is basketball and its learned and developed by many across the world, yet if someone has a varying opinion of the Blazers, they are taken to the cleaners that they think they know more than an NBA coach. Well very possibly they are seeing something that the coach is blind to. How long are we as Blazer fans going to have to watch player after player suffer and want out of the organization before we wake up. If Rudy was playing poorly, and it was solely on him and his lacks, he wouldn't be calling for a change. This is someone who is sorely frustrated and trying to adapt to a system that has only one way of working. Not to anyones strengths but Brandon Roy. The game of basketball wasn't designed to be played this way, but rather to play as a team. What will we do when Batum gets frustrated with his role on the team, we gonna ship him off too? Really is this what we want, to be indebted  to one player and one coach who believe in controlling the whole game with slow methodical offense that doesn't translate to winning in the playoffs. Folks this problem will not go away, this will be even more of a problem when Greg plays again next year, how will Roy and Oden coexist? Impossible under this system, and fooling ourselves into thinking it will work will only cause all the players on this team to become more frustrated and dysfunctional as time goes by. 

There is clearly one solution, but the media and many Blazer fans don't want to admit is, Nate has to go. You can keep throwing players under the bus, you can blame them after every game, but no matter who the players are, you'll still have a coach who is so limited in his system that the personnel will get frustrated. Nate plays a style that worked in the 90's, isolation like Charles Barkley and Gary Payton use to run, yet the NBA is different now. You can do it for one play, but not for half the game, or a quarter or even a half a quarter. The NBA does watch other games, scouts other teams, so the reality is hitting hard and will continue to until this issue is addressed. Call me a hater, call me a Rudy lover, but I'm neither. I will admit though I really enjoy the game when its played right, with ball movement, player movement and great defense. Its an art form and we are going to see less and less of it until McMillan is gone. 

As a diehard Blazer fan, I have come to point of sheer disgust with how the Blazers play. Let me step back and say I have long quit writing about the Blazers woes, due to the over bias Blazer goggle wearers on BE. As much as I love Blazer fans, they have a difficult time seeing the trees from the forest. I love the Blazers, yet the goal of being a Blazer fan is seeing the team not only succeed, but rise to a level that can compete with the best.

Yet over the last 15 years I've watched time and time again how Blazer fans defend the players or coaches as if it was their child. Truth is I'm not a hater, but a basketball fan and former player. That being said, it is obvious that when a team doesn't play the right style of basketball, the end result sooner or later will be the same. As much as it was fun to see the Blazers succeed last year, I knew in my heart of hearts they didn't have the right style to succeed. They don't move the ball, they don't run, they don't get easy baskets and most of all they play horrible defense. Roy being the biggest culprit of them all, and to top it off, he usually is assigned to the weakest player on the opposing team.

What gets me frustrated the most about all this is that Coach Nate longingly requested veterans to be able to push the ball and play harder and smarter defense. But the more we see of this regime, the more we see that in fact the whole system is broken. Nate hasn't made all the players accountable, hasn't put in a system that moves the ball, gets easy baskets and breaks down the defense. Yet we have shipped away those young players who so famously failed under McMillians tutelage. I bring this up in part after seeing the recap of the Kings game against NO, to my surprise Sergio has the game of his life.

BENCH                                  MIN FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB DREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF +/- PTS

Sergio Rodriguez, PG         24    9-14      2-4         4-4     0          2         2      5     2      0      0    1 +20   24

Yet when asked about it, he clearly points out that its the coaches that let him play, where he isn't trying to make a play while in the game. After reading this I just shook my head, again you see the result of a coaching style that is truly affecting our Blazers. I know there is all the hate for McMillian, yet I think he is a good guy, moral, righteous, upstanding citizen. Someone who I would want to lead this team, yet the reality is he doesn't know how to put players in a position to succeed.

What grinds on me the most of all this is that Pritchard has put together a very good team, assembled good players, role players and quality players. Yet if they aren’t used properly what can you do as a GM? What are you supposed to do when the guys move on to different teams and play well? Andre Miller in my opinion was a great signing for 7 million over 2 years, yet he is completely misused by the coaching staff and then “Blazer Fans” jump all over him. People, Andre Miller knows he can’t shoot the 3, he knows he can’t sit and watch, but what can he do if the coach says go to that corner?? When will people see that the system is what kills the Blazers, not the players?  Andre Miller has been successful at every stop except the Blazers, so when will fans stop assuming a trade is the answer? The truth is that no trade will change the system; no trade will make the coach push the ball and hold people accountable on defense. One thing that was always said about defense, its 10% athleticism and 90% mental, and it’s so much truer especially in the NBA.

 I don't know how much longer as a fan you can sit there and say, dang the guy knows what he's doing! I hear the defense for Nate, well out of time outs he is one of the best coaches, because last year they had the highest rated scores after a TO. What??!!! That determines that you’re a good coach?! Maybe I'm just not too smart and I'm like the guy who says, hey the prince isn't wearing any clothes, yet his buddies all tell him, no they just aren't smart enough to see him!

 I don't want to go off, and sound like a ragging lunatic, but when does playing the right way come into the discussion of what makes a great coach? Where are the people going, hmm basketball isn’t supposed to be this hard, there is supposed to be flow, and movement and creativity. I hate to say this, but Dave from BE is like blinded completely by his RED BLAZER Goggles. I know he doesn’t want to bash on the players, coaches or what not, but when do you say this way of playing is not going to win much of anything. Yeah maybe it got 54 games, but that’s probably the most it will ever get and the reality is here. This is pretty much the Blazer team that won 54 games last year and yet it’s as if everyone is wondering what happened. The style of play is completely predictable and the easiest style to defend. If you can always set up your defense to guard the basket, its going to be a tough go, no matter if you have Greg Oden, LaBrone, Kobe, or Jordan. I know I’ll get a lot of homers who think I’m an idiot, but I’ve said my peace and to a point I hope it’s the beginning of the end, because what I see on game night is painful. I can’t watch, its like watching your sibling screw up, or your best friend who keeps doing something stupid, but he just won’t listen. You still love em, yet you just don’t want to watch them go down in flames.

(Side note - After reading a few of the comments, I will clarify that this isn't a post in anyway to say how good Sergio is. Rather this is to illustrate that no matter who the personel is, the system is flawed. When we did have Oden, he wasn't being used properly, nor was Rudy for that matter. The system itself doesn't create openings, any advantages, doesn't provide opportunities for players to excell. Yes they may do OK, but the overall success of the team is completely hindered by the system, or lack there of.)

Recently I saw a post encouraging those Miller fans to step up and support Andre, and I thought I should just take a moment to add my few thoughts. As a former athlete, starting was a symbol of accomplishment, reaching your goal of being the best player on your team in that particular position. My favorite Blazer of all time, Terry Porter was on Talking Ball last night, and he himself said as a player you always wanted to start. It was a goal that every great player sets before themselves, and hopes to accomplish. Porter is one of the most team oriented players we've had it Portland, so its not about Andre before the team, but his honest thoughts about the situation.

Looking at the situation of the Trail Blazers I think its time for us to look at what it will take to become a championship caliber team. Roy as we all know is a great player, but just like Jordan, Bryant, and many other great players, you have to learn to play with your team to become a great team. We can all say that Roy is one of the best one on one players in the league, with a great cross over, great pull up jumper and has an uncanny way of finishing at the rim. Yet if its one thing that those who watch Blazer games know, they settle for jump shots and very rarely get easy buckets. Our dunks usually occur after offensive rebounds, and to complicate matters we a very slow team when it comes to fast break basketball.

This is indicative of Roy's style, yet to win a championship this will have to change. I think the coach's know this, the fans know this and players. You hear it all the time in regards the analysis of the Blazers, methodical, slow, with few turnovers. Well, that maybe great for a middle of the road team, but in order to move up to compete with the upper caliber teams it seems simple to me, learn to play with Andre. Miller brings a set of skills that will open up this whole offense and make players around him better. He has an ability to get to the rim, create for the bigs and get everyone involved. I hate to say it like this, but if Roy can't adapt and grow into a player that can play along side of Miller, he will become like Tracy McGrady. If you don't know what I mean, than just look at the Rockets when he plays, they isolate and he goes one on one, making incredible shots, yet their team with McGrady has never won a first round playoff series.

If the Blazers feel that the only way for them to be successful is to go through Roy, than why even bother with Miller or Blake, just start Rudy, so he can play off of Roy and still have the ability to get in the lane and create more for his teammates. I think we should look very closely at the Rockets for an example of what a team can be when the offense is focused around the big man, with this they were able to succeed. While when the offense centered around McGrady, other teams were able to stifle the rest of the team and they never once advanced out of the first round. That will be the Blazers fate if they decide that Roy will be the center of the offense and use only players that benefit him. Because their are 5 guys that make up the team on the court, and Andre Miller makes the other 3 much better with his skill set. 

What are your thoughts Blazer fans?

I've heard the many arguments why Rudy's days are numbered in Portland and many of them have their merit, but here another idea that will address those ideas. Going forward from this point, Portland has to begin to slim down the roster and figure out who is it that will be players during the regular season, and who will be players during the post season. We constantly have this notion that will have 10 guys that will play and all be great, well talk to any player or coach that has really played  and they’ll tell you that’s impossible.  Looking at the current roster, there is trimming to do, and not just at one position, but multiple. The idea of having 10 players that could be starters on other NBA teams is a tried and failed test that’s cost many a GM their job. First players don’t like it, they hate it, as much as one wants to win, they want to be part of the winning. No guy is really happy being the 9th or 10th guy that gets 5 or maybe 10 min. a night. As good as a locker room can be this is the GM’s responsibility to set up the team and make sure people understand their roles.  With that said, you might be wondering how Rudy fits in the future plans?

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Signing Hedo Turkoglu would have definitely opened up the championship window, not only for this year, but probably for the next 10 years. Yeah the Blazers would have over paid, but it would have really helped Greg Oden and LaMarcus Aldridge to develop down low. Hedo's ability to penetrate and find the passing lanes for Dwight Howard and company is something that is sorely lacking on this Blazer team. I wrote a blog around the 1rst pleading to KP not to sign Hedo, and for good reason, it would be overpaying. But when Paul Allen said "Go for it", he really meant go for it! Don't worry about the money, if we’re stuck with a bad contract in 3 years, we can just buy him out if need be. So for all the Trail Blazer fans who thought we would have been stuck with a guy out of his prime, not wanting to come off the bench, no way. In reality Hedo would have started for 2 or 3 more years, and in that time the Blazers would have really developed Oden to a point that he would have become a dominant force with or without Hedo. Then at that point Batum would have push Hedo out of the way to really develop. So as the news broke that Hedo was their primary goal I realized the bigger picture, and the thought behind Paul Allen's comments. Break open the championship window, pay the extra dollars, and will take the loss of Hedo's contract later as part of opening that window sooner than later. Its a great decision on Allen's part, and shows his dedication to the team and drive for a championship. I have to say, I applaud him and what he has meant for our organization.

 I think over the last 3 years, we've only seen great basketball moves that have had great reward from Kevin Pritchard. But the closer you get to your prize the smaller the impact the moves have. Your margin dwindles with every step you get closer, and that’s not a bad thing, that means that your almost there. For all the hopes of Chris Paul or Devin Harris, which are ideal considering age, position and talent, reality is that its not going to happen without giving up a major piece.

 While this news of Hedo rejecting the Blazers offer is a bit more painful than I ever thought it would be. Thoughts of him allowing Greg Oden to grow and succeed really got my imagination running wild. Dwight Howard is no better than Greg, just has had better people around him to assist him.(imo) Going forward though I think the Blazer bigwigs have realized what is needed for this team to grow, either externally or internally. That is another playmaker and someone that can get Oden the ball where he can succeed. Now we know its not Hedo, but other playmakers like a Sessions, or Nash come to mind. They will make Oden much better and are worth going after.

 With that said, I think one thing has to happen within the organization though, that is the decision to really let Rudy develop. Here is someone that makes players better, does get the ball to Oden when he has a chance and has that ability. I think Nate has to take it upon himself to let Rudy have the ball more, and let him create with the ball. Whether that’s with the pick and roll or off screens, he has that ability to drive and find people; he has to be used correctly though.

 If the Blazers do get that sought after free agent or lopsided trade, great! But I think its time we moved off the Outlaw train of one on one, with no ability to create for others. This team is too good to have an isolation type player like Outlaw who can't make others better. Its the "Allan Iverson Affect" and it really can destroy a team and their ability to grow. Just look at what he did to the Pistons, everyone just gave up, and I'm not saying Outlaw is a cancer or anything to that affect. Rather his style isn't condusive to making all the players around him any better. That is the Blazers advantage, they have 8 or 9 solid players, 7 players that could be starters in the league. If the style of play is isolations, then what good is it to have a deep bench and so many quality players. We might as well package them all up and make a big trade, instead of letting them waste away as they watch Outlaw shoot a contested 20 footer. Its up to McMillan to change the focal point of the offense, so if we face a team like the Rockets again (doesn't look like it happen) then we are prepared to go to more options than just Roy. It isn't about having veterans (in part it is) but the offense is on Nate, and the sooner he realizes that, the better the Blazers will be.

 Considering the talent on the team, doing the right move and having someone like Rudy be the focal point of the second unit could be all this team needs to really flourish, along with the developement of Oden of course.  I would love to see a trade or great free agent acquisition, which is looking more unlikely. But the reality is, if Oden, Batum and Rudy develop, who were all “Rookies” last year just at a decent pace, this team will be vastly improved.  I think this will either be Nate McMillan’s finest moment as the Blazers coach or the beginning to the end this coming year. It is the coach’s role to develop the team and how they play. Veterans or not, you have to know what type of style will bring out the best in a player.  I love Nate, but it really is do or die time for him, cause if you think about it, If Phil Jackson or Greg Popavich had this talent, do you think they would want more veterans?

Your thoughts?

With all the hype surrounding Hedo Turkoglu as a possible free agent, I think we as Blazer fans need to step back and realize what it would mean for us.

Hedo is a 30yr old free agent that wants a 5 year, 50 million dollar contract. Folks this is why teams go from promise to failure in a matter of years. 50 million for a guy that is leaving his prime is bad business!! Have you seen the Yankees lately?! We don't need to over pay for a player that only brings one part of his game that we want, ball handling. Yes Hedo thrived in the Magic's system, but folks if he was playing in our system, which is the slowest offense in the NBA, he wouldn't be thriving. He would be an overpaid, slow defensive 3 point shooter. The Magic play a freewheeling, 3 pt shooting style of basketball that is great for Hedo, and thats very important considering what the team is looking for.

Consider this, Hedo was a member of San Antonio, if one team is similar in style its the Blazers. Looking at Hedo's numbers you realize that he is thriving in the Magic system for a reason.

These numbers give a much clearer picture of what Hedo could bring to the Blazers, 40% 3pt shooting, 10 pts a game and so on. People have this idea that he can drive and finish at the hole, well maybe in the east, but his drives are pretty pathetic and make Rudy look like Lebron going to the hole!

Hedo is a poor defender and is hidden by Howard’s ability to block shots; this is something the Blazers "don't" need! They need someone that can defend the 3 and the bigger guards like Kobe, and Lebron.

More than all this is the money that will be involved in signing him. One of the most important aspects of business and running an organization is don't be stuck with something that is out dated and overpriced. Well, this is it folks! In 2 years, Hedo will be out of his prime completely, he won't be able to guard anyone, much less take someone off the dribble, but he will still be owed 30 million dollars!!!  If its me, I'll pass in a heartbeat!!

If the Blazers see fit to get a small forward of some sorts, then go get the likes of Tayshawn Prince. A year younger and his salary will only be 9 million for 2 more years. At 31 you can then decide what direction you go, if you resign him or turn to a up and coming Batum full time. He can defend, drive, shoot, brings leadership, and has won an NBA championship!

He averages 2 pts less, plays 10 times better defense, and shoots better from the 3 pt line. He can create off the dribble, and yes he doesn't do it nearly as much as Hedo, but also isn't asked too.

Another interesting tid bit of Hedo, he is known to take off games. One day he’ll come in and play a great game, another he will just go through the motions. That’s the last thing you need on a young team. You need leadership, examples of who to follow, like Chauncy Billups, and Tayshawn Prince.

From a financial stand point, why commit to giving someone 50 million for the last 5 years of their career. It just doesn't make good business sense and in the end we will be like the Blazers of the past, trying to get these guys on the downside of their careers in hopes of winning something! Yet when you do this, you’re throwing all your eggs into one basket and banking on Hedo to be the answer, when statistics show that its most likely not gonna happen.

Your thoughts Blazer fans?!

Go Blazers

I heard today on Wheels at work, about how good Ricky Rubio is. The expert from Draft Express stated, "Rubio is one of, if not the best prospect that I've seen in the 6 years that I've been doing this. He will be a future all star in the league, thats how good he is." (I'm paraphasing) Anyway much has been made that we shouldn't draft anyone, cause we don't want to get any younger. Well, I contend if Bayless is our future point guard at 20, and doesn't naturally play the position, how long til he becomes the point guard of the Blazers? Would it not be wise to trade Bayless for a real point guard and let him develope? Wondering what Blazer fans thought and what you would be willing to part with if you made the decision.

Recently been reading all the posts about pt guards and what we need, why we need it and so forth. What I continually hear throughout all of them is this pressing need that whoever we get needs to be a 3 pt threat. I beg to ask the question, Why?

3 pt shooting from your pt guard is not a necessity; it’s a bonus that isn't going to guarantee anything when it comes to winning games. Looking at the two of the best pt guards in the game, Chris Paul and Tony Parker, nether are a 3pt threat. But what they do bring is penetration and create for others on the team. They put the pressure on the defense, which makes them rotate to cover up for the break down and then the shooters get the ball in the right spot. I even saw a post saying, LMA should get his 3 pt shot down, so that way we can spread the floor for Roy. For the Blazers to win championships, they need to do just the opposite, have LMA be a presence inside, with 2 or 3 signature moves, then a pt guard that can penetrate and create for others.

When the Blazers get to this point, they will be effective against any team, wither it be the Rockets, LA or Magic. The reason being is that everyone on the floor can contribute on offense; they don't have to wait for someone else to give them open shots. We saw that in the Rockets series that only Roy was able to penetrate against the defense, leaving everyone else useless. If we have a penetrating guard, it will open up looks for Oden, Batum, LMA, Webster, Rudy, and Roy.

This brings up one other point; people want to see Roy at the point, but for what? Do they want a Baron Davis type point guard? Which is what he would be, because that’s not going to be effective for this team. If Roy has a true point guard along side of him, he would have to work so much less during the game. Yes, he wouldn't have the ball as much, but it won't be like it was during his Rookie year where he feels uncomfortable taking over. Having Roy play alongside a true point will give him easier looks, then when he feels the need to take over, that guy can slip over to the wing and work right along side of him. But he doesn't have to be a 3 point threat to do that, the pt guard just needs to know his strengths and weaknesses.

Things to consider:

- Take the Blazers of the early 90's, only Porter was a real 3pt threat, but they were effective because they would penetrate and find the open guy. Kersey and Drexler had a little outside game, but it’s nowhere near what the Blazers have now. Yet the Blazers would penetrate, cut and find easy ways to score. Having a guy that gets to the whole creates dunks for Oden, LMA and Batum, let alone these being very high percentage shots. Making the 3pt shot the focus of your offense is very dangerous, it’s do or die.

- If the Blazers have a penetrating guard like Paul, Parker, Harris or Williams, who gets in the lane, puts pressure on the defense, then our offensive game will be so much better! Not only will we have easier baskets, but think of all the offensive rebounds the Blazers would have?!! The defense would be out of position and then we even miss the shot, will have Roy, Batum, LMA and Oden crashing the boards. It would be like pouring gas on the fire.

- Much is made of the Bulls and Lakers title runs that didn't include a great point guard, which is very true. Fact of the matter is that these teams ran the triangle offense, which isn't designed for a penetrating point guard. Rather it allows for the team to be effective without it, due to offensive structure, using a point man like Jordan, Pippen or Kobe.

- What really got me was looking at the data. So much is put on pts, 3 pt % and so forth, but one person stats that have been far more telling, have been John Hollinger’s PER. Looking at those, it tells a much different story on effective pt guards in the league.

Of the top four players, Paul shot the highest 3 pt % at 36%, with all 3 others lower than that. As you can see, 3 pt % has little to do with effectiveness on the court, but rather the ability to your teammates and yourself in a position to succeed. Looking deeper, of the top 13 PERs Only 4 shoot a high 3pt %. Terry and Robinson are not pt guards so I removed them. Nash, Nelson, Billups and Calderon are considered good 3pt shooters. The others are all average to suspect, yet they have been very effective by the way they play. A couple that aren’t stars stick out, Rondo, Miller, and Sessions are horrible shooters, yet they are great players. They are effective because they don't rely on shooting, but penetrate, finish at the rim and create easy shots for others. I'm not pushing any one player, but looking at the PER, Sessions is the one person that really looks attractive. Yes he is a poor 3pt shooter, but knowing his weakness, his one of his strengths.Another person who sticks out that is in the draft, is Ricky Rubio his stats are suprisingly high considering his PER. Here are his stats for his Euro play --

- Looking at Rubio's PER it would rank 6th overall amongst point guards in the NBA, and yes I realize he hasn't been playing in the NBA. But what sticks out, is that he is a very effective player that makes people around him much better. (He is also just 18) This too is not me pushing Rubio, as much as I like him, but rather showing a type of player that would be really effective in Portland. Going forward, whoever they decide on as a player it will be a great thing for Portland, and having such a type of player will open up huge avenues for other players.

- One thing that I really think is imperative for the Blazers to win a championship in all this is to have a team concept on offense. So much is made about having a guard that can play a combo style to go with Roy; well there are 3 other people on the floor that make the team a success. For us to be considered a real contender we need to focus more on someone who makes the likes of Oden, LMA and Batum better. Yes Roy is important, but he is so good now, that he can adjust with the team. A great example of a team focusing on one player is Houston. For several years they made McGrady the focus of the offense, yet as we have seen they are much better when they don't have him in the lineup.

- For the Blazers to be an elite team, they need that final piece that brings all the parts together. Creating the team identity is far more important, than focusing on the one individual. If the Blazers are going to be a penetrating, fast moving, slashing team, then finding the piece for that will make us elite. You can be a very good team with one superstar, but you can't be a great team if there isn't an identity. The Cavs are a perfect example of that, as great as LBJ is, the offense is horrible slow. They have few finishers, and no interior scoring. All things the Blazers have been known for, so focusing on changing those areas are vital. What the Blazers do concerning their direction will play huge dividends on how good of a team we become. Will we be pretenders, contenders or a dynasty?

- What do you see as the key to going from a playoff team to a real contender? Is it as simple as one position as point guard? Are all the other pieces in place? If not what is the answer?

As wild and out landish as the title is of this post, I thought I would lay to rest whats been brewing in my mind for the last week or two. I'm saying it now and will hopefully put to rest my draft talk addiction. I love to speculate what might happen or could happen, but I realize thats why Kevin Pritchard is in charge.

With that out of the way, I have to say that I have a gut feeling about what may very well happen next month. I believe the Blazers will trade for Ricky Rubio, and it will be the big splash on draft day. (I hope I'm not jinxing it) The reason for my wild speculation is that Kevin Pritchard spoted Chris Paul 3 years ago, and he knew that he was the one. Management at the time over ruled him and here we are today, Paul being one of the best guard in the game. My gut tells me that Pritchard is a former point guard that knows what is the key for a championship. Knowing what Rubio does for a team and his ability to make other players better, Pritchard won't let him slip through his fingers. This time he has the say and he has the assets to make the deal.

For those who think he would have to give up one of the key peices to team, don't realize that Pritchard is smarter than that. Last year for example, the Blazers had targeted two players in paticular, Westbrooke and Augistine. When the draft fell the way it did, Pritchard did the smart thing and took the best player. There was no way he was going to let Bayless get away, cause he knew his value as a player. Yet he wasn't the player that the Blazers needed or wanted. So don't be suprised when the Blazers trade Bayless, Outlaw, and Sergio for the end product of Ricky Rubio.

For all those who say he's too young, we need a veteran, you have to remember its not what Kevin Pritchard is thinking. He is looking at the long term and always will look at the greater picture. He is looking at a ten year window of Oden 21, Alridge 23, Batum 20, Roy 24 and Rubio 18, with Rudy 24, Webster 22 coming off the bench. Ten years folks of the same core 7 players, do you realize the unbelievable colmuniation of talent that is?! It will be pretty incredible when they've played together for that long and only get better over the next 5 years. The fact that Rubio will be available for the right price is exactly what Pritchard is banking on. Don't be fooled by all the media reports either, because the Blazers keep everything in house. Last year everyone thought the Blazers were going in a whole different direction, and in the end they had the peices they wanted, contrary to all the insiders.

I know I'll get the posts that say I'm on crack, and I probably am. But I'll say this, it will be a day when Blazer fans go crazy again, if Pritchard can pull off this kind of trade. For those who say he'll be the next Sergio, he has a much better body of work and there is a reason he is being drafted number 2 in the draft. Its not a coincidence that this guy has been one of the best since in Europe since he was 16, and playing againt the USA in the Olympics at 17 and taking on Paul, Williams and Kidd. By the way, he looked pretty darn good doing it too, so don't worry, you won't be to bent out of shape when you see him in running up and down the Rose Garden. Just like when the Stash was deamed the next Larry Bird, everyone couldn't believe that Prictard took Brandon Roy, how quickly we forget!

Just found this off of Hoopsworld.com, looks like Ricky Rubio has a major buyout. As a Rubio fan, it was music to my ears, I can see Kevin Pritchard working it right now, setting up to steal him in the draft.

Alex's Weekly Update: Nobody is questioning Ricky Rubio's status as the draft's second-most intriguing prospect. However, the issue of his buyout from DKV Joventut is something that people are disagreeing over. Based on current exchange rates, Rubio's buyout could be worth nearly $8 million. Making matters worse is that the issue might end up in international court since Rubio's signature is not on his Spanish contract (his parents signed in his place). With teams such as the Wizards and Clippers already heavily invested in the point guard position, Rubio could potentially slide in the draft. He is too talented to fall far, but don't be surprised if the Thunder land Rubio and slide Russell Westbrook over to shooting guard.

I've been thinking for some time, what will elevate the Blazers to the next level? The obvious answer has been the point guard, but who, Hinrich, Kidd, Miller, Bibby? Well thats the million dollar question, who could come in and play the position?

Couple things that I think need to be cleared up.

First-  Blazer management doesn't want to bring in a point guard that is too old, on his way out. Why? Well, the blazers arn't looking for just one championship, if so, then they would have done a deal this year. What they are looking for is a dynasty, one that we will compete for the next 10 years, and hopefully win 4 or 5, just like the Spurs have done.

Second -The Blazers don't want to over pay for anyone, someone like Hinrich is 10 million on the books, and thats more than the Blazers want to pay.

Third - The Blazers want a point guard that makes other players better around him. Hinrich isn't that kind of point guard, he is a better version of Blake, with much better better defense. Kidd, can do that, but he already declined the Blazers back 2 years ago. Miller, he does make players better, but he is 32 and well over the age that management is looking for. He wouldn't be starting in 3 years, so thats a short term solution in managements eyes. Bibby to me is the least likely of the 3, he can only shoot, and hasn't really helped any one on Atlanta get better.

So where do we go from here, well I think the solution is in the draft. You might think I'm crazy, but I really do think there is one player that could start for the team and make us 6 to 8 games better. Thats Ricky Rubio, and yes I know he's only 18, but when you take a look at what he brings to a team, age really doesn't matter.

Here is a guy that led Spain to the Silver medal in the Olympics, and played well against Chris Paul, Deron Williams and Jason Kidd. This isn't any kid, this guy is someone that knows how to compete. When people say they want more veterans on the team, what they really mean, is that they want players that know how to compete. It takes some guys 3 or 4 years to learn that, as we saw with Brandon, he plays like a veteran, because he knows how to compete. Chris Paul, in his second year he took his team to the second round and almost won, because he knows what it takes. So age can be deceiving, so lets not get hung up on that. One example Magic Johnson, and I know its not fair to compare him, but its the best illustration I could come up with. Magic came into the league after his freshan year, and lead the Lakers to the championship. He knew how to compete and whats more he was a point guard that makes people better around him.

Rubio does just that, with Roy, Aldrige, Oden, Batum, Fernandez and Webster, you need someone that will create for them. Someone who can drive, finish at times, but most often create easy shots for those guys. Thats what a point guard will do for us, create, be able to drive the lane and find his teamates. One of the Blazers biggest problems is that they are a jump shooting team, well thats cause we have one guy that can drive to the whole. If we had Rubio, we would have someone like Magic or Chris Paul that makes everyone better. You take Chris Paul off the Hornets they wouldn't even sniff the playoffs, they probably win 30 games. Thats what he can do for them, imagine a player like that facilitating for the Blazers. On the fast break, he would leading the way to easy points, and getting to hole when the offense gets stagnent.

When it comes to defense, he is really good and very smart. This guy was guarding Paul and Williams, like he belonged! Not only that he out played Calderon from Toronto, thats saying a lot. This guy has one of the highest basketball IQs out there. He is a playmaker and a baller, he knows how to play the game right and get the other players involved.

Now for all the nay sayers out there, your saying probably one of three things.

1. Well he has a weak outside shot!

      Yes he does have a weak outside shot, but thats not the end of the world. Magic had a weak outside shot, and Chris Paul, but they didn't rely on their outside shot to carry them. They knew where their strenghts were and drive or create for others. Along with that, I don't think it will be long before his shot is worked with and he is stroking it from distance.

2. Well never be able to trade for him!

      Now thats something that I think if one person could do its KP. My thought is that you trade Bayless, (would have been a top 5 if he came out this year) Outlaw and your first round pick, that would be pleanty to get the 2nd pick in this draft. This is considered one of the weakest drafts in recent years. Now thats debatable if that would land the pick, but if it did, it would clear up the small forward position, and allow you to sign a back up power forward and everyone would have their roles.

There are 3 teams in the Lottery that are in need of a point guard. So if Portland offered Bayless, 1 rd pick and Outlaw, Sergio, or any combination, there is a good chance they would take it. Unless one of the 3 got the 2nd pick. So we should be rooting for Kings, T-Wolves and Knicks not to get the top two picks.

Here are the Lottery teams and their points guards -

	1. Sacramento Kings                           Need a pt guard
	2. Washington Wizards                       Have Arenes, no need for pt guard
	3. Los Angeles Clippers                     Have Baron Davis
	4. OKC Thunder                                    Have Westbrook
	5. Minnesota Timberwolves                Need a pt guard
	6. Memphis Grizzlies                            Have Mike Conley
	7. Golden State Warriors                     Have Monta Ellis
	8. New York Knicks                               Need a pt guard
	9. Toronto Raptors                                Have Jose Calderon
	10. Milwaukee Bucks                           Have 2, Sessions and Ridnor
	11. New Jersey Nets                           Have Devin Harris
	12. Charlotte Bobcats                         Have 2, Augestine and Felton
	13. Indiana Pacers                              Have 2, Jack and Ford
	14. Phoenix Suns                                Have Steve Nash

3. Doesn't matter how good he is, Nate doesn't like to play rookies!

    Well, this is rather simple, he played Batum. Along with that he's seen Rubio play in the Olympics and thats no small thing. Just look at how he treated Rudy when he came over.

If you have forgotten what he look liked in the Olympics, here is a Youtube sample

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7u5N3N_7hBU&feature=related

So Blazer fans, what do you think? How would you react? Do you want Ricky Rubio as the point guard next year and the for next 10 years??

Over the last month we've heard of all sorts of trade ideas, rumors and speculations in hopes of making the Blazers bettter. Well, I've come to a realization, what the Blazers need is a swift kick in the rear! I'm talking about HUSTLE!!!  -- Jerome Kersey style!!! This is one of the most talented teams in the assosiation, and so much has been about lack of veterens, well that maybe so, but thats not an excuse for laziness! There are too many games were the Blazers sleep walk through 3 quarters and then turn it on, thats not basketball. I'm tired of watching it to be honest, I'm not complaining, I'm just venting my frustration of super talent getting worked by horrible teams like the Grizzlies. Its been a while since I saw all the Blazers give a 100%, and the game that comes to mind was against Chicago at home, they ran them out of the gym. If the Blazers hustled for 4 quarters, we would be kicking some butt, and really making teams dread playing us. We have 10 guys that play, no body should be tired, rather we should have more energy than almost any team in the league. So lets go Blazers! Turn it on from the opening tip on and get those loose balls, REBOUND and get out and defend your guy! The Thriller is becoming my favorite player, cause he brings it every stinking night!!! Oh by the way he has a broken wrist! You go JOEL!!!

Lately my mind has been running wild with crazy trade ideas, from the likes of Prince, Butler and Hinrich. Only hoping nobody at one center court really thinks Amare Stoudamire makes us any better. But as this trading deadline approaches, I'm starting to realize, if the right deal was there, Pritchard would make it. It’s as if were in the middle of a Texas Hold'em game, watching the best of the players in world going for that prized ballet. Pritchard sitting on his chips for now, having played it loose in the beginning, making his killing off the draft and some shrewd financial deals.  Now in the late stages of the game he is getting selective, making sure he waits for it, and goes in for the kill at the right time. Of course, if Caron Butler was available for RLEC, Outlaw and Frye, he would make it. If Hinrich, Deng were available for the same he would make it. If somehow he could obtain my favorite non Blazer, Tayshawn Prince, he would wheel and deal. I realized though over the last couple days, that other teams are setting the buy-in too high, hoping the Blazers bite, and overpay. Well, the Blazers can fold on these nonsense plays by other teams, until they see what they like. Pritchard makes the comments he is willing to wait til this off season to make any changes, I think there he goes again with that poker face. He isn't revealing anything; he's playing it close to the vest, making the other GM's pay to play! That song, “knowing when hold, and when to fold” is how I see it going down all the way up to the trading deadline. While we Blazer fans are freaking out, most of us anyway, hoping KP pulls something out of his hat, maybe four 2s on the river, after going all in with a 7 and a 2. Conjuring up dreams that this young team will have a chance to compete and make a run at the championship this year. Rest assured Blazer Nation we are not that desperate, if the deal is there, Pritchard will make it. Other teams are selling their junk, in hopes we just say yes, that’s not what we want.  He won't sell the farm for the likes of Salmon, or sacrifice the integrity of the team for short term success such as Amare. I find it humorous when the like of Canzano plead for the trade, well John if it was there he'd make it. There are two types of GM's in the league, dealers and holders. Paxson is a prime example of a GM in love with his own players, as bad as the team is he thinks there are million bucks. Pritchard is the dealer, and when you are, people are that much more cautious, because they don't want to get taken.  I've seen statement made in an article about Pritchard, that he thinks all his players can be future hall of famers, well I'd be saying the same thing if I was about to make a trade with you? It just shows that Pritchard is playing it close, just waiting to go all in when that flush turns up on the river.

Go Blazers

Over the last month we’ve seen the Trail Blazers have ups and downs, to an extent that bears a similar resemblance of last year, which is kind of eerie.  Especially over the last week we’ve been seeing posts and article of how horrid the Blazers defense is and questions of who is responsible.  Sounds like last year, but no one was complaining because we had Greg Oden coming and that’s what we thought we were lacking. Well, here we are and its plain to see its not because we don’t have a defensive center.

On Sunday Oden had a very good game, 16 points and 12 rebounds, along with 6 blocks! When is the last time we saw that? Well, we squandered a 17 point lead only to go down by 13 and then make a heroic comeback.  What got me, was that no one talked about how we lost the 17 point lead, they just said defense. Well, I got to thinking and looked back at what really happened.  With 4 min. left in the 3rd quarter Outlaw checked in, Blazers had a 9 point lead. A min later Bayless check in and within minutes that lead disappeared, a couple Bayless turnovers and bad defense the game was tied and Bayless was pulled. Start of the 4th quarter, Outlaw misses a couple 3 pointers, defensive assignments and before you know it were down by 13, Bayless is on the bench I might add and Outlaw still on the floor. Outlaw goes on and hits some key jumpers along with Roy and we win the game.

But what is lost is that its not just defense, it’s a stagnant offense that doesn’t utilize the players on the team. So much is made about our offense efficiency, but so much of the time we have Roy and Outlaw going one on one. This is the most ineffective way for the Blazers to win. We either are going one on 5 or pulling up for a jump shot. To quote Sir Charles, "the Blazers won't make the playoff unless they can get easy baskets".  What came to mind is the Lakers a couple years ago, who I despise, but they had Kobe Bryant and he would go 1 on 5, score like crazy and still his team would lose. It wasn’t until they had ball movement, used Pual Gasol as the focal point of their offense that they became a good team that could beat anybody.  If the Blazers want to be a playoff team, they can’t continue to just isolate one on one and expect to beat the better teams in the NBA. With the roster that they have, Aldridge, Roy, Fernandez, Oden, Batum, Bayless, Pryzbilla and so on, this is a team that could be so effective by driving, slashing, cutting, backdoors and finding their teammates for open easy looks.  The isolation game of the 90’s is over, with the new defensive rules, teams can cheat over and help. With this said, it is apparent that this is what McMillan wants to do and feels that this is the most effective way to score against the other team. I cringe, cause this shows his lack for adjusting, and making the moves that will make us better as a team.  If you look at Fernandez, you’ve probably wondered why he has relatively become just a 3 point shooter. It’s the offense that the team is running that has put him there and not allowing for him to use his ability to create for himself and others. Along with Batum, at times you see unbelievable talent, smooth, smart plays, but he usually plays 16 mins beyond the arc. Can’t be because he is soft and afraid to take it to the hole, I hope not. As much as a fan of Nate’s that I am, I am seeing things that make me wonder if he’ll be able to help this team grow into a Champion.

When it comes to defense, so much has been put off on the players. Why? It’s the coach’s choice who he plays, no one is telling him that he can’t play his best wing defender more that 16 mins a game. No one is telling him he has to play Outlaw, who can’t guard anyone for the life of him 30 mins.  I don’t know if it is his love for “veterans” that makes him so stubborn to play Outlaw as much as he does or is it blinders that don’t allow him to see his short comings. Outlaw is who he is, he doesn’t have the ability to defend, and so he can’t be used for long stretches, otherwise you lose out on the defensive end and have liabilities. Along with that, I would think you lose crediabilty when you preach defense, but Outlaw doesn't play any, but still gets minutes. When Outlaw moves to power forward in the 4th quarter, you are either putting Aldridge or Oden to the bench, which you lose rebounding and interior defense. To me, that’s bad coaching and you’re not utilizing your assets. If Outlaw is better than those guys, then we really have a problem. I am not trying to jump all over Nate, but I believe it’s time for him to step up and show us his coaching ability for the final 3 months. A great coach isn't one that can lead great players, but rather one that bring out the best in his players and lead them to great things. Your thoughts Blazer fans....

The trade is simple, Hinrich & Thomas for RLEC, Frye & Randolf. (You may have to throw in some draft picks)

What do Blazer fans think? Is this the next step towards an NBA Championship?

http://games.espn.go.com/nba/features/traderesult?players=2754~454~2810~1981~3032&teams=4~4~4~22~22&te=&cash=

Personally I think it would be a huge boost defensively! You get a solid point guard and a back up power forward that can come in and rebound. We need a bruising type player and I think Thomas is young enough that we could mold him into that.

What are your thoughts?

Personally I'm a huge Blazer fan and saying the following is in my hope to see the Blazers only succeed. In recent weeks it seems as if the Blazers are slowly becoming a mediocore, soft basketball team. Of course if I was playing a video game I'd make a trade and everyting would be solved. But I came to the realization that what makes up for lack of experiance is boldness and tanacity. When it comes to the Blazers its painfully obvious that they arn't playing great or even good team defense. We tend to hi-light Gred Oden as the reason for the Blazers failures, but what it really comes down to is the overall team defense.

When certian individuals constantly get beat by their guy, someone has to rotate to stop the drive, usually Greg or Joel. This being the case, the case for fouls increases tenfold, along with easy offensive rebounds for the opposition. Which lead to last nights loss and subsiquence need from fans to fire Nate.

Before I go on, I would like to refer to history. Last year we watched Nate continually use Jarret Jack in the fourth quarter to close out games, and what we saw was a dozen or so games thrown away due to lack of poor judgement, or erratic play. Nate didn't change this, no it took a trade of Jack to get Nate to start using someone else to close out games.

One thing that I do blame Nate for is the over play of Travis Outlaw, and no personal agenda, but as Dave likes to say, you have to put players in a place were they can succeed. Playing Travis and hoping to D up the opposing team, is an oxymoran. Yeah I know Travis had 4 steals, and thats most likely a career high, but I should note Denver became a much better defensive team when Iverson was traded, Iverson averaged 2 or 3 steals a game. What it really comes down to is that Team Defense is constructed when all 5 parts are playing together, and Travis is the weakest link. If another man gets beat, he can't rotate, if he gets beat, he can't rotate to cover the guy that is open from his teamate rotating. This is so painful for me to watch, and its causing the Blazers losses. I know he has a killer jump shot, he can stroke it from beyond the arc, but in crunch time, you need 5 guys that can get a stop time in and time out to close out the other team.

In the last week I've read  post concering Outlaws low Basketball IQ, in a nut shell he has very weak fundamentals, thats why he is given the term low BBIQ. Nothing else, and you compare that to Jarret Jack, he also got the same reputation.

When you look back at the Blazers last 12 games or so, some of their best wins against qaulity teams came against Detroit, New Orleans, and Denver. In those games Outlaw was really a non factor and we won because of our denfense and sharing the ball. Yeah if we want to clear out and go one on one, then lets keep playing him and making him one of our top guys. But if we want to grow and develope as a team, I think its very very clear what the orginization, and Nate McMillian have to do;  limit Outlaws time on the court. I think if the Blazers put more time into Batum, Fernandez, and Sergio, you would see them grow defensively and offensively. Its not for no reason Batum is heasitant to put up the shots, I would be if I only got 12 or so mins. I know this is a young team, but this isn't a soft, mediocore team that looses because its out hustled, out worked and out smarted. Well, it shouldn't be, and I think its time to let some of these other guys take more responsiblity for our teams future.

Here are some quotes that I've seen over the last week in regards to Outlaws play:

Reaction to Blaz/Mavs - Now, before I begin, let me say that he did an incredible job 1-on-1 with Dirk.  Not only did he strip Dirk multiple times, but I also saw him anticipate a passing lane, which surprised me.  His rotations were painfully sluggish, though, and he left Howard and Nowitski for wide-open jumpers OVER and OVER and OVER again because he lost them in defensive confusion.  How do you lose two all-stars?!  Well, in his case, it’s by getting distracted by the ball.  He watches the guy with the ball entirely too much, and then all it takes is a simple screen to completely disorient him from where his man is.  Luckily, the guys he was guarding missed almost every open shot Travis gave them (apparently Dirk has to be heavily guarded and/or fouled to score), so nobody is going to be mad at him for that.  He did plenty of other things that killed us, though.  In the last few minutes alone, he let 6-foot-nothing Juan Barea get a crucial offensive rebound and then feebly stabbed at the ball on a 3-on-2 (practically handing Dallas a bucket by now giving them a 3-on-1).  Travis certainly wasn’t the cause of our loss tonight, but these are the kinds of things he does almost every game.  These are the things that give him the worst +/- on the team.  Thank you for the dunk, thank you for the steals… I’m not demanding a trade – I just want to see some fundamentals. -Thack

Review of Mavs Game - Travis Outlaw had an interesting game.  He played 34 minutes and took 13 shots but only hit 5 of them for 13 points.  He had 4 steals and did a good job guarding Nowitzki in the second half. -Dave

Review of Hornets game - On the other hand Outlaw did grab 3 rebounds and net an assist to go with his 5 points, but he’s sticking out farther than Carmen Miranda at a Shriner’s convention right now.s a main culprit in the lack of rebounding. - Dave

Trade Webster, Outlaw, Frye, RLEC and Bayless for Tayshaun Prince and Jason Maxiell?  (You may have to take some other contracts or another team to work, but this would be the primary players)

Tayshaun Prince - Great player that is only 28, and when a I say great I mean a team player that knows when to shoot, pass or drive. He has one of the highest basketball IQs in the league. He comes with a ton of playoff experiance and would be like a coach on the floor. He plays small forward, can also play some point and really creates for others. When he creates he would makes others, such as LA and Oden much better, which would put less pressure on Brandon Roy. Along with that Prince also shoots and drives extremely well putting pressure on the opposing defense. When it comes to defense he is one of the best team defensive players, along with being a shut down defender. One of the most underrated players in the league.

Jason Maxiell - This is a hustle guy, with a decent low post game that would bring interior defensive and offenseive rebounding to the second unit. He is a young gun who fits the Blazer Basketball style, reminds me of Brian Grant type player, which the Blazers need from time to time if they want to compete for a championship.

Why Detroit would do this -

Not only do they clear cap space, but they get really young with a great future ahead of them. They get outside shooting in Webster and Outlaw, and a young guy in Bayless that may very well complement Stucky. They would also give them assets to build for the future thru trade or free agency.

Why the Blazers move these players -

Bayless plays with a Stephon Marbury style, shoot first and pass second which isn't what the Blazers are looking for. Could he grow into a point guard of the future? Maybe, but the only way that would happen is with playing time, and they Blazers don't have any.

Outlaw and Webster are shooters, they are good players, but one thing they don't do is make other players around them better. The Blazers are becoming the team which is looking for the best way to score. Not clear out and go one on one. As much as I like Webster, to make a deal like this happen, you would have to include him. With what your getting back, its no comparison.

Frye is odd man out, its pretty obvious his game doesn't fit the Blazers style.

Final thoughts - This would break open the championship window this year, and for the next 5 to 10 years. Prince would bring leadership and really be able to help mold and devolope players like Batum.  The roster would complete for a championship team and you would just thin out players that don't really have a place on the team.

Starters - Blake, Roy, Prince, Oden, Aldridge

Bench - Sergio, Rudy, Batum, Maxiell, Joel